Hailing from Japan, Subaru enters the automotive industry with its outstanding build quality. Its commitment to meticulous engineering and craftsmanship has cultivated an extensive base of loyal customers who are satisfied with their noteworthy investment.
While the reputation of Subaru vehicles is well-established, many car enthusiasts still ponder about the average Subaru longevity and whether it varies across different models. Dive into this article to find the answers.
In This Article:
How Long Do Subarus Last?
Subaru has proven its reliability, with average vehicles exceeding the 200,000 and 250,000-mile mark, equivalent to 10 to 13 years at a minimum. Consistent maintenance can even extend its lifespan to 300,000 miles. The automaker also claims that 97-98% of its production over the last decade remains operational. In other words, you can still see an early 2000s Impreza cruising highways today.
That said, each model might have a different lifespan due to various factors.
Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester secures its top place among the most durable SUVs on the market. It receives a 5-star rating from the NHTSA in terms of reliability and extensive feature set. Numerous surveys indicate that Forester models have surpassed 200,000 – 250,000 miles with minimal technical issues over two decades of production.
The internet is replete with remarkable tales of Forester longevity, notably on Reddit forums. One proud owner introduced his 2012 Forester, which reached 210,000 miles with original equipment, while another individual shared about his 2007 X model, which achieved 228,000 miles with only one head gasket replacement.
Most impressively, one of our team members owned a Forester S, which had been on the road since 1998. This buddy had accompanied him for as far as 320,000 miles, reflecting 17 years of ownership. However, such remarkable mileage necessitates stringent adherence to regular maintenance.
Subaru Outback
Along with the Forester, the Subaru Outback earns a spot among SUVs, achieving the 200,000-mile milestone with ease. Consumer Reports awarded this line a perfect 5/5 reliability rating. Meanwhile, objective feedback from current owners claims that the first Outbacks (1955-1999) even surpassed the 300,000-mile mark with diligent upkeep.
Since the 2019 editions, the Outback has witnessed a significant power boost as the manufacturer has addressed most of the weaknesses of previous generations. However, high-mileage vehicles still encounter technical problems, such as head gasket failures, radiator problems, frequent headlight burns, etc.
Subaru Crosstrek
The average range for a Subaru Crosstrek is 100,000 – 200,000 miles, with many falling on the higher end. Despite its shorter life expectancy than the options listed above, the Crosstrek still wins customers’ hearts thanks to its above-average durability and powerful engines.
Experian research has shown that 97% of the first-generation models are still on the road, which equals nearly a decade. However, owners should be on the lookout for some mechanical issues as their vehicles reach 150,000 miles. Common problems include a broken brake light switch, an oil-eating engine, or a window that randomly cracks.
In the case of our 2018 Crosstrek, we experienced a malfunction with the auto-start system. A trusted mechanic has indicated that the ignition coil has shorted out, causing the control module to malfunction. This fault resulted in unstable and sluggish handling compared to previous experiences.
Subaru Impreza
Many sources indicate that the Impreza can endure for 15 years, or 150,000 – 200,000 miles, before experiencing serious problems. iSeeCars reports that 9.9% of these models even exceed the 250,000-mile mark. In such cases, substantial maintenance is imperative, notably the leaky head gasket and timing belt replacement.
According to Way.com, 17.73% of Subaru Imprezas are prone to costly repairs within the first 10 years — significantly lower than the segment average. However, once it goes wrong, you might need to spend around $653 annually for repair costs, a tad higher than average.
Subaru Legacy
Statistics from Motorbiscuit reveal that a typical Subaru Legacy lasts around 180,000 – 200,000 miles. While a few dedicated owners manage to achieve 300,000 miles through meticulous care, such high mileage remains uncommon due to the time and expertise required for regular servicing.
From 180,000 miles on, Legacys tend to suffer from expensive repairs. Owners should remain vigilant for warning signs, such as vibration when accelerating, overheating, rapid battery drain, inaccurate fuel gauges, etc.
Is Subaru A Good Choice To Buy?
Most Subaru models are reliable as your companion for years to come. According to our survey, the majority of owners believe that Subarus rarely experience major repairs thanks to their excellent equipment, including:
High-torque boxer engines
This configuration is considered a Subaru-exclusive technology that ensures a seamless driving experience. The horizontally opposed piston design minimizes vibrations, alleviates strain on components, and extends the Subaru lifespan.
Full-time four-wheel drive
Considered another hallmark technology of the Japanese brand, the symmetrical four-wheel drive system delivers strong traction and consistent stability across varied conditions. This promoted the vehicle’s durability by reducing stress on the powertrain.
Cutting-edge safety features
Subaru leads the industry in employing cutting-edge safety technologies for optimal driver and passenger protection. These advancements also enhance the structural integrity of the vehicle over time.
Solid construction
Beyond safety enhancements, the sturdy structure of Subaru vehicles can withstand off-road challenges. Tough materials and meticulous craft ensure a resilient automobile.
Maintenance Guide For Subaru Owners
Despite Subarus’s extended life expectancy, each model’s longevity depends on many factors. Among these, scheduled maintenance is most important in enhancing the vehicle’s durability. In our experience with various Subaru models, we’ve learned the hard way that some parts need more special care than others. Here’s how to keep yours last longer:
Take care of your engine
As the heart of your car, the engine determines the overall performance. It is often the first component to exhibit signs of wear, leading to a shortened service life. The possibility of damage increases when driving in challenging environments like the extreme temperatures in Texas.
From our experience, driving habits matter. Avoid excessive speed and aggressive braking. Changing the engine oil and cleaning the air filter is also essential. Proper care brings many significant benefits, including increased fuel efficiency, sustained performance and safety, and extended life expectancy.
Embrace cleanliness
Many car owners underestimate the impact of dirt accumulation. Beyond regular car washing, a complete routine includes removing mud, dirt, and other contaminants post-driving. Leaving dirt on for extended periods can wear down the paint, leading to fading or rust.
The cleaning routine not only shields your vehicle from mold and environmental elements but also aids in maintaining aesthetics. We make it a point to cleanse the interior to remove pollen buildup in the spring.
Find a reputable service center
Basic maintenance guarantees optimal efficiency when you take your automobile to a quality service center. Qualified mechanics can perform the required maintenance tasks and identify potential problems early on.
However, adhering strictly to the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule is paramount. We closely monitor the key components, including transmission fluid, braking system, tires, filters, etc. This ensures proper function and a prolonged lifespan.
Prioritize safety aspects
As mentioned above, safety features enhance the vehicle’s integrity in case of an accident. Therefore, it is necessary to assess Subarus’ safety levels regularly. Required tasks include monitoring transmission fluid, coolant, and engine oil to prevent overheating.
Maintaining tire pressure within the recommended range is also vital. This eliminates safety risks and increases fuel efficiency. We also advocate tire rotation and season-specific tire installation, which are useful in harsh driving conditions.
FAQs
What Are Major Issues For High-Mileage Subarus?
A high-mileage Subaru is prone to oil leaks, broken oil seals, or worn suspension. The lack of proper maintenance can even cause serious engine damage.
What’s The Average Maintenance Cost Of Subarus?
RepairPal estimates that the average driver pays around $617 in annual repair costs for a Subaru. However, each model year might require different expenses. For example, Imprezas require $653 each year (as mentioned), while early model years don’t need that much. The payment also depends on many factors, such as mileage, age, required services, etc.
Which Factors Determine The Subaru Lifespans?
Several factors determine the longevity of a vehicle, including build quality, load, road conditions, driving habits, and more. Fortunately, Subaru is committed to leveraging high-quality materials and following rigorous manufacturing processes, which increases their models’ ability to stand the test of time. Additionally, adhering to the recommended maintenance schedule and practicing proper driving habits are keys to extending its lifespan.
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Conclusion
While many factors influence durability, Subaru vehicles are a testament to the robust construction and meticulous crafting. Its consistent quality across various models has maintained its reputation in the automotive market.
However, the reliability and performance of each model depend on how well it is taken care of. Pay close attention to the manufacturer’s recommendations and regularly monitor its condition to extend the mileage count on the odometer.
