SUBARU OUTBACK (2015)
Running costs, reliability data, and common problems from 1,384 real MOT tests.
Annual Cost
£2,427
£202/month
MOT Pass Rate
85%
Good
Road Tax
£430
Based on CC/year
Insurance
Grp 25-38
2500cc Petrol
Solid Option
85% pass rate, £2427/year to run. Close to the national average.
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Annual Running Costs
~30 mpg
Based on 2500cc
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 11 years old, 85% of SUBARU OUTBACKs from 2015 passed their MOT first time in 2026. That's based on 1,384 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 87,656 miles.
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How Does It Compare?
Mileage Analysis
87,656
Average miles
81,400
Expected for age
The average 2015 SUBARU OUTBACK has 87,656 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 81,400 miles for a 11-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 2015 sits between the two at 85%.
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 2015 SUBARU OUTBACK
The 2015 SUBARU OUTBACK is a large car with a 2500cc petrol engine. 1,384 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2026, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2015, the average MOT pass rate is 83%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 87,656 miles at 11 years old, SUBARU OUTBACK owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2015 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 2015 SUBARU OUTBACK?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,427 (£202/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £430 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 85% 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 2015 SUBARU OUTBACK
At 11 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 2015 SUBARU OUTBACK's fuel type, age, and engine size, these are the most likely problem areas to check.
Timing Chain / Belt
Watch outAt 11 years old, check whether the timing belt has been replaced (typically due every 5-7 years or 60,000-100,000 miles). A snapped belt can destroy the engine.
Oil Consumption
Medium riskLarger petrol engines can develop higher oil consumption as they age. Check the oil level and look for blue smoke from the exhaust.
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
Medium riskWith an average of 88k 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 2015 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(2015) | 85% | £1592 | £430 | Grp 25-38 | £2427 |
| BMW 3 SERIES(2014) | 87% | £1592 | £250 | Grp 30-42 | £2247-£180 |
| VAUXHALL INSIGNIA(2013) | 79% | £1592 | £250 | Grp 30-42 | £2397-£30 |
| BMW 1 SERIES(2013) | 84% | £1592 | £250 | Grp 30-42 | £2247-£180 |
| LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER EVOQUE(2013) | 86% | £1327 | £135 | Grp 18-32 | £1867-£560 |
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
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