A used car doesn’t have to be flashy to be worth buying. Sometimes, a comfortable cabin, good cargo space, and dependable all-weather traction matter more than a big touchscreen or sporty styling.
The 2014 Subaru Outback offers that kind of practicality. It has standard all-wheel drive, 8.7 inches of ground clearance, a roomy five-seat interior, and a large cargo area. You can also choose between a fuel-efficient four-cylinder engine and a more powerful six-cylinder.
Today, the Outback is an affordable option for drivers who want something between a traditional station wagon and an SUV. It’s easy to live with, comfortable on longer trips, and useful for outdoor activities.
But buying one isn’t without risks. The 2.5-liter engine deserves attention for oil consumption, and vehicles equipped with Subaru’s continuously variable transmission need careful inspection.
So, is a 2014 Outback still worth buying? Here’s what you should know about its performance, gas mileage, reliability, prices, and common problems before choosing one.
2014 Subaru Outback Overview
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Vehicle type | Midsize crossover wagon |
| Seating capacity | 5 passengers |
| Engine options | 2.5L four-cylinder or 3.6L six-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 173–256 hp |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual, CVT, or 5-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Symmetrical AWD standard |
| Fuel economy | 20–26 MPG combined |
| Ground clearance | 8.7 inches |
| Cargo space | 34.3 cubic feet |
| Maximum cargo capacity | 71.3 cubic feet |
| Fuel tank | 18.5 gallons |
| Maximum towing capacity | 3,000 pounds |
| Original starting MSRP | $23,495 before destination |
| Trim levels | 2.5i, 2.5i Premium, 2.5i Limited, 3.6R Limited |
The 2014 model belongs to the fourth generation of the Subaru Outback, which ran from 2010 through 2014 in the United States.
Subaru had already updated the vehicle’s styling and suspension for 2013, so the 2014 version carried over with several equipment improvements.
One important change was the wider availability of Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assistance system, which became optional on the 2.5i Premium.
That made useful safety technology available without requiring buyers to choose the most expensive trim.
How Much Does a Used 2014 Subaru Outback Cost?
As of October 2026, many used 2014 Outbacks in typical condition are valued or advertised around $8,000 to $11,000 in national pricing guides and listings.
However, that’s only a starting point.
High-mileage examples may be available for $4,000 to $7,000, while low-mileage vehicles with excellent maintenance records can cost significantly more.
The six-cylinder 3.6R Limited is also less common than the four-cylinder models and may command a premium.
Mileage is important, but it shouldn’t be your only consideration.
For example, an Outback with 130,000 miles and complete service records could be a better purchase than one with 90,000 miles and no maintenance history.
Previous accidents, rust, oil consumption, transmission repairs, and the condition of the tires can all affect what a vehicle is worth.
If you’re comparing several listings, focus on their total condition rather than choosing the cheapest one.
Engine Options and Performance
Subaru offered two naturally aspirated boxer engines for 2014.
Unlike a conventional inline engine, a boxer engine uses horizontally opposed cylinders. This design allows the engine to sit relatively low in the vehicle, helping lower its center of gravity.
Both engines use regular unleaded gasoline.
2.5-Liter Four-Cylinder Engine
The standard 2.5-liter engine produces 173 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque.
It was available with a six-speed manual transmission or Subaru’s Lineartronic continuously variable transmission (CVT).
The manual transmission was offered on the base 2.5i and 2.5i Premium.
The CVT was optional on those models and standard on the 2.5i Limited.
For daily commuting, grocery shopping, and normal highway travel, the four-cylinder provides adequate performance.
However, acceleration isn’t particularly strong.
You may notice the engine working harder when climbing steep hills, passing at highway speeds, or carrying several passengers and their luggage.
The CVT helps the engine operate efficiently, but it can also make acceleration sound louder than in a traditional automatic vehicle.
If you mainly want a comfortable and economical daily driver, the 2.5-liter engine makes sense.
3.6-Liter Six-Cylinder Engine
The 3.6R Limited uses a 3.6-liter flat-six engine producing 256 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque.
It comes with a conventional five-speed automatic transmission.
The difference in power is noticeable.
The six-cylinder responds more confidently when passing slower traffic or driving up steep hills.
It’s also a good option for drivers who regularly travel through mountainous areas or carry heavier loads.
Another advantage is that it doesn’t use the four-cylinder’s CVT.
For used buyers worried about CVT repair costs, the conventional automatic may be appealing.
However, the larger engine consumes more fuel. The 3.6R also comes only in the Limited trim, so it’s generally more expensive than basic four-cylinder versions.
Which Engine Is Better?
| Feature | 2.5i | 3.6R Limited |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L flat-four | 3.6L flat-six |
| Horsepower | 173 hp | 256 hp |
| Torque | 174 lb-ft | 247 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual or CVT | 5-speed automatic |
| Combined MPG | 24–26 | 20 |
| Maximum towing | 2,700 lbs | 3,000 lbs |
| Driving character | Relaxed and economical | Stronger and smoother acceleration |
The 2.5i is better suited to drivers who prioritize fuel economy.
The 3.6R makes more sense if you want additional power and prefer a conventional automatic transmission.
Neither engine is automatically the more reliable choice in every situation. Maintenance history and mechanical condition remain important.
2014 Subaru Outback MPG and Gas Mileage
The Outback delivers respectable fuel economy for an AWD wagon of its age.
The most efficient configuration is the 2.5-liter engine with the CVT.
It earns an EPA-estimated 26 MPG combined.
Choosing the six-speed manual reduces fuel economy slightly, while the 3.6R uses considerably more gasoline.
Official EPA Ratings
| Engine and Transmission | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5L 6-speed manual | 22 | 28 | 24 |
| 2.5L CVT | 24 | 30 | 26 |
| 3.6L 5-speed automatic | 18 | 24 | 20 |
These figures come from the official EPA fuel economy ratings for the 2014 Subaru Outback.
Actual mileage depends on speed, temperature, traffic, tire condition, and driving habits.
How Much Does It Cost to Drive?
Let’s say you drive 12,000 miles per year and gasoline costs an average of $3.50 per gallon.
Your estimated annual fuel expenses would be:
| Model | Annual Fuel Cost |
|---|---|
| 2.5L CVT | $1,615 |
| 2.5L manual | $1,750 |
| 3.6R automatic | $2,100 |
Under these assumptions, the four-cylinder CVT would save approximately $485 per year compared with the six-cylinder.
Over five years, that could amount to roughly $2,425 in gasoline savings.
These are illustrative figures, not predictions of actual ownership costs.
The 3.6R’s better performance may still be worth the additional expense, especially if you drive on steep roads or frequently carry heavy loads.
Gas Tank Size and Driving Range
Every 2014 Outback has an 18.5-gallon fuel tank.
Based on the combined MPG ratings, the theoretical full-tank ranges are approximately:
- 2.5L CVT: 481 miles.
- 2.5L manual: 444 miles.
- 3.6R automatic: 370 miles.
These distances assume the vehicle achieves its official combined MPG rating and uses the entire fuel tank.
Real driving range will vary, and you should refuel before the tank is empty.
How Does the 2014 Subaru Outback Drive?
The Outback is designed for comfort and versatility rather than sporty driving.
Its suspension handles ordinary bumps and rough pavement reasonably well, while the low-mounted boxer engine helps maintain a stable feel through turns.
The steering is predictable, and the vehicle’s wagon-like body makes it less cumbersome than some taller SUVs.
The ride is generally comfortable on longer journeys.
Highway Driving
The Outback works well as a highway cruiser.
Its seats offer useful support, and the cabin has enough room for passengers to stretch out.
With the four-cylinder engine, passing requires some planning, especially when the vehicle is loaded.
The 3.6R feels more relaxed during stronger acceleration.
Road and wind noise are noticeable compared with newer vehicles, but that’s not unusual for an SUV from this period.
City Driving
The Outback’s visibility and relatively manageable dimensions help in city traffic.
The upright seating position gives drivers a good view ahead.
Its cargo area also makes shopping and everyday errands easier.
The CVT may feel different if you’re used to a conventional automatic transmission.
Rather than shifting through distinct gears, it continuously adjusts its operating ratio.
Some drivers enjoy the smoothness, while others dislike the engine sound during acceleration.
Standard AWD and Snow Performance
All-wheel drive is one of the Outback’s biggest advantages.
Every 2014 model comes with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system.
However, the exact AWD hardware differs by transmission.
Manual models use a system with a viscous-coupling center differential.
The four-cylinder CVT uses an electronically managed transfer clutch.
The 3.6R features Subaru’s Variable Torque Distribution system, which normally sends slightly more power toward the rear wheels.
All three systems are designed to improve traction in changing road conditions.
Is the 2014 Outback Good in Snow?
The Outback can be a useful vehicle for winter driving.
Its standard AWD helps the vehicle move on wet or snow-covered roads.
The 8.7 inches of ground clearance also provides room to travel over moderate snow accumulation or uneven surfaces.
However, AWD doesn’t guarantee better braking on ice.
Winter tires, appropriate speed, and careful driving are still important.
If you regularly encounter heavy snow, good tires can make a greater difference than the choice between the four-cylinder and six-cylinder engines.
Can It Go Off-Road?
The Outback can handle gravel roads, maintained forest roads, and certain uneven trails.
Its standard AWD and ground clearance make it more capable on these surfaces than a typical sedan.
However, it isn’t designed for serious rock crawling or extreme off-road driving.
The long body, limited approach angles, and road-oriented suspension create limits.
For most drivers, the Outback is better viewed as an all-weather wagon with light outdoor capability.
Interior Comfort and Seating
The 2014 Outback has a practical interior built around everyday use.
It seats five passengers across two rows.
The dashboard has physical buttons and controls that are easy to reach, which can be convenient while driving.
Interior materials depend on the trim.
Base models use cloth upholstery, while Limited versions add leather-trimmed seating and more premium equipment.
Front Seat Comfort
The front seats provide 43 inches of legroom and approximately 40.8 inches of headroom without a moonroof.
There’s enough space for most adults to find a comfortable driving position.
The Premium adds a power-adjustable driver’s seat, while the Limited includes additional adjustments and upgraded upholstery.
Higher trims also include more convenience features for long-distance travel.
Rear Seat Space
Rear passengers get 37.8 inches of legroom.
That’s good space for a wagon of this size.
Two adults should be comfortable on many journeys, while three passengers can fit across the rear bench when necessary.
The rear seatbacks also recline, allowing passengers to choose a more comfortable seating position.
Is the Outback Good for Car Seats?
The Outback can work well for families with one or two young children.
The rear seats offer enough room for many rear-facing and forward-facing car seats.
However, fitting three child seats across the rear row can be difficult.
Compatibility depends on the exact seats and their installation requirements.
Before buying, test your family’s seats in the vehicle and check Subaru’s owner’s manual for approved installation positions.
Does the 2014 Outback Have Third-Row Seating?
No. Every 2014 Subaru Outback seats five people.
If you regularly need room for six or more passengers, you’ll need a larger vehicle.
For example, the 2025 Toyota Sienna offers three rows and seating for up to eight people.
The Outback is more suitable for drivers who want generous cargo space without needing an additional passenger row.
Cargo Space and Storage
Cargo space is one of the strongest reasons to choose an Outback.
With the rear seats upright, it provides 34.3 cubic feet of cargo room.
Fold the second row, and the available space increases to 71.3 cubic feet.
| Seating Configuration | Cargo Space |
|---|---|
| Rear seats upright | 34.3 cu. ft. |
| Rear seats folded | 71.3 cu. ft. |
The rear seatbacks have a 60/40 split, allowing you to carry longer items while keeping part of the second row available for a passenger.
The cargo opening is wide, and the load floor is relatively easy to access.
That makes the Outback useful for luggage, camping gear, pet carriers, and larger shopping trips.
Roof Rails and Crossbars
Another practical feature is the standard roof rack system.
The Outback includes raised roof rails with integrated crossbars that can be moved into position when needed.
These can be useful for transporting certain cargo boxes, bicycles, or outdoor equipment with the correct accessories.
Always follow Subaru’s roof-load limits and accessory instructions.
Don’t assume the roof can safely carry any item simply because it has crossbars.
Exterior Dimensions and Design
The 2014 Outback has a traditional wagon shape with a raised ride height.
Its black lower body cladding, roof rails, wide windows, and relatively long roof give it a practical appearance.
The design isn’t as aggressive as some modern SUVs, but it provides good visibility and efficient use of interior space.
Dimensions
| Measurement | Size |
|---|---|
| Length | 189 inches |
| Width | 71.7 inches |
| Height including roof rails | 65.8 inches |
| Wheelbase | 107.9 inches |
| Ground clearance | 8.7 inches |
| Front legroom | 43 inches |
| Rear legroom | 37.8 inches |
The Outback is about 15 feet 9 inches long.
That makes it reasonably manageable for a midsize family vehicle, although drivers with small garages should still measure the available space.
2014 Subaru Outback Trim Levels
Subaru offered four main US-market configurations.
All came with AWD, but equipment and powertrain choices differed.
Subaru Outback 2.5i
The base 2.5i includes the 173-horsepower four-cylinder engine, AWD, Bluetooth connectivity, air conditioning, and a basic audio system.
The six-speed manual was standard, while the CVT was optional.
The base trim has fewer comfort features than the Premium and Limited.
However, it may be appealing if you want a simpler vehicle at a lower purchase price.
Subaru Outback 2.5i Premium
The Premium adds features that make daily driving more comfortable.
Highlights include:
- Heated front seats.
- Heated side mirrors.
- Windshield wiper de-icer.
- Power-adjustable driver’s seat.
- 17-inch alloy wheels.
- Upgraded audio display.
- Fog lights.
- Rear privacy glass.
EyeSight became available as an option on the Premium for 2014.
For many used buyers, this trim offers a good balance of comfort, equipment, and price.
Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited
The Limited provides a more upscale cabin.
It adds leather-trimmed seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, a power front passenger seat, and a Harman Kardon premium audio system.
The CVT is standard.
Optional equipment included a moonroof, navigation, EyeSight, and additional convenience features.
The Limited is worth considering if you want a comfortable wagon for long trips.
Subaru Outback 3.6R Limited
The 3.6R Limited is the most powerful version.
It comes with the 256-horsepower six-cylinder engine and five-speed automatic transmission.
The rest of its equipment is similar to the four-cylinder Limited.
The main reason to choose it is performance.
It’s particularly appealing if you want stronger acceleration and don’t mind lower fuel economy.
Which Trim Should You Choose?
| Trim | Best For |
|---|---|
| 2.5i | Lower purchase price and basic equipment |
| 2.5i Premium | Everyday comfort and value |
| 2.5i Limited | More luxury and convenience |
| 3.6R Limited | Stronger acceleration and conventional automatic transmission |
The Premium is a sensible place to start shopping, particularly if it has good service records.
If you prefer leather seats and premium audio, consider the Limited.
If stronger performance is important, look at the 3.6R.
Technology and Infotainment
The 2014 Outback has useful basic technology, but its infotainment system is dated by modern standards.
Standard equipment includes Bluetooth hands-free calling, audio streaming, USB connectivity, and steering-wheel audio controls.
The Premium has an upgraded audio system with a 4.3-inch display.
A larger seven-inch navigation screen was available through optional equipment.
Depending on the configuration, optional technology included a rearview camera, navigation, moonroof, and keyless access.
Does It Have Apple CarPlay or Android Auto?
No. The 2014 Outback did not offer factory Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
That means you won’t get the same seamless smartphone integration found in many newer vehicles.
Some owners install aftermarket infotainment systems, but compatibility depends on the vehicle and the equipment being installed.
If a used Outback has an aftermarket screen, test the audio, steering-wheel controls, and other connected functions before buying.
Is a Backup Camera Standard?
No. A rearview camera was available through certain optional packages, including navigation and moonroof packages.
Don’t assume every Premium or Limited comes with one.
Check the actual vehicle before purchasing.
Safety Ratings and Subaru EyeSight
Safety was one of the Outback’s strongest selling points when new.
The 2014 model earned a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
It also received a 2014 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award when equipped with the optional EyeSight front crash-prevention system.
However, the crash-test results weren’t perfect across every category.
The IIHS 2014 Subaru Outback safety report shows Good ratings in several major tests, including the original moderate-overlap front, side, roof strength, and head-restraint tests.
The driver-side small-overlap front test earned an Acceptable rating.
What Is Subaru EyeSight?
EyeSight is Subaru’s camera-based driver-assistance system.
For 2014, it included features such as:
- Adaptive cruise control.
- Pre-collision braking.
- Lane departure warning.
- Lane sway warning.
These features can make highway driving more convenient and help reduce the risk of certain collisions.
However, EyeSight was optional, not standard.
Two Outbacks with the same trim name may have different safety equipment.
That’s why you should check the vehicle’s original window sticker or equipment records.
If EyeSight matters to you, confirm that the cameras and controls are present and test the system under appropriate conditions.
2014 Subaru Outback Reliability and Common Problems
Reliability is one of the most important things to investigate before buying this vehicle.
By October 2026, a 2014 Outback is approximately 12 years old. Many examples have accumulated considerable mileage.
Even a vehicle with a good reputation can develop costly problems when maintenance has been neglected.
There are two particularly important documented concerns: CVT operation and excessive engine oil consumption.
1. CVT Transmission Concerns
The 2.5-liter Outback with the Lineartronic CVT is worth inspecting carefully.
Owners sometimes report symptoms such as shuddering, delayed engagement, unusual noises, or transmission warning lights.
These symptoms can have different causes and don’t automatically mean the complete transmission needs replacement.
Subaru issued Service Bulletin 16-107-17R, which extended the CVT powertrain warranty for certain models, including the 2010–2015 Legacy and Outback with 2.5-liter engines and CVTs.
The original five-year/60,000-mile coverage was extended to 10 years or 100,000 miles, whichever came first.
Subaru described the extension as a customer-assurance measure, not as a response to one specific defect affecting every vehicle.
For most 2014 Outbacks, that extended coverage would already have expired by 2026.
When shopping, test the CVT from a cold start and again after the vehicle warms up.
Watch for repeated jerking, hesitation, loss of power, warning lights, or whining noises.
If anything feels unusual, have a Subaru-experienced mechanic inspect it before buying.
2. Excessive Engine Oil Consumption
Certain Subaru engines from this period were associated with excessive oil consumption.
Subaru addressed this through Service Bulletin 02-157-14R, which included specific 2013–2014 Legacy and Outback models with 2.5-liter FB engines.
The bulletin described a warranty extension of up to eight years or 100,000 miles for eligible vehicles.
However, applicability depends on the specific production range, transmission, engine information, and diagnostic findings.
It did not automatically cover every 2014 Outback.
Subaru’s repair procedure involved an oil-consumption test and, when necessary, replacement of the engine short-block assembly.
For used buyers, the concern is straightforward: an engine that consumes too much oil may require frequent topping up and potentially expensive repairs.
Ask the seller whether the engine has ever had an oil-consumption test or short-block replacement.
Also check the service records for unexplained oil-related repairs.
How Can You Check for Oil Consumption?
Start by checking the oil level correctly.
Look for evidence of neglected oil changes, an unusually low oil level, or repeated oil additions.
Ask the seller whether oil needs to be added between scheduled services and, if so, how much.
A mechanic can investigate leaks and perform appropriate tests.
Some oil consumption is normal, especially on older engines. But consistently high consumption needs a proper diagnosis.
A clean engine bay doesn’t prove there isn’t a problem.
3. Head Gasket Concerns
Older Subaru models became well known for head gasket problems, particularly certain earlier four-cylinder engines.
However, you shouldn’t assume every 2014 Outback has the same issue.
The 2014 2.5-liter FB engine differs from some of the earlier designs associated with those complaints.
That doesn’t mean head gasket failure is impossible.
During an inspection, look for coolant loss, overheating history, oil and coolant contamination, and visible fluid leaks.
A mechanic should investigate any suspicious symptoms.
For this particular model year, the documented oil-consumption and CVT concerns deserve especially careful attention.
4. Wheel Bearings and Suspension Wear
As Outbacks age, wheel bearings and suspension components can develop wear.
A failing wheel bearing may produce a humming or growling sound that changes with road speed.
Worn suspension components can create clunks, rattles, or uneven tire wear.
These symptoms aren’t unique to Subaru.
However, a vehicle with high mileage should be inspected for them.
Ask the mechanic to examine the wheel bearings, struts, bushings, steering components, and CV axle boots.
5. Rust and Underbody Condition
Rust is an important concern if the Outback has spent years in areas where roads are treated with salt.
Pay particular attention to the underbody, suspension mounting points, brake lines, and other metal components.
Surface rust and serious structural corrosion are not the same thing.
A mechanic should determine whether any corrosion affects the vehicle’s safety or repairability.
If you’re choosing between two similar vehicles, underbody condition can be just as important as mileage.
2014 Subaru Outback Recalls
Certain 2014 Outback vehicles were included in Subaru’s Takata front-passenger airbag inflator recall campaigns.
The problem involves an inflator that may rupture during airbag deployment, potentially sending metal fragments into the cabin.
This is a serious safety concern.
Affected vehicles require the appropriate replacement parts.
Subaru advises owners of vehicles with an open affected passenger-airbag recall not to use the front passenger seat until the repair is completed.
How to Check for Open Recalls
Visit the official Subaru recall lookup or the NHTSA recall database.
Enter the vehicle’s 17-character VIN.
The result will help identify applicable recalls that haven’t been repaired.
Not every 2014 Outback is included in every recall campaign, and a vehicle may already have received the required work.
If the seller says repairs were completed, ask for documentation.
You can also contact a Subaru dealership and request a VIN-based service and campaign history.
Safety recall repairs are generally performed without charge.
Subaru Outback Warranty Coverage
The original 2014 Subaru Outback factory warranty included:
| Coverage | Original Warranty |
|---|---|
| Basic limited warranty | 3 years or 36,000 miles |
| Powertrain warranty | 5 years or 60,000 miles |
| CVT extension for eligible models | 10 years or 100,000 miles |
| Oil-consumption extension for eligible vehicles | 8 years or 100,000 miles |
The original factory coverage has normally expired by October 2026.
The warranty extensions also had eligibility requirements and expiration limits.
A seller’s claim that the vehicle once received extended coverage doesn’t mean it’s still protected.
Ask Subaru to verify any remaining coverage or separate service agreement using the VIN.
2014 Subaru Outback Towing Capacity
The Outback can tow a small trailer when properly equipped.
Its limits depend on the engine.
| Engine | Maximum Towing Capacity |
|---|---|
| 2.5-liter four-cylinder | 2,700 pounds |
| 3.6-liter six-cylinder | 3,000 pounds |
The six-cylinder offers slightly greater capacity and stronger acceleration when carrying additional weight.
However, towing limits also depend on cargo, passengers, hitch equipment, trailer brakes, and operating conditions.
Subaru also specifies a maximum tongue weight of 200 pounds for its factory hitch arrangement.
Always consult the owner’s manual before towing.
The advertised maximum shouldn’t be treated as a guarantee that every trailer or loading arrangement is safe.
Maintenance Costs and Long-Term Ownership
Older vehicles can be affordable to buy but expensive to repair.
That makes maintenance history especially important for the 2014 Outback.
Subaru’s official maintenance schedule includes regular oil changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, and checks of the transmission and drivetrain.
For an older example, pay close attention to these areas:
- Engine oil level and oil-change records.
- CVT or automatic transmission operation.
- Tires and AWD compatibility.
- Engine coolant condition.
- Brake fluid, pads, and rotors.
- Suspension components and wheel bearings.
- Battery and charging system.
- Rust and underbody damage.
Does the 2014 Outback Have a Timing Belt?
No. Both the 2.5-liter and 3.6-liter engines use timing chains.
That means they don’t have the same scheduled timing-belt replacement requirement as certain older Subaru engines.
However, timing chains and related components can still develop problems.
Unusual engine noises or timing-related fault codes should be investigated.
How Long Can a 2014 Subaru Outback Last?
A well-maintained Outback can reach high mileage, and some owners drive their vehicles beyond 200,000 miles.
However, there’s no guaranteed lifespan.
Engine condition, transmission health, corrosion, maintenance quality, and past driving habits all influence longevity.
Don’t assume a 2014 Outback will reach a particular mileage simply because it has the Subaru badge.
For a high-mileage example, a detailed inspection and realistic repair budget are essential.
What to Check Before Buying a Used 2014 Outback
Before paying for any used Outback, work through the following checks.
1. Review the Service History
Ask for maintenance records covering oil changes, fluid services, and major repairs.
Look for repeated visits involving the engine or transmission.
If the seller claims the engine or CVT was replaced, request invoices showing exactly what was done.
2. Check the Engine Oil
Inspect the oil level and look for visible leaks.
Ask how much oil the vehicle typically uses between changes.
If consumption seems excessive, arrange professional testing before buying.
3. Test the Transmission
Drive the vehicle in slow traffic, during gentle acceleration, and at highway speeds.
Watch for hesitation, repeated shuddering, whining, or warning lights.
For CVT models, pay particular attention to changes in behavior after the vehicle warms up.
4. Inspect the Undercarriage
Look for rust, damaged suspension components, oil leaks, and signs of previous repairs.
Vehicles that spent years in snowy states deserve especially careful rust inspection.
5. Check Tire Condition
All-wheel-drive vehicles need properly matched tires.
Check the tire sizes, tread depth, and wear patterns.
Significant differences can create additional stress on the drivetrain.
6. Confirm Optional Safety Equipment
If you want EyeSight, make sure the vehicle actually has it.
Don’t rely on the seller saying it’s a Limited.
Also test the backup camera if one is fitted.
7. Check the Recall History
Use the VIN to confirm that applicable Takata airbag recall repairs and other required safety work have been completed.
8. Get an Independent Inspection
Have a qualified mechanic inspect the vehicle before buying.
For an Outback with a CVT or suspected oil-consumption issues, a Subaru-experienced technician is particularly valuable.
A thorough inspection can reveal problems that may not appear during a short test drive.
2014 Subaru Outback Pros and Cons
What We Like
- Standard AWD on every trim.
- Useful 8.7-inch ground clearance.
- Comfortable ride for daily driving.
- Generous cargo space.
- Practical roof rails and crossbars.
- Good passenger space for a five-seat vehicle.
- Available six-cylinder engine.
- Available EyeSight driver assistance.
- Manageable exterior dimensions.
- Regular gasoline requirement.
What Could Be Better
- Four-cylinder acceleration feels modest.
- Six-cylinder fuel economy is relatively low.
- CVT condition requires careful inspection.
- Certain engines have documented oil-consumption concerns.
- No factory Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
- Backup camera isn’t standard.
- Only five seats.
- Older infotainment system.
- Factory warranty and most extensions have expired.
- Age-related rust and suspension wear can add repair costs.
Which 2014 Subaru Outback Should You Buy?
The right trim depends on your budget, driving habits, and preferred features.
For the best overall value: Start with the 2.5i Premium. It adds useful comfort equipment over the base model without requiring you to buy the most expensive trim.
For better fuel economy: Choose a 2.5-liter model with the CVT, provided the transmission has been properly inspected and is in good condition.
For more comfort: The 2.5i Limited offers leather-trimmed seats, premium audio, and additional convenience features.
For stronger performance: The 3.6R Limited has noticeably more power and a conventional five-speed automatic transmission.
For driver assistance: Look for a vehicle with the optional EyeSight package, regardless of which eligible trim you’re considering.
The most important advice is to prioritize condition.
A carefully maintained Premium can be a smarter purchase than a poorly maintained Limited.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2014 Subaru Outback a good car?
The 2014 Outback offers standard AWD, generous cargo space, a comfortable ride, and useful ground clearance. It can be a good used vehicle, but buyers should carefully inspect the engine, transmission, and maintenance history.
Is the 2014 Subaru Outback reliable?
Reliability depends heavily on condition and maintenance. Certain models were included in Subaru’s CVT and oil-consumption warranty extension programs. A professional inspection is recommended before purchasing.
What are the most common concerns with a 2014 Outback?
Important concerns to investigate include CVT operation, excessive oil consumption on certain 2.5-liter engines, suspension wear, wheel bearings, and age-related rust.
How many miles per gallon does the 2014 Outback get?
The 2.5-liter CVT model gets 26 MPG combined, while the manual version gets 24 MPG. The six-cylinder 3.6R returns 20 MPG combined.
Does the 2014 Subaru Outback have all-wheel drive?
Yes. Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD is standard on every 2014 Outback sold in the United States.
Does the 2014 Outback have a CVT transmission?
The 2.5-liter engine was available with a CVT or six-speed manual. The 3.6R uses a conventional five-speed automatic transmission.
Which is better, the 2.5i or 3.6R?
The 2.5i offers better fuel economy and generally lower running costs. The 3.6R provides stronger acceleration and uses a traditional automatic transmission. The better choice depends on your needs and the condition of the available vehicles.
Does the 2014 Subaru Outback have a timing belt?
No. Both the four-cylinder and six-cylinder engines use timing chains.
How many passengers can it seat?
Every 2014 Outback seats five passengers across two rows.
How much can the 2014 Subaru Outback tow?
The 2.5-liter model has a maximum towing capacity of 2,700 pounds, while the 3.6R is rated for up to 3,000 pounds when properly equipped.
Does it have Apple CarPlay?
No. The 2014 model does not include factory Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
Is the 2014 Subaru Outback good in snow?
Its standard AWD and 8.7 inches of ground clearance make it suitable for many snowy road conditions. Appropriate winter tires and careful driving remain essential.
How much cargo space does it have?
The Outback offers 34.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 71.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.
Are there recalls on the 2014 Subaru Outback?
Yes. Certain vehicles were included in the Takata passenger-airbag recall campaigns. Check the specific VIN using Subaru’s or NHTSA’s official recall tools.
Is a 2014 Subaru Outback worth buying?
It can be worth buying if you want an affordable, practical AWD vehicle and find one with a clear maintenance history and good mechanical condition. Avoid committing to a vehicle with unexplained oil loss, transmission warnings, serious rust, or unresolved safety recalls.
Final Verdict
The 2014 Subaru Outback remains a useful choice for drivers who value everyday comfort, all-weather traction, and cargo space.
Its wagon-style body makes it easier to live with than some larger SUVs, while standard AWD and generous ground clearance help it handle changing road conditions.
The four-cylinder version offers better fuel economy, and the 3.6R provides stronger performance with a conventional automatic transmission.
The biggest consideration today is age and maintenance.
A poorly maintained Outback can become expensive, particularly if the engine or transmission needs major work.
For most buyers, a well-maintained 2.5i Premium is a sensible starting point. If you regularly drive through mountains or want additional power, the 3.6R Limited is worth considering.
Whatever version you choose, check its recall history, ask for service records, and arrange an independent inspection.
The best 2014 Outback isn’t necessarily the one with the lowest mileage or most features. It’s the one that has been properly cared for and is priced fairly for its condition.