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Subaru · Known Issues

2007 Subaru Outback Problems: 4 Known Issues

2007 model year · 4,521+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 4,521+ owner reports, the 2007 Subaru Outback has 4 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is Head Gasket Failure ($1,500-$2,500 repair). The most commonly reported issue is Head Gasket Failure with 4,521 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $20 to $2,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • Outback Engine1
  • Outback Transmission1
  • Outback Interior1
  • Outback Emissions1
  • Recalls14
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Engine1
  • Transmission1
  • Interior1
  • Emissions1
  • Recalls14
  • FAQ

All 4 Known Issues

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Community reported
4,521 owners

On the 1999-2010 Subaru Outback 2.5L H4, the 2.5L non-turbo engine is known for external head gasket leaks. Oil seeps past the gasket and can contaminate the coolant. Subaru extended warranties and improved gasket design in later years.

Common Symptoms

  • Oil leaking externally from engine
  • Coolant mixing with oil (milky appearance)
  • Overheating
  • Sweet smell from engine bay
  • Bubbles in coolant reservoir

How to Fix

Replace head gaskets with updated MLS (multi-layer steel) gaskets. Ensure the machine shop resurfaces cylinder heads to proper flatness. Replace timing belt, water pump, and thermostat while engine is apart. Use Subaru coolant conditioner to help prevent future failures. Budget $1,500-2,500 for a quality repair.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Subaru 11044AA610 EJ25D Cylinder-Head Gasket

    head gasket for each bank on the 1999 2.5-liter branch after failure is confirmed Fitment/availability: 1999 Outback 2.5-liter EJ25D DOHC branch; quantity two, confirm VIN Fitment/availability: ships in 1-3 business days with Add to Cart…

    SubaruPartsDeal
  • Genuine Subaru 11044AA633 SOHC Cylinder-Head Gasket

    head gasket for each bank on the 2000-2009 naturally aspirated branch Fitment/availability: 2000-2009 Outback naturally aspirated 2.5-liter branch; quantity two, confirm VIN and exclude turbo Fitment/availability: ships in 1-3 business d…

    SubaruPartsDeal
  • Genuine Subaru 11044AA770 Cylinder-Head Gasket

    head gasket for each bank on the 2010 branch Fitment/availability: 2010 Outback naturally aspirated 2.5-liter EJ253 branch via supersession from 11044AA670; quantity two, confirm VIN Fitment/availability: ships in 1-3 business days with …

    SubaruPartsDeal
  • Genuine Subaru 13028AA072 EJ25D Timing Belt

    timing belt when removed, due or of unknown history on the 1999 branch Fitment/availability: 1999 Outback 2.5-liter EJ25D DOHC branch; confirm VIN Fitment/availability: ships in 1-2 business days with Add to Cart live when reviewed

    SubaruPartsDeal
  • Genuine Subaru 13028AA21B SOHC Timing Belt

    timing belt when removed, due or of unknown history on the 2000-2009 branch Fitment/availability: 2000-2009 Outback naturally aspirated 2.5-liter branch; confirm VIN Fitment/availability: ships in 1-3 business days with Add to Cart live …

    SubaruPartsDeal
  • Genuine Subaru 13028AA231 Timing Belt

    timing belt when removed, due or of unknown history on the 2010 branch Fitment/availability: 2010 Outback naturally aspirated 2.5-liter EJ253 branch; confirm VIN and production date Fitment/availability: ships in 1-3 business days with A…

    SubaruPartsDeal
  • Genuine Subaru 13033AA042 Hydraulic Timing-Belt Tensioner

    tensioner renewed with a due or unknown-history complete timing service Fitment/availability: 1999-2010 Outback 2.5-liter timing-belt branches in this card; confirm VIN and configuration Fitment/availability: ships in 1-3 business days w…

    SubaruPartsDeal
  • Genuine Subaru 21111AA110 Water Pump

    early water pump only when failed, leaking, rough, due or selected for unknown-history service Fitment/availability: 1999-2005 Outback 2.5-liter branch within this card; confirm VIN and required seal Fitment/availability: ships in 1-2 bu…

    SubaruPartsDeal
  • Genuine Subaru 21111AA280 Water Pump

    middle-year water pump when condition or service history warrants replacement Fitment/availability: 2006-2009 Outback naturally aspirated 2.5-liter branch; confirm VIN Fitment/availability: ships in 1-3 business days with Add to Cart liv…

    SubaruPartsDeal
  • Genuine Subaru 21111AA320 Water Pump

    2010 water pump when condition or service history warrants replacement Fitment/availability: 2010 Outback naturally aspirated 2.5-liter branch; confirm VIN Fitment/availability: ships in 1-3 business days with Add to Cart live when reviewed

    SubaruPartsDeal
  • Genuine Subaru 21210AA030 Thermostat and Gasket Assembly

    thermostat only when diagnosis or condition warrants replacement on the 2000-2009 branch Fitment/availability: 2000-2009 Outback 2.5-liter branch; the 1999 branch requires VIN-specific selection Fitment/availability: Add to Cart live whe…

    SubaruPartsDeal
  • Genuine Subaru 21210AA080 Thermostat and Gasket Assembly

    2010 thermostat only when diagnosis or condition warrants replacement Fitment/availability: 2010 Outback naturally aspirated 2.5-liter branch; confirm VIN Fitment/availability: ships in 1-3 business days with Add to Cart live when reviewed

    SubaruPartsDeal

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipDIY repairs can save significantly - dealer charges $1,500-2,500 but DIY costs are typically 50-70% less
  • TipUse Subaru coolant conditioner to help prevent future failures.
  • WarningThis is a high-severity issue - ignoring it can lead to costly repairs or safety concerns. Address it promptly.
  • TipGet a proper diagnosis before replacing parts - similar symptoms can have different causes
Typical repair cost:$1,500 - $2,500

Research This Issue

Based on 4,521 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerified4,521 owner reportsLast reported by owners Jan 2024Reviewed Feb 2026

On the 2005-2014 Subaru Outback, p0741 sets when the ECM/TCM commands the torque converter clutch to lock up but the expected reduction in converter slip doesn't happen. On the older automatic-transmission Outbacks (4EAT/5EAT, roughly 2005-2014) the dominant real-world causes are a failed torque-converter-clutch (lockup) solenoid on the valve body, a poor ground on the transmission harness, or dark/burnt/contaminated ATF and debris blocking fluid flow to the converter. It is frequently misdiagnosed: shops assume the converter itself is bad and quote a transmission-out job, when the actual fault is a cheap solenoid, a bad ground, or fluid that was never serviced. Neglected fluid is the common thread on high-mileage cars.

Common Symptoms

  • Check engine light
  • Torque converter shudder or vibration at cruise
  • Harsh or delayed lockup
  • Slightly higher RPM at highway speed
  • Possible reduced fuel economy

How to Fix

Check ATF level and condition first — if burnt or contaminated, do a proper fluid/filter service. Inspect and clean the transmission harness ground and the TCC solenoid connector for corrosion or looseness. Test the lockup solenoid; replace it (on the valve body) if it fails. Only pull the transmission for the torque converter if the solenoid tests good AND there is confirmed shudder/noise — do not replace the converter blindly.

Typical repair cost:$150 - $1,500

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026

On the 2005-2009 Subaru Outback, on 2005-2009 Legacy and Outback models, the top surface of the dashboard/instrument panel degrades in heat and humidity, becoming sticky, shiny/glossy, and giving off a chemical odor. The high-gloss surface reflects into the windshield and can create glare for the driver. A proposed class-action lawsuit (Parks et al. v. Subaru of America / Fuji Heavy Industries, S.D. Fla.) alleged the dashboards were prone to melt into a tacky residue. Subaru declined a recall but issued a Dashboard Warranty Extension program (coverage extended to 10 years for a one-time replacement) and reimbursement for prior out-of-pocket replacements.

Common Symptoms

  • Sticky or tacky dashboard surface
  • Shiny/glossy dash reflecting glare into windshield
  • Chemical smell from dashboard
  • Discoloration of the instrument panel top

How to Fix

Replace the dashboard/instrument panel assembly with an updated part; 2005-2009 Legacy/Outback vehicles are covered under Subaru's Dashboard Warranty Extension (10-year one-time replacement, and reimbursement for owners who previously paid). Out-of-warranty, owners use replacement panels or aftermarket dash covers/mats to reduce glare.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $1,000

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026

On the 2005-2022 Subaru Outback, p0442 means the ECM detected a small leak in the sealed evaporative-emissions system during its self-test. On the Outback the three usual culprits, in order, are: (1) the fuel filler cap — its rubber O-ring hardens and cracks with age, or the cap isn't clicked tight, or a non-OEM cap seals poorly; (2) the EVAP purge valve (solenoid), which should hold vacuum but starts to weep past its internal seal; and (3) the vent valve on/near the charcoal canister, which can't seal during the leak test if dirt or corrosion is present. Because the leak is tiny, drivers usually notice nothing but the check-engine light, and the code is often intermittent (comes and goes with temperature and fuel level).

Common Symptoms

  • Check engine light (often intermittent)
  • No drivability change
  • Occasional faint fuel smell
  • Code may clear itself then return

How to Fix

Start with the cheapest fix: inspect the gas cap, make sure it clicks, and replace it with an OEM cap if the O-ring is cracked or the cap is aftermarket. Clear the code and re-drive. If it returns, smoke-test the EVAP system to pinpoint the leak, then replace the purge solenoid or vent valve as indicated. Check vapor hoses and the canister connections for cracks.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Subaru 42031AG00A Fuel Filler Cap

    cap only after inspection or seal testing proves the original cap failed Fitment/availability: 2005-2009 Outback 2.5, 2.5 turbo and 3.0 H6 branches; confirm VIN Fitment/availability: ships in 1-3 business days with Add to Cart live when …

    SubaruPartsDeal
  • Genuine Subaru 42031AJ001 Fuel Filler Cap

    middle-generation cap only after a failed cap test Fitment/availability: 2010-2012 Outback all listed engines; replaces 42031AJ000, confirm VIN Fitment/availability: ships in 1-2 business days with Add to Cart live when reviewed

    SubaruPartsDeal
  • Genuine Subaru 42031FJ001 Fuel Filler Cap

    later cap only after a failed cap test Fitment/availability: 2013-2022 Outback branch within this card, all listed engines; replaces 42031FJ000, confirm VIN Fitment/availability: Add to Cart live when reviewed

    SubaruPartsDeal

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$20 - $400

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jul 2026
NHTSA Recalls14 recalls

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECU/ECM)

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2022 Outback vehicles. The engine wiring harness may have been damaged, resulting in a loose electrical connection to the engine control unit (ECU).

Campaign #22V47300001/07/2022

VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2022 Impreza and Outback vehicles. The incorrect paint clearcoat may have been applied, which can cause the windshield to be insufficiently bonded to the vehicle. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 212, "Windshield Mounting."

Campaign #22V71200022/09/2022

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:PARK/NEUTRAL START INTERLOCK SWITCH

Subaru of America, Inc. is recalling certain model year 2021 Crosstrek, 2022 Forester, 2021-2023 Legacy, and Outback vehicles. An insufficient weld may allow water to enter the inhibitor switch, causing it to fail.

Campaign #23V755000
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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Subaru Outback problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 4,521+ owner reports, the 2007 Subaru Outback has 4 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Head Gasket Failure, P0741 — Torque Converter Clutch Stuck Off from Failed Lockup Solenoid, Bad Trans Ground, or Contaminated Fluid, Melting / Sticky Dashboard (Instrument Panel Degradation) Causing Glare. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Subaru Outback reliable?

The 2007 Subaru Outback has 4 known issues documented across 4,521+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: Head Gasket Failure. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Subaru Outback problems?

Repair costs for known Subaru Outback issues range from $0 to $2,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Head Gasket Failure, typically costs $1,500-$2,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 1999-2010 Subaru Outback Head Gasket Failure?

The 2.5L non-turbo engine is known for external head gasket leaks. Oil seeps past the gasket and can contaminate the coolant. Subaru extended warranties and improved gasket design in later years. Repairs typically run $1,500-$2,500. Severity: high.

What is the 2005-2014 Subaru Outback P0741 — Torque Converter Clutch Stuck Off from Failed Lockup Solenoid, Bad Trans Ground, or Contaminated Fluid?

P0741 sets when the ECM/TCM commands the torque converter clutch to lock up but the expected reduction in converter slip doesn't happen. On the older automatic-transmission Outbacks (4EAT/5EAT, roughly 2005-2014) the dominant real-world causes are a failed torque-converter-clutch… Repairs typically run $150-$1,500. Severity: medium.

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data sourced from 4,521+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.

09/11/2023

AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Outback and Legacy vehicles. A capacitor in the sensors for the Occupant Detection System (ODS) may crack and short circuit, which can prevent the front passenger air bag from deploying in a crash.

Campaign #24V22700022/03/2024

POWER TRAIN:SHIFT LINKAGE/CABLE/ROD

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2021 Outback and Impreza vehicles. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) select lever cable nut may not have been tightened properly, allowing the nut to loosen.

Campaign #21V02400026/01/2021

+ 9 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

What is the 2005-2009 Subaru Outback Melting / Sticky Dashboard (Instrument Panel Degradation) Causing Glare?

On 2005-2009 Legacy and Outback models, the top surface of the dashboard/instrument panel degrades in heat and humidity, becoming sticky, shiny/glossy, and giving off a chemical odor. The high-gloss surface reflects into the windshield and can create glare for the driver. A propo… Repairs typically run $0-$1,000. Severity: low.

What is the 2005-2022 Subaru Outback P0442 — Small EVAP Leak from Gas Cap O-Ring or Leaking Purge/Vent Valve?

P0442 means the ECM detected a small leak in the sealed evaporative-emissions system during its self-test. On the Outback the three usual culprits, in order, are: (1) the fuel filler cap — its rubber O-ring hardens and cracks with age, or the cap isn't clicked tight, or a non-OEM… Repairs typically run $20-$400. Severity: low.