IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2014 Subaru Outback Mk4 (BR)

Final year of the BR Outback. The newest examples are now over 10 years old, so expect age-related wear on rubber components and suspension bushes.

What changed for 2014

  • •Final production year before BS replacement
  • •All models now equipped with EyeSight option

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Structural corrosion on high-mileage examples
  • !CVT transmission issues on automatic models
  • !Diesel engine failures on neglected examples
3
Known Issues
1
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

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.

Est. Repair Cost: £3,000–£6,000
Warning Signs:

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

What to Inspect:
  • Prioritise cars with specialist servicing
  • Avoid examples with rough idle or delayed starting
  • Check whether DPF-related short-trip use has been an issue
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

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.

Est. Repair Cost: £400–£800
Warning Signs:

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

What to Inspect:
  • Apply and release the brake repeatedly
  • Check MOT history for brake imbalance or binding
  • Listen for both actuators operating evenly
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

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.

Est. Repair Cost: £250–£500
Warning Signs:

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

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect bushes for tears
  • Check front tyres for odd wear patterns
  • Listen for knocks during parking-speed manoeuvres
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2014 Subaru Outback Mk4 (BR)

  • Look for a full service history
  • Check the CVT transmission for smooth operation
  • Test the EyeSight system if fitted
2013
Check a 2014 Subaru Outback Mk4 (BR) by Registration