SUBARU OUTBACK (2018)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 1,085 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
90%
Total Tests (2024)
1,085
Avg Mileage
52,588 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,037
Is the 2018 SUBARU OUTBACK reliable?
Excellent reliability. Very few MOT failures. That's 8 points above the national average of 82%. It also outperforms the SUBARU brand average of 83%.
At 6 years old, 90% of SUBARU OUTBACKs from 2018 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 1,085 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 52,588 miles.
How does the 2018 SUBARU OUTBACK compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2018 SUBARU OUTBACK has 52,588 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 44,400 miles for a 6-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%. The 2018 sits between the two at 90%.
How much does a 2018 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 2018 SUBARU OUTBACK
The 2018 SUBARU OUTBACK is a large car with a 2498cc petrol engine. 1,085 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2018, the average MOT pass rate is 89%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 52,588 miles at 6 years old, SUBARU OUTBACK owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2018 SUBARU OUTBACK Fuel Costs
The 2498cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. 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 2018 SUBARU OUTBACK?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,037 (£170/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £190 road tax, £55 MOT, and £200 predicted repairs. The low repair estimate reflects the excellent 90% pass rate. These cars rarely fail their MOT, so unexpected bills are less likely.
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 2018 SUBARU OUTBACK
At 6 years old, the SUBARU OUTBACK offers good value with plenty of life remaining. Most manufacturer warranties will have expired, so a pre-purchase inspection is worth the cost. If you're flexible on year, the 2021 model has the highest pass rate at 94%.
Alternatives to the 2018 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 5 SERIES (2018) 91% pass rate (+1%) from 40,272 tests
- VOLVO XC40 (2020) 93% pass rate (+3%) from 36,064 tests
- LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER SPORT (2018) 93% pass rate (+3%) from 34,257 tests
- BMW X3 (2019) 92% pass rate (+2%) from 32,937 tests