1998 Subaru Outback engine problems
Owners reported engine problems in 39 complaints for the 1998 Subaru Outback, 24% of the complaints on file. It is the most reported problem area for this model year.
At a glance
- Complaints
- 39 24% of this year's complaints
- Typical mileage
- 90,000 miles 24 complaints with mileage
- Crashes and fires
- 0 and 0
- Injuries and deaths
- 0 and 0
Source: NHTSA owner complaints
When engine problems show up
View the numbers
| Mileage | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 0k to 20k miles | 1 |
| 20k to 40k miles | 0 |
| 40k to 60k miles | 3 |
| 60k to 80k miles | 4 |
| 80k to 100k miles | 7 |
| 100k to 120k miles | 4 |
| 120k to 140k miles | 2 |
| 140k to 160k miles | 1 |
| 160k to 180k miles | 2 |
| 180k to 200k miles | 0 |
| 200k+ miles | 0 |
What the data shows
Of the 24 engine complaints that report mileage, the median is about 90,000 miles, and 17% were reported before 60,000 miles.
None of the engine complaints mention a crash, fire, injury or death.
What owners wrote
The consumer has been experiencing problems with exhaust pumps. Whe vehicle is parked or when vehicle is started up, consumert can smell a sulphur smell. The manufacturer has yet to be contacted.
Car overheated. Towed to garage. They replaced thermostat and tested. Ran ok for about 20 miles. Overheated again. Towed to garage. Now the diagnosis is that I need a new head gasket. This car has less than 90,000 miles and has been maintained flawlessly.
Other problems reported for the 1998 Subaru Outback
- Brakes 18 complaints