Models · Subaru
Subaru Outback (2015–2021) buying guide
The fifth-generation Outback, launched in April 2015 with a 2.0 boxer diesel and a 2.5 boxer petrol, facelifted in April 2018 when the diesel was dropped. It is roomy and well equipped, and the checks centre on a few known engine and electrical items.
The versions
- 2.0 boxer diesel: 150PS, until April 2018, manual or Lineartronic CVT
- 2.5 boxer petrol: 175PS, Lineartronic CVT only
- Symmetrical all-wheel drive
- EyeSight camera-based safety systems
What to check on a 2015 to 2021 Outback
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Oil leaks and engine vibration
What to look for: With a torch, look under the engine and around the lower edges of the engine block for oil leaks or fresh wet patches. On the drive, feel for vibration from the engine as you accelerate, and watch for the engine warning light.
Why it matters: Both the petrol and diesel engines have been known to develop oil leaks, small or larger. Vibration under acceleration has also been reported, and cracked oxygen sensors can bring on the engine warning light.
Battery drain, EyeSight and the display
What to look for: Ask whether the car has had flat batteries. Check the start button, central display and sat nav respond properly, and that no EyeSight warning lights show on the drive. Try every interior light and electrical item.
Why it matters: Battery drain has been a recurring issue on this generation and may need a dealer fix. Faulty EyeSight sensors and cameras have triggered warning lights, and owners report a laggy or unresponsive infotainment screen and start button faults.
Windscreen, clutch and CVT
What to look for: Look closely at the windscreen for cracks and chips. On a manual diesel, check the clutch bites cleanly without slip. On a CVT, listen for excessive noise as you accelerate. Check the car runs straight after speed bumps.
Why it matters: Outback windscreens crack more readily than you might expect, owing to thin glass. Manual diesels can be used hard, so the clutch is worth checking, and some owners have noted excessive CVT noise. Front wheel alignment can be knocked out by speed bumps.
Also in the full guide
- Recall work
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the 2015 to 2021 Outback
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
Other generations
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with Subaru.