2002 Subaru Outback Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.02/5 Average
143 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Subaru has expanded the availability of its new 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine to the Outback sedan. The result is two additional sedan trim levels: 3.0-H6 and 3.0-H6 VDC. Minor upgrades to all trim levels this year include a dome light off-delay, an ignition switch illumination ring and wood grain-patterned door switch trim. Cars with the Vehicle Dynamics Control system now have a button to turn the system off, and sedans receive an internal trunk release. The automatic climate control system is upgraded with an air filtration system.

Pros:
  • The security of all-wheel drive, comfortable on pavement, capable on dirt, well-appointed interior.
Cons:
  • Not as capable as an SUV in terms of pure off-road capability, upscale models are expensive.

User Reviews:

Showing 31 through 40 of 143.00
  • Outback VDC H6 wagon - 2002 Subaru Outback
    By -

    I have always admired Subaru for their AWD which fascinated me back in the 70s. Finally I bought one and it had the McIntosh promo stereo CD player. This stereo has rekindled my love for music as I had forgotten what beautiful music sounds like. The special sound design of the interior contributed to the greatness of the stereo. I have since listened to other systems in more expensive cars that cannot compare. The car has power with the 212hp 6 and is quiet probably because of the special sound treatment mentioned already. I have not had problems at all and the AWD can go through snow like it is not there. Ice is tough for any car. The only con is wind noise but I am well satisfied.

  • love this car - 2002 Subaru Outback
    By -

    I could sell Subarus if I ever needed a job. This car drives like melted butter in smooth performance. It is a fine highway vehicle in mountains as well as long TX stretches. The solidity & quiet drive are something I appreciate most after driving a Ford Explorer, priced about the same. I would like to have a keyless remote that would allow access were I to lock keys inside; other than that, I have no complaints about this vehicle. I am a tried & true Subaru fan. The gas mileage will have to improve on all vehicles in this country. Subaru will most likely help to lead the way here, but Im getting 18-24 currently.

  • disappointed - 2002 Subaru Outback
    By -

    Head gaskets leaking coolant and will not cover under warranty at 80,000 miles -- Subaru has recall/bulletin for same problem on on other VINs but will only cover 50% of an over $1,000 repair. Dual stage rear sunroof liner jams and wont open and wont cover this common problem. Cheap plastic rear cupholders broke and over $65 to repair. Not happy with a vehicle that is expected to run to 200,000 miles!

  • a little dissapointed - 2002 Subaru Outback
    By -

    This is my first Subaru. A little dissapointed after all the great things Ive heard. It has alot going for it but I feel it is way overpriced for what you get.$25k for cloth, manual, no moonroof, no homelink, only frt. airbags,anemic stereo, 4 cyl. w/ adequate power at best. Left front brake started squeaking after delivery and still sqeaks horribly. Found out they are notorious for squeaking and warping. MPG has been ok but have never gotten near the posted 27mpg hwy, 25mpg was my best and 23mpg is my avg. going to work and back which is 95% Hwy. I get 24mpg on the same trip with a RX300. However,the Outback is a practical, spacious, nice looking wgn.

  • Head gasket nightmare - 2002 Subaru Outback
    By -

    I purchased my 2002 Outback new 2/2002. During warranty, the automatic seat broke & would no longer adjust for height. It was fixed free of charge. Soon after warranty expired, the same problem. Ive never fixed it because the cost is over $600-- ridiculous. Ive only got 65,000 miles, just put new tires on the car, and my mechanic informs me that I have an oil leak and need head gaskets replaced. He showed me a Subaru Service Bulletin which extended the warranty to 8 yrs and 100,000 miles if vehicle leaking coolant. Long story short, even though I wasnt yet leaking coolant, Subaru agreed to pay for 1/2 cost including head gaskets, water pump, and seals. Cost to me $800. I still love the car.

  • MOST RELIABLE ALL WEATHER CAR - 2002 Subaru Outback
    By -

    This is our 3rd Subaru after leaving Mercedes in our past. We have found reliablity and safety of the Subaru never disappointing.The car handled well in deep snow and slush on the highway. The dash is well designed and everything works well all the time.No paint problems,no engine problems, just no complaints. The price is right for a great car.

  • Worst car we have ever owned - 2002 Subaru Outback
    By -

    We have gone through brakes like someone goes through socks - not kidding. At 120,000 we had to replace the head gaskets and at that time they said we need new valves. At 130,000 we had to replace both catalytic converters. We cant sell the car without acknowledging the valve problem so I feel we are stuck with it. We will have a completely new car before long and I wonder how long these parts will last. Going online it is evident that some of these problems are ongoing. Subaru has to know and they are not backing their product. Thousands of dollars later we are STUCK! We would NEVER buy another Subaru.

  • 2002 Outback wagon - 2002 Subaru Outback
    By -

    Car performance in snow/ice is great. Car has poor passing/climbing performance. WAY too much wind and road noise at freeway speeds.

  • This is one SAFE car!!! - 2002 Subaru Outback
    By -

    Just had a major accident in my Outback wagon and walked away with only bruises from the seatbelt! Was going 50mph and SUV pulled in front of me and stopped dead in its tracks. I didnt even have time to hit the brakes. Front end smushed in, but passenger compartment still in perfect condition! Im getting another one!

  • Our third and last Subaru - 2002 Subaru Outback
    By -

    Exeptional AWD. Came withe bad alignmant (insides of front tires gone-Subaru not responsible), one of the motor mount bolts missing (I discovered it while changing oil at 1000 miles). In general qertionable production line quality

Subaru Outback Reviews By Year:
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