The Subaru Outback has long been a favourite in the crossover and SUV market. It is renowned for its rugged all-wheel-drive capability, versatile design, and ability to quickly tackle city streets and off-road trails. The 2014 Subaru Outback, part of the fourth generation of this popular model, introduced several features and updates, making it a strong contender in its segment.
However, like any vehicle, the 2014 Outback is not without its problems, and prospective buyers or current owners should be aware of the common issues that have affected this particular model year. From engine and transmission troubles to electrical malfunctions and suspension problems, this article explores the most significant 2014 Subaru Outback problems, their causes, and the potential solutions.
Table of Contents
An Overview of the 2014 Subaru Outback
Before diving into the specific issues, it’s essential to understand the key features and specifications of the 2014 Subaru Outback. The 2014 model year saw the Outback continue with the 2.5-litre 4-cylinder and 3.6-litre 6-cylinder engine options.
The 2.5-litre engine, producing 173 horsepower, was the more fuel-efficient of the two, but its relatively modest power output has been a concern for some owners. Meanwhile, the 3.6-litre 6-cylinder engine, producing 256 horsepower, offered greater power, especially for those who needed to tow or drive in hilly terrain, though at the cost of higher fuel consumption.
This year’s Outback also featured Subaru’s signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, known for its superior handling in challenging weather and off-road environments. For transmission, the 2014 Outback was equipped with a continuous variable transmission (CVT) as standard, with a 6-speed manual option on some trims. The interior offered generous space for passengers and cargo, making it a comfortable choice for long trips, while the SUV’s ground clearance made it a practical option for adventurers.
Engine-Related Problems
The 2014 Subaru Outback’s engines, while generally reliable, can experience a few common problems. These issues can range from minor inconveniences to major repairs, and it’s helpful to be aware of them to ensure a smoother ownership experience.
Excessive Oil Consumption
One of the most common complaints from 2014 Subaru Outback owners involves excessive oil consumption, particularly in models with the 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine. Many owners have reported needing to add oil between regular changes, sometimes as frequently as every 1,000 to 2,000 miles. This problem has been particularly prevalent in the 2014 Outback due to the engine’s design.
Causes
- Faulty Piston Rings: Faulty piston rings, which allow oil to seep into the combustion chamber, have been a major cause of excessive oil consumption in these vehicles. This results in the oil burning off quickly, leading to the need for frequent top-ups.
- Oil Control Issues: The 2.5-litre engine’s oil control ring design has been a point of contention, with many owners noticing that the rings do not adequately prevent oil from entering the combustion chamber.
Symptoms
- Owners report needing to top up oil frequently, even between regular oil changes.
- Some drivers may notice blue smoke from the exhaust, particularly when accelerating or idling.
- Decreased engine performance over time, as the engine runs on low oil levels for extended periods.
Solutions
- Subaru issued a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) for this issue, and some affected vehicles may qualify for free repairs or replacement of piston rings. Owners should check with their Subaru dealership to determine eligibility for their car.
- Repairing this issue can be expensive for vehicles no longer under warranty, ranging from £1,000 to £2,000. However, some owners find that simply topping up oil regularly can be a temporary solution.
- Regularly checking oil levels and maintaining the correct oil quality is critical in preventing further engine damage.
Engine Stalling or Misfiring
Another common issue with the 2014 Subaru Outback is engine stalling or misfiring. This problem can be particularly concerning, as it can occur unexpectedly while driving, leading to potential safety hazards.
Causes
- Crankshaft and Camshaft Position Sensors: Faulty sensors can lead to improper engine timing, resulting in misfires or stalls.
- Ignition System Failures: The ignition coils, spark plugs, or spark plug wires could fail, leading to a misfire.
- Fuel System Issues: A clogged fuel filter or faulty fuel injectors could prevent the engine from receiving the correct amount of fuel.
Symptoms
- The engine may hesitate or cut out while driving, especially during acceleration or at idle.
- Owners may notice the check engine light illuminated on the dashboard.
- The vehicle may struggle to start or show poor acceleration performance.
Solutions
- Diagnostic tools like an OBD-II scanner can help identify which component is failing. If the crankshaft or camshaft sensors are found to be faulty, replacing them should resolve the issue.
- Replacing spark plugs and ignition coils can address misfiring caused by ignition system issues.
- A thorough fuel system inspection, including cleaning or replacing the fuel filter and inspecting the fuel injectors, can resolve fuel delivery problems.
CVT Transmission Issues
Some owners have been concerned about the 2014 Subaru Outback’s continuous variable transmission (CVT). While CVTs are generally known for their smooth, efficient operation, the Subaru CVT has faced criticism for its long-term reliability.
Common CVT Issues
- Slipping Gears: Owners may notice that the CVT doesn’t always engage smoothly, causing hesitation or loss of power when accelerating.
- Jerking or Hesitation: Another common complaint is the feeling of the vehicle hesitating or jerking when accelerating, especially after the car has been idling.
- Overheating: In certain conditions, especially on steep inclines or during off-road use, the CVT may overheat, leading to sluggish acceleration or, in extreme cases, complete transmission failure.
Causes
- Internal Component Wear: Premature wear of internal transmission components, such as the belt or pulleys, can cause slipping and jerking.
- Contaminated or Low CVT Fluid: The CVT relies on fluid to function properly, and low or degraded fluid can lead to poor performance and overheating.
Solutions
- Subaru extended the warranty for specific CVT components, so owners should verify if their vehicle qualifies for this extended coverage.
- Regular maintenance is crucial for the health of the CVT. This includes replacing CVT fluid every 30,000–60,000 miles to ensure smooth operation.
- In severe cases, the CVT may need to be repaired or replaced, which can be costly, ranging from £2,000 to £3,000.
Electrical and Lighting Problems
The 2014 Subaru Outback, like many modern vehicles, relies heavily on electronics. Although it’s generally robust, electrical and lighting issues can occasionally arise in these vehicles. This section will explore common electrical problems reported by 2014 Outback owners.
Headlight Bulb Failures
Many 2014 Subaru Outback owners have complained about frequent headlight bulb failures, which can be both inconvenient and unsafe. Some owners report that bulbs burn out quickly, sometimes within a year of installation.
Causes
- Electrical Connection Issues: Poor electrical connections in the headlight assembly can cause overheating and short-circuiting, leading to bulb failure.
- Low-Quality Bulbs: Some factory-installed bulbs are of lower quality, leading to premature burnout.
Solutions
- Replacing the bulbs with high-quality, long-lasting alternatives such as LED or HID can help prevent frequent failures.
- Inspecting and cleaning the headlight assembly’s electrical connections can help eliminate overheating or poor contact issues.
Infotainment System Issues
The 2014 Subaru Outback came equipped with a touchscreen infotainment system, which has been praised for its functionality but also criticised for occasional glitches, including unresponsiveness and difficulty connecting to Bluetooth devices.
Causes
- Software Bugs: The system’s software may have bugs or glitches that cause it to freeze or become unresponsive.
- Connectivity Problems: Issues with pairing Bluetooth devices or maintaining a stable connection could be caused by outdated software or faulty hardware.
Solutions
- Software Updates: Subaru dealerships may offer updates to address common issues and improve system performance.
- System Reset: Resetting the infotainment system, often done by disconnecting the vehicle’s battery, can sometimes clear up minor issues.
- Professional Diagnosis: If the issue persists, a mechanic or dealership technician can further diagnose and fix problems with the system’s wiring or hardware.
Suspension and Handling Issues
The 2014 Outback’s suspension system, designed to handle both on-road and off-road conditions, has received mixed reviews. While it performs admirably on rough terrain, some owners find the ride quality a bit harsh for daily driving.
Rough Ride and Excessive Noise
Some owners report that the 2014 Outback suspension can feel overly stiff, especially on bumpy or uneven roads. This can result in a harsh ride, with more road noise and vibrations entering the cabin than expected.
Causes
- Worn Suspension Components: Over time, parts such as struts, shocks, and bushings can wear out, leading to a rougher ride and increased noise.
- Loose or Broken Struts: A loose or broken strut is a common cause of suspension noise and can also affect handling.
Solutions
- Regular Suspension Inspections: Regularly inspecting the suspension for wear and tear can help identify problems before they become severe.
- Replacement of Worn Parts: Replacing worn suspension components such as struts, shocks, and bushings will restore ride comfort and handling.
Brake System Issues
Some 2014 Subaru Outback owners have reported issues with the braking system, particularly premature brake pad wear. The problem is more common in vehicles frequently driving in urban environments with heavy traffic.
Causes
- Brake Pad Wear: Excessive wear can occur due to driving habits, such as frequent hard braking or driving in stop-and-go traffic.
- Warped Rotors: Warped brake rotors can lead to vibrations or uneven braking performance, another common complaint among Outback owners.
Solutions
- Brake Inspection: Regular brake inspections and replacing pads before they wear down too much can help maintain braking performance.
- Rotor Resurfacing or Replacement: Warped rotors should be resurfaced or replaced to ensure the braking system works efficiently.
Conclusion
While the 2014 Subaru Outback remains a popular and reliable vehicle for many drivers, it is not without its problems. Excessive oil consumption, CVT transmission problems, and electrical malfunctions have affected specific models. However, many of these problems can be addressed with regular maintenance, early detection, and timely repairs.
Potential buyers of a used 2014 Subaru Outback should check for any signs of these issues, and owners should stay on top of the recommended maintenance schedule to ensure that their Outback continues to perform at its best. By staying informed and proactive, owners can enjoy many more years of reliable service from their Outback.