2018 Subaru Legacy problems

subaru logo

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.

2018 Subaru Legacy

Social links

Common 2018 Subaru Legacy problems

The 2018 Subaru Legacy has been reported to have several common problems, primarily related to the infotainment system and engine.

  • Engine Problems: Some owners have reported that water covered the entire engine bay, which poses a safety and mechanical risk. This issue can lead to increased maintenance costs and potential engine damage if not addressed promptly.
  • Head Gasket Issues: The second generation of the Subaru Legacy has a tendency for head gasket failures, which can be caused by the coolant becoming pressurized and causing the head to leak. This issue can lead to significant engine damage if not addressed promptly.
  • Fuel System Problems: The 6th generation of the Subaru Legacy has experienced fuel system issues, with Denso fuel pump failure being one of the most common problems reported by owners. This issue can lead to engine stalling and other performance problems.
  • Interior Problems: Owners have reported issues with the interior of the 2018 Legacy, including wind noise, gas cap door not opening, and radio, navigation, and backup camera screen blanking. These issues can affect the car's comfort and convenience, as well as its safety.
  • Transmission Problems: Some owners have reported transmission issues, including hesitation and failure to start. These issues can affect the car's performance and safety.
  • Body Problems: Owners have reported issues with the body of the 2018 Legacy, including excessive wind noise and burnt-out headlights. These issues can affect the car's comfort and safety.

While the 2018 Subaru Legacy has improved many aspects of its predecessors and fixed many of its previous reliability issues, these common problems can lead to increased maintenance costs and potential safety hazards. It is essential for potential buyers to be aware of these issues and consider them when making a purchasing decision.

2018 Subaru Legacy engine

What is the most common problem with the Subaru Legacy?

Top Subaru Legacy Problems

  • Cooling System Problems Cause Head Gasket Failure. ...
  • Subaru Front O2 Sensor Recall. ...
  • Failure in ABS causes pump to run continuously and wear down battery. ...
  • Failure in ABS causes pump to run continuously and wear down battery. ...
  • Engine Oil May Leak From Camshaft/Crankshaft Front Seals.

Is there a recall on 2018 Subaru Legacy?

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2018 Subaru Legacy and Outback vehicles. Due to a software error, the low fuel warning light may not illuminate at the intended remaining fuel level and the miles-to-empty display may incorrectly indicate a positive number despite the tank being empty.

How many miles will a 2018 Subaru Legacy last?

Typically, a Subaru Legacy will survive around 200,000 miles, though some report their car lasting 300,000 miles. The more effort you put into maintenance and the more careful you drive, the easier it will be to ensure your Legacy survives for years.

What are the most reliable years for a 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.

What is the most common problem with the Subaru Legacy?

Top Subaru Legacy Problems

  • Cooling System Problems Cause Head Gasket Failure. ...
  • Subaru Front O2 Sensor Recall. ...
  • Failure in ABS causes pump to run continuously and wear down battery. ...
  • Failure in ABS causes pump to run continuously and wear down battery. ...
  • Engine Oil May Leak From Camshaft/Crankshaft Front Seals.

Is there a recall on 2018 Subaru Legacy?

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2018 Subaru Legacy and Outback vehicles. Due to a software error, the low fuel warning light may not illuminate at the intended remaining fuel level and the miles-to-empty display may incorrectly indicate a positive number despite the tank being empty.

How many miles will a 2018 Subaru Legacy last?

Typically, a Subaru Legacy will survive around 200,000 miles, though some report their car lasting 300,000 miles. The more effort you put into maintenance and the more careful you drive, the easier it will be to ensure your Legacy survives for years.

Is the Subaru Legacy a reliable car?

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.

2018 Subaru Legacy car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Subaru Legacy problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Electrical system problems
  • Visibility/wiper problems
  • Unknown or other problems
  • Engine problems
  • Visibility problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2018 Subaru Legacy vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints 2018 Subaru Legacy

The NHTSA has received 87 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2018 Subaru Legacy. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2018 Subaru Legacy vehicles.

2024-10-30

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-01
  • 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.
2024-06-03

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-06-02
  • VIN: 4S3BNAN63J3
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: The software on starlink on Subaru has been a huge burden while driving or in parking mode.When driving the starlink will constantly connect and disconnect to phone.It constantly changing the music by itself.And the navigation system will input random addresses.Messing with my navigation and ability to concentrate.Ive tried many different things to not have this issue.Like turning off the whole radio itself but it turns it’s self on and off there’s been many times where I almost crashed due to this issue.Ive also contacted Subaru since this is a very big known issue.But they did not want to take responsibility the only solution they gave me was to pay $4,000 to change the starlink system.A service that is way out of my budget and something I should not have to pay for.
2024-03-29

AIR BAGS,LANE DEPARTURE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-08-13
  • VIN: 4S3BNAH62J3
  • Components: AIR BAGS,LANE DEPARTURE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
  • Summary: The driver’s side airbag of 2018 Subaru Legacy deployed as I was reversing out of a parking lot going approximately 5mph. It has not been fixed due to the company’s negligence. One of Subaru’s accident advocate specialist claimed the engineer found a mysterious brown liquid that caused the airbag to deploy although I had not been in the car for two hours nor was I drinking any substances; especially “brown”. My and other’s safety was put at risk to a degree that is fatal, I was a short distance from the highway to head home. Had I been driving at the normal highway speed in my city (55mph) with the airbag deploying in my face, with others on the road, and inhaling blinding fumes, I can assure you it would’ve been detrimental to my and other’s being. The car was inspected for a few months by multiple Subaru engineers, one of the accident advocate specialist refused to give me any documentation or pictures proving this was the cause. There was absolutely no warning lights or other malfunctions occurring. The car is in great condition, and in a previous accident did not deploy its airbags.
2024-02-06

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,LANE DEPARTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-01-29
  • VIN: 4S3BNAK60J3
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,LANE DEPARTURE
  • Summary: My car's belt had been screeching for a few weeks. I was planning on taking my car in the next day. When i turned my car off, all the electrical went out and it started smoking on the driver's side. I got my car towed to the nearest auto shop. They replaced the battery and belt and yet the electrical was still out. When they tested the fuse, the driver's mirror caught on fire and was smoking. Thank goodness I was not driving when this occurred as that could have been scary. They replaced the fuse, but now I can't auto up / down my window. When I reached out to Subaru, they wanted $200 just to inspect it and $1,000 for a mirror replacement. I told them the situation and they didn't care. I also emailed them and never received a response. I googled this issue and other Subaru cars have had this issue and noted water coming in the mirror so now I'm frightened to get a car wash. There was no warning light or anything unfamiliar.
2024-01-05

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-01-05
  • VIN: 4S3BNAS61J3
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: The display area components(screen)toggles from radio to other components without any input from driver. The radio stars playing by itself.
2023-12-28

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-12-28
  • VIN: 4S3BNAN63J3
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: During regular use of the radio and head unit, at times the touch screen or controls, dials, buttons will be unresponsive. The Android Auto software tends to malfunction and will randomly disconnect and the audio will blast, full volume at the driver with the inability to control the volume other than to pull over and turn the vehicle off or manually power down the radio. This has happened on several occasions and with young children in the car, it can damage hearing, cause traumatic injury OR if in motion the driver can become quickly surprised or distracted and jerk the steering wheel or react to the jump in sound level that could injury passengers, or other vehicles occupied that may be nearby. This seems to be an issue with the inability to control sound level between different modes. At times though, the car will start and the radio will be blank, or be unresponsive until the car is turned off and back on again.
2023-11-03

ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-10-01
  • VIN: 4S3BNAD66J3
  • Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: I have a 2018 Subaru Legacy 2.5. The front catalytic converter failed April 2022 with 130k miles. the part was replace by Subaru and the part has failed again. Oct 2023 with 180k miles. Exhaust fumes enter the passenger compartment (which are Carbon Monoxide). The same part has failed two times in a short period of time. Subaru states this is not a warranty issue .This must become a recall.
2023-10-02

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-10-01
  • VIN: 4S3BNAS63J3
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: 8 inch Starlink Multimedia System screen delamination causing display for backup camera to not be displayed clearly along with irratic behavior of Starlink system.
2023-09-12

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-09-12
  • VIN: 4S3BNAR64J3
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: Driving on the interstate and the a hole exploded in the sunroof. Sounded like a gunshot. Nothing hit it to cause the damage.
2023-08-31

ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-08-08
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 4S3BNAF61J3
  • Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: A friend was trying to move the car from the street when it suddenly lurched and accelerated and hit a tree, and boulder, and another car. They had not stepped on the accelerator yet. She lost control of the car. It was totaled as per State Farm.
2023-08-01

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-07-30
  • VIN: 4S3BNAF69J3
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: Both wheel bearings have gone out in the rear since I bought this vehicle at 56,000 miles last year. I have never heard of bearings going out this soon! I have spent 800$ replacing bearings and I am questioning the build on the 2018 legacy now.
2023-07-20

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-07-13
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 4S3BNAC6XJ3
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Subaru Legacy. The contact stated while stopped at a traffic light with her foot lightly depressing the brake pedal, the vehicle independently accelerated and crashed into the rear bumper of a vehicle stopped in front of her. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that her front bumper, radiator, and part of the frame that supports the bumper had been damaged and needed to be replaced. The radiator had been damaged and leaked out all the coolant. There was only minor damage to a trailer hitch on the rear bumper on the vehicle the contact crashed into. The other vehicle was able to drive away from the scene of the crash and the contact drove her vehicle to a nearby repair shop. The police were not involved. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 50,000.
2023-07-07

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-10-01
  • VIN: 4S3BNAF62J3
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: The entire radio screen is delaminating. The dealer said it needed updated. They said they updated it. And a new screen would be about $3,000.00. As you can see in the picture the screen is very bubbled. It is almost completely inoperable. The top right hand side has a button that keeps popping on and off. It is very audible and is distracting to the point of being undeliverable. The only way to stop the constant beep, boop, beep, beep, beep, boop, beep, boop, beep, book, beep, boop. Is by pushing on the screen WHILE DRIVING!
2023-05-11

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-04-12
  • VIN: 453BNAN63J3
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: 2018 SUBARU LEGACY CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARD TO BATTERY ISSUE. THE CONSUMER STATED THEY HAVE TO GET A NEW BATTERY EVERY YEAR. THEY HAVE TO BUY A CAR BATTERY CHARGER TO CHARGE THE CAR BATTERY
2023-04-15

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-04-15
  • VIN: 4S3BNAN68J3
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: The infotainment system malfunctions - GPS stops working, screen goes blank, buttons don't work, sound doesn't work, radio stops, etc. This is dangerous if I'm driving on the highway in an unfamiliar place where I'm depending on the GPS and have to pull over and restart the car in order for the GPS to start working again. Unplugging and replugging my phone don't help. I've informed Fitgerald Subaru about this happening since I bought the car in March 2018. They updated the software several times, but nothing has helped. In December 2022 they said they'd replace my infotainment system, but it's still backordered and it's been 4 months. I have video showing it not working. I didn't know about the class action lawsuit.
2023-03-24

PARKING BRAKE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-11-01
  • VIN: 4S3BNAD68J3
  • Components: PARKING BRAKE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Subaru Legacy. The contact stated that after starting the vehicle, the headlights failed to illuminate, and the rearview camera was intermittently flashing and displaying a blank image. The contact stated that on various occasions when the vehicle was parked, the parking brake failed to activate as needed. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the head unit software needed to be updated; however, the part for the repair was on backorder. The vehicle was not repaired and occasionally failed to start. The VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V935000 (Visibility) or Number: 18V626000 (Parking Brake). The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 23,191.
2023-03-22

VISIBILITY PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-03-22
  • VIN: 4S3BNAS68J3
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Subaru Legacy. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the screen display went blank. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V935000 (Visibility). The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 102,000.
2023-03-08

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-03-05
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • VIN: 4S3BNAN65J3
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: Sunroof spontaneously failed. Tempered glass shattered and sprayed into cabin
2022-12-21

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-12-16
  • VIN: 4S3BNAB68J3
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: Subaru battery drainage defect. CAN electrical system causing battery to drain when car isn't running. Car may unknowingly not start at any time battery could be dead. Just put new battery in 1 year ago this did not fix the issue. I shouldn't have to worry about being stranded with my child if my car doesn't start due to a known battery issue.
2022-12-10

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-12-06
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 4S3BNAF65J3
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: Vehicle proceeded from a stop at intersection when it unexpectedly decelerated and holding the brakes down seem to do nothing, tried turning corner at next stop sign to maybe slow it down and hit utility pole and parked car in driveway. A resident that was outside on porch by stop sign said they heard it just loud exceleration. This was a short street block in a residential area. No warnings, vehicle undrivable and waiting on insurance. Police accident report filed. There were no skid marks, although there was wet pavement.12/6/2022
2022-11-02

VISIBILITY PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-11-02
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Subaru Legacy. The contact stated that the windshield fractured without impact on the lower passenger’s side of the windshield. The fracture started to spread up the windshield. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a dealer. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 65,000.
2022-10-30

SUSPENSION,AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-09-18
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 4S3BNAB60J3
  • Components: SUSPENSION,AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: I was going down the hill in my development, I made it approximately 2-300ft at 7-10MPH when suddenly there was a loud “bang”. I could not see anything, my airbags had deployed and blocked my field of vision. I ended up hitting an electrical pole. There was no need for the airbags to go off. I could have been killed. There is no airbag recall on my VIN number.
2022-10-04

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-09-21
  • VIN: 4s3bnan67j3
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: Premature battery failure, defective battery or electrical parts failure.
2022-09-27

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-07-17
  • VIN: 4S3BNAS64J3
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: Battery Fail on 2018 Legacy Sport Model. No warning or indication. Went in the car evening of July 17, 2022 . Vehicle was not responsive to starting - battery dead Had to go to 3rd party and obtain a battery as it was the weekend - had no other form of transportation. Had not indication there was in-fact an issue with Subaru and their batteries draining vehicles leaving cars stranded. When I called the Subaru Dealer in regards - this information was not volunteered.
2022-09-27

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-07-17
  • VIN: 4S3BNAS64J3
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: I forgot to add a item to my issue with the battery change - With changing the battery items acted odd in the vehicle - window issue with windows not working and Radio issues in which the car would randomly start controlling the electronic features of the phone, radio, cd player and maps. Car will randomly beep as to act like someone is touching the screen, it will also change radio channels, turn on CD make random calls to people on my contact list, providing mapping - it's as if it is possessed. Tried to make attempts to get it into the dealer - first appointment failed as it conflicted with something else. Now I can't get the vehicle in until October per them.

2018 Subaru Legacy recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2018 Subaru Legacy.

2021-07-29
  • Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
  • Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ascent, 2018 Forester, 2018-2020 Impreza, Legacy, Outback, 2018-2019 BRZ, WRX, and Toyota 86 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
  • Consequence: Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will replace the low-pressure fuel pump, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 24, 2021. Subaru and Toyota owners may call customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRG-21.
2018-12-31
  • Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
  • Components: VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES
  • Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2018 Legacy, Outback, and BRZ vehicles. In the affected vehicles, a software issue may cause the audio display system to not initialize, resulting in the camera display remaining blank. If this occurs, the rearview image will not display while backing up the vehicle. As a result, the vehicles fail to comply with requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety (FMVSS) number 111, "Rearview Mirrors."
  • Consequence: Failure to display the rearview image while backing up increases the risk of crash.
  • Remedy: Subaru has notified owners, and dealers will reprogram the audio system display software, free of charge. The recall began on February 5, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WTZ-85.
2018-11-01
  • Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
  • Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2018 Subaru Legacy and Outback vehicles. Due to a software error, the low fuel warning light may not illuminate at the intended remaining fuel level and the miles-to-empty display may incorrectly indicate a positive number despite the tank being empty.
  • Consequence: The inaccurate fuel display may cause a driver to unexpectedly run out of fuel and the vehicle to stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the combination meter software, free of charge. The recall began February 20, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WTW-82.

Negative 2018 Subaru Legacy car reviews

  1. Darrin Paucek 2024-11-10

    I have owned this car for a year now, but unfortunately, I have only been able to drive it for about 5 months due to some issues. It has required several trips to the shop for repairs, including problems with the driver's seat and the radio head unit. Despite these challenges, I am hopeful that the latest repair, which involved installing a new seat base, will finally resolve the issues. Overall, I remain optimistic about the car's future performance.The seat was giving problems again. The front end suspension was making a squeaking and popping noise. The chrome trim around the radio and gear selector was flaking and peeling off. The sunroof was leaking and the radio head unit went out. The seat, radio, trip, and sunroof were all replaced, and the entire front end suspension had to be redone, including the steering rack. Luckily, Subaru is making the car right. However, this car has been one more headache. Love definitely did not make this Subaru a Subaru. My advice to anyone considering purchasing this car would be to think twice before making the jump.

  2. Delbert Harvey 2024-07-23

    We purchased the 2018 Legacy because we believe that Subaru produces safe vehicles. We are also proud owners of an Outback and have been extremely satisfied with it. However, we were disappointed to discover that the cruise control had been updated to advance and decrease in 5 mph increments. This can be dangerous as it requires taking your eyes off the road to set the desired speed. We have expressed our concerns to Subaru and were informed that they may consider a software update if enough complaints are received. While we appreciate the car's excellent gas mileage and overall performance, we would prefer if not only Subaru but other auto manufacturers would revert to the basic cruise control that only increases/decreases 1 mph.

  3. Marquis Morissette 2024-07-02

    I own a 2018 Subaru Legacy 2.5 L. Unfortunately, the car experienced a broken transmission at 177700 km, which is quite early for a car to have transmission issues before reaching 200,000 km. The CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) is the culprit behind this issue. The transmission is designed to work like a 2-in-1 system, combining the usage of manual and automatic gear systems, but it operates similarly to a bicycle chain operating system, which can be prone to breaking and hard clutching when the car is loaded, especially with the 2.5 L weak engine power. Unfortunately, the transmission cannot be fixed or rebuilt, as the cables and chains inside need to be completely replaced. A new transmission costs $10,500 plus $1,500 for labor, which is almost half the price of the car. Additionally, Subaru is a rare market portion in Canada, so finding any used parts can be a challenge. It took me a week to find a used transmission and another two weeks to have it installed. Unfortunately, the Subaru part and service department was not very helpful with customer service. In conclusion, I would not recommend buying a Subaru with a CVT transmission.

  4. Cullen Heller 2024-05-27

    After a couple of years, I have noticed a major flaw in my legacy that remains a big problem for all back seat passengers - adults cannot fit in the back seat. The sides slope so far in where they meet the roof sloping down that no adult of any significant height can sit there. My daughter is only 5'10

  5. Kennedy Schoen 2024-05-24

    Hi there! I have a 2018 Subaru Legacy Limited with a 3.6 engine and all the trimmings. I've noticed that every time I use the heater or air conditioner, the antifreeze seems to be getting used up. I took it to the dealer, but they couldn't find anything wrong with it. I highly recommend that all Subaru owners keep an eye on their antifreeze use, as it seems to be a common issue. At the dealership, they just topped off the fluids, but it dropped to low on May 27th and then again last week. They didn't find any leaks today, so I'm a bit worried. Has anyone else experienced any antifreeze or transmission problems? I think it might be related to the antifreeze, but it's hard to tell until it's too late. On a side note, my family used to own a car repair business until my father passed away. Thanks for listening!

Positive 2018 Subaru Legacy car reviews

  1. Pete Herzog 2025-01-07

    We are thrilled with our second legacy, the 3.6 (6 cyl). It is roomier and more comfortable than our neighbor's Honda, and we love the 4-wheel drive and modern safety features. The eyesight feature works great, but it will take a bit of getting used to. If you drift in a lane, the steering wheel gives you a gentle tug back. The best part is that when a deer jumped out on a back road, the car braked, and we were able to avoid hitting it at a high speed. The 3.6 engine does not have super mpg, only about 20-22 around town, but it hits 29-30 on our road trips to the grandkids. Our neighbor with the Honda claims he gets more like 35-38, but for all the noise the reviews make, it only computes out to a few hundred dollars a year. If that's the price for 4WD, it's cheap. The trunk is very big, and the remote start cuts out after 10 or 15 minutes, but the car is warm in winter and cool in summer by then. Our only complaint is that there are no factory bike racks, so we have to go with an add-on. Our last legacy held its value really well, and there is always a buyer for 4WD cars here in the northeast.

  2. Marshall Bednar 2024-11-04

    The 2018 Legacy is an extremely safe, reliable, and comfortable vehicle, equipped with Eyesight and other advanced safety technologies.

  3. Jairo Effertz 2024-10-07

    I really like this car! The overall build quality is excellent, although the CVT could be a potential issue. However, I received a warranty notice that covers the CVT issue for 10 years or 100,000 miles, which is very generous. Everything else about the car is fantastic, although I do wish the trunk opening was wider. The only other minor issue is that, like with any vehicle with touch screen infotainment systems, there is no way to clear notifications on the screen without reaching over and touching it. If they remapped the built-in speech assistant button on the steering wheel, this would completely solve the problem and get rid of a useless and non-working piece of technology. Overall, I'm very happy with the car after 2 years of ownership!

  4. Hadley Keeling 2024-10-02

    This car has everything from comfort to performance value. You have a wide range of options available using the dash panel just above the steering column, and the main screen offers a variety of options for entertainment and navigation. The mini dash panel has a unique option for cruise control that is built into the steering column, allowing you to never have to manually adjust the speed or slowness of the vehicle. The driver's seat lets you adjust to how comfortable you want to drive, whether you're tall or short. The mirrors give you good angles to be aware of your surroundings. The climate control system is top-notch, with front and back heated seats. Now, let's talk about the engine performance. Some reviews say it takes 9+ seconds to go from 0 to 60 MPH, but I was able to achieve 0 to 70 in less than 4 seconds. Where do people get the idea that this is the slowest car? Maybe a 4-cylinder engine, but the 3.6L V6 isn't a slow car by any means. Not to mention the symmetrical AWD this car has, which is known to be better than Audi's AWD system. You really can't go wrong with this car.

  5. Misael Mayert 2024-09-24

    Updating NAV maps can be a bit tedious, but it's important to keep them up to date for accurate directions. I noticed that the Harman AUDIO system could benefit from more power, and I was a bit confused about the volume scale being from 1 to 38. When using voice commands, I found that if my phone was connected via Bluetooth, it would prompt me to call someone instead of finding what I was looking for. However, once I turned off Bluetooth, this issue was resolved. I also noticed that the NAV system can only save a limited number of items before the memory is full, which can be frustrating. On the other hand, my $100 Garmin can hold up to 500 items. While the Eyesight system has stopped me unexpectedly a couple of times, I appreciate that it's doing its job to keep me safe on the road. Overall, I think these features have their pros and cons, and it's important to weigh them based on personal preferences and needs.

Leave your review of 2018 Subaru Legacy

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2018 Subaru Legacy problems:

2018 Subaru Legacy Problems | Kelley Blue Book
2018 Subaru Legacy Problems | Kelley Blue Book
https://www.kbb.com/subaru/legacy/2018/common-problems/

How reliable is the 2018 Subaru Legacy? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.

Time Bomb? 2018 Subaru Legacy 2.5i Premium 125,000 mi : r ...
Time Bomb? 2018 Subaru Legacy 2.5i Premium 125,000 mi : r ...
https://www.reddit.com/r/whatcarshouldIbuy/comments/uhmv0u/time_bomb_2018_subaru_legacy_25i_premium_125000_mi/

May 3, 2022 ... those CVT's are known to shit the bed at 100k. you can buy a new crosstrek for 22k.

2018 Subaru Legacy Reliability - Consumer Reports
2018 Subaru Legacy Reliability - Consumer Reports
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/subaru/legacy/2018/reliability/

What Owners Say · Display screen freezes up · "The touchscreen radio has 'delaminated' - no longer functional due to heat separation of the screen. · "moisture ...

Known 2018 3.6R Limited issues? : r/subaruoutback
Known 2018 3.6R Limited issues? : r/subaruoutback
https://www.reddit.com/r/subaruoutback/comments/locdp5/known_2018_36r_limited_issues/

Feb 20, 2021 ... Known 2018 3.6R Limited issues? · driver's seat might need to be replaced (check if it squeeks--it's a common failure point). · Head unit issues, ...

6th Generation (2015-2019) Legacy Problems
6th Generation (2015-2019) Legacy Problems
http://www.subarucomplaints.com/models/legacy/generations/6/

Common 2015-2019 Subaru Legacy Problems · Denso Fuel Pump Failure · CAN System Parasitic Drain on the Battery · Unintended Acceleration · Cracked Windshields.

Other years of Subaru Legacy

subaru legacy 2019 photo
Legacy 2019
Subaru

102

3

18

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

114

6

14

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

22

3

22

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

26

2

25

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

3

2

17

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
subaru legacy 2024 photo
Legacy 2024
Subaru

8

0

15

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Are you having problems with your 2018 Subaru Legacy?

Add car complaint
2018 Subaru Legacy photo