Subaru Outback BS Inspection Checklist

lowEyeSight camera / sensor faults

Look for: The windscreen-mounted EyeSight stereo cameras can be disabled by glare, a cracked or incorrectly-replaced windscreen, or fault, dropping driver-assist features.

If you find it: Use Subaru-approved glass and recalibration; clear faults and recalibrate cameras.

Any · ~$200-1500

lowSuspension bushes / sway-bar links and steering rattles

Look for: Front sway-bar links, control-arm bushes and steering components develop clunks and rattles over rough roads with age.

If you find it: Replace worn links and bushes; standard suspension refresh.

From 100k+ km · ~$150-600

lowInfotainment / electrical glitches

Look for: The Starlink infotainment unit can freeze, reboot or lose Bluetooth/phone connectivity; some software-fixable, some unit faults.

If you find it: Software/firmware update where available; head-unit replacement if faulty.

Any · ~$0-800

lowBoxer oil leaks / head gasket weeping

Look for: Like most Subaru boxers, the FB25 can weep oil from cam carrier/valve cover gaskets and, less often, head gaskets at higher km.

If you find it: Reseal cam carriers/valve covers; head gasket work if confirmed - inspect for oil weep pre-purchase.

From 150k+ km · ~$400-2500

lowFuel thirst

Look for: Real-world 11-13 L/100km, more in town - not a fault, but the running cost is the main reason the 3.6R is cheaper used than the 2.5.

If you find it: Accept the fuel bill; the engine itself is the more durable of the petrols.

Any · Running cost

lowBoxer oil leaks (cam carrier / valve cover)

Look for: The EZ36 develops the usual Subaru boxer external oil weeps from gaskets over time.

If you find it: Reseal cam carriers and valve covers as needed.

From 150k+ km · ~$400-1500

Outback BS (5th gen) inspection checklist

All engines

2.5i FB25 petrol

3.6R EZ36 petrol

2.0D EE20 turbo diesel