Subaru Legacy problems

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The Subaru Legacy (Japanese: スバル・レガシィ, Hepburn: Subaru Regashi) is a mid-size car built by Japanese automobile manufacturer Subaru since 1989. The maker's flagship car, it is unique in its class for offering all-wheel drive as a standard feature, and Subaru's traditional boxer engine. The Legacy was sold as the Liberty in Australia out of deference to Legacy Australia, an organisation dedicated to caring for the families of military service veterans.

In 1996, a variant of the Legacy with heightened suspension called the Legacy Outback was introduced to compete in the burgeoning sport-utility vehicle class and proved to be a sales success for Subaru. The Outback line was split into its own model in 2008, known as the Subaru Outback.

As of 2008, 3.6 million Legacy models have been built since its 1989 introduction.

Production of the Legacy ended in Japan in June 2020, with the sixth-generation Legacy being the last model produced and marketed in Japan. Subaru of America announced in an internal email that 2025 will be the last model year for the Subaru Legacy. The Subaru Outback will remain in production, after being the company's top selling model in 2023.

photo of Subaru Legacy car production

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Subaru Legacy model years

subaru legacy 2024 photo
Legacy 2024
Subaru

8

0

23

2.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru legacy 2023 photo
Legacy 2023
Subaru

3

2

26

2.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru legacy 2022 photo
Legacy 2022
Subaru

26

2

37

2.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru legacy 2021 photo
Legacy 2021
Subaru

22

3

35

2.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru legacy 2020 photo
Legacy 2020
Subaru

114

6

18

2.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru legacy 2019 photo
Legacy 2019
Subaru

102

3

26

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru legacy 2018 photo
Legacy 2018
Subaru

87

3

31

2.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru legacy 2017 photo
Legacy 2017
Subaru

112

2

36

3.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru legacy 2016 photo
Legacy 2016
Subaru

132

3

40

3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru legacy 2015 photo
Legacy 2015
Subaru

155

3

32

2.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru legacy 2014 photo
Legacy 2014
Subaru

49

10

37

2.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru legacy 2013 photo
Legacy 2013
Subaru

65

12

17

3.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru legacy 2012 photo
Legacy 2012
Subaru

85

16

23

2.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru legacy 2011 photo
Legacy 2011
Subaru

162

16

38

2.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru legacy 2010 photo
Legacy 2010
Subaru

146

18

37

2.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru legacy 2009 photo
Legacy 2009
Subaru

64

13

36

2.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru legacy 2008 photo
Legacy 2008
Subaru

65

9

36

2.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru legacy 2007 photo
Legacy 2007
Subaru

33

9

28

2.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru legacy 2006 photo
Legacy 2006
Subaru

87

7

37

2.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru legacy 2005 photo
Legacy 2005
Subaru

181

9

34

2.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru legacy 2004 photo
Legacy 2004
Subaru

49

11

25

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru legacy 2003 photo
Legacy 2003
Subaru

62

15

36

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru legacy 2002 photo
Legacy 2002
Subaru

59

5

40

2.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru legacy 2001 photo
Legacy 2001
Subaru

80

8

25

2.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru legacy 2000 photo
Legacy 2000
Subaru

103

4

36

2.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru legacy 1999 photo
Legacy 1999
Subaru

98

3

37

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru legacy 1998 photo
Legacy 1998
Subaru

124

5

38

2.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru legacy 1997 photo
Legacy 1997
Subaru

146

6

34

2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru legacy 1996 photo
Legacy 1996
Subaru

141

4

41

2.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru legacy 1995 photo
Legacy 1995
Subaru

216

2

35

2.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru legacy 1994 photo
Legacy 1994
Subaru

63

0

34

2.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru legacy 1993 photo
Legacy 1993
Subaru

86

1

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru legacy 1992 photo
Legacy 1992
Subaru

70

2

26

2.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru legacy 1991 photo
Legacy 1991
Subaru

111

3

30

3.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru legacy 1990 photo
Legacy 1990
Subaru

102

4

25

2.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru legacy 1989 photo
Legacy 1989
Subaru

1

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru legacy 1988 photo
Legacy 1988
Subaru

1

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru legacy 1987 photo
Legacy 1987
Subaru

1

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Common Subaru Legacy problems

The Subaru Legacy is a popular mid-sized sedan known for its dependability and excellent safety features. However, like any vehicle, it can experience certain issues. Here are some common problems reported by Subaru Legacy owners:

  1. CVT Transmission Problems: Older models of the Subaru Legacy, particularly those with Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), have been reported to experience rumbling, stalling, and sudden stopping. A growling noise from the engine upon acceleration can also be a warning sign of a Subaru Legacy transmission problem. Fluid seepage, a pause after pressing on the gas, and the engine revving without accelerating are other notable red flags.
  2. Torque Converter Problems: The torque converter, which converts energy produced by the engine and sends it to the transmission, can cause slipping transmission at low speed, poor fuel economy, and various noises from the engine. These problems can be traced back to low or dirty transmission fluid, loose torque converter bolts, and worn clutches.
  3. Hood Latch Problems: Many Subaru Legacy owners have reported issues with the hood latch, which can become loose while driving at highway speeds. This can cause the hood to bob up and down, obstructing the driver's view of the road and potentially cracking or breaking the windshield.
  4. Excessive Oil Consumption: Some Subaru Legacy models, particularly those from 2010 to 2014, have been reported to consume excessive oil. Drivers have noted that the engine uses about a quart of oil every 1200 miles, which can increase maintenance costs and potentially harm the engine.
  5. Faulty Airbags: Some Subaru Legacy owners have reported issues with the airbags, which can fail to deploy in the event of a collision. This can pose a significant safety risk to the vehicle's occupants.
  6. Eyesight Faults: The Subaru Legacy's Eyesight system, which uses cameras and sensors to monitor the road and assist with braking and steering, can experience faults and fail to function properly. This can reduce the vehicle's safety features and make it more difficult to drive.
  7. Unintended Acceleration: Some Subaru Legacy owners have reported issues with unintended acceleration, where the vehicle suddenly speeds up without the driver's input. This can pose a significant safety risk and make it difficult to control the vehicle.
  8. Glitchy Infotainment System: The Subaru Legacy's infotainment system, which includes the radio, navigation, and climate control, can experience glitches and malfunctions. This can make it difficult to use the system and reduce the vehicle's functionality.
  9. Melting Dashboard: Some Subaru Legacy owners have reported issues with the dashboard melting, particularly in models from 2010 to 2012. This can create an offensive chemical smell and obstruct the driver's view of the road.
  10. Transmission Problems: Transmission issues have been reported in various Subaru Legacy models, including shuddering, vibrating, and stalling. These problems can be expensive to repair and pose a significant safety risk.

It is important to note that while these issues have been reported by some Subaru Legacy owners, they do not necessarily affect all vehicles of this make and model. Prospective buyers should do their own research and consider factors such as the vehicle's age, mileage, and maintenance history when making a purchasing decision.

Subaru Legacy

Do Subaru Legacys have problems?

Subaru Legacy Reliability Problems. Legacy owners have made 266 complaints over 32 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 10th in overall reliability out of 17 Subaru models , with real engine and lights concerns.

Is a Subaru Legacy a reliable vehicle?

The Subaru Legacy Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 16th out of 24 for midsize cars. The average annual repair cost is $563 which means it has average ownership costs. The severity of repairs is average, and major issues are less frequent than average, so major repairs are not common for the Legacy.

What is the average life of a Subaru Legacy?

200,000 miles

Legacy: The Subaru Legacy is a midsize sedan known for its reliability and durability. With proper maintenance, Legacy models can easily last well beyond 200,000 miles, providing years of dependable service.

What are the best years for Subaru Legacy?

For the most reliable Subaru Legacy year in this lineup, we recommend picking up the 2006 and 2007 model years due to their excellent reliability ratings and fuel economy. Both 2006 and 2007 Subaru Legacy models received the “Seal of Awesome” award from CarComplaints.com.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Subaru Legacy years

We have researched Subaru problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Subaru Legacy cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Subaru Legacy model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Subaru Legacy model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Subaru Legacy years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Subaru Legacy car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Subaru Legacy , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Air bags problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Power train problems
  • Service brakes problems
  • Visibility/wiper problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Subaru Legacy vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Legacy model years

A total of 285 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Legacy model years

There were a total of 48 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Legacy model years

There were a total of 194 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Legacy model years

There were a total of 4 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 3211 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Subaru Legacy . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Subaru Legacy vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Subaru Legacy 2021
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-12
  • Date Complaint: 2024-11-12
  • VIN: 4S3BWGP61M3
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: Subaru has failed to remedy recall on airbags.
Subaru Legacy 2021
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-03
  • Date Complaint: 2024-11-03
  • VIN: 4S3BWAB60M3
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,BACK OVER PREVENTION
  • Summary: ODS sensor recall still not fixed/remedy available, used heat for first time since i purchased the car, minor cracks in the windshield, car radio/monitors randomly go black, reverse camera won’t work, restarts on there own after a while
Subaru Legacy 2018
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-01
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-30
  • VIN: 4S3BNAF68J3
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: My car stereo has gone crazy causing major distractions while driving. Hands free calling doesn’t work, in fact it calls random people on my call list. The screen dances and changes screens all by itself causing major distraction and it has almost caused an accident by the distraction. I’ve read that this issue is a known manufacturing issue and a class action lawsuit was brought against Subaru. I called Subaru and they have refused to give me a warranty radio even thou my dealer confirmed my radio is suffering from the De-lamination issue that’s well known problem with my car.
Subaru Legacy 2014
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-13
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
  • VIN: 4S3BMCA68E3
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
  • Summary: My Subaru ran perfectly fine until the water pump and cooler lines got replaced after these were replaced it was tried to be driven and the car then had no idea what gear it was in drive is drive neautral is drive and reverse does not work at all paddle shifters won’t work AT oil temp light check engine light brake light flashing cruise control light all came on and the car will only go forward and it’s making some crazy shutter noises when you start it and sometimes it shuts off after it was started.
Subaru Legacy 2017
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-17
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-17
  • VIN: 4S3BNAC69H3
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: The mirror drivers side mirror wiggles. I. The even of a battery failure the electrical brake may fail
Subaru Legacy 2024
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-10-04
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-11
  • VIN: 4S3BWAD65R3
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
  • Summary: Warning light on infotainment screen for Eyesight and Transmission Oil issues. Warning from MySubaru System via website. Warning on Infotainment screen while using CarPlay "There was a problem loading this content." Contacted Subaru of America Britt Senior Customer Service Advocate telling them dealer is not making appointment to fix car and no response. Car is clearly having electrical issues. On previous trip to dealerships service was told some cars seem to have issue near train lines and have sporadic electronic issues. Car has had hazard lights flash upon start up on several times. Subaru of America is not taking this seriously. In my honest opinion someone is going to be seriously hurt or killed because of SOA refusal to fix this issue with 2024 Legacy.
Subaru Legacy 2017
  • Date Of Incident: 2021-04-16
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-06
  • VIN: 4S3BNAC65H3
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: The key frequently gets stuck in the ignition. It takes several attempts to release the key. Turning the wheel to ensure the wheel isn’t locked and turning the ignition/car on does not help release the key from ignition.
Subaru Legacy 2011
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-12
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-04
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Subaru Legacy. The contact stated that while driving 35 MPH and driving over a speed bump, there was an abnormal sound coming from underneath the vehicle. The vehicle was driven to an independent mechanic and the contact was informed that the subframe was damaged and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 14,000. The VIN was not available.
Subaru Legacy 2005
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-25
  • Date Complaint: 2024-10-03
  • VIN: 4S3BL686456
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2005 Subaru Legacy. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V311000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the dealer refused to perform the recall. The contact stated that the dealer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact stated that while driving 35 MPH, while braking for a traffic light, the brake pedal was depressed and went to the floorboard. The contact was able to stop the vehicle and had the vehicle towed to a dealer. The dealer diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the rear passenger side brake line had corroded and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired by the dealer since the dealer stated the vehicle was not registered in the listed states on the recall notification. The failure mileage was 229,126. Parts distribution disconnect.
Subaru Legacy 2020
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-26
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-26
  • VIN: 4S3BWAC65L3
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Subaru Legacy. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V227000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Subaru Legacy 2015
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-01-01
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-23
  • VIN: 4S3BNBL67F3
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: The contact owned a 2015 Subaru Legacy. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the contact opened and closed the trunk, triggering the alarm system. The alarm system failed to deactivate immediately. The vehicle then failed to restart as needed, and the "Shift to Park" message was displayed while the transmission was in park(P). The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where the brake fuse was replaced; however, the failure persisted. The contact replaced the brake fuse for a second time, but the failure recurred. The vehicle was towed back to the dealer, where an unknown repair was performed. The contact later sold the vehicle. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 175,000.
Subaru Legacy 2024
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-18
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-18
  • VIN: 4S3BWAD65R3
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: CarPlay Infotainment system built into vehicle and advertised on Subaru.Com as works "perfectly" is showing this message "There was a problem loading this content". Subaru website: The centerpiece of the updated Legacy interior is the available 11.6-inch STARLINK multimedia touchscreen. The stunning big-screen interface makes it easy and intuitive to customize options and delivers SEAMLESS CONTROL of the wireless Apple CarPlay". This is FALSE ADVERTISING. This is EXTREMELY DANGEROUS SAFETY ISSUE. The entire infotainment screen which controls things like HVAC is freezing up for no reason.
Subaru Legacy 2019
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-14
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-13
  • VIN: 4S3BNAS62K3
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: Radio is delaminating and causing random calls and radio changes while driving. Serious safety issue. Subaru covered a portion of the replacement but entire cost should be covered due to it being an obvious manufacturer defect.
Subaru Legacy 2015
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-01
  • Date Complaint: 2024-09-10
  • VIN: 4S3BNAH64F3
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: 2015 Subaru Legacy 2.5 engine. Fuel gauge is inaccurate. My daughter was on the highway when it ran out of fuel. Had car towed to a independent shop. They said that the fuel gauges is a problem for Subaru 's and that they had seen it before on other Subaru's.
Subaru Legacy 2009
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-01
  • Date Complaint: 2024-08-31
  • VIN: 4S3BL676196
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES,VISIBILITY/WIPER,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
  • Summary: Under Subaru campaign WQK47, which supersedes an earlier campaign, 05-09 Legacy/Outback and other models are known to undergo accelerated brake line corrosion due to sub-par materials and design. Subaru of America's "fix" for this issue is to inspect the lines: if the lines are compromised, they replace them. If the lines are corroded but not yet compromised, the lines are coated with an anti-corrosion wax. This wax washes off the car and is ineffective. Subaru performed this recall work insufficiently on my vehicle, failing to identify the severity of the corrosion. They coated the lines, called it "fixed", and the brake lines later ruptured under normal driving conditions. This caused a highway near-miss at speed that could have impacted everyone on the road. Multiple Subaru dealerships in Connecticut have refused to re-inspect and repair the vehicle under the recall campaign, despite it being a known critical safety concern, and despite knowledge that the original parts and anti-corrosion application are sub-par. They insist that because the ineffective recall campaign was already "completed", they bear no further responsibility for the design compromises and sub-par materials that are the root cause of this issue. Additionally: Under Subaru bulletin 12-197-16R the dashboard of 05-09 Subaru Legacy/Outback models is known to become sticky and melt. While this might initially be considered a cosmetic issue, the melted surface is DRAMATICALLY reflective. The hump over the gauge cluster melts first, causing a huge, intense sun glare reflection in the windscreen directly ahead of the driver. I own two 05-09 Subaru Legacies; this issue is present in both. Subaru of America has rejected my replacement claims on both cars because the cutoff date for their open recall has expired. This is a major and constantly worsening safety issue that severely limits driver visibility. Because it developed slowly, it was not a safety concern until after closure of the recall.

Latest 5 recalls Subaru Legacy

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 219 recalls for different components of the Subaru Legacy.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Subaru Legacy 2021
  • Report Received Date: 2024-03-22
  • Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
  • Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER
  • Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Outback and Legacy vehicles. A capacitor in the sensors for the Occupant Detection System (ODS) may crack and short circuit, which can prevent the front passenger air bag from deploying in a crash.
  • Consequence: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Dealers will replace the ODS sensors on the front passenger seat, free of charge. Interim letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed May 17, 2024. Owners will receive a second letter once the remedy is available. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRA-24.
  • Model: Subaru Legacy 2020
  • Report Received Date: 2024-03-22
  • Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
  • Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER
  • Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Outback and Legacy vehicles. A capacitor in the sensors for the Occupant Detection System (ODS) may crack and short circuit, which can prevent the front passenger air bag from deploying in a crash.
  • Consequence: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Dealers will replace the ODS sensors on the front passenger seat, free of charge. Interim letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed May 17, 2024. Owners will receive a second letter once the remedy is available. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRA-24.
  • Model: Subaru Legacy 2022
  • Report Received Date: 2024-03-22
  • Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
  • Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER
  • Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Outback and Legacy vehicles. A capacitor in the sensors for the Occupant Detection System (ODS) may crack and short circuit, which can prevent the front passenger air bag from deploying in a crash.
  • Consequence: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
  • Remedy: Dealers will replace the ODS sensors on the front passenger seat, free of charge. Interim letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed May 17, 2024. Owners will receive a second letter once the remedy is available. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRA-24.
  • Model: Subaru Legacy 2022
  • Report Received Date: 2023-11-09
  • Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
  • Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:PARK/NEUTRAL START INTERLOCK SWITCH
  • Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. is recalling certain model year 2021 Crosstrek, 2022 Forester, 2021-2023 Legacy, and Outback vehicles. An insufficient weld may allow water to enter the inhibitor switch, causing it to fail.
  • Consequence: An inoperative inhibitor switch may prevent the reverse lights from illuminating and the rearview camera image from displaying, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will replace the inhibitor switch, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 8, 2024. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WRQ-23.
  • Model: Subaru Legacy 2021
  • Report Received Date: 2023-11-09
  • Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
  • Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:PARK/NEUTRAL START INTERLOCK SWITCH
  • Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. is recalling certain model year 2021 Crosstrek, 2022 Forester, 2021-2023 Legacy, and Outback vehicles. An insufficient weld may allow water to enter the inhibitor switch, causing it to fail.
  • Consequence: An inoperative inhibitor switch may prevent the reverse lights from illuminating and the rearview camera image from displaying, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will replace the inhibitor switch, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 8, 2024. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WRQ-23.

Latest negative Subaru Legacy car reviews

  1. Sebastian McLaughlin 2025-06-02

    Vehicle year: 2019

    I purchased my car brand new in May 2019. Unfortunately, I experienced some issues with the car within the first six months of ownership, including a rattle noise from the cover of the EyeSight cameras and paint peeling from an unusual place on the car. Despite Subaru's refusal to repair the paint, I was pleased with the warranty service I received when my drivetrain needed to be replaced with less than 10k miles on the car. The dealership, Jim Kerra's, was able to fix all of the mechanical issues with my car, and I was grateful to have all-wheel drive during a recent snowstorm. While I may consider giving the brand another chance, I hope that the 2021 model does not have the engine off at red lights feature. Overall, I have had a mixed experience with my 2019 model, but I am grateful for the support I received from the dealership and the warranty service.

  2. Triston Stokes 2025-06-02

    Vehicle year: 1997

    The car was reliable for a few years, but recently some of the dash lights and heated seat switches (only on high) stopped working. The brakes tend to wear out frequently and can cost up to $1000 for rotors and pads. Although the struts feel like they may need replacing, I have not yet confirmed this. The water pump, cam seals, and head gaskets have been replaced. Unfortunately, like many other reviewers, the head gaskets have blown out and it will cost around $2,000 to fix them. Additionally, the front end bushings need replacing, which will cost around $400. It's frustrating that these issues have arisen despite the car being driven lightly for under 100K miles and being garaged!

  3. Caesar Bauch 2025-06-01

    Vehicle year: 2010

    As a long-time Honda fan, I was excited to finally fulfill my dream of owning a Subaru. However, I have been disappointed with my recent purchase. Like many others, I have experienced road drift and vibrations at highway speeds. Additionally, I have had to replace the headliner and radio due to defects, and the new radio occasionally fails to turn on. The car also hesitates from a dead stop and sometimes slams into reverse. I have noticed that the car nearly stalls when braking hard, idling, or when the AC is turned up to max, which is not enough to keep my baby girl cool in the back seat. The local dealer has attributed the RPM drop to strain on the electric system, which is concerning. Unfortunately, the cost of maintenance has been quite high and has reduced the value of the car.

  4. Donny Jacobs 2025-05-27

    Vehicle year: 2002

    I had this Subaru for 9 months and unfortunately experienced some issues with it. Although I replaced both head gaskets, one of them blew again after only 700 miles and the headlights kept burning out. Additionally, there was some wind noise and rust coming in on the rear doors. Despite my efforts to take care of the car, it did not hold up well after 5 years and 85,000 miles. However, I appreciate the experience and will consider other options in the future.

  5. Federico Ziemann 2025-05-27

    Vehicle year: 2005

    I've been driving this car for a little over a year now and I'd like to share my thoughts. Overall, the engine performance is very good and the handling is good too, although the rear suspension could be firmer. The brake feel and feedback are great and easy to modulate. It's also fantastic to have a sport wagon with a manual transmission. The seats are good, although not great, but at least they're cloth! (I'm not a fan of hot/cold, sticky/slippery leather seats). Unfortunately, the climate control is not up to par. With the AC on, it doesn't give you air at one temperature, but pulses alternating HOT and COLD air. The driving position is also not ideal due to the lack of a telescoping steering wheel. Additionally, the electronic throttle is not quite ready for prime-time. Lastly, the fuel economy is not the best at 26 mpg hwy. Overall, it's a decent car with some room for improvement.

Latest positive Subaru Legacy car reviews

  1. Jonathon Green 2025-06-03

    Vehicle year: 2014

    ...and the Legacy came out on top for my family and me. I drive about 40 miles round-trip for work each day and have a two month old son. My wife and I traded in an older SUV and wanted a midsize sedan that would comfortably hold a rear-facing car seat while also achieving high MPG on the highway. High safety scores were also very important to us, and the Legacy delivered on all fronts. I drove several competing sedans but settled on the Legacy because of its spacious cabin and AWD. I've had the car for a couple weeks and I absolutely love driving it. I was very close to buying a 2012 Fusion but it just didn't feel right. The Camry didn't feel right either, both cars pale in comparison to the Legacy.

  2. Robert McGlynn 2025-06-03

    Vehicle year: 2001

    This has been an amazing wagon for me so far! I purchased it a few months back with 145,000 miles on it, and it has been running like a champ ever since. The engine has ample power with the 5 speed, making it easy to zip around town and quickly get up to speed on highways. Plus, the car cruises nicely at 70mph. There's plenty of head room and leg room for both the driver and passengers, making it a comfortable ride for everyone. Overall, this car is an excellent value - it's reliable, handles great in rain/snow with AWD, and the styling still looks good even 10 years later! I would highly recommend this vehicle as a family car or for outdoor enthusiasts.

  3. Colt Weissnat 2025-06-03

    Vehicle year: 2009

    Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my 2009 Legacy. I bought it used with about 20k miles on it, and now, 4 years later with over 75k miles, I can say that it's been a great value for what it is. The AWD has been a lifesaver during Ohio winters, especially after I replaced the OE tires with higher quality treads. While I get about 25 mpg overall city/hwy, which isn't amazing, I'm happy with it considering the AWD and the comfort and space it provides. One of my favorite features is the rear seatbacks that fold forward, giving me extra space for storage or transporting materials from Home Depot when I'm working on weekend projects. The only downside is that I wish the engine had more power for quicker acceleration at times, but it's adequate most of the time. Overall, the car has been basically trouble-free, and I consider it a KEEPER! UPDATE: It's been over 6 years since I got this car, and I've put 100,000 miles on it since then. It still runs and handles the same, and most of the maintenance has been performed by a local Subaru dealer. The only thing I've done elsewhere is brake jobs, which I felt were just too expensive. While the 4-speed automatic is outdated and the acceleration is slow, I'm keeping the newer Legacy with the CVT in mind for the future. The newer models also have improved technology, such as sound systems and navigation. I suppose I'll be ready for a more updated model in a few years, but for now, this car seems like it will go another 100,000 miles without a doubt. It's still great for the Ohio winters!

  4. Adrain Nienow 2025-06-02

    Vehicle year: 1992

    I hope you're enjoying your car! It sounds like a great model - a 1992 loaded LS with airbags.

  5. Mckenna Bednar 2025-05-29

    Vehicle year: 2003

    Your son has great taste in cars! I'm so glad to hear that you're enjoying your Subaru, especially on those mountain curves. It sounds like you've made some great modifications to enhance your driving experience. Thanks for sharing your positive experience with us!

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