2014 Subaru Outback used buying checklist

Test for the problems owners report most

The most reported problems of this model year, with what to look for on the test drive.

• Excessive oil consumption17 owner complaints, usually around 29,466 miles

  Start the engine cold and listen for knocking or ticking. Check for warning lights, oil leaks and a low oil level, and ask how often oil had to be topped up.

• Hesitation when accelerating12 owner complaints, usually around 20,000 miles

  On a test drive from a cold start, check that shifts are smooth, with no slipping, delays, shudder or jerking at low speed. Ask for transmission fluid service records.

• CVT failure10 owner complaints, usually around 10,200 miles

  On a test drive from a cold start, check that shifts are smooth, with no slipping, delays, shudder or jerking at low speed. Ask for transmission fluid service records.

Make sure these recalls were done

Recall repairs are free at any dealer of the brand. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN.

• Air bagsRecall number 20V001000, Jan 2, 2020
• Air bagsRecall number 20V002000, Jan 2, 2020
• Air bagsRecall number 20V003000, Jan 2, 2020
• Electrical systemRecall number 19V297000, Apr 11, 2019
• Air bagsRecall number 19V007000, Jan 9, 2019
• Air bagsRecall number 19V008000, Jan 9, 2019
• Air bagsRecall number 19V009000, Jan 9, 2019
• Parking brakeRecall number 18V626000, Sep 13, 2018
• VisibilityRecall number 16V694000, Sep 27, 2016
• Power trainRecall number 13V336000, Aug 1, 2013

Service bulletins worth asking about

Repair instructions the maker sent to dealers for known problems. Ask whether any of these repairs were done.

• This is an update announcement regarding the TechShare & NorthStar IntegrationOct 26, 2026
• This announcement provides information on the connected services platform for Subaru EVs.Oct 22, 2026
• This bulletin provides a step-by-step diagnostic procedure for resolving Remote Engine Start (RES)...Oct 20, 2026
• This Service Information Bulletin has been developed to outline the steps for gathering basic but...Oct 20, 2026
• This announcement provides information on DCM replacememts due to a parasitic draw.Oct 15, 2026
• This announcement provides information on an outage affecting the Subaru Select Monitor 5 application.Oct 15, 2026

Before you pay

• Decode the VIN and make sure it matches the title, the registration and the car itself.
• Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, salvage or flood titles and odometer problems.
• Ask for service records, especially oil changes and any transmission fluid service.
• Start the car from cold, and drive it at city and highway speeds for at least 20 minutes.
• Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you sign anything.