Used 2013 Subaru Outback Consumer Reviews
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The CVT Transmission is a $7000 disaster
NoLuvHere, 09/04/2019
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited PZEV 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
Subaru knows the CVT's are prone to fail on the 2013 era outbacks, many failing well before 100,000 miles... and the repair requires a completely new transmission. My first Subaru...and my last!!! failed right at 106k miles. Do NOT buy this car used!
Buy what you want 'cause you'll keep it forever
don WEISSERT, 06/04/2016
2013 Subaru Outback 3.6R Limited 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 5A)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
Get the perforated leather interior for long range driving comfort--it is well worth it. The navigation has great features, but contact storage is not one of them. Bluetooth audio and phone is great, even displays txt messages on screen. The 3.6 has the power you need for any maneuver, and ours on a trip does actually get 30+mpg.
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2013 Subaru Outback for sale near you
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Have fun adding oil all the time!
Remorseful buyer , 03/17/2021
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i Premium PZEV 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6M)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
Don’t buy one. They are lemons. First and last Subaru. (2013 outback 2.5i premium) I fell for the BS, let me save you the same fate. Would have loved this car. Sooo much potential. But so much cheapness and corner cutting to make a few extra bucks. Hope it was worth damaging your brand you greedy turds. The engines are junk and burn lots of oil. Even when new. Of course they all lie about it. Don’t waste your time with their bullshit oil consumption test. They will not help you. CVT, again great potential that it never lives up too. And who puts access to the headlight bulbs behind the wheel well?! And they do seem to burn out often. Thanks morons. Never again will I give these disingenuous hacks even $1. Hope to sell it before the engine or transmission blows up.
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I expected better
jnb, 08/14/2018
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i Premium 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
Certain engines have a problem with oil consumption (like mine). Bearings went after 125K miles. Two tire pressure sensors had to be replaced. I was told that I needed a new strut and the catalytic converted sensor went off. I have never had these issues on other cars I kept for 150K miles.
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Loud and Clear- Don't buy Subaru Outback
Binay Sharma, 04/20/2017
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I bought Subaru Outback 2013 from DanPerkins Subaru, Milford, CT. I wanna say loudly and clearly -Don't ever buy any Subaru Outback. I bought a 2013 Subaru outback. Just after warranty expired, the rear view camera and the sound display stopped working. Took to their service, they said the issue is with the audio system. Now, they want me to replace the audio system. And note, it won't be covered by warranty. So folks, don't get lured by their advertisement "lifetime warranty". It's just a trap and you won't be able to use it when you need it. I have other Japanese car:16 years old and it is still running. No single issue. I have decided not be go with any Subaru product in future. It is just not worth. Why do I need to replace an audio system in a five year? I can't get it.
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Great except headlights, road noise, phone connect
Gregory Hickey, 12/02/2017
updated 06/11/2019
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i Premium PZEV 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Serves us well at our mountain home. 90% highway miles with a lead foot gets us 25 MPG. Road noise is exceptionally high. My F-150 is extremely more quiet. I could rip out seats and put sound deadening material as I did on a Toyota, but that is a lot of trouble. This is our second Outback, but I would never buy another one because of the extreme inconvenience in replacing headlight bulbs. A serious design flaw is the bulbs are accessible only by removing the snaps inside the wheel wells! Also, the 0-20 weight oil is like water and has required adding 1/2 quart of oil between oil changes. Additionally, cell phones are very difficult to connect to the vehicle and have frequently been "bumped out" and required re-programming. Interior needs reading lights in the rear. Seat-backs have no storage. Seats are very comfortable and have lots of leg room. Got 64k miles on the first set of tires and has never been out of alignment despite driving on bumpy BLM roads in river beds and over curbs. I We wish Subaru made a bigger vehicle like the Mitsubishi Montero Sport (body on frame. This Subie has very good acceleration for a 4 Cylinder. We paid invoice for the Subie and got it a week before it was formally released. Road noise is the worst problem, but changing a headlight bulb is an absurd task.
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great car bad dealer
Joe, 02/04/2016
updated 08/29/2022
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Love the car, hate the fuel mileage. After 25000 miles it dropped about 5mpg both city and highway. Now it goes from day to day what you will get. Most of the time city23 hyw 27. Best city 26 hyw 34. Last 5000 miles I averaged 23.2. Now have 59000 miles and the fuel mileage is back 26/30. Sometimes 34 hwy. I can't explain why it dropper for a year, but I'm glad it's back. 75000 miles and running at 25/29. I did find that I get better fuel millage on the hwy when I drive below 68 or above 74. Cant explain it, it just does. Took a 3500 mile vacation in may. averaged 28.8. did a lot of 80+ it did very well. Have had the motor rebuilt Three times in 15,000 miles. apparently rebuilding motors are not one of things Subaru is very good at. I still like my car, I just want the motor to last more then 15,000 miles. Last motor seems to be lasting, although it now has an oil leak that might cost $2500. I now have 150,000 miles and gas milage is doing very poorly. 22/26.5. I think i'm done with this car.
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Practical
cncmachinist, 10/14/2012
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited PZEV 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
8 of 11 people found this review helpful
I looked at cars for over a year and the Outback was the only vehicle that met all of my criteria. I test drove my 2013 and wanted to purchase it right away. I was aware that Subaru changed the engine and added a timing chain instead of a timing belt but, didnt know that the CVT was also revised. Reading old reviews I can tell you that the 2013 is "torquier" and responsive when you take off from a dead stop. Also I am averaging 28.5 MPG combined highway/city. Over 32 MPG on long trips. I have 3500 miles on the car already. The navigation IS a bit clumsy as I have seen other people comment on BUT, it is very accurate and believe me I am no Louis or, Clark :).
dissapointed
antlerking, 01/02/2015
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i Premium 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
8 of 11 people found this review helpful
Choice of interiors, almost white or almost black. Two hardest colors to keep clean. My friend reached 16k and started using oil,{ring job]. I've just reached 16k and used a qt. of oil in the last 800 miles. that will be a ring job also. Dash gauges that are of some real use. A voltmeter and temp. gauge to tell me about potential problems. What I do have is a gauge with a plus or minus to tell me about my fuel usage. It goes to minus when I go up hill and plus when I go down hill. This helps me in no way. The trans./engine combo is very noisy on acceleration. Stop talking and forget the radio, you can't hear anything. It's also a dog on acceleration, all noise and no go.
Car is great - Bluetooth sucks
JD, 08/28/2016
updated 08/29/2019
2013 Subaru Outback 3.6R Limited 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 5A)
8 of 11 people found this review helpful
Everything about this car is exactly what I expected based upon reviews and highway safety accolades. The only downside is the unpredictability of Bluetooth connectivity. After numerous attempts between me and the dealership to reset the phone, I am still unable to talk to others hands free. I can hear them just fine, but all they hear is a noise similar to a screaming chimpanzee. Not kidding. Randomly, the Bluetooth won't recognize the phone and I'm unable to play music from it. Then other times, Siri and Google navigator can't hear my voice commands. So much for hands free. I know these are entirely #firstworldproblems, but when I spend this much on a car I want to keep forever, it's exasperating! **Update - sold the car after my 30k mike checkup totaled over $1k! Crazy! There wasn’t even anything wrong - all routine. **
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Outback do not buy
McIntyrew, 08/09/2016
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i Premium 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
11 of 16 people found this review helpful
First of all the vehicle looks very nice. The ride is between a 1968 pick up with the windows open and a go cart. Seriously, The noise level with the windows closed is terrible. The roof rack and lack of insulation in the front cause the front tire noise to reverberate into the passenger compartment. The CVT transmission typically allows the engine to rev up to 3500 rpm before shifting on a hill. The dealer performed tests and said it is with in specks. On the first oil change the dip stick showed over one quart low. Dealer was called, second oil change same thing. Dealer said if problem continues they will do a oil consumption test. 40000 miles later the agreed to perform the test. The dip stick was 2/3 of a quart low, after adding oil the week before. The mechanic read it a s 1/10 of a quart low. I have a degree in engines and drive trains, as well as over 5 years as a fleet mechanic. So right away I questioned the mechanics vision. When I got home and checked the oil level after the dealer had changed the oil for the oil consumption test the oil was 1 quart over filled. I checked the work order and it listed 6 quarts of oil. That could be the problem.. But if I hadn't checked and came back at 1200 miles they were apparently thinking that the oil level on the dip stick would be at acceptable levels. We are now scheduled for an other oil consumption test. The fuel economy in the winter is around 21-13 miles per gallon, in the summer on trips we have gotten as high as 31. I am over 6 ft tall so getting in the front seat involves backing to the side of the car sitting down and swinging my legs in. Would I buy this car again. No there dealer and manufacturer support they deny there is a issue even though there is a class action suit on going in New Jersey. With the regular Automatic or manual transmission the shifting issue is solved. The CVT transmission is just junk. The oil consumption issue isn't just with the 4 cylinder outback it is with the 6 cylinder as well and is also in other models. The manufacturer even with the suit refuses to admit there is a internal engine problem. I have had Chevy and VWs with lesser oil consumption and the dealers rebuilt the engines with no hesitation. It is a real shame that a formerly so reliable vehicle has been allowed to go down hill so much. It is understandable with so many Subaru being sold between 2010 and 2016 having the consumption issue the repair costs will be in the millions of dollars. If Subaru doesn't step up and repair their design flaws there will be very few second time buyers.
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Perfect car
rzerobis, 02/28/2013
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
6 of 8 people found this review helpful
This is a perfect, everyday car, to drive in various conditions. The first time I drove it, I was shocked how much power and low end torque the 4 cylinder boxer engine generated. The drive is very compliant, but don't expect cornering like on rails, this is not a sports car. Then again, on a very wet and rainy day, you will see sports cars in your back mirror, 4AWD and hefty ground clearance has it's advantages. Tall people will love ample space inside, with comfortable front seats, and plenty of space in the back. Fold down the back seats...and you will be pleasantly surprised again how much space there is inside to haul all of your stuff.
American Fuji
snowmass1, 02/10/2013
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i Premium 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6M)
6 of 8 people found this review helpful
What a surprise. I've always wondered how this vehicle would be to own and so far have no disappointments. Well engineered and perfectly assembled in the good old U.S. of A
After a month...
waskallywabbit, 06/16/2013
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited PZEV 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
Like several others...I'm a little disappointed in the mileage. My new Outback gets about 26 on my daily 27 mile (each way) commute. While that matches the "overall" mileage rating...I was hoping for better. My last vehicle, a Jeep Patriot, actually got it's rated 27 mpg on that same commute. But the Outback is certainly more comfortable to drive. The steering takes a little getting used to...but only because it's very tight and responsive. Before buying, I test drove everything in its class and it's only real competition was the Forrester.
Avoid at all costs - try Hyundai instead
Phillip63, 02/06/2020
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i Premium 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
Subaru is aware of engine oil leaking problems with this year/model and it hit us hard. Our 2013 Outback has had every scheduled maintenance, yet at 108K it suffered 3 separate oil leaks that will require the engine to be removed. All of this will cost about 3k. Hyundai seems to be coming on strong as a Subaru competitor (Toyota and Honda are great/better in my opinion). Since Subaru shows no loyalty to it's owners I can't imagine why anyone would want to buy one. Too many other options out there.
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2013 OB 2.5i CVT 9 month update
outie_quattro, 06/18/2014
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i Premium 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
Performance? is Meh, but it can handle fast bumpy on/off ramps with sublime decorum. Roll on speed 40 to 70 is fairly respectable for a family Wagon, and upshifting/downshifting is far smoother in the CVT...Hooning lightly around town in the snow will reveal one startling realizaiton...downshifting with all 4 wheels engaged + traction control on snowy roads is surreal! If your in this car on snowy roads, watch your back at icy stop signs and intersections; getting rear ended by those who cant possibly stop as fast is a real issue. Still too new to judge reliability..Add snowtires and go nealry everywhere in the snow. bottom line: I feel safe with my family in this car in all conditions.
Good other than steering
Tyrion, 02/27/2020
2013 Subaru Outback 3.6R Limited 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 5A)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
This car is comfortable, and capable, but the steering is not good. It is very heavy, but gives no feedback. It is rubbery feeling. The car is also prone to wander in the wind and even in the calm needs a lot of minor corrections, which due to the heavy steering, is fatiguing. The return to center is also quite bad. Alignment and tire pressures I know are good and I have replaced the power steering fluid to no avail. I believe it is a kinematic and power steering calibration issue.
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Oil Consumption Class Action Suit
Jeffrey, 07/31/2018
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited PZEV 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
This was my first Subaru and I wanted to enjoy the experience as much as possible. I am an avid snowboarder/skier and everyone raves how awesome Subaru's AWD system is. So, I bought one back in 2013. I am very late in the game in posting this review. Unfortunately, my car was part of the oil consumption class action suit. My car would burn oil like there was no tomorrow. I brought it in to the dealership several times and the service department would just top the oil off. They told me it was normal to have some oil consumption. No, it is not normal! I shouldn't have to fill my engine oil every 500 -1000 miles. I drove this car on several road trips and had to top it off with a quart of oil each time. Finally, I was at the dealership about this oil consumption so much, they finally agreed to do an oil consumption test, of which my car was burning more oil than normal! Not only that, but the longer I spent with the car, the more I realized how cheap the materials were. Hard plastics everywhere! Ugh, and the noisy CVT after awhile just drove me nuts. Road noise and wind noise also plagued this car. I ended up returning the car!
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New owner
tblvr0885, 03/05/2013
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited PZEV 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Only 750 miles. So far, everything I expected. Love the white with corresponding black, headlight design, and overall look. Interior design and layout very good. Wish list: auto headlight delay when shutting off; make memory seats and adaptive cruise separate options; lift gate window open separate from lift gate. Knew these weren't there before purchase, but would be good features/options for future. Voice command navigation hard to use.
Eats oil and transmission went at 130k
Johny 5, 10/20/2021
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
We bought this car as a family car; looking for safety and room for the dogs in the back. It met those goals but the transmission started slipping before 100k miles. At 130k (8 years)the transmission started making a death rattle noise and Subaru told us to replace it for $7500. We have 2 other non Subaru vehicles that both have almost 300k miles a piece so we were severely disappointed in this Trans failure. This particular engine is also in a class action lawsuit because it burns an extreme amount of oil (about 1 qt every 2 months).
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First Subie Love
joepawlicki, 07/24/2013
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i Premium 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
We've had our 2013 Outback since the Winter and its been awesome. The suspension was definitely stiffened up this year which can make poor road conditions more noticeable but high speed and back road handling is spot on. Our latest road trip was 400 miles to NH and we averaged 33.6 MPG with 3 people, cargo and lots of mountain roads. We've hit a few off road trails and the car has tackled mud and dips with ease. The interior is quiet, spacious and the harmon kardon audio is very good. No issues to date!
Dependable Ride
Valentine, 02/27/2019
updated 09/02/2020
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited PZEV 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This is my second 2013 Subaru Outback. The first one was totaled when I traveled on an unfamiliar road at night during a snow storm. Car went off the road because I did not realize a curve was ahead and there were no signs or guardrails to warn me. Car flipped 180 degrees into a ravine. The Bluetooth was still working, so I called 911 and help came within 20 minutes. Air curtains deployed properly and I walked out of the car without a scratch. I only had the car for about 1 year 4 months and the insurance company gave me $27K for car with 33K miles. So, car holds it value. I made sure to purchase another 2013 used Outback Limited. The used vehicle only had 12,500 miles and dealer accepted my offer of $27K for loaded Outback Limited. Love this car. Currently, have 140K miles on car and it rides as great as it did 5 plus years ago. Acceleration is nothing like my former 2008 VW Passat, but it does what I need it to do. Occasionally, I travel through bad gravel or dirt roads with ruts and mud and this Subaru gets me through. Absorbs bumps and potholes very well. I have not yet had to have front end realigned. I travel on highways frequently taking 2 hr to 9 hr trips to do volunteer work and visit family. I activate cruise control and just let the car go and it manages uphill roads with adequate power. All my rear seat passengers are comfortable and many are surprised how roomy the car is. It easily accommodates luggage for four passengers on week long trips. I love the supportive seating for long trips especially at my age. Easy to get in and out of car. I highly recommend the Outback for seniors. Since last review I have one issue with the Subaru Outback. She drinks oil. Usually I have to add 1-2 quarts of oil between 7500 mile oil changes. Car now has 150K miles. After reading reviews from several owners this is a unique problem with 2013 Outbacks. Subaru screwed this one up. Several owners have tried to get this corrected and Subaru has not responded with adequate answer for the problem. Check oil regularly and top off when required. Car still runs well.
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Outstanding Subaru Outback
Gaston, 04/25/2018
2013 Subaru Outback 3.6R Limited 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 5A)
4 of 6 people found this review helpful
Out of all the cars (GM, Ford, Dodge, Mini, Mercedes, Volvo) that we have owned for over 50+ years; this is the BEST by far in regards to overall car quality, comfort, safety, noise, ride and maintenance.
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This is our third outback in a row AND OUR LAST!
J.W. Hubbard, 01/29/2016
updated 02/06/2018
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
6 of 11 people found this review helpful
Be very aware before buying/trading for this model outback. We started with a 1996 - overall slightly above average car. Traded, after fighting with a dealer (First Team Subaru of Roanoke, Virginia) off & on for several years about all the trouble we had (loud grinding noises) with the front left brake/hub/rotor. Next was a 2004 outback from a dealer in Houston, Texas. Sure would like to have that car back. But, sadly, my wife was in a wreck shortly after we moved to Hot Springs, Arkansas in 2012 - a no fault accident, but the other driver was never charged with anything. Totaled! Not long thereafter we made the mistake of buying our 3rd outback from Riverside Subaru of Little Rock,Arkansas. Yet another uncaring dealer. Told them, after allowing time for break-in, of the pitiful mileage the '13 was getting - 18 in town, 22 on road, obviously 20 combined. Imagine our delight when we brought this up to the dealership & the response was "You think that's bad, mine gets worse than that.". And that is ALL they offered on the subject. Based on purchase date, the car is technically 4 years old & has only 35,000 miles on it (Hot Springs is small). But, as soon as the 5 year power train warranty has expired, we will be looking to trade for a BIG SUV - couldn't be much worse, if any. Also, the '13 has smaller cargo area than the last 2 outbacks, due to enlarging back seat room. The car does run fairly well for the most part, in it's defense, but I fear the stinking CVT is doing the gas mileage in - just can't prove it. No other real concerns worth mentioning. Thanks for bearing with me. Update 2/18 - the car still gets poor mileage in town and definitely because of the CVT. Highway mileage has improved some - we get 24-26 mpg sometimes. One I will say in Subaru's favor - the car always starts, very dependable.
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Good Basic Transportation after 20k miles just OK
electricvette, 12/21/2013
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i PZEV 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
8 of 16 people found this review helpful
This is my wife's car. I tell every one I do not like it for the following reasons. 1. The front seat will not go full horizontal so my wife has two towels in the back. 2. road noise is terrible. 3. heavy steering... its like they put the smallest freek'n power steering pump in to get better gas mileage and you have to work the wheel on trips. 4. radio knobs are not log enough. 5 poor ride comfort. MY GMC Denali rides soooo much better than this. 6. seat comfort is poor. Will not be a repeat customer. Looking for something quieter on my next car.
Will replace next year - too many issues
mike743, 02/25/2013
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited PZEV 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
8 of 16 people found this review helpful
There are two issues with the vehicle that really take away from the enjoyment of driving the car and make me regret purchasing it in the first place. The first issue is that the Harmon/Kardon "upgraded" audio system presents a noticeable hiss when doing certain functions with the audio/nav unit. When I am programming my nav unit each time I press a button I hear a hiss that gets louder, than softer. Same with when I am talking to someone using the bluetooth phone. Each time the person talks a noticeable hiss gets a bit louder than goes quiet again. The other issue is a very noticeable "clunk" noise when releasing the brake pedal when at a complete stop. Makes the care feel cheap.
Love my Subaru!
cargirl38, 11/19/2012
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i Premium PZEV 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
7 of 14 people found this review helpful
Got a bug one day and decided to buy an Outback! Picked it up yesterday and am absolutely loving it! Traded in my Mazda CX 7 for better gas mileage, regular 87 octane and Standard AWD. A really practical, rugged, comfortable car. I really cannot say enough good thing and am totally happy with my choice!
Interior Parts tend to fail
Karl Janesky, 07/17/2017
updated 10/02/2020
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i Premium 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6M)
3 of 5 people found this review helpful
from day number one, every interior part has come loose. The car is supposed to synch to my cell phone but after purchase the dealer could not get that feature to work. rear view Mirror fell off dozens of time. My car has 40K on it and I have gone through five sets of tires..i was told alignment was not possible because the sub frame was bad..not thrilled with car.. update October 2020: both rocker panels are rusting away car has 70k on it.
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Wasted Money
Stephen M Doyle, 03/11/2017
updated 09/13/2018
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
4 of 8 people found this review helpful
I sold a 2014 GMC Yukon and replaced with a 2013 Subaru Outback 2.5. A bad decision - bad choice. Subaru seems to be like the "Schwinn Bicycle" of cars - a great reputation for a mediocre product. Lousy transmission - they all whine and shifting is just plain weird. Control and switch locations are crummy and, in a couple of instances, make using them potentially dangerious (e.g., seat-heater switches). Hazard light switch conveniently placed so that just about anything you do at the center console turns them on. Then there is the rear gate release. When it fails - and it does - there is almost nothing you can do to easily by-pass. It is electric - no manual release and no instruction anywhere on what a user can do in an emergency. Don't get a flat tire! Mysterious, undocumented annunciator lights on dash. Have increasingly come to rue the day I bought this.
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2 years and 33k miles later
brent05, 09/23/2014
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
Got a great vehicle just about 2 years ago, and still love it. Had some difficulty on color choice because apparently they don't built as many cars as what I was used to (chevy Malibu) but I am still happy with my choice. Met a nice guy camping in northern Michigan that had one and was raving about how good it was in snow and he even let me drive it around down the road and back. Got mine in August of '13 and so far so good. I do mainly highway driving with my cruise set at 60-62 and I've been getting 31.2-31.5 MPG at the pump. Only complaint is the trip computer tells me I'm getting 34.1 on average...I WISH!
Mechanical Masterpiece
phomat, 06/20/2013
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
Swapped my 1991 Acura NSX for this--wife wanted an SUV and I wanted a junk hauler. Have always admired Subaru for being unique, but poor gas mileage in the past kept me out of them. They've apparently solved the issue recently. We're getting better than EPA estimates, which is quite good for this size vehicle. The Outback has grown a lot since being a station wagon Legacy. It's now a full-fledged SUV, although, unlike most SUV's, it is sporty and utilitarian. Handles much better than expected (despite reviews I've read). Corners flat unless driven excessively hard. CVT is really quite good providing you adapt your driving to the way it works.
A Superb killing Machine
Salim C, 07/26/2018
updated 02/01/2019
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
4 of 9 people found this review helpful
Subaru outback 2013 Sudden unwanted forceful acceleration (suspect auto cruise control got engaged via Eyesight malfunction), collision avoidance failed to engage. Back home safely from a local grocery, pulled the car slight on the driveway, stopped with foot on the brake to open the garage, about to hit the home link, must remain stopped while garage door opens because driveway slopes downward, heard engine roar with foot still on the brake, car started throttle forcefully, got bewildered, pressed hard on the brake; it did not respond, the car hit hard on the garage and brick wall causing extensive damages. Air bags deployed, driver was senseless, both driver and passenger hurt, car is declared total. The driveway has a 10 ft slab with upward slope, the car stopped with front wheels at the end of the first slab. The remaining driveway is about 30 ft on a downward slope. I keep the car totally standstill while the garage is opening. The impact was very forceful: a complete brick wall got displaced by almost 1 inch at one side and the displacement on the other side of the wall caused a two story load bearing brick column to crack on both sides. Garage structure and roof got damaged. This car is maintained in good condition and never have been in accident before. I am 100% sure that this is a manufacturing defect. I saw collision avoidance work in many other situation, but this time, it did not work. Thanks God we are alive. Thanks God it was my driveway and my home stopped the car before it could reach 50/60 miles per hour if it is on a highway. Thanks God there were no kids on the driveway. What a killing machine!!! Complete Cover UP: Subaru took my car to examine what happened. They come up with a complete bogus report to avoid massive recall. They said I did heavy steering evasive maneuvering, although I never moved the steering a single bit. Total cover up.
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Great - but just misses it
tlhcpa, 06/08/2014
2013 Subaru Outback 3.6R Limited 4dr SUV AWD (3.6L 6cyl 5A)
7 of 17 people found this review helpful
I've hqd my 2013 Outback 2.t Limited for over a year. I wanted a 6 cylinder. The choise was between an Acura RDX and Outback. While I like the Outback, for the amount of money I think the RDX would have been a better deal. The price was about the same except the Outback does not have drivers seat memory, a LOUSY almost unusable navigation system, no auto assist parking, no power tailgate. In addtion the OUtback is noisy as all get out. The heat/AC fan is so loud you can't hear the radio. Road noise is loud as well. Gas mileage is 5-7 MPG below what is advertised. Not exactly the best choice in the $35K-$40K price range.
Disappointing
13outback, 11/29/2012
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
23 of 67 people found this review helpful
4000 miles on new 2013 limited model. First new car purchase I've disliked. I bought largely based on positive reviews but car has been disappointing. 1. 2.5 engine is inadequate. Granted we live around some hills but this car feels that it is actively protesting every time it goes up hill. 2. Fuel mileage is nowhere near EPA estimates. 3. Auto climate control works poorly 4. Build quality issues. For example there's a nut lock fluid that's obviously been used that is all over the alloy wheels. 5. Cheap materials. Seat leather is very cheap and at 4000 miles is already puckering. I'd look really hard before buying one of these. It's not the quality of a $30K car.
Bad engine with leaking head gasket
Jennifer Haney , 08/02/2021
updated 02/03/2022
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited PZEV 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The primary issue I have had with this car is the engine's head gasket was leaking and I had to buy and replace the engine which is very expensive. Dealing with auto mechanics has been horrible. They have lied to me and taken advantage of me. I had to spend a small fortune to get another engine. Now the transmission is having trouble. It is shocking to me how these big automakers are allowed to continue to sell vehicles that repeatedly have debilitating issues like this. I am out of money and I am heartsick that my dream car has turned into a complete nightmare. The seatbelt is very very uncomfortable because it rubs up on my neck. For my past vehicle, I was able to find seat belt extenders but this vehicle doesn't have any I can't find any online anywhere so I'm dealing with that every day when I drive. On the plus side, I love the roominess of this vehicle. I also like the level of technology in this vehicle IE the CD player and The Back-up Camera.
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Subaru Rocks
Bonnie, 06/18/2022
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i Premium 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This my second outback. The first one I kept for 14 years and I hope to keep this one the same. I follow the maintenance schedule and have never had any repairs other than brakes. a new battery , and new tires. It handles well in snow and dry weather. It is the most dependable brand I ever owned.
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Going from full size truck to outback = Good
bigdavenh, 01/27/2014
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i Premium PZEV 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I am a student that has to travel 425 miles round trip per week from home to school. I previously had a full size pick up truck and I can not be happier with the switch to the Subaru. I live in Northern NH and the outback is great in the snow/ice and handles well on the highway. I have been averaging 25-27mpg highway but I suspect it mostly has to do with the terrain. I am 6'3" and am not skinny by any means. 17,000 miles in 5 months and have been very happy so far
Superb car except for a bit of oil usage
David, 02/12/2023
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i Premium 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
2013 Outback Premium, with 6-speed manual transmission. Everything works to perfection and at 104k miles it drives like a new car. Only annoying thing is oil usage: about a quart every 1500 miles. Not the end of the world; I just carry a couple of extra quarts in back. The OE Bluetooth system did not agree with my iPhone starting in 2021, so I replaced it with a Kenwood aftermarket GPS unit ... works incredibly well. The suspension got a bit clattery, so I replaced the OE sway bar bushings with polyurethane ones ... problem absolutely solved. Easy for the corner mechanic to work on; no need to take it to the dealer. All in all I would say that it has been a truly superb car. Outbacks are no longer available with a stickshift, so am trying to really take care of this one.
Second Outback
chris, 06/01/2018
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i Premium PZEV 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is an awesome car! It is quiet driving, comfortable, handles great and feels like riding a unicorn in snow and ice. On the not so happy side, navigation is useless. Phone book (contacts) load each time the car is turned on. There is no storage for contacts and the upload is slow. This is a 2013 so it was probably top notch at the time. I have driven many loaners from the dealer that are new and the infotainment is much better and navigation too. This car does not correct the steering when using eyesight. I rate this car with 5 stars. It is my second outback.
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Hate the seatbelts and bad head gasket
Jennifer Haney , 08/02/2021
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited PZEV 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have 2013 Subaru Outback Legacy Edition. Used and then quickly found out it had a blown head gasket so I had to buy a new engine and the seat belts are very uncomfortable. On other vehicles I've been able to seat belt extenders to help with the comfort but this vehicle there is no extender to be found. On the plus side the car is very spacious and the radio sounds great I also enjoy having my CD player and backup camera. As far as technology goes this car is perfect for me because it's not over Tech kill but it has enough that it's enjoyable to drive.
Great, practical car but has oil leak issues
David, 07/22/2020
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i Premium PZEV 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This car developed a serious leak in the cam cover and required a complete engine reseal at 63k. The work was completed under extended warranty. However, it is still leaking and the dealer is redoing the work. Hard to say how it will play out at this point. Other than that I have enjoyed this car. Gets great highway mileage (30+) but nowhere near city MPG in city/near suburbs with lots of 4-way stops (~18 MPG). Great storage capacity, driver seat a little low and not adjustable.
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Transmission problem Transmission
rafal, 03/24/2020
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i Premium 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
151k miles and transmission broke down. Subaru didn't recommend any transmission service before. I wonder if I would do transition service it would work longer. I had also issue with engine oil consumption. Car had only 70k miles Subaru did replace engine block on warranty. One dealer didn't see problem another one was pleasant to deal with and they did repair it for free. Overall good car no another issues.
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Remember When?
DLMS, 02/24/2020
updated 09/09/2021
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Remember when you purchased your last new car? Then about 5 years into owning it you start thinking about the next car you should buy.....well, when I've now owned my Subaru Outback for 7 years and I haven't even given it a thought. But when the time does come to buy another car I'm pretty sure it will be another Subaru! I've owned Fords, Chevy's, Toyotas, and Mazda's. My favorite daily driver still remains the Subaru, followed by Mazda's Miata. All the reasons I purchased it in the 1st place have remained true and I've not been disappointed. Reliability, mileage, maint. cost, functionality, style, comfort, versatility. I've hauled groceries, children, adults, luggage, plants, firewood, pets, kayaks, bikes to name a few. She is one sturdy girl! When the time eventually comes to purchase a new vehicle I have no doubt it will be a Subaru! Update: It's been almost 9 years now and she's still with me. I've purchased many cars in my lifetime and when the time is right my next will be a Subaru.
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112,000 and on it's 3 engine
Not happy in California, 05/14/2023
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i PZEV 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Very simply put, worst car I've ever owned. Had great success with previous 3 Outbacks. This one is absolute junk. 3 engines in 112,000 miles. Piston rings. First one was burning huge amounts of oil and slowly lost compression. 2nd lost compression without burning oil. 1st was under warranty. 2nd Subaru gave me a $2000.00 credit. Piston rings in the 2.5 boxer are a MAJOR problem and should have been solved. Sorry Subaru, you lost a loyal customer.
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Excellent car, except for owners of Thule equipment
kingti, 07/27/2013
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited PZEV 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Very good to excellent in all aspects, except for the integrated roof rack. The crossbars do not work with many older Thule products (bike carriers, ski racks, kayak carriers), and they do not extend beyond the width of the roof line. For those outdoor enthusiasts who need to carry multiple items, we need to attach standard Thule crossbars. However, the design of the roof limits the front to back bar distance to 25 inches. This makes for a less stable kayak carrier or rooftop box. I am told that Subaru and Yakima have an agreed upon specific adapter for Yakima crossbars. Subaru needs to do the same with Thule, given the large number of Thule enthusiasts.
Dependable
Jimmy joe, 01/19/2016
updated 01/19/2018
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 6M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The car is five years old and a new battery is the only thing replaced.Have had 5 snow events this winter so far and we are always confident in our safety with our Outback.
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My new baby
blu3, 05/31/2013
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
4 of 12 people found this review helpful
Love the car its my 2nd one!
Car is great - DO NOT PURCHASE WITH NAVIGATION
sailingfool, 08/28/2012
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited PZEV 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
6 of 19 people found this review helpful
I love my Subaru's - this is my third. When it came time for a new car I did not hesitate and bought another Outback. Based on experiences with my wife's and friends' cars, I sprung for the integrated nav after having played with one in the dealership and finding it OK. BIG MISTAKE! The 2013 Outback nav system is very different from the 2012, and severely lacking in user interface and usability. First, you can only enter addresses when stopped (a reasonable safety feature), however even when there is a passenger present and operating the nav (the car could know this as it detects front passengers for airbag activiation) it is not very usable.
Poor fuel economy
postit1, 02/09/2013
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
9 of 31 people found this review helpful
I would like this car very much were it not for the gas mileage. I would not recomend this car if fuel economy is at all important to you. I am a light footed driver who has always gotten near or even slightly above the rated mileage on vehicles owned. There are always a few drivers who will get poor mileage with any vehicle. Before buying I dismissed these at lead footed drivers. I should not have. Check around on the web and you will find poor mileage is a pretty common issue with the 2013 4 cyl. Outback. I am getting 22-23 mpg on 70-80% highway driving split between 50-60mph and 75 mph. Non highway driving is suburban areas. Am actively working to unload this vehicle.
Killer Value
ljnymd, 07/21/2012
2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited PZEV 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
32 of 126 people found this review helpful
There are a few key changes for the OB in 2013 that were important, so I was willing to wait for that model. These include the Eyesight safety system, the strengthened chassis, and the improved 4 cylinder engine. These were worth waiting for, as this car now offers killer value in terms of a package that is off road capable, very quiet, good gas mileage, and really comfortable.