Outback (2025)
Data covers 2 NHTSA model names
Reliability Score
Complaints by Engine Code
U5
2.5L 4-cyl / 182 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
U4
2.4L 4-cyl / 260 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Show 1 additional engine variant with limited data
Subaru Outback Unidentified Engine
View details
Complaint Breakdown
Owner Complaints by System
Complaints owners filed with NHTSA about the Subaru Outback, counted across every engine. A complaint can name more than one system.
What to check on a used 2025 Subaru Outback
On a used 2025 Subaru Outback, the systems with the most NHTSA owner complaints are the airbags and driver-assist systems (31), the electrical system (13) and the engine (6). Each one has an inspection step below, with counts as of 2026-10-12. A complaint is an owner report, not a confirmed defect, and counts rise with sales.
- Switch the ignition on and watch the airbag light. On the drive, check the backup camera and any collision or lane warning.Safety. NHTSA has 31 owner complaints on the 2025 Subaru Outback about the airbags and driver-assist systems.
- Switch on every electrical item in turn: lights, windows, locks, wipers, climate fan, screen and power outlets.Costly repair. NHTSA has 13 owner complaints on the 2025 Subaru Outback about the electrical system.
- Start the engine cold and listen for the first 30 seconds, then again at idle once it is warm.Costly repair. NHTSA has 6 owner complaints on the 2025 Subaru Outback about the engine, all engines combined.
- Turn the wheel from lock to lock while parked, then drive straight on a level road with a light grip.Safety. NHTSA has 6 owner complaints on the 2025 Subaru Outback about the steering.
- Accelerate gently through every gear, then once at full throttle. Shift into Reverse and back to Drive.Costly repair. NHTSA has 4 owner complaints on the 2025 Subaru Outback about the transmission and drivetrain, all engines combined.
NHTSA Safety Ratings About NHTSA ratings
Alternatives in Midsize SUV
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common 2025-2025 Subaru Outback complaints?
Owners have filed 81 complaints with NHTSA about the 2025-2025 Subaru Outback. The systems they name most often are the safety systems, the electrical system and the engine.
Is the 2025-2025 Subaru Outback a good used car?
That depends on the model year, the mileage and the maintenance history of the car in front of you. Owners have filed 81 complaints with NHTSA about the 2025-2025 Subaru Outback. Check which systems they name most often and whether a recall is still open on that car.
How many NHTSA complaints does the 2025-2025 Subaru Outback have?
NHTSA has 81 owner complaints on file for the 2025-2025 Subaru Outback as of the latest data pull. A complaint is an owner's report, not a confirmed defect, and counts rise with sales.
What recalls affect the 2025-2025 Subaru Outback?
NHTSA lists no recalls for the 2025-2025 Subaru Outback.
What should I check before buying a used Subaru Outback?
Run the VIN through NHTSA's recall lookup and confirm every open recall has been done. Look hardest at the safety systems, the electrical system and the engine, the systems owners complain about most. Ask for maintenance records, have an independent mechanic inspect the car and run a vehicle history report for prior accidents and title issues.
What are the NHTSA crash test ratings for the Outback?
The 2025 Subaru Outback received an overall 5-star safety rating from NHTSA. Frontal crash: 5 stars. Side crash: 5 stars. Rollover: 4 stars (18.5% rollover probability). Electronic Stability Control: Standard. Forward Collision Warning: Standard & Optional. Lane Departure Warning: Standard. These ratings are based on standardized crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 81 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: moderate. Last updated: 2026-10-12.