Engine problems of the 1997 Subaru Outback

Six problems related to engine have been reported for the 1997 Subaru Outback. The most recently reported issues are listed below.

1 Engine problem

Failure Date: 06/21/2008

Loss of coolant, overheated engine, diagnosis of blown head gasket car: 1997 subarau legacy Outback with 2. 5 liter engine.

2 Engine problem

Failure Date: 04/10/2004

The now infamous "blown head gasket" in phase I 2. 5l engines is the focus of my complaint. Subaru of America has at least recognized the phaseii 2. 5l engines in 1998 models and newer, but only because of a different metal was the "problem". The overwhelming number of cases in the phase I 2. 5l (1998 and prior) engine is an obvious indicator of design flaw in the actual shape of the product itself. A recall investigation is a definite must. Just another unhappy Subaru customer.

3 Engine problem

Failure Date: 02/26/2004

Spark plug popped out of head while driving, engine died. Spark plug unable to be reinserted resulting in a head replacement. Very expensive! only 135000 miles regular mechanic said that he has seen 4 of these cases in this model in the last 3 months. No acknowledgement form dealer about mechanical defect.

4 Engine problem

Failure Date: 11/15/2001

Consumer states that engine block and head are cracked with no signs of overheating, Subaru mechanic could not find no mechanical reason why this occurred. Manufacturer was contacted.

5 Engine problem

Failure Date: 11/15/2001

Consumer states that engine block and head are cracked with no signs of overheating, Subaru mechanic could not find no mechanical reason why this occurred. Manufacturer was contacted.

6 Engine problem

Failure Date: 07/01/2000

Local Subaru dealer has sold these parts several times recently. It appears to be a known problem. When this fails the pully system of the engine falls apart, literally, resulting in the loss of electrical power, power steering, brake warning. . . This would have been dangerous had we not been on a back road with no traffic.




Safety Ratings of Outback Cars
Fuel Economy of Outback Vehicles
Outback Service Bulletins
Outback Safety Recalls
Outback Defect Investigations