It's OK
This is my second Outback (2014-4 Cylinder). My immediate family members currently own SIX different Subaru models, so I am familiar with the line. My first Outback (2003-4 Cylinder) made it to 110,000 miles and had to be replaced because the head gasket failed and I didn't want to spend upwards of $3,000 on a 10 year old vehicle. BTW, I only got $1,500 on my trade-in from the Subaru dealer.
Now my 2014 has less than 60,000 miles and the head gasket went again, I couldn't believe it! At least the dealer is calling it a 'Certified-Used Warranty' replacement so my out-of-pocket will be nil, however I'll be without my car for several days and, so far, they're not offering a loaner vehicle.
Outside of the engine issue, the ride is nice, the comfort is nice, the sound system is nice, but the cargo capacity of my 2014 is maybe 2/3 the capacity of my 2003 and the roof rack, frankly sucks! I use my vehicle as a 'utility' vehicle, but unfortunately the 'utility' of the Subaru design has apparently diminished over 10 model years. The clearances through the back hatch of my 2014 seem to be tighter than those in my 2003 as do the height and depth of the cargo bay. The roof rack is articulating and therefore the two rails are EITHER parallel with the vehicle or perpendicular to the vehicle. Tying items to the rails is awful compared to my 2003, there are no tie-down anchor points. Subaru needs to go back to a roof rack design that is convenient to the user, not cheaper so that the sales price is minimally lowered.
Verified Owner
