2025 Subaru Outback Safety Report

The 2025 Subaru Outback presents a mixed safety picture, achieving excellent crash test ratings from NHTSA but showing early signs of concerning electronic and structural issues based on 53 consumer complaints. The vehicle received a perfect 5-star overall safety rating, with 5 stars in frontal and side crash tests, and a respectable 4 stars in rollover. However, despite its newness and zero recalls, a significant portion of complaints (11 out of 53) fall under 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER,' indicating a wide range of emerging problems. Key safety systems like 'LANE DEPARTURE, FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE' account for 4 complaints, with users reporting random activation or failure to activate correctly, leading to dangerous situations like unexpected braking or lack of lane keeping. Electrical system issues, including infotainment malfunctions and complete electrical failures, are also noted in 4 complaints, posing potential hazards by disabling critical safety features or causing loss of power steering. Structural integrity, particularly the windshield, is a recurring theme, with 3 complaints specifically mentioning sudden cracking without impact, echoing past Subaru issues. This could compromise visibility and the integrity of the EyeSight system. Furthermore, issues with exterior lighting (3 complaints) and air bags (4 complaints) are concerning, with reports of inadequate low beam illumination and general airbag system concerns. While the crash test performance is stellar, the volume and nature of early complaints, especially those related to critical active safety systems and electrical reliability, suggest potential areas of concern that future owners should monitor. Four crashes have been reported, with zero injuries, fires, or deaths, which is positive given the reported incidents. However, the complaints about unintended acceleration (1 complaint) and random activation of collision avoidance systems leading to unexpected stops highlight scenarios that could easily result in more severe outcomes. The lack of recalls for a brand-new model is expected, but the pattern of complaints indicates that some issues may warrant future investigation or service bulletins from the manufacturer.

Our recommendation: Despite excellent crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of early complaints regarding active safety system malfunctions, electrical glitches, and windshield cracking. Thoroughly test all electronic systems during a test drive and consider an extended warranty for peace of mind.