Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2013 Subaru Outback
The 2013 Subaru Outback has faced 12 recalls and 297 complaints, notably in airbag inflators and steering issues. Complaints focus on engine and powertrain, with safety recalls addressing crucial components like airbags and steering. Given the data, approach this model with careful inspection, particularly the common issues noted.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2013 Subaru Outback has 12 NHTSA recall campaigns and 297 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars, for the 1 NHTSA-tested trim.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #20V003000 Passenger Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Explode NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #20V002000 Passenger Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Explode NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #20V001000 Passenger Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Explode NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V297000 Ignition Switch may Turn Off NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V008000 Passenger Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Explode NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V007000 Passenger Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Explode NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V009000 Passenger Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Explode NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V626000 Electronic Parking Brake may Fail NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V012000 Passenger Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Explode NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V694000 Windshield Wiper Motor Bottom Cover may Melt NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #13V194000 Steering Column Disengagement NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #13V061000 Remote Engine Starter Fob Malfunction NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Engine 67 complaints
- Power Train 60 complaints
- Air Bags 42 complaints
- Steering 34 complaints
- Vehicle Speed Control 26 complaints
- Unknown or Other 24 complaints
Of the 297 complaints on file, 18 report a crash and 6 a fire; across all 297 complaints, owners report 13 injuries and 1 death (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Engine stalling
How to check: Listen for unusual engine noises or stalling.
Transmission hesitates
How to check: Ensure smooth shifting during the test drive.
Airbag inflator issues
How to check: Verify airbag recall service is complete.
Steering column disengagement
How to check: Test steering feel for any looseness.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual noises from the engine.
Red flag: Loud knocking or ticking sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for dashboard warning lights.
Red flag: Persistent engine or airbag lights
- 03
City driving
What to check: Monitor for smooth gear shifts.
Red flag: Jerking or hesitation when shifting
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Observe engine response and power delivery.
Red flag: Slow acceleration or engine misfire
- 05
Turning and cornering
What to check: Feel for steering stability and response.
Red flag: Looseness or lack of response in steering
- 06
Braking
What to check: Listen for unusual brake noises or squeals.
Red flag: Squeaking or grinding during braking
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the airbag recall been completed?
- Any recent transmission repairs?
- How often was the car serviced?
- Any issues with engine or powertrain?
- Has the electronic parking brake been fixed?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Maintenance records
- Recall repair documentation
- Vehicle history report
- Title and registration
- Warranty details
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2013 Subaru Outback at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2013 Subaru Outback? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.