The 2011 Outback lasts up to 300,000 miles with headlight and rare transmission issues. At $9,117 – 11,484, it’s a good value for the build quality and dependable engines.
Is the 2011 Subaru Outback a Good Used SUV?
- Yes, 2011 is a good year. We have received a lot of positive owner reviews mentioning a spacious cabin, good efficiency, and low ownership costs.
- Reliability ratings are good. There are some issues with headlights and rare transmission issues. We recommend Outbacks from 2010–2012, avoid the 2013 with engine problems.
- Performance is weak on the base four-cylinder engine but much better on the optional V6.
- The Outback is a safe SUV, getting four out of five stars in government crash tests and earning a Top Safety Pick Award.
- Fuel economy is excellent at up to 24 mpg combined.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Outback?
- Consumer Reports finds the Outback to be quiet and spacious with above-average owner satisfaction ratings.
- Edmunds rates the Outback 4.3/5, enjoying the safety features and interior, but finding the performance to be weak.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the outback a 4.3/5 with good safety, but say it doesn’t compete well against larger three-row choices.
What Common Problems Does the 2011 Subaru Outback Have?
Problems with the 2011 Outback include burnt-out headlights, stalling while braking, and rare transmission failures.
Headlight bulbs burning out prematurely are the most common complaint happening every 18,000 miles. The headlight controller tends to wear out bulbs faster than other cars. Replacing the bulbs costs about $100.
Stalling while braking is a problem mentioned by some owners at around 98,000 miles. The issue is caused by the torque converter and Subaru issued a technical service bulletin for the issue. Replacing the converter costs about $2,000.
Transmission failures are not as widespread as in other years, but do show up at around 105,000 miles. Only vehicles with CVT transmissions are affected by the problem. Replacing the transmission costs about $5,000.
There are 16 recalls including the transmission, moonroof glass, accessory lighting, remote engine starter, airbags, windshield wiper motor, parking brake, and ignition switch. The most serious recall is for the transmission since it’s the most expensive to replace.
How Long Will the 2011 Subaru Outback Last?
A properly maintained 2011 Outback will last up to 300,000 miles, similar to long-lasting competitors including the Highlander. Regular annual maintenance costs are estimated to be average at $646 per year, according to Repair Pal.
As an Outback reaches 150,000 miles owners should prepare to replace brake components for $250, drive axle assemblies costing $650, as well as batteries which cost around $200.
Yes it is reliable. The main problem I come across is the sensor messing up often making all of my light come on for no reason.
I haven't experienced any issues with mine, and from my friends who own other Subarus they're pretty reliable.
I will say it is reliable. It does not really have problems. I have not taken it to the garage since I got it.
It is reliable. We do have one recurring sensor issue that we cannot resolve; but it runs super well and has no major issues.
I have never had any problems the outback. The Subaru outback is a very reliable vehicle. It gets very good gas mileage.
The Subaru outback 2 5i prem awp is very reliable. I have never had a problem with the operation of the vehicle. Keeping up with regular maintenance insures my Subaru rings smoothly. I expect this vehicle to last as long as my last Subaru which I drove for over 200,000 miles.
No major issues. I personally do not like location of the cup holders and the turn radius is not the best, yet I wouldn't change for the world.
Yes it is reliable. I recently had a small problem but they always give you a rental while they work on your car.
How Much is the 2011 Subaru Outback Worth?
Blue book prices range from $9,117 – 11,484, making the Outback thousands of dollars cheaper than the Pilot and 4Runner. When new, the price range was $23,195 to $29,195. Depreciation is similar to other SUVs, losing about 10% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Outback?
There are three main models of the Outback, and each is offered with either the four-cylinder or V6 engine. Technology is okay, but navigation is only available as an option on the Limited model. The last update was in 2010, with the next redesign coming in 2015.
2.5i is the entry-level model with:
- 16-inch Steel Wheels
- Cloth Seating
- Automatic Headlights
- Cruise Control
- Four-speaker AM/FM/CD Stereo System With AUX Input
2.5 Premium adds some good features including:
- 17-inch Alloy Wheels
- Fog Lights
- Power Driver’s Seat
- Leather Steering Wheel
2.5i Limited is the luxury model adding:
- Leather Seating
- CVT Transmission
- Dual-Zone Climate Control
- Nine-speaker Harmon Kardon Stereo With Six-CD Changer and Bluetooth
What Engines Come In the Outback?
- The standard engine is a relatively weak 2.5L four-cylinder with 170 horsepower.
- An optional upgrade is the powerful 3.6L V6 which has 256 horsepower taking only 6.9 seconds to go 0-60.
What Colors Does the Outback Come in?
How Big Is the Outback?
The 2011 Outback is average for its class, but is similar to the CX-9, and Murano. Passenger room is good throughout the cabin with plenty of legroom in the backseats.
Cargo space is similar to many rivals with 34.3 cu. ft. of room behind the seats, increasing to 71.3 with the seats folded flat.
How Does the Outback Compare to the Competition?
The Toyota Highlander is a competitor, which is about $5,000 more expensive. Where the Highlander stands out is with better technology, but the all-wheel-drive system is stronger in the Outback. The competition is close, but we recommend the Highlander since they are roomier.
Another rival is the Ford Flex costing $1,500 more. The Flex offers more seating and cargo room, but the Outback is more reliable. Overall, we recommend the Outback since they last longer and are more capable off-road.
Do Owners Recommend the Subaru Outback?
Yes, my Subaru is a good vehicle. It is very reliable and good on gas. There are only a few drawbacks of this vehicle.
Yes! Very good for road trips, lots of space in the trunk. My friends and I love using the outback to drive out off road a bit to get to good hiking spots too.
Yes it is. It is so easy to drive and really comfortable. It does not take to much gas. It is also really good for new drivers.
Very good vehicle. Knock on wood, it has been a reliable, family and pet-friendly car for all our needs.
Very good car, I have never had any problems with my outback. It gets very good gas mileage and is great in the snow.
The Subaru outback 2 5i prem awp is a very good vehicle. It is reliable in all weather. It handles rough of road conditions well. The all weather package makes driving the vehicle in cold weather a breeze. The side mirrors do not fog up and the front and rear windows defrost very quickly. The seat warmers are a treat on child days. The cargo size of the outback allows for hauling large loads.
I love my Subaru. As a nurse who does not have the option of 'snow days', it has always been a comfort that I could safely get to work. So, yes... It is a 'good vehicle'.
Yes, it's the best car I have ever owned. It's eight years old and I have never had any issues with it.