Outback · Forester · Crosstrek · WRX · BRZ — ranked by Buddy Rausch, 18+ yrs Subaru experience
The best used Subaru years generally start at 2013 — when Subaru transitioned most models from the EJ25 engine (head gasket risk, timing belt) to FB-series engines (chain, lower failure rates). Within each model, look for documented service history showing coolant flushes, timing belt (if applicable), and CVT fluid changes. Tedious Auto Repair offers pre-purchase inspections for any Subaru you're considering in Chico.
The FB25 engine eliminates both the head gasket risk and the timing belt of the EJ25. The 2013 specifically benefits from Subaru addressing first-gen CVT shudder complaints. These are the sweet spot for used Outback buyers — old enough to be affordable, new enough to be reliable.
Updated EyeSight driver assistance, same reliable FB25 engine. 2018–2019 models have well-understood reliability profiles and parts availability. Slight premium over 2013–2017 but justified by safety features.
The 6th gen introduced the FA24 turbocharged engine on XT trims. The base 2.5 moved to a new CVT design. Still relatively new for long-term reliability data. If buying, verify CVT fluid has been serviced.
Not a bad car if the head gasket has been replaced by a competent shop (documented) and the timing belt is current. Without those records, you're buying an unknown-condition EJ25 that may need $2,500–$4,000 immediately.
Clean FB25 engine, timing chain, well-resolved CVT shudder issues. The 2015–2018 specifically had the FB25 oil consumption issue mostly resolved. These are the most trouble-free used Foresters available.
Major refresh with better tech and the well-proven FB25. Slightly pricier used market but lower expected repair costs.
First FB25 generation — the oil consumption issue was most prevalent here. Verify the vehicle has not burned excessive oil. Check the dipstick and look at the oil filler cap for sludge.
Same head gasket situation as EJ25 Outbacks. Not a bad vehicle with documented repair history, but budget for the possibility of head gasket work if records are absent.
Second-generation Crosstrek with well-sorted FB20 engine and CVT. The oil consumption issue from early 2013–2015 models is largely resolved. Good reliability data, excellent resale value retention.
5th generation on the new Global Platform. More rigid structure, better noise levels, same reliable FB20. One of the most reliable compact cars available in this price range.
The FA20DIT direct-injection turbo with timing chain is the most modern and reliable WRX platform. Less head gasket risk than EJ255. Key: verify oil changes every 3,750–5,000 miles were followed. Turbo neglect is the main killer.
The turbo EJ255 is a strong engine with documented service. Timing belt at 105,000 miles is mandatory. Turbo oil supply line condition is critical. Worth buying if service records show consistent short-interval oil changes.
EJ257 with timing belt (105k interval), but the most robust Subaru AWD system ever made. Built for performance abuse — if maintained properly, these are durable high-performance vehicles.
Buddy Rausch has been servicing Subaru vehicles in Chico and Butte County since 2007. EJ25 head gasket repair, CVT service, AWD diagnosis, and Subaru-specific maintenance are daily work at this shop. NAPA Gold AutoCare certified, ASE Master Tech, 18+ years local. About Buddy Rausch, ASE Master Tech →
Three factors converge in the 2015–2019 Subaru range: (1) FB25 engine maturity — six-plus years of production refinement with known reliability. (2) CVT calibration maturity — the 2015+ CVTs are smoother and more durable than 2013–2014 first-generation units. (3) Sufficient production volume — enough examples on the used market to allow selective purchasing. These years also predate the 2020+ supply chain quality variations that affected some assembly processes.
The 2017 Outback represents the peak of the 5th gen (2015–2019) platform: updated infotainment (Apple CarPlay/Android Auto), refined CVT calibration, and the eye-tracking EyeSight 3.0 system. All without the complexity of the 2020 redesign. A 2017 Outback 2.5i Premium with under 80,000 miles and documented CVT fluid history is as close to a "buy immediately" recommendation as exists in the Chico used car market.
The 2022 WRX introduced the FA24DIT engine — an entirely new block with revised rod bearing design that addresses the FA20's known vulnerability. The 2022+ manual WRX with the FA24 is the first WRX we recommend without significant reservation for a performance-oriented Chico buyer. The 2022+ automatic WRX uses a sport-tuned CVT that handles the FA24's power better than previous WRX automatics.
The 2019 is the final year of the 5th gen Forester and the most refined. The 5th gen ends with a well-sorted CVT, mature EyeSight, and all available features. The 2019 5th gen is preferable to the 2019 6th gen (which launched with some first-year calibration roughness). A 2019 Forester 2.5i has the complete feature set of the generation at its peak.
Subaru's pattern: the first model year of a new generation often has calibration issues that are resolved in year two. 2010 Outback (new body, some CVT calibration roughness). 2014 Forester (new body, new CVT). 2017 Impreza (new SGP platform). 2020 Outback (new 2.4T introduced). The second model year of any new generation is almost always the better choice.
In the current Chico used car market, a 2017–2019 Outback 2.5i with 60,000 to 80,000 miles trades at $18,000 to $22,000. A 2015–2016 Outback with 100,000 miles trades at $13,000 to $17,000. The $4,000 to $5,000 premium for the later model is worth it if CVT health is the deciding factor — but a clean earlier model with documented CVT service is equally sound.
For any Subaru purchase: documented oil changes (5,000-mile synthetic). CVT fluid service history (30,000-mile intervals). No accident history beyond minor cosmetic. Clean fault code scan. A Subaru without any of these documents is not necessarily a bad car — but the pre-purchase inspection becomes mandatory to establish the true mechanical condition.
A pre-purchase inspection at Tedious Auto Repair ($199.99 first hour) documents the true condition of any Subaru you are considering. Results showing deferred CVT fluid (shudder developing), worn wheel bearings, or a marginal HC combustion test give you documented evidence to negotiate the purchase price down — or to walk away from a car the seller represented as well-maintained.
Call (530) 826-4275 or use the Free Quote form. Bring the vehicle to 2695 CA-32, Chico. We have the seller meet us here or you can arrange an inspection appointment with the seller's cooperation. Written report delivered same day. Open 7 days.
Tedious Auto Repair · 2695 CA-32, Chico, CA · Open 7 Days · 4.9 Stars · 714 Reviews
