SUBARU OUTBACK (2005)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 497 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
70%
Total Tests (2024)
497
Avg Mileage
130,499 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,397
Is the 2005 SUBARU OUTBACK reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 12 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the SUBARU brand average of 83%.
At 19 years old, 70% of SUBARU OUTBACKs from 2005 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 497 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 130,499 miles.
How does the 2005 SUBARU OUTBACK compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2005 SUBARU OUTBACK has 130,499 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 140,600 miles for a 19-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a SUBARU OUTBACK?
The most reliable year is the 2021 model with a 94% MOT pass rate, while the 2005 model has the lowest at 70%. Consider a different year if reliability is a priority.
How much does a 2005 SUBARU OUTBACK cost to run?
Higher than average due to low pass rate
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
SUBARU OUTBACK by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 94% | 784 | 27,630 mi |
| 2020 | 91% | 407 | 34,925 mi |
| 2019 | 93% | 1,030 | 41,337 mi |
| 2018 | 90% | 1,085 | 52,588 mi |
| 2017 | 91% | 746 | 62,472 mi |
| 2016 | 90% | 1,254 | 75,847 mi |
| 2015 | 85% | 1,384 | 87,656 mi |
| 2014 | 85% | 393 | 101,391 mi |
| 2013 | 81% | 415 | 100,053 mi |
| 2012 | 75% | 433 | 112,842 mi |
| 2011 | 81% | 883 | 114,449 mi |
| 2010 | 79% | 834 | 123,818 mi |
| 2009 | 77% | 501 | 115,908 mi |
| 2008 | 72% | 350 | 120,270 mi |
| 2007 | 72% | 609 | 123,973 mi |
| 2006 | 72% | 729 | 130,846 mi |
| 2005 | 70% | 497 | 130,499 mi |
| 2004 | 72% | 435 | 134,291 mi |
Checking a specific SUBARU OUTBACK?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2005 SUBARU OUTBACK
The 2005 SUBARU OUTBACK is a large car with a 3000cc petrol engine. 497 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. Among all cars from 2005, the average MOT pass rate is 72%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 130,499 miles at 19 years old, SUBARU OUTBACK owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2005 SUBARU OUTBACK Fuel Costs
The 3000cc petrol engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 30 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,592 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2005 SUBARU OUTBACK?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,397 (£200/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 70% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
SUBARU OUTBACK Reliability Trend
Newer SUBARU OUTBACKs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 14 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2005 SUBARU OUTBACK
At 19 years old, the SUBARU OUTBACK is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age.
Alternatives to the 2005 SUBARU OUTBACK
If reliability is your priority, there are 4 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- LAND ROVER FREELANDER (2007) 75% pass rate (+5%) from 28,740 tests
- SAAB 9-3 (2007) 76% pass rate (+6%) from 13,261 tests
- MERCEDES E (2004) 78% pass rate (+8%) from 8,333 tests
- MERCEDES CLK (2007) 76% pass rate (+6%) from 8,003 tests