2016 Subaru Outback engine problems
53 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the engine on the 2016 Subaru Outback — 8% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“There is a crack in the exhaust manifold and the exhaust smell is entering the cabin affecting driver and passengers' health. The problem has been confirmed by a Subaru dealer and an independent mechanic. There were no warning lights, I was made aware after routine maintenance by an independent…”
filed Jul 20, 2026
“leak in cam carrier gasket caused large ammounts of smoke to fill engine bay and enter cabin air system. Struggled to breath and vision to an extent was obstructed. when car was parked, smoke continued to fill the engine bay. problem was confirmed by an independent technitian, with the vehicle…”
filed Apr 6, 2026
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Engine problems in other Outback years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 Outback | 5 | 6% |
| 2024 Outback | 7 | 7% |
| 2023 Outback | 1 | 1% |
| 2022 Outback | 21 | 5% |
| 2021 Outback | 21 | 7% |
| 2020 Outback | 48 | 5% |
| 2019 Outback | 39 | 4% |
| 2018 Outback | 37 | 5% |
| 2017 Outback | 43 | 5% |
| 2015 Outback | 47 | 9% |
| 2014 Outback | 35 | 17% |
| 2013 Outback | 67 | 23% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2016 Subaru Outback
Counts are unique NHTSA complaints naming this component group. Complaints are unverified owner reports; mileage is computed only from complaints that included a usable odometer reading.