2023 Subaru Outback problems, recalls, safety rating, MPG & value

Q: Does the 2023 Subaru Outback have any safety recalls?

NHTSA lists 2 recall campaigns for the 2023 Subaru Outback. Whether an individual car still needs a recall repair depends on its VIN — check it on NHTSA.gov or ask a franchised dealer. Recall repairs are free.

Q: What gas mileage does the 2023 Subaru Outback get?

The 2023 Subaru Outback has U.S. EPA estimates of 23–28 mpg combined, depending on engine and trim (3 versions).

2023 Subaru Outback at a glance

Safety recalls2

Owner complaints89

Combined23–28 mpg

Free: that car's specs and build sheet, model-year recall campaigns and a fair price.

2023 Subaru Outback recalls 2

Power Train:automatic Transmission:park/neutral Start Interlock Switch NHTSA Campaign #23V755000 · manufacturer #WRQ-23 · 09/11/2023

Subaru of America, Inc. is recalling certain model year 2021 Crosstrek, 2022 Forester, 2021-2023 Legacy, and Outback vehicles. An insufficient weld may allow water to enter the inhibitor switch, causing it to fail.

Fix: Dealers will replace the inhibitor switch, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 8, 2024. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WRQ-23.

Power Train:driveline:driveshaft NHTSA Campaign #23V647000 · manufacturer #WRN-23 · 21/09/2023

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2023 Outback, Legacy, Ascent, and Impreza vehicles. The center support bolts for the driveshaft may loosen, resulting in the disconnection of the front end of the driveshaft.

Fix: Dealers will clean the bolt mounting surfaces of the center support brace and install new bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 20, 2023. Owners may contact Subaru's customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRN-23.

Source: U.S. NHTSA, checked 7 Oct 2026. A campaign covers the model year; to see whether a particular car still needs the repair, check its VIN on NHTSA.gov or ask a franchised dealer.

2023 Subaru Outback common problems

The most-reported problem areas across all 89 owner complaints filed with NHTSA — and what to check before you buy.

Forward Collision Avoidance

Have a trusted mechanic inspect this system as part of a pre-purchase inspection.

Electrical System

Test every electrical feature: windows, locks, infotainment, charging and all lights. Watch for flickering, dead accessories or warning lights.

Visibility/wiper

Have a trusted mechanic inspect this system as part of a pre-purchase inspection.

Service Brakes

Brakes should feel firm and quiet — no grinding, pulsing or pulling. Check for an ABS light and uneven pad/rotor wear.

Exterior Lighting

Confirm all headlights, brake lights, turn signals and reverse lights work, with no moisture inside the housings.

Power Train

Drive through every gear: watch for slipping, hard or delayed shifts, and shudder. Check for transmission/driveline leaks and noises.

2023 Subaru Outback MPG & running costs

Combined23–28 mpg

City23 mpg

Highway29 mpg

Est. annual fuel cost$2,667

EPA size classSmall Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD

TransmissionAutomatic (AV-S8)

Forced inductionTurbocharged

Engine start-stopYes

5-yr fuel cost vs average new car$1,333 more

Source: U.S. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov. The EPA lists 3 versions of this model year; combined is shown as a range and the other figures are averages.

Estimated 5-year cost to own

A rough guide to what running a 2023 Subaru Outback costs over five years and 75,000 miles.

Fuel (5 yrs)$13,335

Fuel only$13,335

Per mile$0.18

How this is estimated: fuel is the U.S. EPA annual cost at 15,000 miles a year. There aren't enough comparable listings to estimate depreciation for this model, so it is left out. Not included: insurance, maintenance, repairs, taxes, registration and finance costs. Treat it as a comparison guide, not a quote.

2023 Subaru Outback vehicles on record

Other Subaru Outback model years

2023 Subaru Outback — frequently asked questions

Does the 2023 Subaru Outback have any safety recalls?

NHTSA lists 2 recall campaigns for the 2023 Subaru Outback. Whether an individual car still needs a recall repair depends on its VIN — check it on NHTSA.gov or ask a franchised dealer. Recall repairs are free.

What are the most common problems with the 2023 Subaru Outback?

Across all 89 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are forward collision avoidance, electrical system, visibility/wiper.

What gas mileage does the 2023 Subaru Outback get?

The 2023 Subaru Outback has U.S. EPA estimates of 23–28 mpg combined, depending on engine and trim (3 versions).

Sources: NHTSA (recalls, complaints, crash tests), U.S. EPA (fuel economy). Vehicle data only — CarLogs never shows owner information.