1997 Subaru Outback Reliability ReportKeepScore 78/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid
Quick Facts · 1997 Subaru Outback
- Outscores the 1996 Subaru Outback by 10 points — one of the stronger nearby years to consider.
- The system most likely to surface first: engine head gaskets (2.5l dohc ej25d) (major severity).
- Has 4 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the suspension:front:springs:coil springs.
1997 Subaru Outback: Buy or Avoid?
The 1997 Subaru Outback, when properly maintained and specifically addressing its critical engine flaw, can be a resilient and capable all-weather companion. However, its pervasive head gasket issue in the 2.5L engine demands a proactive approach, making it a vehicle you must inspect thoroughly and budget for pre-emptive repairs if not already done.
Biggest Strengths
- Excellent all-wheel-drive capability
- Robust body and frame construction
- Strong community support and parts availability
1997 Subaru Outback — Known Trouble Spots
The systems that break first on the 1997 Subaru Outback. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.
Safety Recalls on the 1997 Subaru Outback
4 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
SUSPENSION:FRONT:SPRINGS:COIL SPRINGS
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH FRONT COIL SPRINGS ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, KENTUCKY, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW YORK, NEW JERSEY, NEW HAMPSHIRE, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, VIRGINIA, WEST VIRGINIA, AND WISCONSIN, AND IN THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. THE FRONT COIL SPRINGS WERE PRODUCED WITH POOR PAINT QUALITY WHICH, AFTER CONTINUED EXPOSURE TO CORROSIVE SALT, CAN RESULT IN BREAKAGE OF THE SPRING.
SUSPENSION:FRONT:SPRINGS:LEAF SPRING ASSEMBLY:HANGER,BRACKET
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER STATION WAGON, SEDAN AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. DUE TO IMPROPER WELDING, FRACTURES CAN OCCUR ON THE SUPPORT BRACKET OF THE FRONT TRANSVERSE LINK.
What breaks on the 1997 Subaru Outback?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Subaru Outback — Year-by-Year Comparison
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Subaru Outback. Click any year for its full report.
Competing 1997s Worth a Look
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 1997 Subaru Outback
Parts and accessories matched to your 1997 Subaru Outback
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Frequently Asked Questions
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