Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2020 Subaru Outback
The 2020 Subaru Outback has notable issues, including recalls on the airbag sensors, transmission control module, and fuel system. With 901 owner complaints, visibility and the electrical system are commonly reported problems. The vehicle has safety risks related to the airbag and rearview display. However, specific issues can vary, so check thoroughly during inspection.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2020 Subaru Outback has 6 NHTSA recall campaigns and 905 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 #24V227000 Air Bag May Not Deploy NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #22V485000 Drive Chain May Break Causing Loss of Drive Power NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V955000 Drive Chain May Break Causing Loss of Drive Power NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V587000 Fuel Pump May Fail NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #20V766000 Rearview Camera may Shut Down/FMVSS 111 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V664000 Loose or Missing Brake Pedal Mounting Bracket Bolt NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Visibility/Wiper 313 complaints
- Electrical System 259 complaints
- Unknown or Other 152 complaints
- Visibility 70 complaints
- Engine 50 complaints
- Power Train 50 complaints
Of the 905 complaints on file, 19 report a crash and 7 a fire; across all 905 complaints, owners report 4 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Airbag sensor failure
How to check: Ensure the airbag warning light is off during ignition.
TCM programming error
How to check: Test smooth gear shifts during driving.
Display malfunction
How to check: Check rearview camera and infotainment system.
Fuel pump failure
How to check: Listen for unusual engine sounds, especially at startup.
Brake pedal mounting issue
How to check: Inspect the brake pedal for stability and unusual movement.
Visibility system failure
How to check: Operate wipers and defrosters to ensure proper function.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual noises or hesitations.
Red flag: Strange noises during startup.
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for dashboard warning lights.
Red flag: Any warning lights remain on.
- 03
City driving
What to check: Test brakes for response and noise.
Red flag: Squealing or delayed braking.
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Check for transmission smoothness.
Red flag: Jerky or rough gear shifts.
- 05
Cruising
What to check: Monitor any unusual sounds or vibrations.
Red flag: Persistent vibrations or rattles.
- 06
Parking
What to check: Test rearview camera functionality.
Red flag: Intermittent or no display.
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the airbag sensor recall been addressed?
- Are there any unresolved recall issues?
- Have you experienced electrical system problems?
- Has the transmission control module been updated?
- Have there been any fuel system repairs?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair records
- Service and maintenance history
- Inspection reports
- Title and registration
- Warranty information
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2020 Subaru Outback at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2020 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.