Are Subaru's Reliable Used Cars? Find Out Here

Some ask if Subarus are reliable used cars when looking to purchase a used vehicle. While buying a used car can feel like a gamble, no matter what vehicle you choose, make sure you do your research. You want something dependable, safe, and worth the price. That is where we step in. At our Stivers Subaru dealership, we help you find used Subarus that hold up, are dependable and make sense long-term.

Understanding Subaru's Reputation in the Used Car Market

Subaru has earned a reputation for long-lasting vehicles that offer solid resale value.

Brief Overview of the Subaru Brand

Subaru continues to rank high in both owner satisfaction and industry reviews. According to Consumer Reports, it's the most reliable car brand of 2025, with eight recommended models. That includes the Outback, Forester, and Crosstrek.

Why People Choose Subaru Vehicles

Drivers stick with Subaru for many reasons. Here are a few that come up often:

• All-wheel drive is standard on most models.
• Vehicles can handle all kinds of weather and terrain.
• Subaru cars tend to last well over 200,000 miles with regular maintenance.
• The brand gets high safety scores and solid crash-test ratings.

That mix of reliability and usefulness is why many of our customers return for their second or third Subaru.

Core Factors Contributing to Subaru's Reliability

Subaru's reputation for dependable, long-lasting vehicles isn't just hype — intelligent engineering, safety innovation, and consistent performance support it.

Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings

Safety is one of the biggest reasons people trust Subaru. Many models earn top marks from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Standard features such as Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and EyeSight Driver Assist Technology make a difference in real-world driving. Models such as the Crosstrek, Forester, and Ascent frequently receive NHTSA five-star overall safety ratings and IIHS's Top Safety Pick+ honors.

Affordability and Cost of Ownership

Subaru prices its vehicles competitively, and their value extends well beyond the sticker price. Insurance costs are reasonable, and you can expect reliable performance without frequent trips to the repair shop.

Durability and Dependability

Many used Subaru vehicles reach 200,000 to 250,000 miles or more. The 2024 Crosstrek and 2024 Forester, for example, get high marks from J.D. Power and Consumer Reports. Subaru builds these models for real-world use — commuting, hauling, outdoor adventures — and they hold up over time.

Subaru Fuel Efficiency

Subaru balances performance with efficiency across its lineup. Here's how the numbers shake out for 2024 models as an example, though previous years are just as impressive:

• Subaru Impreza: Up to 27 mpg city and 34 mpg highway
• Subaru Crosstrek: Also up to 27 mpg city and 34 mpg highway
• Subaru Forester: Reaches 26 mpg city and 33 mpg highway
• Subaru Outback: Gets up to 26 mpg city and 32 mpg highway
• Subaru Legacy: Around 27 mpg city and 35 mpg highway
• Subaru Solterra (electric): Delivers 114 MPGe city and 94 MPGe highway
• Subaru WRX: More performance-focused, with 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway
• Subaru BRZ: Offers 21 mpg city and 30 mpg highway
• Subaru Ascent: Averages 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway

Subaru gives you decent fuel numbers across the board.

Repair Costs and Parts Availability

On average, Subaru owners spend about $617 per year on maintenance. That puts Subaru right around the industry average. Common services are affordable, and parts are widely available through dealerships like ours.

More significant repairs, such as engine replacements, can run between $3,000 and $5,000, but those are rare, especially if your vehicle is well-maintained. With our service department's trained technicians, we can handle most issues quickly and affordably.

Top Reliable Subaru Models for Used Car Buyers

Are you looking for a used car that won't let you down? Subaru models consistently rise to the top.

Subaru Crosstrek

The Subaru Crosstrek blends compact size with real-world utility. It has standard all-wheel drive, good ground clearance, and impressive fuel efficiency. 

With a predicted reliability score of 83 out of 100 from J.D. Power and a RepairPal rating of 4.5 out of 5, the 2024 Crosstrek ranks among the best in its class.

Subaru Legacy

The Subaru Legacy delivers if you want a sedan that feels stable in all seasons. It has standard all-wheel drive and a roomy, comfortable interior. J.D. Power gives the 2025 Legacy a strong 82 out of 100 reliability rating.

Subaru Outback

The Subaru Outback continues to be a go-to for drivers who want SUV practicality without the bulk. It offers high ground clearance, a quiet ride, and loads of space. The 2025 Outback has a predicted reliability score of 80 from J.D. Power. With the right care, many Outbacks go well past 250,000 miles.

Comparison with Other Brands in the Same Category

Car shoppers often compare Subaru to other major players, such as Toyota and Honda.

Subaru vs. Toyota Reliability

In the Consumer Reports 2024 reliability rankings, Subaru came out on top:

• Subaru: 68 out of 100
• Lexus: 65 out of 100
• Toyota: 62 out of 100

This data reflects owner satisfaction, reliability, and road-test scores.

Subaru vs. Honda Reliability

J.D. Power's 2024 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study offers more insight. It measures the number of problems reported per 100 vehicles (PP100).

• Subaru: 198 PP100
• Honda: 206 PP100

That means Subaru owners experience fewer issues, giving it the edge in long-term dependability.

Frequently Asked Questions About Subaru's Used Cars

These are the questions we hear most from folks shopping our used vehicle inventory.

What Is the Typical Life Span of a Subaru?

With routine maintenance, most Subarus last between 200,000 and 300,000 miles. Some drivers push even further, especially with the Outback and Crosstrek.

How Can I Ensure I'm Buying a Reliable Used Subaru?

Start with a dealership that knows Subaru inside and out. We inspect and service every used car before it hits the lot. Check out our certified pre-owned options.

Ready To Buy a Used Subaru With Confidence?

So, are Subarus reliable used vehicles? Absolutely. The brand's strong safety scores, long vehicle life spans, and consistent owner satisfaction tell the story. Whether you're looking to buy a Crosstrek, Legacy, or Outback, we can help you find something that works for your budget and lifestyle. Have questions? Contact us or stop by to chat.

Image Credit to OEM