1998 Subaru Outback Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Quick Facts · 1998 Subaru Outback
- Has 2 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the suspension:front:springs:coil springs.
- Scores 10 points below the strongest nearby year — the 1997 Subaru Outback earns a 78.
- The system most likely to surface first: engine head gaskets (critical severity).
Should You Buy the 1998 Subaru Outback?
The 1998 Subaru Outback is a practical, go-anywhere wagon, but its specific engine generation presents a significant reliability hurdle. While its AWD system and versatility are compelling, only proceed with caution and a thorough pre-purchase inspection focusing on the notorious head gaskets and potential rust issues. Ignoring these can quickly turn an affordable purchase into an expensive burden.
Biggest Strengths
- Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive capability
- Excellent cargo versatility
- Robust chassis and suspension (when maintained)
Top Risk Areas
The systems that break first on the 1998 Subaru Outback. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.
NHTSA Recalls
2 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.
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL)
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS. DUE TO POOR WELDS, IGNITION KEYS CAN STICK, SHIFT LEVERS/LINKAGES CAN BREAK AND SHIFT LEVERS CAN MOVE.
What breaks on the 1998 Subaru Outback?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Subaru Outback by Year
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Subaru Outback. Click any year for its full report.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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