IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
2010–2014 Subaru Outback Mk4 (BR)

We've identified 3 known issues that can affect the 2010–2014 Subaru Outback Mk4 (BR). 1 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

3
Known Issues
1
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

The 2010–2014 period has 1 more issue than the Subaru Outback Mk4 (BR) average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

Boxer Diesel Crankshaft Failure

SeriousEngine

The EE20 diesel remains the BR Outback’s biggest financial risk, with crankshaft or bottom-end failure capable of wiping out the value of the car.

Most affected: 2.0D EE20

Estimated cost: £3,000–£6,000Affects: 2010–2014Often appears around: 80,000–120,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Deep engine knock
  • •Loss of oil pressure
  • •Sudden engine stoppage

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Prioritise cars with specialist servicing
  • ✓Avoid examples with rough idle or delayed starting
  • ✓Check whether DPF-related short-trip use has been an issue

Electronic Parking Brake Actuator Failure

ModerateBrakes

The rear EPB motors and mechanisms can seize or fail electrically, causing MOT trouble and sometimes leaving the brake stuck on.

Estimated cost: £400–£800Affects: 2009–2014

Typical symptoms

  • •Parking brake will not release
  • •EPB warning light
  • •Screeching from rear brakes

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Apply and release the brake repeatedly
  • ✓Check MOT history for brake imbalance or binding
  • ✓Listen for both actuators operating evenly

Front Control Arm Bushing Wear

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

The front lower arm rear bushes soften and split, leaving the big estate feeling vague and noisy on poor UK roads.

Estimated cost: £250–£500Affects: 2009–2014Often appears around: 50,000+ miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Wandering steering
  • •Clunk over speed bumps
  • •Inner-edge tyre wear

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Inspect bushes for tears
  • ✓Check front tyres for odd wear patterns
  • ✓Listen for knocks during parking-speed manoeuvres

Buying Tips for the 2010 Subaru Outback Mk4 (BR)

  • ✓The 2.5 petrol is usually the easier car to own long term; diesel examples need far more scrutiny.
  • ✓Operate the electronic parking brake several times, including on a hill, to check for sticking or warning lights.
  • ✓A good BR should feel tight at the front end; vague steering often points to tired control arm bushes.
2009 Subaru Outback Mk4 (BR)

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Other Subaru Outback Mk4 (BR) Year Periods

20092010–2014

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