Outback — Generation guide
BS (5th gen) (2015–2019)
Maturity era. Refined CVT, EyeSight standard, much improved interior. The sweet spot for used buyers — most issues are documented and fixable.
Generation highlights
Documented problems (2015–2019)
All problems →Lineartronic CVT Shudder & Failure
Torque-converter shudder at 30-45 mph and chain-belt failures plagued 2010-2018 CVTs.
Repair: $600–$8,500
Catalytic Converter Failure (P0420)
Catalytic converter failure, commonly indicated by a P0420 check engine light, reduces engine performance and increases emissions due to an inefficient or damaged catalytic converter.
Repair: $1,500–$2,500
Excessive Oil Consumption
Subaru Outback vehicles (2011-2015) with the FB25 engine may experience excessive oil consumption due to faulty piston rings, leading to premature engine wear and potential damage if ignored.
Repair: $3,500–$5,500
Subaru Outback DPF Regeneration Failure & Clogging
The 2010-2015 Subaru Outback Diesel (EE20 engine) frequently suffers from DPF clogging due to incomplete regeneration cycles, leading to 'Limp Mode' and potential engine damage.
Repair: $800–$3,500
Subaru Outback Windshield Cracking & EyeSight Issues
2015-2024 Subaru Outbacks frequently suffer from spontaneous windshield cracking or extreme fragility due to thin acoustic glass and structural tension.
Repair: $900–$1,600
Subaru Outback Rear Differential Whine & Bearing Failure
Owners of 2015-2022 Subaru Outbacks often report a high-pitched metallic whining or humming noise from the rear of the vehicle, typically signifying premature rear differential bearing failure.
Repair: $1,200–$2,200
Subaru Outback EyeSight Calibration Drift & Sensor Failure
Subaru Outback EyeSight systems from 2015-2024 can experience operational failure or 'drift' requiring professional recalibration due to windshield changes or sensor misalignment.
Repair: $250–$1,200
Outback PCV Valve Oil Leak
Plastic PCV valve cracks, causing oil seepage and rough idle.
Repair: $30–$250
Outback HVAC Mold & Musty Smell
Damp evaporator core breeds mold; dirty sock smell on AC startup.
Repair: $25–$350
NHTSA recalls
All recalls →Repair-cost references
All costs →Repair-cost entries are model-wide; verify applicability for 2015–2019 before quoting.