1999 Subaru Outback engine problems
Owners reported engine problems in 24 complaints for the 1999 Subaru Outback, 16% of the complaints on file. It is the most reported problem area for this model year.
At a glance
- Complaints
- 24 16% of this year's complaints
- Typical mileage
- 91,000 miles 15 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 | 0 |
| 20k to 40k miles | 1 |
| 40k to 60k miles | 1 |
| 60k to 80k miles | 2 |
| 80k to 100k miles | 5 |
| 100k to 120k miles | 4 |
| 120k to 140k miles | 2 |
| 140k to 160k miles | 0 |
| 160k to 180k miles | 0 |
| 180k to 200k miles | 0 |
| 200k+ miles | 0 |
What the data shows
Of the 15 engine complaints that report mileage, the median is about 91,000 miles, and 13% were reported before 60,000 miles.
None of the engine complaints mention a crash, fire, injury or death.
What owners wrote
Vehicle started smoking under hood, then stalled at a stop. Taken to dealer who repaired vehicle, one week later engine light came on, vehicle overheated, but did not stall, dealer replaced engine. Wiper blades were replaced. *slc
Head gasket failed on 1999 subaru at 38,000. Car was maintained religiously. Subaru recall was never sent to me. I was told my car was the 'wrong phase engine' to be covered under warranty. Car had overheated 3 months earlier. Subaru flushed the system and added 'special coolant lubricant'. This was worthless. I was told it would cost $2000+, even though my family has purchased 4 subaru's from the same dealer. After a lot of screaming and yelling, they replaced both gaskets, radiator, thermostat and water pump.
Other problems reported for the 1999 Subaru Outback
- Transmission 20 complaints