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 21 through 30 of 143.00
  • Lots of rattles&whistles - 2002 Subaru Outback
    By -

    This 2001 LL Bean is my 2nd subaru. However, I probably wont buy another due to all the rattles and wind noise in my Bean. This after barely 11,000 miles. These are body integrity noises which are proving nearly impossible to find. My 1992 Miata is quiter than this rattletrap. If you put ear plugs on the car drives fine, has plenty of power, and looks (imho) great. It excells on the road until you get a side wind or pass a large truck, then it sounds like waxed paper on a pocket comb. These cars are sold by GM dealers in Texas and they dont much care about customer satisfaction. Like Ricky Nelson, I think Id rather drive a truck.

  • Wubaru Wagon 2002 - 2002 Subaru Outback
    By -

    The car is very rattle prone. Dealer fixed 4 rattles with resistance. Wind and outside noise is uncomfortable. Car handles well in snow. Poor break angle prevents it from doing any serious off road. Premium sound system just doesnt sound right - sounds kind of hollow.

  • Wanting to Love My Car - 2002 Subaru Outback
    By -

    I did a lot of research and test drove many cars before settling on the Outback. I liked the reputation Subaru had and the smoothness of the ride was very important for me with some medical issues. The Forester was a little too rough. I took great care of it but brakes went at 30K. Trunk cover/shade broke at 60K despite being gentle and not used much. Headgasket went at 90K. Catalytic converter went at 106K. Im done now with Subaru, as much as I want to believe in them. I spoke with my mechanic about them and he said his experience is that they are either great for you and last, or you end up with one thats not up to par.Im in the later. Sadly, I think this is my last Subaru.

  • Never Again - 2002 Subaru Outback
    By -

    I bought my Subaru with 40k miles on it 2 years ago, and this January it became a MONEY PIT...had a strong fuel smell and had dealer tighten plugs two times...the smell continued. I had my 60,000 tune up. Still smelled it. Found out my coolant was leaking, so I went in twice to have them put something in the car that would seal any leaks from the inside. Didnt work. Replaced my head gaskets, valve cover gaskets, the whole bit. NOW, Im burning 1 quart of oil every two weeks, and replaced 2 wheel bearings. Heated windshield broke windshield both winters. Seats uncomfortable for long trips. LOVE THE CARGO SPACE!

  • Subaru is fun to drive - 2002 Subaru Outback
    By -

    This has been without a doubt the best car I have ever owned. It has everything anyone could want living in the midwest or any snow belt area. It rides very well, and feels comfortable, for a rugid vehical. The McIntosh audio system is a fabulous feature. Looks, performance and comfort/safety. Its well rounded and complete.

  • Subaru Bean - 2002 Subaru Outback
    By -

    Only 3000 miles so far - The handling is superb, the ride quiet, and the interior details are practical, easy to use, and well designed. It was the H6 that made me opt for the Bean, didnt need all those bells & whistles, but Ive quickly grown to appreciate them, although I would prefer cloth seats. I LOVE the MOMA steering wheel!

  • Anti-Lock Brake Death Trap - 2002 Subaru Outback
    By -

    The anti-lock brakes take way too long to stop the car. They are especially bad when the temperature is below freezing. Two different dealers told me there was nothing wrong with the ABS. I love everything else about the car, but I am purchasing a second car to drive in the cold Utah winters. I am planning to keep the car and drive it during the other eight months of the year. Dont let the "winter wonderland" TV commercials fool you!

  • Gaiks Car - 2002 Subaru Outback
    By -

    Purchased after extensive review of cars in class. Came down to Forester or Outback. Better ride and quieter than Forester. Forester will probably be my replacement for aging Civic. Would have been happy with a Limited but wife wanted power of H6. Good car, but minor issues. Glove box hard opening, McIntosh stereo crackels on right channel when adjusting volume, water leaks in from child seat strap in rear of cargo area, has had two recalls todate. Gas mileage is not worth the performance in my opinion, wife typically get high teens on a tank, I can squeeze out low 20s with effort, best tank 26 mpg on highway. Overall Good Car!

  • Subaru OutBack Kangaroo - 2002 Subaru Outback
    By -

    No problems after 1 year :)

  • been burned - 2002 Subaru Outback
    By -

    Its good for hauling things when you put down the back seat. The front seats are not very comfortable on longer drives. If you are tall your head hits the sun roof in the back. Worst of all, I have only 76,000 mostly freeway miles on mine and the head gasket is leaking, causing over heating. I only hope that the head gaskets arent cracked or the block. This is apparently a very common problem on this car. There are three including mine at an authorized repair store where I had it towed. The cost is going to be $3,000 at least. The dealer requires it to be fixed there. Supposedly they are going to cover everything. Towing and rental car too Im bargaining for.

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