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Subaru Outback: which year should you buy?

Across the 2011 to 2023 model years, the public record is strongest on the 2023 (78/100). Every year below is scored on its own NHTSA complaint and recall history. Pick the year, not just the nameplate.

Best years to target

2023 78 · 2021 71

Every model year, scored

Same math for every year (how we score). A neutral Unproven or Too New stamp means too few owner reports are on file to affirm the year, not that it’s clean.

202378/100
Buybest year

85 complaints · 2 recalls

202263/100
Caution

453 complaints · 4 recalls

202171/100
Buy

291 complaints · 4 recalls

202059/100
Caution

890 complaints · 6 recalls

201961/100
Caution

1,029 complaints · 3 recalls

201864/100
Caution

803 complaints · 3 recalls

201760/100
Caution

915 complaints · 4 recalls · ⚠ park-it recall

201664/100
Caution

638 complaints · 4 recalls · ⚠ park-it recall

201564/100
Caution

504 complaints · 5 recalls · ⚠ park-it recall

201464/100
Caution

208 complaints · 10 recalls

201362/100
Caution

295 complaints · 12 recalls

201264/100
Caution

290 complaints · 16 recalls

201160/100
Caution

649 complaints · 16 recalls

Zeroing in on the 2023?

The full year-by-year verdict is free. When you’re ready to inspect and negotiate one specific car, the Full Report turns the 2023 Subaru Outback’s complaint breakdown and recall list into an inspection-ready, shareable PDF.

Recalls, complaint breakdown & inspection checklist, all in a shareable PDF

Cross-shopping a different nameplate? Compare the 2023 Subaru Outback head-to-head →

The fine print: each year’s verdict is computed from public NHTSA complaint and recall records for the Subaru Outback as a model, not for any individual car. A well-kept example of a weaker year can outlast a neglected strong one. Informational only, so always get a professional pre-purchase inspection.