2020 Subaru Outback: recalls and problems
6 recalls and 907 owner complaints on file with NHTSA. The most-reported problem area is visibility/wiper.
Most common problems
What owners report
This vehicle was serviced in 2022 for the wrk-21 timing chain slip recall. the tcu was reprogrammed, however, the exact issue described in wrk-21 is now occurring (timing chain slip). i believe the damage had already started and the reprogramming only delayed/slowed the damage.
Hendrick honda cars of mckinney sold me a 2020 subaru outback with severely mismatched tires, completely failing to identify the issue despite passing the vehicle through three separate pre-sale and/or safety inspections. subaru strictly requires identical tire tread depths across all four wheels on its symmetrical all-wheel drive (awd) system to maintain stable power distribution and vehicle control. selling and ope
Subaru dealer service tech reporting upper oil pan leak. the repair requires engine removal to gain access to the upper oil pan, which is a very costly repair. my concern, does the leaking oil get onto the hot exhaust system create a fire risk.
1. what component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? the rear differential assembly completely failed, disabling the vehicle's all-wheel-drive capability. the component was replaced by shingle springs subaru, so the original failed part is no longer available for physical inspection, but all diagnostic and repair receipts are available upon request. 2. how was your sa
Crash-test ratings
| Version | Overall | Frontal | Side | Rollover |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 Subaru Outback SUV AWD |
Source: NHTSA recalls, complaints and NCAP APIs, covering Outback. Last refreshed 2026-11-15.