SUBARU OUTBACK (2012)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 433 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
75%
Total Tests (2024)
433
Avg Mileage
112,842 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,397
Is the 2012 SUBARU OUTBACK reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 7 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the SUBARU brand average of 83%.
At 12 years old, 75% of SUBARU OUTBACKs from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 433 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 112,842 miles.
How does the 2012 SUBARU OUTBACK compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2012 SUBARU OUTBACK has 112,842 miles on the clock, which is above the expected 88,800 miles for a 12-year-old car. Higher-mileage cars often have more motorway miles, which is generally less harmful than stop-start urban driving.
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%. The 2012 sits between the two at 75%.
How much does a 2012 SUBARU OUTBACK cost to run?
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 2012 SUBARU OUTBACK
The 2012 SUBARU OUTBACK is a large car with a 2500cc petrol engine. 433 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. It sits in the bottom 81% of 2012 cars for MOT pass rates.
With an average of 112,842 miles at 12 years old, SUBARU OUTBACK owners cover more miles than the average driver.
2012 SUBARU OUTBACK Fuel Costs
The 2500cc 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 2012 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 75% 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 2012 SUBARU OUTBACK
At 12 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%.
Alternatives to the 2012 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:
- BMW 3 SERIES (2014) 87% pass rate (+12%) from 63,059 tests
- VAUXHALL INSIGNIA (2011) 77% pass rate (+2%) from 42,781 tests
- BMW 1 SERIES (2013) 84% pass rate (+9%) from 34,105 tests
- LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER EVOQUE (2013) 86% pass rate (+11%) from 33,113 tests