SUBARU OUTBACK (2011)
Running costs, reliability data, and common problems from 883 real MOT tests.
Annual Cost
£1,707
£142/month
MOT Pass Rate
81%
Good
Road Tax
£265
Based on CC/year
Insurance
Grp 18-32
1998cc Diesel
Solid Option
81% pass rate, £1707/year to run. Close to the national average.
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Annual Running Costs
~48 mpg
Based on 1998cc
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT data. Insurance not included.
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Reliability Verdict
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%.
At 15 years old, 81% of SUBARU OUTBACKs from 2011 passed their MOT first time in 2026. That's based on 883 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 114,449 miles.
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How Does It Compare?
Mileage Analysis
114,449
Average miles
111,000
Expected for age
The average 2011 SUBARU OUTBACK has 114,449 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 111,000 miles for a 15-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
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Best Year to Buy?
The most reliable year is the 2021 model with a 94% MOT pass rate, while the 2005 model has the lowest at 70%. The 2011 sits between the two at 81%.
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 |
Similar Cars to Consider
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About the 2011 SUBARU OUTBACK
The 2011 SUBARU OUTBACK is a family car with a 1998cc diesel engine. 883 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2026, making it a less common model in the UK market. Among all cars from 2011, the average MOT pass rate is 77%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 114,449 miles at 15 years old, SUBARU OUTBACK owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2011 SUBARU OUTBACK Fuel Costs
The 1998cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 48 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,037 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2011 SUBARU OUTBACK?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,707 (£142/month), broken down as £1037 fuel, £265 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 81% 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 2011 SUBARU OUTBACK
At 15 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. If you're flexible on year, the 2021 model has the highest pass rate at 94%.
Common Issues to Watch For
Based on the 2011 SUBARU OUTBACK's fuel type, age, and engine size, these are the most likely problem areas to check.
DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter)
Watch outShort journeys clog the DPF. Replacement costs £1,000-£2,500. Check the DPF warning light and ask about driving patterns.
Turbo Wear
Watch outDiesel turbos work harder and wear faster. Listen for whining noises and check for oil leaks around the turbo housing.
EGR Valve
Watch outExhaust Gas Recirculation valves clog with carbon deposits, causing rough running and poor economy. Cleaning costs £150-£300, replacement £300-£600.
Rust and Corrosion
Watch outAt 10+ years, check wheel arches, sills, subframe, and brake lines for rust. Structural corrosion is an MOT failure. Prevention is far cheaper than repair.
Suspension Bushings
Watch outRubber suspension bushes harden and crack with age, causing knocking noises and vague handling. A full refresh costs £300-£800 depending on the car.
Clutch Wear
Watch outWith an average of 114k miles, clutch replacement may be due (typical lifespan 60,000-100,000 miles). Budget £400-£800 for a new clutch kit.
Brake Discs and Pads
Medium riskHigh-mileage cars often need brake disc replacement, not just pads. A full set of discs and pads costs £200-£500 per axle.
Service History
Low riskAlways request a full service history. Regular servicing is the single best indicator of how well a car has been maintained, regardless of mileage.
Running Costs Compared
How the 2011 SUBARU OUTBACK stacks up against similar cars for annual running costs, insurance, and tax.
| Car | Pass Rate | Fuel/yr | Tax/yr | Insurance | Total/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SUBARU OUTBACK(2011) | 81% | £1037 | £265 | Grp 18-32 | £1707 |
| VOLKSWAGEN GOLF(2013) | 85% | £905 | £135 | Grp 12-25 | £1445-£262 |
| VAUXHALL ASTRA(2013) | 79% | £1037 | £135 | Grp 18-32 | £1727+£20 |
| VOLKSWAGEN POLO(2010) | 74% | £905 | £135 | Grp 12-25 | £1595-£112 |
| BMW 3 SERIES(2013) | 85% | £1037 | £135 | Grp 18-32 | £1577-£130 |
Estimates based on 7,400 miles/year, current fuel prices, and MOT data. Insurance groups are indicative. Actual costs vary by driver, location, and usage.
Related Subaru Models
Explore other Subaru cars or similar models in the same category.
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2018 · 1995cc Petrol
VOLKSWAGEN GOLF
2013 · 1598cc Diesel
VAUXHALL ASTRA
2013 · 1700cc Diesel
VOLKSWAGEN POLO
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