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2013 Subaru Outback Review: Unreliable SUV With Transmission & Engine Problems

Rating: 0.00
Based on 0 Owner Reviews
Cathleen V | March 31, 2025
The 2013 Subaru Outback is a versatile wagon that blends the practicality of an SUV with the comfort of a car. Building on Subaru's legacy of all-wheel drive vehicles, the Outback offered a unique alternative to traditional SUVs. This generation ran from 2010-2014. Key trims include the base, Premium, Limited, and later, the 2.5i and 3.6R models. Its popularity stems from its standard all-wheel drive, ample cargo space, and rugged, go-anywhere attitude. Original pricing ranged from approximately $24,000 to $33,000.
The Good

The 2013 Subaru Outback offers reliable performance with its standard all-wheel drive, inspiring confidence in various conditions. It's comfortable for long trips and boasts ample cargo space, appealing to practical needs. Its rugged design and off-road capability satisfy the emotional desire for adventure, all while providing good fuel efficiency and overall value.

The Bad

Potential weaknesses of the 2013 Subaru Outback include higher oil consumption in some models, particularly the 2.5i engine. The continuously variable transmission (CVT), while generally reliable, can be a source of concern for some owners. Watch for potential issues with the infotainment system and ensure regular maintenance to prevent problems.

2013 Subaru Outback: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options:
    • 2.5-liter DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder horizontally opposed (Boxer) engine
    • 3.6-liter DOHC 24-valve 6-cylinder horizontally opposed (Boxer) engine
  • Horsepower:
    • 2.5-liter: 173 hp
    • 3.6-liter: 256 hp
  • Fuel Economy (estimated):
    • 2.5-liter (CVT): 24 mpg city / 30 mpg highway
    • 3.6-liter (Automatic): 18 mpg city / 25 mpg highway
  • 0-60 Times (estimated):
    • 2.5-liter: 9.4 seconds
    • 3.6-liter: 7.3 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: 3,000 lbs (both engines)
  • Trim Level Features:
    • Base: Standard all-wheel drive, air conditioning, power windows and locks, cruise control, and a basic audio system.
    • Premium: Adds alloy wheels, upgraded audio system, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and available sunroof.
    • Limited: Includes leather upholstery, automatic climate control, power driver's seat, Harman Kardon audio system, and heated front seats.

2013 Subaru Outback Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2013
Make Subaru
Model Outback
Trim -
Style 5-Door
Type Wagon
Category Standard Sport Utility Vehicle
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City LAFAYETTE
Dimensions
Doors 5-Door
Curb Weight 1638.83 kg
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating 2129.61 kg
Overall Height 167.13 cm
Overall Length 480.06 cm
Overall Width 182.12 cm
Wheelbase Length 274.07 cm
Standard Seating 5
Engine & Performance
Engine 3.6L H6
Engine Size 3.6L
Engine Cylinders 6
Transmission Automatic
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds 5-Speed
Drivetrain All-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System 4-Wheel ABS
Steering Type Rack & Pinion
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) $28,495 USD
Invoice Price $26,643 USD
Delivery Charges $795 USD

Vehicle History Report

Vehicle
Specifications
Ownership
History
All History
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
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Accident
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Theft
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Open Lien
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Past Sale
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Odometer
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Market Price
Analysis

What Problems Does the 2013 Subaru Outback Have?

The 2013 Subaru Outback, while generally reliable, has some frequently reported problems. One common issue is excessive oil consumption, particularly with the 2.5-liter engine. Owners have reported needing to add oil between changes. Another potential concern is the CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), although it's generally considered reliable, some owners have reported issues with its performance or longevity. Ensure regular CVT fluid changes as preventative maintenance.

Recalls for the 2013 Outback may include issues related to brake light switch failure (potentially affecting starting and disabling Vehicle Dynamic Control), and potential problems with the fuel pump relay, which could cause the engine to stall. It is recommended to check the NHTSA website for the most up-to-date recall information using the vehicle's VIN.

Long-term reliability concerns may involve the infotainment system, which some users found to be slow or buggy. Rust can be a factor in regions with heavy salt usage on roads. Overall, regular maintenance and addressing any warning signs promptly are crucial for ensuring the long-term reliability of the 2013 Subaru Outback.

How long will the 2013 Subaru Outback last?

With good maintenance habits, a 2013 Subaru Outback can easily reach 200,000 miles or more. Many owners report getting 10-15 years of service from their vehicles. Long-term durability is generally good, but weaknesses can emerge over time. The 2.5-liter engine's tendency for oil consumption should be monitored. Rust in areas with road salt is a potential problem. Regularly servicing the CVT transmission is essential for its longevity. By addressing these potential issues, owners can maximize the lifespan of their Outback.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2013 Subaru Outback offers a decent array of built-in tech and safety features for its time. The base model includes a standard audio system with CD player, auxiliary input, and four speakers. Higher trims add features like a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a Harman Kardon audio system. Driver-assistance features were relatively limited for this model year; options included rearview camera.

Safety features include standard stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes (ABS), and a suite of airbags. Optional features included fog lights and a security system.

Crash-test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) are generally good. The 2013 Outback earned a "Top Safety Pick" award, indicating good performance in crash tests. NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) also provides crash test ratings, and the Outback generally scores well. Check official sources for specific ratings for different crash scenarios. While not offering advanced driver-assistance systems like lane departure warning or adaptive cruise control common in newer cars, the 2013 Outback provides a solid foundation of safety and basic tech features.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Satin White Pearl
Ice Silver Metallic
Graphite Gray Metallic
Dark Blue Pearl
Crystal Black Silica
Deep Cherry Pearl
Harvest Gold Metallic
Interior Colors
Warm Ivory
Black

2013 Subaru Outback Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2013 Subaru Outback had an MSRP ranging from approximately $24,000 to $33,000, depending on the trim and options. As of today, used market prices typically range from $8,000 to $16,000, depending on mileage, condition, and trim. Depreciation has been moderate, reflecting Subaru's reputation for reliability and strong resale value. Factors affecting resale value include mileage, condition (accident history, maintenance records), trim level (Limited trims tend to hold value better), and geographic location (demand for AWD vehicles in certain areas).

2013 Subaru Outback Cost of Ownership

The 2013 Subaru Outback is generally considered economical to own. Insurance costs are typically moderate. Fuel costs depend on driving habits and engine choice (the 2.5L is more efficient). Maintenance costs are average, but be prepared for potential repairs related to the CVT or oil consumption issues. Regular maintenance, like oil changes and tire rotations, is crucial. Overall, the Outback offers a balance of affordability and dependability, making it a reasonable long-term investment.

2013 Subaru Outback Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity 43.29 liters
City Mileage 5.57 km/l
Highway Mileage 4 km/l

2013 Subaru Outback Safety Rating

NHTSA
Side Driver Rating
Frontal Passenger Rating
Rollover Rating
Side Rear Passenger Rating
Frontal Driver Rating
IIHS
Roof Strength Test Results Good
Rear Crash Protection/Head Restraint Ratings Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test Results Good
Side Impact Test Results Good

2013 Subaru Outback Recalls & Defects

Equipment
Recall date 2013-02-25
Recall no. 13v061000
Source NHTSA
Summary Subaru IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2010-2012 Legacy and Outback Vehicles Equipped With AN Automatic or CVT Transmission and AN Audiovox Remote Engine Starter (Res) Accessory, Certain Model Year 2012-2013 Impreza Vehicles Equipped With A CVT Transmission and AN Audiovox Remote Engine Starter (Res) Accessory, and Certain Model Year 2013 XV Crosstrek Vehicles Equipped With A CVT Transmission and AN Audiovox Remote Engine Starter (res) Accessory. Additionally Included ARE Certain Model Year 2013 Legacy and Outback Vehicles That MAY Have Received Replacement RES Fobs. IF THE RES FOB IS Dropped, THE FOB MAY Malfunction and Randomly Transmit AN Engine Start Request Without Pressing THE Button.
Consequence THE Engine MAY Inadvertently Start and RUN FOR UP TO Fifteen Minutes. THE Engine MAY Continue TO Start and Stop Until THE FOB Battery IS Depleted, or Until THE Vehicle Runs OUT OF Fuel. IF THE Vehicle IS Parked IN AN Enclosed Area, There IS A Risk OF Carbon Monoxide Build-Up Which MAY Cause Headaches, Dizziness OR, IN Extreme Cases, Unconsciousness And/Or Asphyxiation.
Remedy Subaru Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE RES KEY Fobs, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON April 22, 2013. Owners MAY Contact Subaru AT 1-800-782-2783 FOR More Information.
Notes Original Equipment Keyless Entry Fobs Integrated ON THE Vehicle KEY ARE NOT Affected.subaru's Recall Campaign Number IS Wqf-42.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Electrical System
Recall date 2013-02-25
Recall no. 13v061000
Source NHTSA
Summary Subaru IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2010-2012 Legacy and Outback Vehicles Equipped With AN Automatic or CVT Transmission and AN Audiovox Remote Engine Starter (Res) Accessory, Certain Model Year 2012-2013 Impreza Vehicles Equipped With A CVT Transmission and AN Audiovox Remote Engine Starter (Res) Accessory, and Certain Model Year 2013 XV Crosstrek Vehicles Equipped With A CVT Transmission and AN Audiovox Remote Engine Starter (res) Accessory. Additionally Included ARE Certain Model Year 2013 Legacy and Outback Vehicles That MAY Have Received Replacement RES Fobs. IF THE RES FOB IS Dropped, THE FOB MAY Malfunction and Randomly Transmit AN Engine Start Request Without Pressing THE Button.
Consequence THE Engine MAY Inadvertently Start and RUN FOR UP TO Fifteen Minutes. THE Engine MAY Continue TO Start and Stop Until THE FOB Battery IS Depleted, or Until THE Vehicle Runs OUT OF Fuel. IF THE Vehicle IS Parked IN AN Enclosed Area, There IS A Risk OF Carbon Monoxide Build-Up Which MAY Cause Headaches, Dizziness OR, IN Extreme Cases, Unconsciousness And/Or Asphyxiation.
Remedy Subaru Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE RES KEY Fobs, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON April 22, 2013. Owners MAY Contact Subaru AT 1-800-782-2783 FOR More Information.
Notes Original Equipment Keyless Entry Fobs Integrated ON THE Vehicle KEY ARE NOT Affected.subaru's Recall Campaign Number IS Wqf-42.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Steering:column
Recall date 2013-05-13
Recall no. 13v194000
Source NHTSA
Summary Subaru IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2013 Outback and Legacy Vehicles Manufactured From February 15, 2012, Through June 15, 2012. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Inner and Outer Shafts OF THE Steering Column Assembly MAY Become Disengaged From ONE Another.
Consequence IF THE Shafts Become Disengaged, THE Driver Would Lose THE Ability TO Steer THE Vehicle, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Subaru Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Steering Column Assembly With A NEW One, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON MAY 14, 2013. Owners MAY Contact Subaru AT 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's Recall Campaign Number IS Wqi-45.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Steering
Recall date 2013-05-13
Recall no. 13v194000
Source NHTSA
Summary Subaru IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2013 Outback and Legacy Vehicles Manufactured From February 15, 2012, Through June 15, 2012. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Inner and Outer Shafts OF THE Steering Column Assembly MAY Become Disengaged From ONE Another.
Consequence IF THE Shafts Become Disengaged, THE Driver Would Lose THE Ability TO Steer THE Vehicle, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Subaru Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Steering Column Assembly With A NEW One, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON MAY 14, 2013. Owners MAY Contact Subaru AT 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's Recall Campaign Number IS Wqi-45.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Visibility:windshield Wiper/Washer:motor
Recall date 2016-09-27
Recall no. 16v694000
Source NHTSA
Summary Subaru OF America, Inc. (Subaru) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2010-2014 Legacy Vehicles Manufactured November 26, 2008, TO June 7, 2013, and 2010-2014 Outback Vehicles Manufactured January 9, 2009 TO June 7, 2013. DUE TO Contamination, Components Within THE Windshield Wiper Motor Bottom Cover MAY Interfere With Each Other. IF AN Obstruction, Such AS A Buildup OF Snow or ICE Prevents THE Wiper Arms From Being Able TO Stop IN THE Parked Position, THE Wiper Motor MAY Overheat and THE Bottom Cover MAY Melt.
Consequence IF THE Windshield Wiper Motor Overheats, THE Wipers MAY Fail, Reducing Driver Visibility and Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash. Additionally, THE Wiper Motor Cover MAY Melt, Increasing THE Risk OF A Fire.
Remedy Subaru Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Windshield Wiper Motor Bottom Cover Assembly, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began October 2016. Owners MAY Contact Subaru Customer Service AT 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's Number FOR This Recall IS Wtk-71. Note: This Recall Supersedes Recall 11v-469. All Vehicles That Were Remedied Under That Campaign ARE Affected BY This Campaign, and Need TO Have Their Wiper Motor Bottom Cover Replaced Again.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2018-01-09
Recall no. 18v012000
Source NHTSA
Summary Subaru OF America, Inc. (Subaru) IS Recalling Certain 2009-2013 Legacy, Forester, Tribeca, WRX and Outback Vehicles, and 2009-2011 Impreza Vehicles Sold, or Ever Registered, IN THE States OF Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, THE Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and THE U.s. Virgin Islands. These Vehicles ARE Equipped With Certain AIR BAG Inflators Assembled AS Part OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Modules Used AS Original Equipment or Replacement Equipment. IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR Bag, These Inflators MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO Absolute Humidity and Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Explosion OF AN Inflator Within THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Module MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Front Seat Passenger, Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Subaru Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Front Passenger AIR BAG Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON February 9, 2018. Owners MAY Contact Subaru Customer Service AT 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's Number FOR This Recall IS Tka-18.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Parking Brake
Recall date 2018-09-13
Recall no. 18v626000
Source NHTSA
Summary Subaru OF America, Inc. (Subaru) IS Recalling Certain 2010-2014 Subaru Legacy and Outback Vehicles Equipped With A Manual Transmission. THE Electronic Parking Brake (Epb) MAY NOT Engage AS Intended, Allowing THE Vehicle TO Rollaway IF THE Transmission IS NOT IN THE Proper Gear When Parked.
Consequence A Vehicle Rollaway CAN Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Subaru Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE EPB Actuator Assembly, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began July 19, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Subaru Customer Service AT 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's Number FOR This Recall IS Wtv-81.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Electrical System:ignition:switch
Recall date 2019-04-11
Recall no. 19v297000
Source NHTSA
Summary Subaru OF America, Inc. (Subaru) IS Recalling Certain 2009-2013 Forester Vehicles, 2008-2011 Impreza Vehicles, 2008-2014 WRX Vehicles, 2005-2014 Legacy Vehicles, 2005-2014 Outback Vehicles and 2006-2008 Tribeca Vehicles Equipped With A Mechanical KEY Ignition Switch Installed AS A Replacement Part. THE Ball Spring Inside THE Switch MAY Break, Reducing THE Strength OF THE Ignition Switch. IF This Occurs, THE Weight ON THE KEY Ring and Certain Road Conditions Could Cause THE Ignition Switch TO Move OUT OF THE RUN Position TO THE Accessory Position, Turning OFF THE Engine.
Consequence THE Engine Turning OFF Unexpectedly CAN Increase THE Risk OF A Crash. IF A Crash Occurs Under This Condition, THE AIR BAG MAY NOT Deploy, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy Subaru Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect THE Ignition Switch, Replacing THE Ignition Switch, IF Necessary, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began MAY 10, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Subaru Customer Service AT 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's Number FOR This Recall IS Wuf-91.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2019-01-09
Recall no. 19v008000
Source NHTSA
Summary Subaru OF America, Inc. (Subaru) IS Recalling Certain 2010-2014 Tribeca, Wrx, Outback, and Legacy Vehicles, 2010-2011 Impreza Vehicles and 2010-2013 Forester Vehicles Sold, or Ever Registered, IN THE States OF Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District OF Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, NEW Jersey, NEW Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. These Vehicles ARE Equipped With Certain AIR BAG Inflators Assembled AS Part OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Modules Used AS Original Equipment or Replacement Equipment. IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR Bag, These Inflators MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO Absolute Humidity and Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Explosion OF AN Inflator Within THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Module MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Front Seat Passenger, Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Subaru IS Notifying Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Front Passenger AIR BAG Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began January 25, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Subaru Customer Service AT 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's Number FOR This Recall IS Tkb-19.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2019-01-09
Recall no. 19v007000
Source NHTSA
Summary Subaru OF America, Inc. (Subaru) IS Recalling Certain 2010-2013 Forester, 2010-2014 Tribeca, Wrx, Outback, Legacy, and 2010-2011 Impreza Vehicles Sold, or Ever Registered, IN THE States OF Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, THE Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and THE U.s. Virgin Islands. These Vehicles ARE Equipped With Certain AIR BAG Inflators Assembled AS Part OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Modules Used AS Original Equipment or Replacement Equipment. IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR Bag, These Inflators MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO Absolute Humidity and Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Explosion OF AN Inflator Within THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Module MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Front Seat Passenger, Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Subaru HAS Notified Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Front Passenger AIR BAG Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began January 25, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Subaru Customer Service AT 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's Number FOR This Recall IS Tka-19.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2019-01-09
Recall no. 19v009000
Source NHTSA
Summary Subaru OF America, Inc. (Subaru) IS Recalling Certain 2010-2014 Tribeca, Wrx, Legacy and Outback Vehicles, 2010-2011 Impreza Vehicles and 2010-2013 Forester Vehicles Sold, or Ever Registered, IN THE States OF Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, NEW Hampshire, NEW York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These Vehicles ARE Equipped With Certain AIR BAG Inflators Assembled AS Part OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Modules Used AS Original Equipment or Replacement Equipment. IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR Bag, These Inflators MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO Absolute Humidity and Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Explosion OF AN Inflator Within THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Module MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Front Seat Passenger, Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Subaru IS Notifying Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Front Passenger AIR BAG Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON January 25, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Subaru Customer Service AT 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's Number FOR This Recall IS Tkc-19.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2020-01-02
Recall no. 20v001000
Source NHTSA
Summary Subaru OF America, Inc. (Subaru) IS Recalling Certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (Sti Included), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2x Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN THE States OF Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, THE Northern Mariana Islands (saipan), and THE U.s. Virgin Islands or "zone A." These Vehicles HAD Their Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Inflators Previously Replaced Under A Prior Recall Using Inflators OF THE Same Design. THE Inflators MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO High Absolute Humidity, Temperature and Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Subaru Will Notify Their Owners. General Motors Will Notify Saab Owners. Dealers Will Replace THE Passenger AIR BAG Inflators With Alternate Inflators, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began January 7, 2020. Subaru Owners MAY Contact Subaru Customer Service AT 1-844-373-6614. Saab Owners MAY Contact THE Saab Customer Assistance Center AT 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's Number FOR This Recall IS Tka-20.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2020-01-02
Recall no. 20v003000
Source NHTSA
Summary Subaru OF America, Inc. (Subaru) IS Recalling Certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (Including Sti), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2x Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN THE States OF Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, NEW Hampshire, NEW York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "zone C." These Vehicles HAD Their Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Inflators Previously Replaced Under A Prior Recall Using Inflators OF THE Same Design. THE Inflators MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO High Absolute Humidity, Temperature and Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Subaru Will Notify Their Owners. General Motors Will Notify Saab Owners. Dealers Will Replace THE Passenger AIR BAG Inflators, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began January 7, 2020. Subaru Owners MAY Contact Subaru Customer Service AT 1-844-373-6614. Saab Owners MAY Contact THE Saab Customer Assistance Center AT 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's Number FOR This Recall IS Tkc-20.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2020-01-02
Recall no. 20v002000
Source NHTSA
Summary Subaru OF America, Inc. (Subaru) IS Recalling Certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (Including Sti), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2006 Saab 9-2x Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN THE States OF Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District OF Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, NEW Jersey, NEW Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "zone B." These Vehicles HAD Their Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Inflators Previously Replaced Under A Prior Recall Using Inflators OF THE Same Design. THE Inflators MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO High Absolute Humidity, Temperature and Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Subaru Will Notify Their Owners. General Motors Will Notify Saab Owners. Dealers Will Replace THE Passenger AIR BAG Inflators, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began January 7, 2020. Subaru Owners MAY Contact Subaru Customer Service AT 1-844-373-6614. Saab Owners MAY Contact THE Saab Customer Assistance Center AT 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's Number FOR This Recall IS Tkb-20.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.

2013 Subaru Outback Warranty

Basic
Original warranty 0 months / No data
Estimated remaining Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty 0 months / No data
Estimated remaining Expired
Rust
Original warranty 0 months / No data
Estimated remaining Expired

2013 Subaru Outback Insurance

Insurance for a 2013 Subaru Outback is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Wagon with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2013 Subaru Outback Compare to Other Wagon?

The 2013 Subaru Outback competed with vehicles like the Toyota Venza, Honda CR-V, and Ford Escape. In terms of performance, the Outback's standard AWD gives it an edge in adverse weather, which these rivals lacked standard. Feature-wise, the Outback was competitive, though some rivals offered more advanced infotainment options.

Reliability is a Subaru strength, although the oil consumption issue needs consideration. Compared to the Honda CR-V, the Outback might be perceived as slightly less reliable by some, while the Toyota Venza had a good reliability record. Price-wise, the Outback was generally competitive.

Alternatives to the 2013 Subaru Outback include the Toyota RAV4 (for reliability and fuel economy), the Honda CR-V (for practicality and resale value), and the Mazda CX-5 (for a more engaging driving experience). The Volvo XC70 could be considered as a more premium alternative. The CR-V and RAV4 are strong contenders due to their reliability, but they lack the Outback's standard AWD. Ultimately, the best alternative depends on individual priorities and needs.

Ranks #35 Wagon

Final Verdict: Is the 2013 Subaru Outback a Good Wagon?

The 2013 Subaru Outback is ideal for those seeking a practical, reliable, and capable vehicle with standard all-wheel drive. It's a great choice for individuals or small families who need ample cargo space and want a vehicle that can handle various weather conditions. Whether it's worth buying depends on the price and condition. A well-maintained model with service records is preferable. The Premium or Limited trims offer more features than the base model and are worth considering if they fit your budget. If you need maximum fuel economy and can manage with less power, the 2.5i engine is suitable; otherwise, the 3.6R provides more robust performance. Always get a pre-purchase inspection to check for potential issues.

2013 Subaru Outback Owner Reviews

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Cathleen V

Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.