2024 Subaru Outback Reliability Score & Common Problems

Owners report that the 2024 Subaru Outback's forward collision avoidance systems exhibit several issues. Complaints frequently mention the pre-collision braking system engaging unexpectedly during normal driving conditions, such as in traffic or near construction zones, which can lead to abrupt stops and potential safety risks. Additionally, the adaptive cruise control is described as overly sensitive, slowing down unnecessarily for objects like sound walls or cones. Some owners note that the system fails to provide collision warnings when approaching vehicles at higher speeds, despite all settings being enabled. These issues are reported across various driving conditions, with no specific mileage range highlighted. Safety implications include the risk of accidents due to sudden braking or lack of collision warnings.

Owners report issues with the steering system of the 2024 Subaru Outback, primarily involving the steering wheel becoming firm and difficult to maneuver, often accompanied by numerous warning lights such as ABS, All-Wheel Drive, and Traction Control. One complaint describes the steering wheel locking and the engine failing to start, which required jiggling the transmission to resolve. These issues are noted at low mileages, with one case occurring at approximately 2,800 miles. Safety implications include potential loss of steering control, which can be hazardous while driving. Buyers should be aware that some owners have experienced unresolved steering concerns, which could affect vehicle handling and safety.

Owners of the 2024 Subaru Outback report issues with the passenger airbag sensor, particularly when the occupant weighs between 100 and 105 pounds, leading to inconsistent activation of the airbag system. Complaints highlight that the sensor often fails to recognize lighter passengers, with Subaru stating this is within the design parameters. Additionally, there is a report of a head-on collision where the airbags did not deploy, resulting in two injuries and the vehicle being declared a total loss at approximately 6,000 miles. These issues suggest potential safety implications, especially in situations involving lighter passengers or crash scenarios.

Owners report issues with the 2024 Subaru Outback's vehicle speed control, including unintended acceleration and unexpected braking. Complaints frequently mention that the vehicle may brake on its own at highway speeds or accelerate without driver input, leading to a crash in one instance where a pedestrian was injured. Symptoms often include loss of cruise control and malfunctioning of related systems like EyeSight, lane deviation, and forward collision warnings. These issues are reported at low mileages, around 1,000 miles, and pose significant safety implications, particularly with the occurrence of a crash and injury. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and the reported lack of immediate resolution from dealers.

Owners of the 2024 Subaru Outback report issues with the reverse automatic emergency braking system. Complaints frequently mention the system engaging unexpectedly, causing the vehicle to come to a full stop when backing up, which can obstruct traffic. In one instance, this unexpected braking resulted in a crash when the vehicle accelerated forward into a cement wall after the reverse braking engaged. These issues are described in scenarios such as backing out of driveways and parking lots, but no specific mileage or timeline patterns are noted. Safety implications include potential crashes and unexpected stops, which are critical for prospective buyers to consider.

Owners report issues with the power train of the 2024 Subaru Outback, particularly involving throttle response and transmission failure. Common symptoms include the engine not responding to gas pedal input, even though the engine continues to run and the vehicle can move at idle speed. These issues appear at low mileage, with one instance occurring at just 1,300 miles and another at 5,300 miles. Safety implications are noted, as one owner experienced a lack of throttle response when attempting to enter a busy roadway, and another reported the vehicle hesitating and jerking after an automatic emergency braking system activation. These complaints may be relevant for potential buyers considering the vehicle's early-stage reliability.