What's Wrong with the 3rd Generation (2000–2003) Outback?

Outback owners have made 57 complaints about the 2000–2003 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 30th out of 38 Subaru generations in overall reliability, with real engine and transmission concerns.

Compare With Other Outback Generations

Common 2000-2003 Subaru Outback Problems

Some of the worst issues 3rd generation Outback owners have to deal with.

  2. Leaky Head Gaskets

    Why can't Subaru build a decent head gasket? The automaker has had issues with leaky gaskets in their 4-cylinder engines since the 1980's. And repairing the issue is expensive as it requires the engine to be removed.

    Continue reading article "Leaky Head Gaskets" A close-up of a clean black head gasket above two silver pistons.

What Owners Complain About

Sometimes it helps just to tally up the complaints and see where the biggest stacks are. Use this information to learn about troublespots or to run for the hills.

Worst Issues

What Breaks the Most

Years to Avoid

3rd Generation (2000–2003) Outback Key Numbers

  1. 4 model years

    Grouping all models by their year can reveal some baddies.

  2. 57 complaints

    Running tally of owner grievances filed to CarComplaints.com.

  3. 30th in reliability

    Overall reliability rank out of 38 eligible generations.