Dealer visit checklist
2022 Subaru Outback checklist
Print it or keep it on your phone. Tick each item as you go so nothing gets missed.
Inspect the car
- Check every panel gap and look for mismatched paint (signs of past accident repair)
- Look at the tires: even wear, matching brands, at least 4/32" tread
- Check under the car and engine bay for oil, coolant or other leaks
- Start the engine cold; listen for knocks, ticks or squeals and watch for smoke
- Test every window, lock, seat, light, the A/C, heat and infotainment
- Test drive on city streets and highway: straight braking, smooth shifts, no pulling
- Ask for the service records and a vehicle history report
- Have an independent mechanic do a pre-purchase inspection (about $100–$200)
Known 2022 Subaru Outback problems to check
- Oil consumption issues have been reported on the 2.5L FB25 engine — owners should check oil levels between changes and address early if consumption exceeds 1 quart per 1,000 miles
- Lineartronic CVT can feel sluggish under hard acceleration and has had reliability concerns in higher-mileage examples; ensure fluid is changed every 30,000 miles
- Windshield stress cracks are a well-documented Subaru-wide issue — the large raked windshield is prone to cracking from minor road debris and replacements run $400-$900
- EyeSight driver-assist cameras can be temporarily disabled in heavy rain or snow, and recalibration after windshield replacement adds $150-$300 to repair costs
- Infotainment system touchscreen responsiveness has been criticized and software glitches have been reported, though these are more a nuisance than a costly repair
Ask: have these recalls been fixed?
- ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECU/ECM): Subaru of America, Inc.
- VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD: Subaru of America, Inc.
- POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:PARK/NEUTRAL START INTERLOCK SWITCH: Subaru of America, Inc.
- AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER: Subaru of America, Inc.
Negotiate the price
- Know the typical price: about $32,000 for this model year
- Negotiate the out-the-door price, not the monthly payment
- Get the full price with every fee listed in writing before you sign
- Bring your own loan pre-approval so the dealer has a rate to beat
- Say no to add-ons you didn't ask for (paint protection, VIN etching, nitrogen tires)
- Negotiate your trade-in separately, after the car's price is agreed
- Be ready to walk away; another listing is usually a click away