2020 Subaru Outback Safety Report
2020 Subaru Outback: Excellent Crash Ratings, but Numerous Recalls and High Complaint Volume for Visibility and Electrical Issues
AI Safety Analysis for the 2020 Subaru Outback
Reliability Score
The 2020 Subaru Outback receives a reliability score of 65 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2020 Subaru Outback
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2020 Subaru Outback:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air Bag Occupant Detection System (Ods) Failure A capacitor in the ODS sensors may crack and short circuit, preventing airbag deployment in a crash. This is covered by recall 24V227000. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Transmission Control Unit (Tcu) Programming Error A TCU programming error can cause the clutch to engage improperly, leading to a loss of drive power and increasing crash risk. Covered by recalls 20V698000 and 19V855000. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Fuel Pump Failure The low-pressure fuel pump can fail, causing an engine stall while driving and increasing crash risk. Covered by recall 20V029000. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Rearview Display Intermittent Loss An over-the-air software update may cause intermittent loss of the rearview image, reducing driver visibility. Covered by recall 20V657000. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Brake Pedal Mounting Bracket Defect A missing or insufficiently tightened bolt on the brake pedal mounting bracket can reduce braking performance. Covered by recall 20V777000. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Sudden Unintended Acceleration Multiple complaints describe the vehicle suddenly accelerating, even when parking or attempting to brake, leading to crashes. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Windshield Cracking/Fragility Numerous reports indicate the windshield is prone to cracking from small impacts or temperature changes, often requiring multiple replacements. |
Medium | Common | unknown miles |
| Battery Drain/Failure Owners report frequent battery failures and replacements, sometimes attributed to issues like the Data Communications Module (DCM). |
Medium | Common | 45000-50000 miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2020 Subaru Outback:
The most frequent complaint category, with 272 reports, often related to windshield fragility and potential issues with wipers or other visibility aids.
A significant number of complaints (190) point to various electrical issues, including battery drain, system failures, and warning light illuminations.
Despite recalls, 31 complaints relate to power train issues, including transmission slipping, failure to engage gears, and loss of drive power.
13 complaints specifically mention airbag system issues, including warning lights and potential malfunctions, aligning with a major recall.
10 complaints related to the engine, including stalling and fire incidents, some potentially linked to the fuel pump recall.
Complaints about brake pedal issues and reduced braking performance, consistent with a recall regarding the brake pedal mounting bracket.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2020 Subaru Outback
Is the 2020 Subaru Outback safe?
The 2020 Subaru Outback received excellent NHTSA crash test ratings (5-star overall, frontal, side; 4-star rollover), indicating strong performance in controlled crash scenarios. However, it has 886 total complaints, including 19 crashes, 5 fires, and 4 injuries, and has been subject to 6 safety recalls addressing critical components like airbags, transmission, and brakes. This suggests that while it performs well in tests, there are real-world reliability and defect concerns that impact its overall safety profile.
What are common problems with the 2020 Subaru Outback?
The most reported issues for the 2020 Subaru Outback are related to VISIBILITY/WIPER (272 complaints), often concerning fragile windshields, and ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (190 complaints), including battery drain and various system failures. Other significant concerns include POWER TRAIN issues (31 complaints), despite multiple recalls, and AIR BAG system malfunctions (13 complaints).
Are there any recalls for the 2020 Subaru Outback?
Yes, the 2020 Subaru Outback has 6 recalls. These include issues with the AIR BAGS (Occupant Detection System sensor), POWER TRAIN (Transmission Control Unit programming errors leading to loss of drive power), FUEL SYSTEM (low-pressure fuel pump failure), BACK OVER PREVENTION (intermittent loss of rearview image), and SERVICE BRAKES (brake pedal mounting bracket defect).
What should I look out for when buying a used 2020 Subaru Outback?
When considering a used 2020 Subaru Outback, pay close attention to the vehicle's recall history and ensure all 6 recalls have been addressed. Specifically, check for any signs of transmission issues (slipping, loss of power), electrical problems (battery drain, warning lights), and inspect the windshield for cracks or previous replacements. Inquire about any history of sudden acceleration or brake performance issues.
How does the 2020 Subaru Outback perform in crash tests?
The 2020 Subaru Outback performs exceptionally well in NHTSA crash tests, earning a 5-star Overall Safety Rating. It received 5 stars for both Frontal Crash and Side Crash tests, and a 4-star rating for Rollover resistance.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While the 2020 Subaru Outback excels in crash tests, its high volume of complaints and 6 recalls, particularly for critical components, warrant caution. Ensure all recalls have been completed and thoroughly inspect for common issues like windshield fragility, electrical problems, and transmission performance before purchasing.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2020 Subaru Outback
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2020 Subaru Outback. The data includes 886 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 6 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 19 reported crashes, 5 fire incidents, 4 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2020 Subaru Outback an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.