Subaru Outback (5th Gen) Used Buyer's Guide: Common Problems and Reliability (2012-2019)
Subaru · Outback · 5th gen · 2012–2019
2012-2019 Subaru Outback (5th gen) buyer's guide: CVT transmission issues, oil consumption on 2.5L, infotainment screen failure, wheel bearing wear. What used buyers need to know before purchasing.
Mirko3 min read
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The 2012-2019 Subaru Outback earned a reputation for practicality and all-weather capability, but its 5th generation carries two primary risk signals: a notoriously unreliable continuously variable transmission (CVT) and excessive oil consumption in the 2.5L engine. Used buyers must approach this generation with clear awareness that repair costs can quickly exceed the vehicle's residual value.
Generation Overview
Production spanned 2012 to 2019, with a major refresh for 2015 that updated front/rear styling, interior materials, and the infotainment system. Available engines were the 2.5L FB25 four-cylinder (175 hp) and the 3.6L EZ36 six-cylinder (256 hp). The 2015+ models also introduced EyeSight driver-assist on certain trims. This generation replaced the previous 4th gen's 4-speed automatic and offered the first CVT across all Outback variants. Key variants include 2.5i, 2.5i Premium, 2.5i Limited, 3.6R, and 3.6R Limited.
Known Issues
CVT Transmission Failure
Torque converter shudder, chain slip, and valve body failure are common. Repair costs range from $4,000 to $8,000 for a replacement CVT. All 2012-2019 Outbacks use the TR580 or TR690 CVT. Severity: High. What to watch for: hesitation during acceleration, a shudder at highway speeds (40-60 mph), or a "check engine" light with codes P2769, P0700, or P0868.
Excessive Oil Consumption (2.5L FB25)
A flawed piston ring design causes oil consumption of 1 quart every 1,000–2,000 miles. Subaru extended the warranty to 8 years/100,000 miles for this issue on 2013-2016 models. Affects all 2.5L engines; 3.6L engines are not affected. Severity: Medium (leads to catalytic converter damage and engine wear if untreated). What to watch for: low oil level warning light between oil changes, blue exhaust smoke, or the need to add oil more than once per service interval.
Infotainment Screen Failure (2015+)
The 7-inch touchscreen head unit may freeze, delaminate (the touch layer separates), or drain the battery when the car is off. Affects 2015-2017 models most frequently; some 2018-2019 units have similar issues. Severity: Medium. What to watch for: screen becomes unresponsive, displays ghost touches, or the car battery dies after sitting for 2-3 days.
Wheel Bearing Failure
Rear wheel bearings fail prematurely, often before 60,000 miles. A Subaru technical service bulletin (TSB 05-56-14) covers revised bearings. All variants affected, but more common on vehicles driven on rough roads or with aftermarket wheels. Severity: Medium. What to watch for: a low humming or droning noise that changes with speed (not engine load), and a slight vibration through the steering wheel or seat.
A/C Compressor Noise on Startup
A loud screech or chirp from the compressor when the A/C is engaged, often caused by a failed clutch bearing or low refrigerant. Affects all years, but 2012-2015 models are most frequently reported. Severity: Low (can lead to eventual compressor failure if ignored). What to watch for: the noise occurs only when the A/C is on, not when it's off.
Sub-Variant Issues
Pre-2015 CVT: Higher Failure Rate
If you're looking at a 2012-2014 Outback, the CVT is more prone to failure than later models due to earlier software calibration and valve body design. Subaru issued a software update for 2014-2015 models, but pre-2014 units lack this improvement. Watch for shudder on light acceleration or a delayed engagement from Park to Drive.
3.6R Engine: Timing Cover Oil Leaks
The 3.6L H6 engine is generally more reliable than the 2.5L, but high-mileage examples often develop oil leaks from the timing chain cover. Repair requires significant labor (7-10 hours). If you're looking at a 3.6R with over 90,000 miles, this adds another layer of risk.
FAQ
What are the most common problems with the Subaru Outback (5th Gen) (2012-2019)?
CVT transmission failure is the most serious known issue. Excessive oil consumption on the 2.5L FB25 engine, infotainment screen failure on 2015+ models, and wheel bearing failure are the other issues to check for.
Is the Subaru Outback (5th Gen) (2012-2019) reliable?
It's a mixed reputation. The CVT is the biggest risk and worth verifying has had fluid services on schedule, since Subaru's CVTs are known to be sensitive to maintenance neglect.
Are there Subaru Outback (5th Gen) years to avoid?
CVT failure risk applies across the full 2012-2019 production run rather than isolated years, so a documented CVT fluid service history matters more than picking a specific model year.