2010 Subaru Outback Subaru Outback 2010

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2010 Subaru Outback repairs by problem area

Engine (25%)

Transmission and Drivetrain (8%)

Brakes and Traction Control (4%)

Suspension and Steering (17%)

Electrical and Air Conditioning (25%)

Paint, Rust, Leaks, Rattles, and Trim (15%)

Other (6%)

Chart based on 346 repairs.
See TSBs and recalls for the 2010 Subaru Outback.

2010 Subaru Outback repair cost distribution

$2500+ (1%)

$1000 - $2499 (10%)

$500 - $999 (11%)

$100 - $499 (25%)

< $100 (53%)

Worried about potential repair costs? An extended warranty can provide peace of mind.

Chart based on 212 repair trips. The repair cost chart excludes repairs made under warranty, do-it-yourself repairs, and repair trips that include maintenance.

2010 Subaru Outback

Engine not specified

Subaru Outback in Connecticut, United States
Feb 2010 - Jun 2011
Apr 2010

3000 mi
steering wheel vibrates, car wanders and doesn't track well 

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2010 Subaru Outback 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 148hp 2.0L H4 Diesel 6-speed manual AWD

Subaru Outback in Victoria, Australia
May 2010 - Jan 2012
Aug 2010

3040 mi
Carbon catchment filled and would not empty dy driving as described in the manual. Had to be taken to shop for manual emptying 
Feb 2011

11780 mi
Key failed. Problem is circuit board disengages from buttons. Dealer reports at least 10 vehicles with same problem. 
Jan 2012

25420 mi
ERC unit & DPF (Diesel Motor) replaced for second time. 
Subaru Outback in Victoria, Australia
Mar 2010 - Jun 2021
Sep 2011

16740 mi
LH rear wheel stud broken and other wheel nuts loose (possibly a result of faulty stud) reulting in thread damage to other 4 studs. Had all 5 studs replaced on LH rear wheel, and cheked all other studs and wheel nuts. 
Oct 2012

38440 mi
Steering wheel had mild shakes at 90-115km/hr, getting progressively worse. "PAC file" was performed 
Sep 2013

46500 mi

A $100
Sun roof leaking/pouring water into cabin - sun roof drains were blocked 
Mar 2017

105400 mi

A $4100
Diesel particulate filter failed spectacularly following an air leak in the turbo air lines (difficult to say if the air leak became worse following the DPF failure, or caused it). DPF was replaced with a new unit. Leaking turbo air lines/seals were replaced. 
Oct 2017

111600 mi

A $2500
Replaced binding centre differential Sunroof drains cleared again (large amount of water leaking into passenger side cabin) 
Apr 2018

114700 mi
Takata airbag recall work, general service and water leak 

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2010 Subaru Outback 4dr Wagon

256-horsepower 3.6L H6 5-speed shiftable automatic AWD

Subaru Outback in New York, United States
Oct 2009 - Jun 2022
Dec 2009

2000 mi
Hesitation on acceleration from slow speeds, then sudden power surge. Corrected original hesitation problem with reflash. 
Apr 2011

15000 mi
Cigarette lighter will not work. They repaired it, but it stopped working as soon as I drove off the lot. 
Aug 2011

17600 mi
lighter repaired again. Have not used it since, so I don't know if it is still working. 
Jul 2015

45000 mi

US $1
A/C stopped working 
Dec 2016

51000 mi

US $90
Remote keys stopped working. Still not resolved. 
Subaru Outback in Arizona, United States
Oct 2009 - Jan 2014
Apr 2010

6000 mi
Oil light intermittently came on, a sensor was "loose" as per technician 
Sep 2010

9000 mi
Low oil light came on, car more than 2 qts low, but no leaking, refilled oil, but could not find/fix problem. Dealer states other dealer that did last oil change "underfilled" oil 
Oct 2010

9500 mi
oil light turned on, car was almost 2 qts low with no sign of leakage. dealer stated possibly other dealer underfilled car at last oil change. 
Mar 2011

13000 mi
Car had low oil warning again, 1 qt oil added. Low oil sensor replaced, oil change completed 
Jan 2014

11000 mi
Water leaking into passenger side windshield No sound from speakers Sunroof quit operating 
Subaru Outback in Washington, United States
Oct 2009 - May 2013
Mar 2011

24000 mi
Steering wheel buttons would not work or would work intermittently. 
Subaru Outback in Arkansas, United States
Jan 2010 - Jun 2014
Jul 2013

41800 mi

US $130
Passenger window stopped working - just after warranty! The dealership gave me 50% off parts and free labor to replace the window regulator. 
Subaru Outback in Oklahoma, United States
Nov 2009 - Apr 2013
Nov 2012

35500 mi
Steering wheel was shaking at highway speed. There's a TSB to address issue. Before replacing any suspension parts the dealer said I must replace all four tires with new. I declined since tires still had plenty of tread. 
Apr 2013

38000 mi
Never fixed intermittent vibration in steering wheel. 
Subaru Outback in Maine, United States
Dec 2009 - Jun 2012
Apr 2010

900 mi
Sunroof leaked and was repaired by dealer under warranty. 
Jun 2010

3000 mi
Leaking sunroof. 
Sep 2010

4000 mi
The dealer had an after-market nav-audio system installed at time of purchase. The steering wheel volume control ceased to function and a private automobile company repaired it at the dealer's expense. 
Dec 2010

7000 mi
Oil light on despite normal oil level. Turned off by mechanic. Problem has not recurred in the ensuing week. 
Subaru Outback in Virginia, United States
Nov 2009 - Mar 2019
Mar 2011

31000 mi
CE lamp AND BRAKE warning light illuminated. Shut itself off on the way to dealer. I pulled codes for all 6 cyl misfires. Dealer could not fathom the problem. Second time it's happened. I elevated complaint to SOA. 
Jan 2012

67700 mi

US $80
One headlight out. because of difficulty, decided to have dealer replace both bulbs. 
Aug 2012

64200 mi

US $275
Volume switch and radio mode switch on steering wheel failed. Required replacing BOTH sets of switches (an assembly with a single part number) and $275. 
Dec 2016

115000 mi

US $230
Serpentine belt idler bearing failed, belt popped 
Mar 2019

132000 mi

US $48
Headlights replaced 
Subaru Outback in Nevada, United States
Jul 2011 - Sep 2012
Aug 2011

8000 mi
Car stalled at stop lights. No TSB or recall available. Reflashed transmission computer and released car. Problem not fixed. 
Jun 2012

17000 mi
Transmission software TSB TSB, RPMs drop at low speed with A/C on 
Subaru Outback in New Hampshire, United States
Dec 2014 - Jun 2018
May 2016

87300 mi

US $85
AC Blowing warm air. Low on refrigerant. No leak was detected. Added dye and refilled. 
Jun 2016

89000 mi

US $497
Slow Leak in condenser, located with dye. Replaced condenser, cleaned lines, recharged A/C. 
Sep 2016

94000 mi

US $140
Worn front lower control arm ball joint. Replaced. 
Subaru Outback in Pennsylvania, United States
Mar 2010 - Jul 2022
Mar 2011

8000 mi
Weather strip on door replaced Replaced ill-fitting tweeter on dash near driver 
Apr 2012

15000 mi
Driver's seat bottom was stained and frayed. it was replaced under warranty. 
Jul 2022

65700 mi

US $350
Exhaust system was leaking at gaskets. 
Subaru Outback in Maryland, United States
Oct 2009 - Nov 2020
Feb 2015

77700 mi
Parking brake went on by itself while parking; mechanic tested and said it was releasing very slowing due to poor design and cold weather; suggested I not use parking brake during cold & let him know if problem continued in warm weather. 
Jul 2018

121000 mi

US $1075
Not exactly sure... wheel bearings were replaced in both rear wheels. 
Subaru Outback in Massachusetts, United States
- Apr 2010
Apr 2010

1444 mi
1 day - Diagnosis steering wheel shake  2 days - RFB per SOA to eliminate wheels and tires as source of shake 
Subaru Outback in Texas, United States
Sep 2009 - Aug 2015
Jan 2010

3200 mi
Passenger door creaks in cold weather. Reflashed ECU to correct hesitation problem. 
Jun 2010

7000 mi
Navigation system lockup 
Mar 2011

17000 mi
Wheel shake 
Sep 2012

26000 mi
Navigation system locks up. 
Subaru Outback in Oregon, United States
Sep 2012 - Apr 2015
Apr 2013

22300 mi
The trim on the driver seat needed to be replaced. Piece that was ordered prior was installed 
Subaru Outback in Florida, United States
Jan 2010 - Apr 2017
Mar 2016

65000 mi
Puddle lights went out and the entire unit was replaced at no charge. 
Dec 2016

70000 mi

US $3
Power steering failed 
Subaru Outback in Alberta, Canada
Apr 2010 - Jul 2022
Dec 2012

37200 mi
Leaking strut replaced under warranty. 
Sep 2021

129580 mi

C $500
Ignition coil replaced 
Jun 2022

130200 mi

C $400
CV joint boot split. Whole passenger side axel replaced as a precaution. 
Subaru Outback in British Columbia, Canada
Apr 2010 - Mar 2015
Jun 2010

1860 mi
Satellite radio will only tune a few stations 
Jul 2010

3100 mi
Replaced front module for Audio, CD, DVD Sat radio system 
Mar 2011

8060 mi
Car surges forward when the steering wheel is turned. Especially when engine is in warm up cycle. 
Subaru Outback in New Hampshire, United States
Oct 2011 - Nov 2011
Nov 2011

32000 mi

US $450
Manual transmission failed to stay in "reverse" when needed. Transmission rebuilt with replacement gears and plastic fork, along with addition of shim material. Passenger seatbelt "buckle receptacle," when not used, made very noticeable vibration noise at both low and high road speeds. 
Subaru Outback in Ohio, United States
Sep 2009 - Sep 2011
May 2011

24000 mi
During oil change coolant was observed leaking from weep hole on water pump. Subaru dealer agreed and ordered new pump. Waited a week for the part. Replacement took almost 2 days. 
Subaru Outback in Vermont, United States
Feb 2010 - Sep 2016
Nov 2015

72900 mi

US $110
New head light bulb 
Subaru Outback in Georgia, United States
Mar 2010 - Jun 2012
Apr 2012

20000 mi
Faulty gas cap caused service engine light, cruise, traction control and brake lights to illuminate. 
Subaru Outback in New York, United States
Sep 2009 - Jul 2017
Nov 2009

1000 mi
The sunroof was incorrectly installed. One of the drainage holes was filled with white goo and caused rainwater to leak into the passenger section and it caused a bunch of damage. Subaru fixed it all and gave me some add'l warranty and Subaru bucks. 
Apr 2010

4000 mi
plastic strip along exterior of driver's side of car running from front to back was missing a connecting pin, and so was falling off. Dealer replaced the missing clip and the problem was solved. 
Jun 2010

5000 mi
The air conditioner had crinked tube and water flowed into the passenger section of the car. Lots of water, soaking with about an inch of water on floor of car. 
Oct 2010

5300 mi
Once again this car had water flooding in the interior of the car. Subaru dealership said it was caused again by "spiders and webs" in the air conditioning hose. I don't believe it. They replaced the hose. This is getting to be a pain. 
Oct 2011

11000 mi
Dealer called in manufacturer's field office. The explanation given to me, once again: "spiders" and spider webs in a/c lines causing blockage and water flooding. This is total BS. 
Apr 2016

36200 mi
Was driving car and then it became difficult to use power steering (it died) and stalled out. Needed to be flatbedded out. The tensioner belt had snapped and rendered the power steering and alternator to be useless. 
Oct 2016

37300 mi
Key not working 
Subaru Outback in Quebec, Canada
Jan 2010 - Jun 2018
Aug 2010

5580 mi
Leaky timing chain cover gasket 
Aug 2011

14260 mi
Indentation on the armrest where I usually put my forearm while driving. Had it checked by dealer and part was ordered under warranty 
Feb 2012

18600 mi
leak from the timing chain cover gasket. 2nd time in for this problem. repaired under warranty 
Dec 2013

43400 mi

C $85
Timing belt replacement 
Jul 2015

59500 mi

C $300
Changed the right front tie-rod end 
May 2016

70060 mi
Replaced two wheel bearings 
Nov 2016

76340 mi

C $150
Changed the battery 
Apr 2017

80600 mi

C $800
changed bushings at front wheels rear brake piston 
Dec 2017

90520 mi

C $1700
Cooling hose replaced Replace rear brakes Changed the oil pan 

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2010 Subaru Outback 4dr Wagon

170-horsepower 2.5L H4 6-speed shiftable CVT AWD

Subaru Outback in Illinois, United States
Feb 2012 - Sep 2012
Mar 2012

65000 mi
shudder at 1200-1500 rpm, at 20-30-40 mph, is when problem can be experienced always mechanic and shop can feel shuddering but will not acknowledge----they do not know what is causing shuddering,therefore they feel problem is normal--problem can not be reproduced in same vehicle with same engine,trans,and year 
Subaru Outback in Idaho, United States
Nov 2011 - Dec 2011
Dec 2011

26000 mi

US $30
Clear plastic film in front of rear fenders was scaling and had to be replaced on both sides. 
Subaru Outback in Colorado, United States
Mar 2011 - Jun 2017
Dec 2015

142000 mi

US $1000
Head gasket 
Subaru Outback in Maryland, United States
Jul 2010 - Oct 2013
Sep 2010

10000 mi
Noise when accelerating. Was coming from heat shield. Dealer adjusted it twice before, but would come back after one month. Replaced. 
Subaru Outback in Ontario, Canada
Jun 2011 - Jun 2022
Aug 2013

41580 mi

C $50
Headlight replacement 
Jun 2018

102920 mi

C $900
Noise [from wheel bearing] 
Jun 2021

137640 mi

C $500
Fuel line rust and leaking fuel 
Subaru Outback in Wisconsin, United States
Jun 2010 - Jan 2022
May 2013

56200 mi
Engine light started blinking and car stalled in traffic. Able to restart after 10 minutes (light stayed on) Garage found error message about camshaft timing. Mechanic reset computer and have not had a problem since. 
Jan 2014

65000 mi

US $40
Oil filter seal failed - all oil spilled into driveway. Apparently the problem is the seal broke in sub-zero weather. Mechanic said numerous Subarus had same problem during cold snap. 
Dec 2015

88000 mi

US $700
Manifold gasket and oil sensors. 
May 2016

93000 mi

US $350
High pressure power steering hose needed replacement.  Also right front headlight. 
Sep 2016

96000 mi

US $144
Needed to reattach heat shield because of rattle. 
Mar 2017

100000 mi

US $1500
tighten the heat shield to stop rattling, replaced rusting oil pan 
Oct 2017

109000 mi

US $1100
Warped rotors 
Jan 2018

111000 mi

US $1000
Sudden drop in mileage (from 26 to 18 mpg) cleaned injectors replaced plugs. 
Subaru Outback in Ontario, Canada
Jun 2010 - Jun 2012
Sep 2010

1860 mi
The car still has steering wheel vibration at highway speed. The dealer ordered a kit per TSB 
Oct 2010

2480 mi
TSB performed. Installed bushings, new wheel etc. Problem still exist. Now the vibrations can be felt through the body of the car. Going next week for another service. 
Nov 2010

3720 mi
Car was test driven by the service manager. He observed steering wheel vibration at highway speed. Contacted Subaru Canada and they are sending a rep to test drive the car. The test drive is scheduled for Dec 10th.  
Dec 2010

4340 mi
The car was test driven by Subaru rep. Observed the vibration at highway speed. He thinks this is a road feel or normal performance of the CVT transmition. Very frustrating experience. Will not recommend this model to any potential buyers. 
Apr 2011

6700 mi
Steering wheel vibration problem.  
Subaru Outback in Montana, United States
Nov 2010 - Apr 2015
Apr 2015

51000 mi

US $250
Wheel speed sensor on right, front wheel replaced. 
Subaru Outback in Wyoming, United States
Oct 2010 - Jun 2018
May 2015

47900 mi

US $200
remote starter quit working. Nav quit working. Audio quit working. DIC quit working. Puddle lights quit working. 
Oct 2015

50800 mi

US $1200
the nav audio headlights dome lights and puddle lights went out. Now the key receptacle ring flashes red. Claimed the computer went out. 
Subaru Outback in Colorado, United States
May 2011 - Jun 2015
Jul 2011

14000 mi
Car would sometimes report that rear hatch wasn't closed all of the way. The dealer adjusted the rubber bumpers. ECU was also reprogrammed for long-start condition at high-altitudes in cold conditions. 
Subaru Outback in New York, United States
Dec 2012 - Nov 2014
Nov 2014

55000 mi
rear power window straining and int failure, motor replaced under extended warranty 
Subaru Outback in Washington, United States
Nov 2010 - Jun 2022
Oct 2015

21200 mi

US $30
Left side hood strut failed 
Subaru Outback in Maryland, United States
Jun 2010 - Jul 2015
Jun 2014

105000 mi

US $1800
Stereo logic not working with ipod 
Subaru Outback in Colorado, United States
Jun 2013 - Jun 2022
Jun 2014

82000 mi

US $852
Leaking front struts and bouncy all around. 
Sep 2015

97000 mi

US $107
2010 original equipment battery wore out. 
Jul 2017

109000 mi
Wiper motor bottom cap recall. 
Subaru Outback in Illinois, United States
Jul 2017 - Jun 2018
Mar 2018

141000 mi
Recall repair for passenger airbag 
Subaru Outback in Alberta, Canada
Feb 2013 - Aug 2018
Mar 2018

117800 mi

C $20
Passenger side headlight bulb replacement 
Aug 2018

124620 mi

C $1440
replace front and rear brake rotors, pads Replace rear sway bar bushings 
Subaru Outback in California, United States
Dec 2015 - Jul 2018
Apr 2018

130000 mi

US $600
Window motor dead 
Subaru Outback in South Carolina, United States
- Nov 2009
Nov 2009

848 mi
had brakes checked. pedal makes a click on release-told wnl 
Subaru Outback in South Carolina, United States
Nov 2009 - Jun 2011
Jan 2010

166 mi
On day of purchase check engine light was on; reported to me that the oil sensor was not plugged in correctly and once that fitting was tightened all was OK - Car drives like a dream. 
Subaru Outback in Kentucky, United States
Mar 2017 - Apr 2018
Feb 2018

104000 mi

US $505
right rear wheel bearing wore out required replacement. 
Subaru Outback in North Carolina, United States
Jun 2016 - Jun 2022
May 2018

136600 mi

US $2400
Water pump and belt replacement. Water pump had been replaced at 99k. Car had overheating issues days before pump replacement. Item began overheating 2 weeks after the water pump was replaced. This time it was the head gaskets. HG were replaced, cleaned up. New thermo, gaskets, front and rear seals, belts, etc. Also did placed some generic parts (for cost only) such a couple of bulbs. 
Subaru Outback in North Carolina, United States
Feb 2012 - Jul 2022
Mar 2021

119000 mi

US $500
Radiator replacement 
Subaru Outback in Michigan, United States
Jun 2017 - Nov 2020
Oct 2017

130000 mi

US $2100
Timing belt 
Subaru Outback in Florida, United States
Jun 2017 - Jun 2018
May 2018

125000 mi

US $500
Lower control arm bushings worn/cracked 
Subaru Outback in California, United States
Jul 2014 - Jan 2022
Jun 2018

85900 mi

US $1300
Timing belt water pump thermostat and change coolant... tensioner bearings... 
Subaru Outback in Pennsylvania, United States
Jan 2017 - Mar 2017
Jan 2017

156000 mi

US $600
both rear wheel bearings were bad slipping trans and not properly shifting. Would have to use paddles to down shift or upshift many times. Engine would lug along because of trans being in high gear. can't make it up steep inclines at low speeds, engines go to stall "no fix" 
Subaru Outback in New Jersey, United States
Nov 2016 - Sep 2023
Nov 2016

89000 mi
Passenger seat airbag sensor 
Dec 2016

90000 mi
Passenger seat airbag sensor 
Mar 2022

131000 mi

US $150
Transmission slips in highest gear 
Subaru Outback in Colorado, United States
May 2010 - Jun 2011
Jun 2010

1960 mi
Car has vibration. Wheels balanced 3 times from dealer & 3 times by independent tire store, not fixed. Factory amits problems exists, no solution to fix. Was told POSSIBLE solution coming in mid July. Not happy with new car. Tried for the 2nd time to balence wheels to address vibration in saet and stearing wheel at 60+ MPH. Could not fix. Tech called Subaru "Help Line" and was told they are awere of problem and do not have fix.  
Jul 2010

2660 mi
Subaru finally found "fix" to vibration and fix my Outback. No issues since and I'm now happy with my car. 
Subaru Outback in Quebec, Canada
Feb 2014 - Sep 2016
Apr 2014

61780 mi
Right rear door would not open from interior. Door mechanism changed on warranty. 
Jun 2015

96720 mi

C $2000
Head gasket leak and 2 pistons damaged. 
Aug 2015

99760 mi

C $500
AC not cold. Pump cyclying on off. Left rear wheel bearing failure. Wheel loose. 
Mar 2016

115320 mi

C $100
Clunking noise when driving over bumps. Sway bar bushings front and rear need to be replaced. The mechanic simply added shims for now saying it should do the trick for some time. 
Jun 2016

122760 mi

C $50
A/C sealant and recharge 
Subaru Outback in Maryland, United States
Dec 2013 - Mar 2016
Oct 2014

219800 mi

US $373
Slight noise from left rear was bad rear wheel bearing which was failing. Replaced at independent shop for a lot less than dealer with twice the guarantee ( 2yrs./ 24000 miles. First failure of any kind on this car since new 
Oct 2015

255200 mi

US $600
At time of front rotor replacement, grease was noticed on inside of wheel. Further inspection showed small cut in outer CV boot. Part is too new to be supplied by aftermarket , so an OEM replacement was installed. No mechanical failure. 
Subaru Outback in Pennsylvania, United States
Dec 2013 - Jun 2015
Mar 2015

60000 mi

US $1500
Replace leaking front struts. Replaced leaking radiator assembly. 
Subaru Outback in Pennsylvania, United States
Oct 2013 - Jun 2018
Dec 2014

43000 mi

US $100
Passenger window would not seat properly when lowered and raised again. Window Motor actuator assy was replaced. 
Oct 2015

55200 mi

US $100
Noticed a hum coming from the front of the vehicle. Had scheduled service at deales and explained problem had them check it out. They concluded that the right front wheel bearing was bad. Replaced under Subaru extended warranty 
Subaru Outback in Washington, United States
Dec 2014 - Jun 2022
Jun 2015

67000 mi

US $50
Valve cover and spark plug tube gaskets 
Oct 2017

98000 mi

US $500
Replace all 4 shocks / struts 
Jan 2018

99000 mi
Reprogramming of TCU to fix 1-2 flare / harsh shift. 
Jun 2022

112000 mi
Sunroof drains regularly clog and result in significant water entry 
Subaru Outback in Alaska, United States
Dec 2015 - Apr 2017
Mar 2016

93000 mi

US $300
Crossover pipe leaking coolant 
Apr 2016

94000 mi
Wheel bearing, brakes, and rotors replaced. 
Subaru Outback in Washington, United States
Nov 2015 - Dec 2015
Dec 2015

85000 mi

US $3000
Headgaskets blown 
Subaru Outback in Pennsylvania, United States
Aug 2015 - Mar 2016
Sep 2015

60000 mi

US $1000
Had to replace both Alternator and Battery. Had to replace the lumbar support clip 
Feb 2016

64900 mi

US $1000
battery drained, checked battery condition was perfect. Dealer said the output from the alternator is not consistent and recommended changing battery and alternator. Which I did. 
Subaru Outback in California, United States
Mar 2015 - Jan 2022
Mar 2016

50000 mi

US $600
Front struts 
May 2017

63000 mi

US $250
Pads and rotors 
Subaru Outback in Missouri, United States
Jun 2013 - Jul 2013
Jul 2013

54000 mi
Passenger seat motor 
Subaru Outback in Tennessee, United States
Feb 2010 - Oct 2012
May 2010

3000 mi
Steering wheel vibration, fixed after three trips. Finally replaced the steering rack spring then the bushings in the drivetrain. The real issue, in my opinion, was the new bushings. Subaru had you run a gauntlet to get the bushings. 
Subaru Outback in Washington, United States
Nov 2009 - Oct 2014
Nov 2013

41000 mi

US $99
Water was leaking into car thru overhead console. Two of the drain holes were plugged. Also had brakes checked, stil have 70% of pads left at 41K. Also had partial drain & fill of CVT, took 6 qrts, cost $275. Very satisfied w car & service. 
Aug 2014

48000 mi

US $100
Sticky sunroof, needed adjustment & lube. Rather disappointing since it went into the dealer less than 6 months earlier to repair sunroof leak. At the same time the auto up feature of drivers window stopped working, possible detailing relatd 
Subaru Outback in North Dakota, United States
Nov 2009 - Sep 2011
Dec 2010

20000 mi
The "low" setting on the driver's seat warmer did not always work. Looses wiring harness was corrected at no cost to us. 
Subaru Outback in Ohio, United States
Oct 2009 - Sep 2012
Sep 2011

39000 mi

US $15
In the past month, the low beam, brake light and tail light all burned out at different times. I am hoping that this is not going to be an ongoing issue, but wanted others to be aware. To replace head light, the inner fender must be removed 
Mar 2012

50000 mi

US $34
Headlights again burned out. Was told to use less wattage bulbs. Lasted about 5000 miles. Had center section of dash lights and fans all go out until I started the car again and has been fine since. Steering wheel volume not always working. 
Subaru Outback in Texas, United States
Oct 2009 - Mar 2012
Oct 2010

15000 mi
Steering column support bracket was loose. Repaired by retightening bolts. 
Nov 2010

16500 mi
1. Something broke the engine cover underneath the car during a trip. This is the plastic shroud that runs from the bottom of the bumper to the front axle. 2. A trim piece on the rear door glass is loose. Parts ordered. 
Feb 2011

21500 mi
Installed black plastic window trim on edge of rear door. Would have been replaced last month, but the part that came in was broken.  Installed black plastic window trim on edge of rear door. Would have been replaced last month, but the part that came in was broken.  
Subaru Outback in Pennsylvania, United States
Nov 2009 - Apr 2016
Aug 2013

29500 mi

US $150
Steering wheel shook at highway speed. Car did not feel stable. One strut found to be leaking; replaced both cost $150 per strut total bill estimated at $632 to fix. Update: Subaru later covered all but $150. 
Subaru Outback in Virginia, United States
Nov 2009 - Jun 2018
Dec 2012

32000 mi

US $45
Low bulb 
Jul 2017

98000 mi

US $800
Head gasket replacement 
Apr 2018

109000 mi

US $500
Oxygen sensor 
Subaru Outback in California, United States
Jan 2010 - Jun 2012
Mar 2011

26000 mi
Power sunroof stopped working. Warranty repair included replacing parts. 
Subaru Outback in New Jersey, United States
Jan 2010 - Apr 2012
Apr 2012

23000 mi
Air bag light stayed on. Reset module and hasn't been on since. 
Subaru Outback in Pennsylvania, United States
Nov 2009 - Jun 2017
Nov 2010

14000 mi
Water leaking into interior. TSB#12-117-10R Map light area water leak repair. 
Aug 2016

77000 mi

US $400
Car would not start. Replaced crank sensor. 
Subaru Outback in California, United States
Sep 2009 - Dec 2013
Aug 2010

10000 mi
Bad Drivers outside mirror was replaced, would not adjust from inside car. 
Subaru Outback in Connecticut, United States
Sep 2009 - May 2011
Oct 2009

1000 mi
engine hesitation going up steep driveway. Common problem but no fix yet. 
Mar 2010

4000 mi
CVT transmission sometimes locks in 2nd, 3rd, or 4th. Will not automatically return to drive. Also, periodic low groan from right rear when making a left turn from a stop. 
Subaru Outback in Mississippi, United States
Sep 2009 - Oct 2019
Oct 2009

2000 mi
Brake warning light started flashing after releasing the emergency brake. Initially duplicated at dealer, but then went away after restarting. 
Oct 2010

13500 mi
dealer scratched steering wheel during repair of recall 
Mar 2016

54000 mi
Dealer replaced headlights 
Subaru Outback in Ontario, Canada
Aug 2009 - Feb 2016
Sep 2009

620 mi
Sunroof failed to open. Repaired works fine now. 
Aug 2011

17100 mi
Heater / AC fan bearing going. New one ordered, to be installed August 8. 
Jul 2014

55580 mi

C $700
Idler pully bearing failed on serpentine belt. Left front wheel bearing replaced 
Dec 2015

77500 mi

C $1500
Hanger bearing failed, needed new drive shaft. Brake line failed and leaked brake fluid. Also wheel bearing failed and was replaced. 
Subaru Outback in Virginia, United States
Jul 2009 - Feb 2011
Dec 2009

7000 mi
Heat shield bent of exhaust pipe bent into the drive shaft from snow buildup. Heat shield was pushed back to shape. Shop foreman said he would report a bad design issue to Subaru. 
Feb 2011

24000 mi
Steering wheel vibration, 2011 TSB performed 
Subaru Outback in Minnesota, United States
Jul 2009 - Jun 2022
Mar 2010

14000 mi
Cold weather start bug 
May 2010

16900 mi
updated firmware to address cold weather start issue, and cvt updated to use lower ratio in reverse 
Mar 2017

117000 mi

US $1400
some sensors, oil flush/change axle cv boot 
Jun 2018

137000 mi

US $550
Wheel bearing 
Mar 2019

147000 mi
torque converter replaced under warranty. lot of stalling, etc starting from a stop 
Subaru Outback in Ontario, Canada
Sep 2009 - Mar 2010
Dec 2009

6200 mi
Vibration and shaking 
Jan 2010

6300 mi
Replacement of the steering rack spring  
Mar 2010

6820 mi
Vibration The car was replaced for the brand new one by manufacturer  
Subaru Outback in Virginia, United States
Sep 2009 - Jun 2018
Oct 2009

1000 mi
When vehicle was purchased there was a slight popping noise coming from the rear speakers even with the radio off. The dealership tried new head unit and chasing wires. Still waiting to get fixed. 
Aug 2010

7500 mi
Tire pressure monitoring light came on and would not go off even after checking tire pressure. Took to dealer who checked tire pressure again and turned off light with computer. Will wait and see if the problem recurrs or not.  
Dec 2012

31000 mi
Took vehicle in for random drops in idle when coming to a stop. This also happens during slow speed maneuvering in parking lots. Due to the random nature of the problem, Dealer was unable to duplicate or pull any codes from the vehicle. 
Dec 2014

47000 mi
Passenger airbag fails to detect weight of person less than 120 lbs or less. Was not an issue for first 4 years of ownership yet dealership and SOA says that the airbag sensor is working as designed and fail to repair under extended warrant 
Mar 2018

77000 mi
Air bag replaced as part of major recall 
Subaru Outback in Virginia, United States
Oct 2009 - Jul 2018
Nov 2015

88000 mi
lumbar support failed 
Jul 2018

118000 mi

US $1000
both rear wheel hubs went bad 
Subaru Outback in New York, United States
Sep 2009 - Mar 2010
Oct 2009 Subtle steering wheel shimmy/shaking at low speeds but greater shimmy/shaking at highway speeds 
Nov 2009

1000 mi
Steering shake, vibration, shimmy at midrange speeds and severe at highway speeds.  
Subaru Outback in Maryland, United States
Sep 2009 - May 2016
Dec 2010

22000 mi
Headlight bulb - replaced by Dealer under warranty 
Apr 2011

28500 mi
Rear tag lights - bulb replacement and/or connection repair. Rear Tag lights - bulb replacement and/or connection repair 
Nov 2011

41200 mi

US $50
Condensor-to-Evaporator line leaking - replaced line 
Dec 2014

92000 mi

US $50
Power Lock actuator failed - replaced. Seat lumbar support mechanism failed - fixed. 
Subaru Outback in Texas, United States
Mar 2010 - Sep 2014
Feb 2014

89300 mi

US $200
200 dollars to replace the headlight bulbs, Ouch. 
Subaru Outback in New York, United States
Jan 2010 - Oct 2013
Mar 2010

6000 mi

US $180
Have a harmon Kardon system, no Navigation. Noticed front driver side door speaker sounded blown (i.e. intermittent sound, lots of static, no bass), possibly from loose connection. Dealer replaced speaker under warranty. 
Oct 2013

93000 mi

US $90
The exhaust piping between the muffler and the mid-pipe flange rotted through right at the flange. A muffler shop welded a splice between broken pipe and the flange. Experiencing another exhaust leak/rattle before the Cat, location unknw. 
Subaru Outback in Maryland, United States
Feb 2010 - Jun 2013
May 2013

85000 mi

US $50
Check engine light reporting Cat Converter failure. Did not have work done, just diagnosed. 
Subaru Outback in Georgia, United States
Mar 2010 - Jan 2011
Dec 2010

12000 mi
Moonroof would operate intermittently, then stopped working in open position. Dealer adjusted and lubricated tracks 
Subaru Outback in Quebec, Canada
Feb 2010 - Dec 2016
Mar 2010

496 mi
between 20 and 30 degrees farenheit I had problems starting the car reprogram computer to solve start problem when cold 
Aug 2014

64480 mi

C $150
remove metal plates around catalyzer 
Jun 2015

76260 mi

C $500
Rear bearing change 
Apr 2016

86260 mi

C $250
Replace fuel system oxygen sensor Replace front wheel bearing + hub 
Dec 2016

96100 mi

C $350
after noisy start, replace starter 
Subaru Outback in Kentucky, United States
Mar 2010 - May 2016
May 2010

3200 mi
gas cap lid or body panel cover would not open, so couldn't get gas. tentative diagnosis: the rubber cord that holds the gas cap to the car body inside the lid got pinched in the lid, wedging it closed. dealer's gonna replace the cord-fastener. 
Jun 2011

13000 mi
intermittent GPS/audio system problems: screen "auto" dimming doesn't work so sometimes bright at night, too dim during day; also bluetooth works erratically 
Sep 2011

15000 mi
bluetooth controls not effective at answering or ending phone calls. dealer replaced steering wheel controls. Took three trips: first reported problem; second time reported problem and they ordered part; third trip was for install of part Tire loses 4-7 psi every 2-3 weeks. To tire dealer 3x, can't find leak, replaced valve stem, re-mounted tire to seal bead. Said cld be crack in wheel, see dealer. Dealer couldn't find leak in wheel or tire. Said see tire mfgr. I'm stuck. 
Jul 2012

23500 mi
Car wouldn't start or come out of park. Couldn't lock doors. Dealer says bad elec key code sensor. Had to be flatbed-towed to dealer. Subaru roadside assist covered tow, but I had to wait 25 mins on hold just for them to answer my call). July visit described above turned out to be bad battery. Battery replaced under warranty. 
Apr 2015

43200 mi
Bluetooth connectivity problems, steering wheel phone control problems. Wonky system. Solution tends to be non-intuitive commands. 
Mar 2016

44000 mi

US $50
Pulsing in steering wheel when turned. They flushed the steering fluid. Problem persists and will be returned. Update: turned out to be a bad tire. 
Subaru Outback in Ontario, Canada
Feb 2010 - May 2011
Jun 2010

3720 mi
Steering wheel vibration at high speeds (>100 km/h). Replacement of steering system bushings, new tires 
Aug 2010

6520 mi
The steering wheel was replaced with the modified one (as per TSB). The new steering wheel incorporates a dynamic vibration damper. 
Feb 2011

14880 mi
Replaced lower steering arms, replaced steering column, replaced steering wheel, replaced various bushing including front stabilizer bar bushings  
May 2011

17980 mi
Tires, one rim and drive axles replaced. Unsuccessful repair, sold car. 
Subaru Outback in Washington, United States
Feb 2010 - Sep 2013
Feb 2013

40900 mi
Changed oil clogged oil nozzle under warranty. 
Subaru Outback in New Jersey, United States
Mar 2010 - Mar 2021
Mar 2012

36000 mi
I have an unusual amount of paint chips in my hood. I understand this is normal w/hghwy travel, but it's just too much. Chips down to gray undercoat and several are rust spots 
Jun 2015

97000 mi

US $100
CVT converter needed to be replaced. Extended warranty covered 
May 2018

150000 mi

US $500
ABS assembly was diagnosed as bad by the dealer. Purchased part from another dealer (cheaper), and installed by myself 
Subaru Outback in Indiana, United States
Feb 2010 - Dec 2011
Oct 2010

17000 mi
Took car in for maintenence service along with several issues including squeaking noise in passenger seat and scuff marks on steering wheel from previous dealer oil change. Dealer replaced passenger seat belt mechanism and steering wheel. 
Mar 2011

28000 mi
Noise coming from passenger front seat (squeaks). First time replaced seat belt receptacle and it solved problem for a few weeks. Noise returned and this time replaced seat belt and receptacle. So far it has solved the noise issue. 
Subaru Outback in Massachusetts, United States
Feb 2010 - Dec 2014
Aug 2010

9000 mi
Diagnosed with an engine block that was porous. A new short block was put into the car under warranty. 
Jan 2011

15000 mi
Coolant was down to reservoir, so they topped it off. I was concerned about where it is going. They said to just watch it until oil change in several hundred miles. 
Apr 2013

39300 mi

US $100
Dash lights were out and electronic door opener were not working consistently 
Subaru Outback in New York, United States
Mar 2010 - Sep 2013
Sep 2013

79000 mi

US $300
fan motor broke / fuse blown / car overheated 
Subaru Outback in Colorado, United States
Mar 2010 - Nov 2014
Mar 2013

44000 mi
both front shocks leaking. covered under warranty. initially took car in for puddle light recall. 
Subaru Outback in New York, United States
Jan 2010 - Jun 2014
Aug 2010

9200 mi
Computer system update required. Paid in full by Subaru of America. Done while in for 7,500 mile maintenance (tire rotation, oil change, etc) 
Jan 2014

US $400
Exterior door trim piece came loose. Retaining clips needed to be ordered and installed. 
Subaru Outback in Ontario, Canada
Jun 2009 - Jul 2022
Dec 2012

36580 mi

C $33
Fog light bulb replacement. $33 labor. 
Jul 2013

40580 mi

C $50
Headlight bulb replacement. Didn't realize we were supposed to report these. This is probably the 4th time I've had to get a lightbulb replaced in my headlight. 
Dec 2013

46500 mi
Headlamp adjustment. Asked my local shop to fix a couple of times. Thought they'd forgotten (no better). This last time they remarked how low they were when we pointed it out. They fixed. No better. Broken? Dangerous. Will go back. 
Dec 2014

55800 mi

C $120
Replaced headlight bulb. Had a problem with the alignment of the lights (pointing too low). Mechanic billed $115 labour to adjust them. $5 for the bulb. We've had the "headlights pointing too low" problem before. Unclear what the prob is. 
Jun 2015

60140 mi

C $420
Faulty oil pressure switch 
Oct 2015

64160 mi

C $285
oil light came on. Had been leaking oil. Replaced a rusty leaking oil pan. 
Feb 2017

74400 mi
The heat shields were making a horrible rattling noise. It was repaired with a $10 clamp. 
Aug 2017

79360 mi

C $40
Another heat shield began to rattle. The mechanic removed it rather than clamp it. 
Nov 2017

81840 mi
drivers headlight bulb needed replacing 
May 2018

84246 mi

C $262
Passenger headlight brake light Exhaust was corroded on joint. A sleeve was welded over it to keep it from breaking apart A loud crunch sound could be heard in colder weather whenever I went over a bump. Mechanic could not duplicate sound. Hasn't appeared in warmer weather 
Apr 2022

120900 mi

C $500
Car stopped being able to accelerate under pressure (passing). Turned out to be the oil pressure sensor. 
Jul 2022

124000 mi

C $10000
Entire exhaust system from catalytic converter to muffler needs to be replaced. Quoted just under $10,000 parts and labour. Opted not to get the work done. 
Subaru Outback in New York, United States
Mar 2010 - Jul 2017
Nov 2011

25000 mi
Vibration in front end. Not tire issue as thought. Right Front Axle needed replacement. Part Ordered. Right Front Axle replaced. Vibration issue fixed. 
Nov 2015

64000 mi

US $100
Replace Low Beam Headlight.  Replace Brake Light on back door, water leak. 
Subaru Outback in Nova Scotia, Canada
Apr 2010 - Jun 2018
May 2012

32000 mi
Puddle light shorted out. Part of a string of 14 electrical components wired to a single fuse. The dealer removed the faulty light and ordered a replacement. Unfortunately, the replacement was the wrong bulb, and we are still awaiting the correct one.  
Sep 2017

117180 mi
power passenger seat works intermittently power passenger seat control worked intermittently cruise control switch on steering wheel worked intermittently 
Jun 2018

128340 mi

C $1300
cracked subframe 

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2010 Subaru Outback 4dr Wagon

170-horsepower 2.5L H4 6-speed manual AWD

Subaru Outback in Ontario, Canada
Jun 2021 - Jul 2022
May 2022

141980 mi

C $1200
Front subframe rusted severely, replaced, as a result control arm is broken too 
Subaru Outback in Pennsylvania, United States
Oct 2009 - Jun 2011
Aug 2010

10000 mi
Engine stalls when A/C is turned on. Electrical connector in steering column replaced. ABS cover cracked. Upgraded rubber floor mats worn out. Rattle under car. 
Subaru Outback in New Jersey, United States
Feb 2010 - Dec 2015
Mar 2010

3900 mi

US $35
Vehicle sent in for stalling at idle, dealer reprogrammed ECM. Also first oil change. 
Apr 2011

16000 mi
Clip broken for driver's seat lumbar support. Brake light burned out and replaced. Trim ring on shift knob delaminated and clips failing letting ring fall down repeatedly. 
Mar 2013

51000 mi
Car vibrated and shook upon low speed turns such as parking. Replaced front center differential. 
Subaru Outback in Oklahoma, United States
Jun 2010 - Jun 2011
May 2010

16000 mi
Replaced sub-frame for drivers seat due to excessive squeaking; took 2 days, one to analyze, then a separate trip back after the ordered part came in; covered by warranty. replaced something else in the drivers seat to fix excessive squeaking; again it took 2 days, one to analyze, then a separate trip back after the ordered part came in; warranty covered. 
Jun 2010

17000 mi
replaced entire seat assembly due to excessive squeaking; warranty covered; 1 1/2 days lost; 
Jul 2010

17500 mi
Missing bolt in drivers seat frame and damaged plastic part was replaced; replaced a missing bolt in the driver seat frame assembly that permitted the seat to collapse under acceleration pressure; had a loaner for 3 days while parts were awaited; warranty covered. 
Oct 2010

29000 mi
squeaky seat had a redesigned frame installed to repair driver seat squeak. 
Subaru Outback in Connecticut, United States
Nov 2009 - Jun 2012
Apr 2010

7000 mi
Steering wheel shake at highway speeds. Dealer performed alignment and tire balance, but problem persists. 
Nov 2010

16700 mi

US $150
Slight steering wheel shimmy at highway speeds persists. Dealer just keeps giving the car wheel balance and alignments. Wind noise through driver's side window. Mechanic apparently could not hear it on initial drive, Everyone else who drives in the car can hear it, but I have to re-schedule a "drive-along" with the dealer's mechanic next appointment.  Car intermittently stalled at idle when clutch was depressed. Dealer flashed ECU update. Appears to be OK. 
Mar 2011

25000 mi
Excessive wind noise coming through driver's side window at highway speeds. 
Subaru Outback in Florida, United States
Apr 2014 - Jan 2022
Apr 2014

40000 mi
Small vibration in the front end when cruising on the expressway. After time it got worse and would hear a clicking in the front from a acceleration from a stop. It was a front impeller shaft. Returned 2-3 weeks later. 
Sep 2015

51000 mi
Had a whining noise. Ended up getting a new transmission. 
Jan 2022

191000 mi

US $400
Front wheel bearings 
Subaru Outback in Yukon Territory, Canada
Feb 2010 - Jun 2018
Mar 2014

29760 mi

C $650
loud whining engine noise because of leak in steering fluid hose; dealer did not have part, so replaced fluid for free three times over the course of a week to avoid pump damage left headlight blew at about 46,000 km, was replaced during maintenance hose replaced a week later; problem fixed right headlight died in the week after routine maintenance, fixed the day the steering fluid hose was replaced. 
May 2014

30380 mi

C $85
Associated with the PZEV feature? An oxygen sensor somewhere triggers the check engine light, parking brake and traction lights. No apparent effect on performance, but means no cruise control or auto-disengage on parking brake. 
Apr 2015

38020 mi

C $200
Headlights both burned out 
Feb 2016

49640 mi
Manual transmission was sticking and resisting going into reverse. Car was just out of warranty, but dealer advocated and transmission was basically rebuilt (four synchros replaced) at manufacturer expense. 
Jun 2018

71300 mi

C $180
Both main headlights were blown (even though they were long-life, and replaced in 2015), so we just replaced with regular this time, and resigned ourselves to this car being mysteriously tough on light bulbs. 
Subaru Outback in North Carolina, United States
Apr 2010 - Apr 2011
Jul 2010

3000 mi
A/C not as cool as it should be. R-134 added. Car dies sometimes when the clutch is engaged. Mechanic stated Subaru aware and ecu reflash is needed, but his computer has not been updated. 
Aug 2010

4000 mi
Dealership got the download to update the ecm. The ecm was reflashed the third week of August, and the car no longer dies when the clutch is engaged. The car drives much better. 
Subaru Outback in Ontario, Canada
Dec 2013 - Jun 2018
Feb 2015

69440 mi

C $100
Had to change drivers side headlight bulb. Labourious process. 
Jun 2016

76880 mi

C $500
Leak in AC pipe repaired + recharge/refill Oil pressure switch failed causing slow oil leak. Replaced OPS. 
Mar 2018

94240 mi

C $500
Left front wheel bearing worn out, had to be replaced 
Subaru Outback in Ohio, United States
Nov 2013 - Dec 2013
Dec 2013

51000 mi

US $67
center electronic board shorted out in the snow. AC and Radio and clock not working. 
Subaru Outback in California, United States
Dec 2012 - May 2015
Nov 2014

89700 mi

US $2100
Clutch and throw out bearing replacement. This is a 6 spd manual transmission 
Mar 2015

99000 mi

US $675
Head Gasket replaced. 
Subaru Outback in Minnesota, United States
Nov 2009 - Mar 2010
Jan 2010 Misaligned door - they were able to fix it so the door shut properly, but is still not perfectly aligned. It appears the door itself may not be shaped correctly. I'm not thrilled, but I didn't buy a Lexus so I may be expecting too much. 
Subaru Outback in Washington, United States
Mar 2010 - Oct 2015
Aug 2012

33000 mi
E-Brake Motor failed, replaced under warranty. 
Aug 2014

55700 mi

US $50
Headlights out 
Subaru Outback in New Jersey, United States
Oct 2009 - Apr 2010
Apr 2010

7000 mi
The Outback has a vibration/shake in the steering wheel. Dealer tried numerous fixes, including numerous road force balances of the tires. Installed a heavier spring in the steering column. Did not solve the issue, SOA bought back the Outback. 
Subaru Outback in New Jersey, United States
Mar 2016 - Jun 2016
Jun 2016

63000 mi

US $250
Front Caliper froze and needed to be replaced. 
Subaru Outback in New Jersey, United States
Jul 2015 - Sep 2015
Aug 2015

75000 mi

US $171
Steering wheel controls stopped working. They had to order a special under-dash module to correct the issue, $170 for the part and two hours of labor. Thankfully I still had the CPO extended warranty. Also needed an alignment. 

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2010 Subaru Outback 4dr Wagon

165-horsepower 2.5L H4 6-speed shiftable CVT AWD

Subaru Outback in British Columbia, Canada
Aug 2013 - Sep 2017
Mar 2016

79360 mi

C $1400
Replaced seized bearings on both sides in the rear axle 

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2010 Subaru Outback 4dr Wagon

Subaru Outback in New Jersey, United States
Sep 2016 - Sep 2017
Sep 2017

131000 mi
CVT replaced 

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2010 Subaru Outback 4-door

turbocharged 4-cylinder diesel manual AWD

Subaru Outback in New South Wales, Australia
Jan 2015 - Jul 2015
Jan 2015

74400 mi

A $380
Diesel particulate filter blocked, required manual regeneration 
Mar 2015

77500 mi

A $470
Split coolant hose causing DPF error. Coolant hose replace, manual DPF regen performed 

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See TrueDelta's information for all Sedans and Wagons.
See TrueDelta's information for all Subaru models.

2010 Subaru Outback Repair Histories

See our lemon odds and nada odds page to see vehicles with no repairs or vehicles with more than three repairs. To see how frequently 2010 Subaru Outback problems occur, check out our car reliability stats.