Subaru is a popular brand of vehicle known for its durability and reliability. However, like any other vehicle, it requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly. The cost of Subaru maintenance can vary depending on the model and age of the vehicle, as well as the type of maintenance required.
Need tools for your project? Toolbox, a tool rental marketplace, might be worth a look.
According to a Car Talk article, the cost of maintenance and repairs needed to keep a modern Subaru vehicle running up to and beyond 100,000 miles can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Major repairs such as a complete engine or transmission failure can cost as much as $5,000 and often lead to a car’s end-of-life recycling. It is important for Subaru owners to follow the recommended maintenance schedule to avoid costly repairs and ensure the longevity of their vehicle.
Kelley Blue Book provides a list of Subaru maintenance schedules and pricing, which can give owners an idea of what to expect in terms of costs. On average, Subaru models can cost around $8,798 for maintenance and repair costs during their first 10 years of service. It is important to note that these costs are higher than the industry average for popular brands by $1,984. However, with regular maintenance and care, Subaru vehicles can last well beyond 100,000 miles.
Understanding Subaru Maintenance Costs
Subaru is known for producing reliable vehicles that require minimal maintenance. However, like any other car, Subaru models require regular maintenance to keep them running smoothly and prevent costly repairs down the line. In this section, we will discuss the factors that affect Subaru maintenance costs, how they compare to the industry average, and the breakdown of maintenance costs by model.
Factors Affecting Maintenance Costs
Several factors affect the cost of maintaining a Subaru vehicle. The first is the age of the car. As the car gets older, it will require more maintenance and repairs. The second factor is the model of the car. Some Subaru models are more expensive to maintain than others. The third factor is the type of maintenance required. Routine maintenance, such as oil changes and tire rotations, is relatively inexpensive, while major repairs can be costly.
Comparison with Industry Average
According to a study by CarEdge, Subaru models average around $8,798 for maintenance and repair costs during their first 10 years of service. This is more than the industry average for popular brands by $1,984. However, Subarus have an average annual maintenance cost of $617 per year, which is slightly below the average of $646 for all car brands. It’s important to note that these costs can vary depending on the model and age of the car.
Maintenance Cost Breakdown by Model
The cost of maintaining a Subaru varies by model. According to The Driver Adviser, Subaru mainly sells larger vehicles that are used intensively compared to other Asian brands, which results in higher maintenance costs. However, the cost of maintaining a Subaru is still lower than the industry average. Here is a breakdown of the maintenance costs for some popular Subaru models:
- Subaru Impreza: The annual maintenance cost for a Subaru Impreza is around $650 per year.
- Subaru Outback: The annual maintenance cost for a Subaru Outback is around $657 per year.
- Subaru Forester: The annual maintenance cost for a Subaru Forester is around $632 per year.
It’s important to note that these costs are estimates and can vary depending on the age and condition of the car.
In conclusion, Subaru vehicles are known for their reliability and require minimal maintenance compared to other brands. However, regular maintenance is still necessary to keep the car running smoothly and prevent costly repairs down the line. The cost of maintaining a Subaru is slightly below the industry average, but it can vary depending on the model and age of the car.
Scheduled Maintenance and Service Intervals
Maintenance Schedule Overview
Subaru recommends that owners follow the maintenance schedule outlined in their owner’s manual to ensure their vehicle runs optimally. The maintenance schedule includes a series of recommended maintenance tasks that should be performed at specific service intervals to keep the vehicle in good condition.
Subaru recommends that the following maintenance tasks be performed at specific intervals:
- Oil and filter change
- Tire rotation
- Cabin air filter replacement
- Engine air filter replacement
- Brake fluid replacement
- Coolant replacement
- Spark plug replacement
- Timing belt replacement
The specific service intervals for each task may vary depending on the model, year, and mileage of the vehicle. It is important to consult the owner’s manual or a Subaru dealer for the recommended service intervals for a specific vehicle.
Recommended Maintenance Tasks
One of the most important maintenance tasks for a Subaru vehicle is the oil and filter change. This should be done every 6,000 miles or six months, whichever comes first. Regular oil changes help to keep the engine running smoothly and can prevent costly repairs down the road.
Tire rotation is another important maintenance task that should be performed every 7,500 miles or six months. By rotating the tires, the wear on the tires is evenly distributed, which can extend the life of the tires and improve the vehicle’s handling.
Subaru also recommends replacing the cabin air filter and engine air filter every 12,000 miles or 12 months. These filters help to keep the air inside the vehicle clean and prevent dust, pollen, and other particles from entering the engine.
In addition to these maintenance tasks, Subaru recommends replacing the brake fluid every 30,000 miles or 30 months, replacing the coolant every 60,000 miles or five years, and replacing the spark plugs and timing belt at specific intervals depending on the model and year of the vehicle.
By following the recommended maintenance schedule and service intervals for a Subaru vehicle, owners can help to ensure that their vehicle runs smoothly and reliably for years to come.
Common Repairs and Associated Costs
Subaru vehicles are well-known for their reliability and durability, but like any other vehicle, they do require maintenance and repairs from time to time. This section will cover the most common repairs needed for Subaru vehicles, as well as the associated costs.
Wear and Tear Components
Subaru vehicles have several components that are prone to wear and tear over time. These components include brakes, timing belts, spark plugs, and air filters. The cost of replacing these components varies depending on the model and year of the vehicle.
Brake replacement is one of the most common repairs needed for Subaru vehicles. The cost of replacing the brakes on a Subaru can range from $300 to $800, depending on the type of brake pads used and the labor costs.
Timing belt replacement is another common repair needed for Subaru vehicles. The cost of replacing the timing belt on a Subaru can range from $500 to $1,000, depending on the model and year of the vehicle.
Spark plug replacement is also a common repair needed for Subaru vehicles. The cost of replacing the spark plugs on a Subaru can range from $100 to $300, depending on the model and year of the vehicle.
Air filter replacement is a simple and inexpensive repair needed for Subaru vehicles. The cost of replacing the air filter on a Subaru is typically around $20 to $50.
Major Repair Probabilities
While Subaru vehicles are known for their reliability, there is still a chance that a major repair will be needed at some point. According to CarEdge, there is a 20.15% chance that a Subaru will require a major repair during the first 10 years of service.
The cost of a major repair can vary greatly depending on the type of repair needed and the model and year of the vehicle. Some common major repairs needed for Subaru vehicles include engine and transmission repairs, which can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000 or more.
Overall, while Subaru vehicles are generally reliable and require minimal maintenance, it is important to be aware of the potential costs associated with repairs and to budget accordingly. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent major repairs and keep your Subaru running smoothly for years to come.
Warranty and Maintenance Plans
Subaru offers a comprehensive warranty and maintenance program for its vehicles. This program is designed to provide peace of mind to the vehicle owner by covering any unexpected repairs or maintenance costs. The following are the two main components of Subaru’s warranty and maintenance program.
Extended Warranty Options
Subaru offers two extended warranty options for its vehicles. The first option is an 8-year, 120K mile plan, and the second option is a 10-year, 100K mile plan. The number of miles driven by the owner will dictate which plan is right for them. The extended warranty options provide coverage for the powertrain, electrical system, and other major components of the vehicle. The extended warranty options also offer a choice between a zero deductible or a $100 deductible, which can lower the premium price a bit.
Subaru’s Maintenance Plans
Subaru offers maintenance plans that cover all normal maintenance as recommended by their warranty maintenance booklet. These plans also include coverage of the 15,000- and 30,000-mile vehicle inspections. The plans are designed to keep the vehicle running smoothly and prevent any unexpected repairs. Subaru’s maintenance plans are available through various companies, and the vehicle owner can choose any authorized facility for the maintenance work.
Overall, Subaru’s warranty and maintenance program is one of the best in the industry. The extended warranty options provide comprehensive coverage for the vehicle, and the maintenance plans ensure that the vehicle is kept in top condition. Subaru owners can rest assured that their vehicle is covered by a reliable and trustworthy program.
Total Cost of Ownership
When it comes to owning a Subaru, it is important to consider the total cost of ownership over the long term, which includes factors such as depreciation, financing, insurance costs, tax, and maintenance. By taking these factors into account, you can make an informed decision about whether a Subaru is the right vehicle for you.
Depreciation and Resale Value
One of the biggest factors to consider when it comes to the total cost of ownership of a vehicle is depreciation. According to Edmunds, the 2022 Subaru Outback has a total cash price of $33,175, with a depreciation cost of $16,004 over five years. This means that the vehicle will lose about 48% of its value over that time period. However, it is worth noting that Subaru has a reputation for holding its value well, which can help offset some of the depreciation costs.
Insurance and Tax Considerations
Another important factor to consider when it comes to the total cost of ownership of a Subaru is insurance and tax. According to Car Talk, most cars these days are relatively maintenance-free, which can help keep insurance and tax costs low. However, it is still important to factor in these costs when determining the total cost of ownership of a vehicle.
Overall, when it comes to the total cost of ownership of a Subaru, it is important to take into account factors such as depreciation, financing, insurance costs, tax, and maintenance. By doing so, you can make an informed decision about whether a Subaru is the right vehicle for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Subaru’s maintenance costs compare to Toyota?
Subaru’s maintenance costs are generally higher than Toyota’s. According to CarEdge, Subaru models average around $8,798 for maintenance and repair costs during their first 10 years of service. This is more than the industry average for popular brands by $1,984. However, it is important to note that maintenance costs can vary depending on the specific model and year of the vehicle.
What is the average annual maintenance cost for a Subaru?
The average annual maintenance cost for a Subaru is around $800 to $1,000. This includes routine maintenance such as oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections. However, this cost can vary depending on the specific model and year of the vehicle.
How can I calculate the expected maintenance costs for a Subaru?
To calculate the expected maintenance costs for a Subaru, you can use resources such as the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule and estimated costs for routine maintenance services. It is also helpful to research common maintenance issues for your specific model and year of the vehicle.
What is the estimated cost for a Subaru’s 12-month service?
The estimated cost for a Subaru’s 12-month service can vary depending on the specific model and year of the vehicle. According to Kelley Blue Book, the average cost for a Subaru’s 12-month service ranges from $150 to $300. This includes routine maintenance services such as oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections.
Are Subaru vehicles considered to have high maintenance requirements?
Subaru vehicles are not necessarily considered to have high maintenance requirements. However, like any vehicle, routine maintenance is necessary to keep the vehicle in top operating condition. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule and address any issues promptly to prevent more costly repairs down the line.
What are the long-term maintenance costs over 10 years for a Subaru?
According to CarEdge, Subaru models average around $8,798 for maintenance and repair costs during their first 10 years of service. This includes routine maintenance services as well as any necessary repairs. However, long-term maintenance costs can vary depending on the specific model and year of the vehicle, as well as the owner’s driving habits and maintenance practices.
