Subaru Outback vs Honda Pilot

Verdict: Subaru Outback vs Honda Pilot

Both the Subaru Outback and Honda Pilot achieve an identical average reliability score of 74/100, indicating similar overall dependability. However, the Honda Pilot has a significantly lower owner complaint rate at 9.1 per 10,000 sold compared to the Outback's 26.1, suggesting fewer issues per unit sold. Despite the Pilot's higher number of total recalls (51 compared to the Outback's 22), its lower estimated annual repair cost of $542 versus the Outback's $607 could make it a more cost-effective choice in the long run. The key differentiator lies in the complaint rate, where the Honda Pilot shows a clear advantage.

Reliability problem analysis

The Subaru Outback experiences a higher volume of complaints compared to the Honda Pilot, particularly in the visibility/wiper and electrical system categories, with 1,142 and 984 complaints respectively. Notably, the Outback's air bags category has 15 crash-linked complaints, indicating a significant safety concern. In contrast, the Honda Pilot shows a higher frequency of issues related to its fuel system and forward collision avoidance, though these are less frequently linked to crashes. Both models register a considerable number of electrical system complaints, but the Outback's overall problem profile suggests more pronounced issues with safety-critical components.

Which one to buy

If you prioritize lower running costs and fewer owner complaints, the Honda Pilot might be the better choice for you. With an estimated annual repair cost of $542 and just 9.1 complaints per 10,000 sold, it offers a slightly more economical and quieter ownership experience. However, be mindful of its 51 total recalls, which is significantly higher than the Outback's 22, indicating potential inconvenience in keeping up with recall fixes.

On the other hand, if you're looking to minimize the frequency of visits to the repair shop, consider the Subaru Outback. It has a lower repair frequency of 0.4 times per year compared to the Pilot's 0.5, which might make it more appealing if you prefer fewer disruptions. Although the Outback has a higher estimated annual repair cost of $607, it also boasts a slightly lower major repair risk of 12%, making it potentially more reliable in the long run.

Cost of ownership

The Subaru Outback and Honda Pilot have similar maintenance profiles, but there are notable differences. The Outback's annual repair cost is $607, which is $65 more than the Pilot's $542. This translates to a $325 difference over five years. In terms of repair frequency, the Outback visits the shop 0.4 times per year, slightly less than the Pilot's 0.5 visits. However, the major repair risk is slightly lower for the Outback at 12%, compared to the Pilot's 13%.

For cost-conscious buyers, the Honda Pilot offers better value in annual repair costs, though the Subaru Outback's lower repair frequency and marginally reduced major repair risk may appeal to those prioritizing fewer service disruptions.