When it comes to reliability in the automotive world, few brands spark as much debate as Subaru and Honda. Both manufacturers have built solid reputations for durability, but how do they stack up against each other? If you’re looking for a dependable vehicle, this comparison will dive into the nitty-gritty of Subaru versus Honda’s reliability and help you make an informed choice about your next car purchase.
History and Reputation of Both Brands
Subaru and Honda have both built strong reputations for reliability over the years. Subaru, founded in 1953, is well known for its rugged all-wheel-drive vehicles that perform exceptionally well in harsh weather conditions. Models such as the Outback and Forester are mainly celebrated for their durability and longevity. Honda, established in 1948, has a legacy of producing reliable, fuel-efficient vehicles. The Civic and Accord are recognized for their long-lasting performance and low maintenance costs.
Common Reliability Issues Faced by Subaru and Honda
While both Subaru and Honda are known for their reliability, they’re not without their issues. Here are some common problems faced by each brand.
Engine Problems
Subaru and Honda have engine-related issues. Subaru models, such as the 2011-2014 Forester and the 2013 Outback, have been reported to suffer from excessive oil consumption and head gasket failures. Honda’s 2008-2012 Accord and the 2010-2011 CR-V have been known to experience early engine wear and excessive oil consumption.
Transmission Issues
Subaru’s continuously variable transmission, especially in the 2013 Outback and 2015 WRX, has faced issues such as slipping and overheating. Honda also experienced transmission troubles in the 2004-2006 Honda Pilot and 2006-2008 Honda Ridgeline, with reports of slipping and failures. Knowing these issues can help you make better decisions and avoid costly repairs.
Suspension Issues
There have been notable reports of suspension issues with certain Subaru models. The 2018 and 2019 Subaru Crosstrek and the 2019 Subaru Forester have had recalls due to problems with the rear stabilizer bar bolts, which can loosen and detach, increasing the risk of a crash. Meanwhile, Honda models, such as the 2016 Pilot, have issues with sway bar links and bushings, leading to a noisy ride.
Comparative Analysis of Key Reliability Metrics
According to the 2024 J.D. Power U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study, Subaru ranks slightly higher than Honda, with Subaru owners reporting 198 problems per 100 vehicles (PP100) compared to Honda’s 206 PP100. Consumer Reports highlights that Subaru and Honda are close in reliability, with Subaru scoring an average predicted reliability of 69, just behind Honda’s 70.
In-Depth Model-By-Model Reliability Comparison
Let’s take a closer look at how Subaru and Honda compare by examining specific models. Consider the 2023 Subaru Outback and the 2023 Honda CR-V, both popular choices in the SUV segment. According to J.D. Power, the 2023 Subaru Forester scores an impressive 84/100 in quality and reliability, making it one of the top choices in the compact SUV category.
On the other hand, the 2023 Honda CR-V also performs well but slightly trails the Forester with a quality and reliability score of 80/100. The Forester is praised for its fuel economy, roomy interior, and excellent outward visibility, while the CR-V is commended for its spacious cabin, smooth ride, and advanced safety features.
Safety Features and Ratings: How They Impact Reliability
Safety plays a significant role in reliability, and both Subaru and Honda excel in this category. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) consistently rate both brands highly. Subaru frequently earns top marks for its EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes features such as adaptive cruise control and pre-collision braking. Honda also boasts impressive safety ratings, with models such as the Honda CR-V and Accord receiving high marks from the NHTSA and IIHS. The Honda Sensing suite includes features similar to those in Subaru’s EyeSight, enhancing driver awareness and helping prevent accidents.
Depreciation and Resale Value Analysis
Subaru ranks first in retained value after three, five, and seven years of ownership, with models such as the Impreza and Forester maintaining strong resale values. Honda also shows strong value retention, with models such as the CR-V and Accord consistently ranking high in resale value. However, Subaru’s overall brand performance in depreciation is slightly better, with a five-year resale value of 63.64%. This makes Subaru an attractive option for buyers looking to minimize long-term depreciation costs.
Owner Satisfaction and Loyalty
A J.D. Power 2024 U.S. Automotive Brand Loyalty Study finds that Honda has a loyalty rate of 58.8%, slightly lower than Subaru’s 62.6%, among mass-market brands. In terms of owner satisfaction, the American Customer Satisfaction Index shows that both brands have high scores, with Subaru at 83 and Honda at 82. These metrics suggest that while both brands have loyal and satisfied customers, Subaru has a slight edge in owner satisfaction and loyalty, particularly among SUV owners.
Cost of Ownership Over Time
When comparing the five-year cost of owning a Subaru and a Honda, a few key factors come into play: depreciation, fuel, insurance, and maintenance. Honda typically has lower maintenance costs, averaging around $370 a year, while Subaru averages about $500. Honda cars also offer better fuel efficiency, getting around 30 mpg compared to Subaru’s 27 mpg. Both brands experience similar depreciation, losing about half their value in five years. Overall, Honda is often cheaper to maintain and fuel, while Subaru may provide better long-term durability.
Which Is More Reliable, Subaru or Honda?
So, is Subaru better than Honda when it comes to reliability? The answer isn’t black and white. Both brands have their strengths and weaknesses. Subaru excels in safety and all-weather capability, while Honda shines in fuel efficiency and resale value. The best choice hinges on your specific needs and lifestyle.
If you’re leaning toward Subaru or have questions about a specific model, reach out to us at John Kennedy Subaru in Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania. Our knowledgeable team is here to help you find the perfect Subaru for your unique driving needs. Visit us today to discover the Subaru difference.
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