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Are Subaru vehicles reliable?

According to a new report from Consumer Reports (by subscription), the Subaru brand of vehicles ranks in the top ten most reliable automakers. This ranking, the first-ever brand ranking for used cars, is a significant milestone in the automotive industry. 

It's not a surprise that Lexus ranks number one, and Toyota ranks number two overall. Subaru ranks 8th in the updated Consumer Reports report. Read my longest-lasting car report here. 

This updated ranking from Consumer Reports is its first-ever brand ranking for used cars. It's focused on the reliability of 5- to 10-year-old models, a period that's crucial for buyers. 

The ranking is based on a comprehensive analysis of various factors, including the frequency of repairs, the severity of those repairs, and the cost of ownership. It reveals to buyers how they can reduce their risks of experiencing problems by focusing on some brands over others.

Consumer Reports says, "Brands like Lexus and Toyota have a history of conservative redesigns, incrementally improving their entire product line, rather than introducing many all-new systems," says Steven Elek, Consumer Reports' senior automotive data analyst.

I like the new brand ranking for used cars. For this analysis, they use 5- to 10-year-old models. At the same time, its new car reliability ranking is based on CR's analysis of the latest three years of reliability, along with brand history and factors such as shared componentry.  

Before I look at individual Subaru model reliability, I've listed the top ten automakers and the Consumer Reports ranking score for each.

CR says, "Our data consistently shows over time that cars from these brands are reliable when new, and they continue to be reliable as they age."

1. Lexus 75
2. Toyota 72
3. Mazda 59 
4. Acura 57
5. Honda 55
6. Buick 47
7. BMW 46
8. Subaru 46
9. Nissan 45
10. Mercedes-Benz 43

So, why are Lexus and Toyota consistently ahead of the rest? 

According to Consumer Reports senior automotive data analyst Steven Elek, it's not just Subaru's approach to product development that contributes to its high reliability scores. It's also the brand's commitment to quality, its use of durable materials, and its rigorous testing and inspection processes. These factors, along with others, contribute to Subaru's high reliability scores.

"Brands like Lexus and Toyota have a history of conservative redesigns, incrementally improving their entire product line, rather than introducing many all-new systems," says Consumer Reports' senior automotive data analyst Steven Elek.

The longer-term life cycle of its vehicles is the unique approach that Subaru Corporation is taking now. Instead of its typical five-year product life cycle when its vehicle gets a complete remodel, Subaru is now waiting longer. The new next-generation 2025 Forester went six years, and the Outback will now go seven years between redesigns. 

What are Subaru's most reliable models?

Consumer Reports 2024 Subaru models ranked from best to worst, and the reliability score was 0 to 100. 

• 2024 Subaru Crosstrek (99) 
• 2024-2025 Subaru Forester (82)
• 2024 Subaru WRX (78)
• 2024 Subaru BRZ (76)
• 2024 Subaru Impreza (69)
• 2024 Subaru Outback (50)
• 2024 Subaru Ascent (49)
• 2023 Subaru Solterra (47)
• 2024 Subaru Legacy (47)

The redesigned 2024 Subaru Crosstrek subcompact SUV nearly has a perfect score of 100 compared with other new cars. The Forester compact SUV is the other standout model, with a score in the 80s. The surprise model is the WRX performance sports car that gets a high score and is now a recommended model by Consumer Reports.

How does Subaru rank with mainstream (non-luxury) car brands? 

When you take out the luxury brand rankings, Subaru moves to the top five mainstream car brands and to fourth overall. Here are the top ten mainstream automakers. 

1. Toyota 72
2. Mazda 59 
3. Honda 55
4. Subaru 46
5. Nissan 45
6. Volkswagen 41
7. Hyundai 38
8. Chevrolet 38
9. Kia 38
10. Ford 36

Which Subaru will be the most likely to go 250,000 miles and beyond?

A new report from iSeeCars shows that the Subaru Outback makes the top twenty longest-lasting SUVs, which is better than average.

The average SUV has a 7.8% chance of lasting 250,000 plus miles. Some have up to a 36% chance of reaching a quarter million miles. The Subaru Outback, ranking among the top 20 longest-lasting SUVs at number twenty, surpasses the average and is a testament to its exceptional longevity. 

"We've come to expect models like the Toyota Sequoia and 4Runner to lead the Longest-Lasting SUVs list," said Brauer. "Seeing smaller SUVs like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Subaru Outback offering better-than-average lifespans confirms both their high-quality execution and their owners' willingness to drive these vehicles for many years and many miles."

Which five-year-old SUVs are the most reliable for shoppers this year? 

According to a recently updated Consumer Reports ranking, there are dependable used SUVs you should put on your list. CR says the 2018 Subaru Outback ranks among the nine best and scores higher than two popular Toyota SUVs. More information on buying a used Outback can be found in my report here.

Note: Make sure you check out any used Subaru model with a certified Subaru technician before you buy it.

When shopping for any used vehicle, including a Subaru, following KBB's advice is crucial. 

KBB says, "Look for well-kept models with good service history and an accident-free report, and even these sub-$5,000 SUVs can keep you on the road for years to come. However, with a vehicle this age, you may want to get a used car inspection from a mechanic before you buy to ensure you're making a sound investment."

Do you have a Subaru Outback, Forester, or other Subaru vehicle that's been the most reliable? If so, click the red Add New Comment link below and let us know.

I am Denis Flierl, a Senior Torque News Writer since 2012. I’ve invested over 13 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role, working with every major car brand. I am an experienced Rocky Mountain Automotive Press member. You'll find my expert Subaru analysis here. Follow me on my X SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.

Photo credit: Brewster Subaru