Owners have filed 155 complaints
about the 1998 Subaru Legacy with NHTSA between 1997 and 2022.
The largest single group is the engine & cooling.
Across this model's run it ranks 11 of 33 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 66
Against the median year of the Subaru Legacy. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 100
23.9% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 14
8% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a
system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and
knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
25,000 – 49,999 miles
719.4%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
25.6%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
822.2%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
1130.6%
150,000+ miles
822.2%
NHTSA crash tests
The agency crash-tested this model year itself. These are its own
photographs and star ratings.
These stars come from the pre-2011 crash test programme. NHTSA
rebuilt the programme for the 2011 model year and states that
ratings either side of that change are not comparable — so do
not read these against a 2011-or-newer car's stars.
Frontal crash test
Photographs taken by NHTSA during its own New Car Assessment Program crash
tests of this model year. Public domain.
Configuration
Overall
Front
Side
Rollover
1998 Subaru Legacy 4-DR.
—
—
—
—
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Aug 1997peak 7Mar 2022
Recalls on the 1998 Subaru Legacy
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
01V216000
SUSPENSION:FRONT:SPRINGS:COIL SPRINGS
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH FRONT COIL SPRINGS ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, KENTUCKY, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW YORK, NEW JERSEY, NEW HAMPSHIRE, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, VIRGINIA, WEST VIRGINIA, AND WISCONSIN, AND IN THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. THE FRONT COIL SPRINGS WERE PRODUCED WITH POOR PAINT QUALITY WHICH, AFTER CONTINUED EXPOSURE TO CORROSIVE SALT, CAN RESULT IN BREAKAGE OF THE SPRING.
Risk: DEPENDING ON THE LOCATION OF THE FRACTURE, A BROKEN SPRING COULD MOVE PAST THE SPRING SEAT AND CONTACT A FRONT TIRE. SOME TIRES HAVE DEFLATED DUE TO CONTACT WITH A BROKEN SPRING.
00I002000
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR
THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SAFETY ACT. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. SOME OF THESE VEHICLES HAVE AN ALTERNATOR PROBLEM THAT CAN RESULT IN A LOSS OF CHARGING CAPABILITY.
Risk: IF THE ALTERNATOR FAILS, THE ALTERNATOR WARNING TELLTALE WILL ALERT THE DRIVER TO THE PROBLEM, GIVING AMPLE OPPORTUNITY TO SEEK REPAIR BEFORE A LOSS OF BATTERY POWER, WHICH, IF THE WARNING WERE IGNORED, COULD ULTIMATELY RESULT IN A LOSS OF VEHICLE POWER (ENGINE STALL).
99V040000
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM (ABS). (THE 1999 2.2 LITER LEGACY VEHICLES ARE EXCLUDED). IN EXTREMELY COLD WEATHER, THE BRAKE PEDAL GOES TO THE FLOOR AND THE VEHICLE STOPPING DISTANCE IS INCREASED.
Risk: THIS CONDITION CAUSES THE VEHICLE STOPPING DISTANCE TO BE INCREASED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A CRASH.
98V127000
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES, ALSO SERVICE PARTS SUPPLIED TO SUBARU DEALERS ARE INVOLVED (LOT NUMBERS F01 J21D2, F01 J30D2, F02 J09D1, F02 J09D2, AND F02 J20D1). THE PUROLATOR OIL FILTER CANS USED ON THESE VEHICLES CAN FRACTURE CAUSING A VAPORIZED OIL SPRAY AND SUBSEQUENT OIL LEAK.
Risk: THIS VAPORIZED OIL SPRAY CAN RESULT IN OIL VAPOR IGNITION BY THE HOT EXHAUST SYSTEM RESULTING IN A POSSIBLE UNDERHOOD FIRE.
98V042000
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL)
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS. DUE TO POOR WELDS, IGNITION KEYS CAN STICK, SHIFT LEVERS/LINKAGES CAN BREAK AND SHIFT LEVERS CAN MOVE.
Risk: THIS CONDITION CAN CAUSE UNEXPECTED MOVEMENT OF THE VEHICLE INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH OR PROPERTY DAMAGE.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 200118312,569 units in Canada
Other
Certain passenger vehicles equipped with front coil springs.The front coil springs were produced with poor paint quality which, after continued exposure to corrosive salt, can result in breakage of the spring. Depending on the location of the fracture, a broken spring could move past the spring seat and contact a front tire. Some tires have deflated due to contact with a broken spring. Correction: Dealers will notify customers to bring their vehicle to an authorize dealership to have a spring guard installed on both front struts to prevent tire puncture and replace any broken springs free of charge.
Recall 200006946,003 units in Canada
Other
Certain vehicle do not comply with Regulation 6 - Statement of Compliance. Compliance label was not expressed in both official languages in regard to vehicle classification. Correction: No corrective action will be taken for existing vehicles. Correct compliance label will be affixed in current production vehicles.
Recall 199904316,710 units in Canada
Brakes
On certain vehicles equipped with anti-lock brakes (ABS), the brake master cylinder secondary circuit may not function in extremely cold weather due to brake fluid bypassing the fluid supply valve, which remains open. This condition can result in the brake pedal going to the floor during normal light brake application, thereby increasing stopping distance. Correction: Brake master cylinder will be repaired or replaced as required.
Recall 19981762,207 units in Canada
Engine
THE ORIGINAL OIL FILTER CANS ON THESE VEHICLES MAY FATIGUE AND FRACTURE CAUSING AN INITIAL VAPORIZED OIL SPRAY AND SUBSEQUENT OIL LEAK. SUCH VAPORIZED OIL SPRAY CAN RESULT IN OIL VAPOUR IGNITION BY THE HOT EXHAUST SYSTEM AND SUBSEQUENT UNDERHOOD FIRE. CORRECTION: VEHICLES WHICH HAVE NOT HAD THEIR FIRST SERVICE INSPECTION WILL HAVE THE OIL AND FILTER CHANGED.
Recall 19980301,393 units in Canada
Powertrain
THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION SHIFT LEVER ASSEMBLIES ON THESE VEHICLES MAY FAIL DUE TO POOR WELDS WITHIN THE ASSEMBLY. THIS CAN RESULT IN STUCK IGNITION KEYS, BROKEN SHIFT LEVERS/LINKAGES AND IMPROPER MOVEMENT OF SHIFT LEVERS. CORRECTION: AUTOMATIC SHIFT LEVER ASSEMBLY WILL BE REPLACED WITH ONE FURNISHED BY A DIFFERENT SUPPLIER.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
at 155,025 milesAlvarado, TXFire
POWER TRAIN
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 SUBARU LEGACY. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO DRIVE, THE TRANSMISSION BEGAN TO SMOKE AND THEN UNEXPECTEDLY FAILED. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 155,025. UPDATED 05/31/17*LJ
NHTSA complaint #10965763 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Hockessin, DECrash1 injured
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
CPSC#I1220374A. 1998 LEGACY SUBARU. CONSUMER STATED THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY IN A FRONTAL COLLISION.
NHTSA complaint #10449775 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 123,000 milesHamilton Square, NJCrash
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
VEHICLE INVOLVED IN A FRONTAL COLLISION WITH A FIRE HYDRANT. THERE WAS SUBSTANTIAL DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE AND THE HYDRANT DID BREAK AWAY AS DESIGNED. AIR BAG DID NOT DEPLOY.
NHTSA complaint #10359674 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Ashley Falls, MACrash2 injured
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 SUBARU LEGACY. WHILE PULLING INTO A PARKING SPACE WITH HER FOOT ON THE BRAKE PEDAL, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED AND SHE WAS UNABLE TO STOP THE VEHICLE WHICH CAUSED IT TO CRASH INTO A BUILDING. TWO PASSENGERS WERE INJURED. THE INSURANCE COMPANY STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
NHTSA complaint #10313562 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 89,000 milesNorth Tonawanda, NYCrash1 injured
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
IN 2004 MY HOOD LATCH FAILED EMERGENCY LATCH AND HOOD FLEW UP AND CRASHED MY WINDSHIELD. SUBARU SAID THEY FIXED LATCH BUT YESTERDAY 3/3/09 FOR A SECOND TIME MY HOOD CAME UP SMASHING MY WINDSHIELD VIOLENTLY I AM INJURED AGAIN AND TRAUMATIZED AND SUBARU NORTHTOWN COLLISION NEVER TOLD ME OF THIS PROBLEM AND I WAS ALMOST KILLED. THIS IS SO VERY DANGEROUS AND NEEDS TO BE BROUGHT TO PEOPLE'S ATTENTION.
NHTSA complaint #10260764 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 39,000 milesNEW Hyde Park, NYCrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 SUBARU LEGACY. WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH, THE CONTACT LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND CRASHED INTO A GUARDRAIL. NONE OF THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. DURING THE CRASH, THE CONTACT WAS FORCED THROUGH THE WINDSHIELD. THE INSURANCE COMPANY STATED THAT THEY HAD NO FINDINGS REGARDING THE CRASH. THERE WERE NO WARNING LIGHTS PRESENT. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 39,000.
NHTSA complaint #10207443 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
at 307,000 milesSpringdale, WA
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
The contact owns a 1998 Subaru Legacy. The contact stated while driving approximately 45 MPH, there was a delayed failure in the braking system. The contact notified the local dealer regarding the failure and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 99V040000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) for which the vehicle was included. The vehicle was not diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired due to parts not being available. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 307,000.
NHTSA complaint #11458828 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 130,000 milesFalls Church, VA
SUSPENSION
THE WELD THAT ATTACHED THE FRONT RIGHT STRUT ASSEMBLY TO THE BODY COMPLETELY FAILED. THE WHEEL COLLAPSED INTO THE WHEEL WELL. THIS HAPPENED WHILE I BEGINNING TO MAKE A RIGHT TURN. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT MOVING MORE THAN 3-4 MPH. FOR SOME MONTHS BEFORE THE WELD FAILED THERE WAS VIBRATION DURING BRAKING THAT WE COULD NOT DIAGNOSE. I ENDED UP REPLACING THE BRAKE PADS, ROTORS, BRAKE CYLINDERS ON BOTH FRONT WHEELS TO NO AVAIL. I HAVE PICTURES OF THE COLLAPSED WHEEL. I DON'T KNOW HOW TO UPLOAD THE PICTURE. I CAN SEND IT TO AN EMAIL ADDRESS IF YOU WISH.
NHTSA complaint #11080757 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 150,000 milesAlvarado, TX
WHEELS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 SUBARU LEGACY. WHILE THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE BRAKE PEDAL FELT SPONGY. THE CONTACT HEARD A RATTLING NOISE BUT COULD NOT DETERMINE THE ORIGIN. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE BRAKE DISCS, BRAKE ROTORS, AND IDLER ARMS ON BOTH SIDES OF THE VEHICLE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 150,000. UPDATED 08/24/17*LJ THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLES SHOULD NOT HAVE BEEN SOLD GIVEN IT'S BRAKE CONDITION. UPDATED 08/25/2017
NHTSA complaint #11004059 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 150,000 milesAlvarado, TX
SERVICE BRAKES
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 SUBARU LEGACY. WHILE THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE BRAKE PEDAL FELT SPONGY. THE CONTACT HEARD A RATTLING NOISE BUT COULD NOT DETERMINE THE ORIGIN. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE BRAKE DISCS, BRAKE ROTORS, AND IDLER ARMS ON BOTH SIDES OF THE VEHICLE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 150,000. UPDATED 08/24/17*LJ THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLES SHOULD NOT HAVE BEEN SOLD GIVEN IT'S BRAKE CONDITION. UPDATED 08/25/2017
NHTSA complaint #11004059 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Alvarado, TX
SERVICE BRAKES
JUNE 26 2017 I WENT TO HAVE MY FRONT BRAKE PADS REPLACED, BECAUSE THEY FELT SPONGY AND DIFFICULT TO STOP THE VEHICLE. THE MECHANIC TOLD ME I NEEDED TO REPLACE THE BRAKE PADS, ROTORS, AND OUTER TIE RODS ON BOTH ENDS. ALL THESE PARTS WERE DANGEROUSLY WORN PREEXISTING CONDITIONS BEFORE I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE IN DECEMBER 2016. THE BRAKE REPAIR WAS DONE AT: 424 WEST HENDERSON STREET, CLEBURNE, TEXAS 76033. 817 645 7848. ON JUNE 26, 2017 I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE FROM BRAD DEERY HONDA IN IOWA USED, AS IS. SINCE THEN I HAVE HAD TO HAVE NUMEROUS EXPENSIVE REPAIRS. THERE SHOULD BE LAWS TO PROTECT CONSUMERS FROM DEALERSHIPS THAT SELL VEHICLES THAT ARE UNSAFE AND FALLING APART, AND REFUSING TO HELP PAY REPAIR BILLS. USED VEHICLES DO NOT QUALIFY FOR HELP UNDER THE LEMON LAWS. PLEASE LET ME KNOW IF THERE IS SOMETHING I CAN DO TO GET HELP WITH MY REPAIR BILLS ON MY VEHICLE FOR UNSAFE PREEXISTING MECHANICAL CONDITIONS. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
NHTSA complaint #11001583 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 155,025 milesAlvarado, TXFire
POWER TRAIN
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 SUBARU LEGACY. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO DRIVE, THE TRANSMISSION BEGAN TO SMOKE AND THEN UNEXPECTEDLY FAILED. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 155,025. UPDATED 05/31/17*LJ
NHTSA complaint #10965763 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 120,000 milesMoriah Center, NY
SERVICE BRAKES
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 SUBARU LEGACY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE HE INSPECTED THE VEHICLE, HE NOTICED THAT THE REAR BRAKE LINES WERE CORRODED DUE TO DEFECTIVE STEEL METAL. THE CONTACT BELIEVED THAT IF THE VEHICLE WAS EQUIPPED WITH BRAKE MASTER CYLINDERS FOR THE REAR AND FRONT, THE VEHICLE COULD BE SAFER. THE VEHICLE HAD ONLY ONE MASTER CYLINDER FOR THE CORRODED REAR BRAKES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 120,000. UPDATD12/14/12*LJ THE CONSUMER STATED THE PROBLEM THAT THERE ARE NO BRAKES ON THE VEHICLE WHEN A REA BRAKE LIKE BREAKS. UPDATED 12/17/2012
NHTSA complaint #10483164 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Hockessin, DECrash1 injured
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
CPSC#I1220374A. 1998 LEGACY SUBARU. CONSUMER STATED THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY IN A FRONTAL COLLISION.
NHTSA complaint #10449775 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 123,000 milesHamilton Square, NJCrash
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
VEHICLE INVOLVED IN A FRONTAL COLLISION WITH A FIRE HYDRANT. THERE WAS SUBSTANTIAL DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE AND THE HYDRANT DID BREAK AWAY AS DESIGNED. AIR BAG DID NOT DEPLOY.
NHTSA complaint #10359674 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 215,000 milesTaftville, CT
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
FUEL (GASOLINE) FILLER NECK FOR THE 1998 SUBARU LEGACY WAGON RUSTS OUT BECAUSE THE TUBE IS BEHIND A PLASTIC MOLDING THAT ACCUMULATES DIRT, SALT, WATER, AND ROTS THE TUBING CAUSING A CHRONIC LEAK OF GASOLINE POTENTIALLY OVER THE EXHAUST SYSTEM. RECALL AND REPAIR IS NEEDED.
NHTSA complaint #10344688 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Ashley Falls, MACrash2 injured
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 SUBARU LEGACY. WHILE PULLING INTO A PARKING SPACE WITH HER FOOT ON THE BRAKE PEDAL, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED AND SHE WAS UNABLE TO STOP THE VEHICLE WHICH CAUSED IT TO CRASH INTO A BUILDING. TWO PASSENGERS WERE INJURED. THE INSURANCE COMPANY STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
NHTSA complaint #10313562 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Unknown, DC
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS
DEFECTIVE FRAME ON 1998 SUBARU LEGACY. *NJ THE CONSUMER STATED THE BRAKES AND TIE RODS WERE REPLACED. AND A ALIGNMENT WAS DONE AS WELL. WHILE DRIVING, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO MAKE A RUMBLING SOUND, AS WELL A STRONGER PULL TO THE RIGHT WHEN BRAKING. THE CONSUMER WAS ABLE TO PULL OVER AND UPON INSPECTING THE VEHICLE, HE NOTICED THE FRONT LEFT CROSS-MEMBER WAS SEVERED IN THE CENTER.
NHTSA complaint #10299229 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Unknown, DC
SUSPENSION
DEFECTIVE FRAME ON 1998 SUBARU LEGACY. *NJ THE CONSUMER STATED THE BRAKES AND TIE RODS WERE REPLACED. AND A ALIGNMENT WAS DONE AS WELL. WHILE DRIVING, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO MAKE A RUMBLING SOUND, AS WELL A STRONGER PULL TO THE RIGHT WHEN BRAKING. THE CONSUMER WAS ABLE TO PULL OVER AND UPON INSPECTING THE VEHICLE, HE NOTICED THE FRONT LEFT CROSS-MEMBER WAS SEVERED IN THE CENTER.
NHTSA complaint #10299229 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Unknown, DC
STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY
DEFECTIVE FRAME ON 1998 SUBARU LEGACY. *NJ THE CONSUMER STATED THE BRAKES AND TIE RODS WERE REPLACED. AND A ALIGNMENT WAS DONE AS WELL. WHILE DRIVING, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO MAKE A RUMBLING SOUND, AS WELL A STRONGER PULL TO THE RIGHT WHEN BRAKING. THE CONSUMER WAS ABLE TO PULL OVER AND UPON INSPECTING THE VEHICLE, HE NOTICED THE FRONT LEFT CROSS-MEMBER WAS SEVERED IN THE CENTER.
NHTSA complaint #10299229 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Unknown, DC
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
DEFECTIVE FRAME ON 1998 SUBARU LEGACY. *NJ THE CONSUMER STATED THE BRAKES AND TIE RODS WERE REPLACED. AND A ALIGNMENT WAS DONE AS WELL. WHILE DRIVING, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO MAKE A RUMBLING SOUND, AS WELL A STRONGER PULL TO THE RIGHT WHEN BRAKING. THE CONSUMER WAS ABLE TO PULL OVER AND UPON INSPECTING THE VEHICLE, HE NOTICED THE FRONT LEFT CROSS-MEMBER WAS SEVERED IN THE CENTER.
NHTSA complaint #10299229 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 254,000 milesDelmar, NY
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 SUBARU LEGACY WAGON. THE DRIVER-SIDE CROSS MEMBER THAT CONNECTS THE WHEEL ASSEMBLY TO THE MAIN FRAME HAD CORRODED. THE STEERING WHEEL ALSO MAKES A CLANGING NOISE WHEN TURNING AND SOMETIMES DOES NOT RESPOND. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED, AND HE WAS ADVISED THAT THE WARRANTY EXPIRED AND THERE WERE NO RECALLS ON HIS VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DRIVABLE AND IT REQUIRES A TOW TRUCK TO BE TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR REPAIRS. ALL REPAIRS WILL BE AT THE OWNERS EXPENSE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 254,000.
NHTSA complaint #10296541 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 89,000 milesNorth Tonawanda, NYCrash1 injured
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
IN 2004 MY HOOD LATCH FAILED EMERGENCY LATCH AND HOOD FLEW UP AND CRASHED MY WINDSHIELD. SUBARU SAID THEY FIXED LATCH BUT YESTERDAY 3/3/09 FOR A SECOND TIME MY HOOD CAME UP SMASHING MY WINDSHIELD VIOLENTLY I AM INJURED AGAIN AND TRAUMATIZED AND SUBARU NORTHTOWN COLLISION NEVER TOLD ME OF THIS PROBLEM AND I WAS ALMOST KILLED. THIS IS SO VERY DANGEROUS AND NEEDS TO BE BROUGHT TO PEOPLE'S ATTENTION.
NHTSA complaint #10260764 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 89,000 milesBoone, NC
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
FUEL (GASOLINE) FILLER NECK FOR THE 1998 SUBARU LEGACY SW RUSTS OUT BECAUSE THE TUBE IS BEHIND A PLASTIC MOLDING THAT ACCUMULATES DIRT, SALT, WATER, AND ROTS THE TUBING CAUSING A CHRONIC LEAK OF GASOLINE POTENTIALLY OVER THE EXHAUST SYSTEM. RECALL AND REPAIR IS NEEDED.
NHTSA complaint #10251040 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 120,000 milesTraverse City, MI
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
IT SEEMS AFTER 5 MINUTES OF INVESTIGATION THAT THERE IS THOUSANDS OF 1997 TO 2002 SUBARU OWNERS WHO ARE HAVE THE PROBLEM WITH OVER HEATING AND HEAD GASKET REPLACEMENT. SUBARU REFUSES TO ACKNOWLEDGE AN ISSUE OR DESIGN FLAW AND IS MAKING THE CUSTOMER BARE THE COST OF REPAIRING A FAULTY HEAD GASKET PROBLEM. EVEN REPLACING THE HEAD GASKET DOES NOT INSURE THAT THE PROBLEM WILL BE DEALT WITH AND NO FURTHER TROUBLE WILL BE HAD.
NHTSA complaint #10228990 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 126,494 milesChatham, NY
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:FILLER PIPE AND CAP
THE FUEL FILLER NECK ON THIS VEHICLE WAS COMPLETELY ROTTED (RUSTED PIPE, PLUS ASSOCIATED HOSES WERE ROTTED) AND REQUIRED REPLACEMENT.
NHTSA complaint #10224970 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 80,580 milesWest Roxbury, MA
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
POORLY DESIGNED GAS FILLER NECK/PIPE HAS CORRODED AND IS LEAKING GASOLINE. THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARD WITH POTENTIALLY GRAVE CONSEQUENCES.
NHTSA complaint #10217567 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 39,000 milesNEW Hyde Park, NYCrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 SUBARU LEGACY. WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH, THE CONTACT LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND CRASHED INTO A GUARDRAIL. NONE OF THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. DURING THE CRASH, THE CONTACT WAS FORCED THROUGH THE WINDSHIELD. THE INSURANCE COMPANY STATED THAT THEY HAD NO FINDINGS REGARDING THE CRASH. THERE WERE NO WARNING LIGHTS PRESENT. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 39,000.
NHTSA complaint #10207443 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 85,000 milesMenlo Park, CA
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
1 X OVERHEATED ON A HOT DAY, HEADING UP A HILL. NOTICED HIGH TEMP AND TURNED ON HEATER, WAITED FOR CAR TO COOL, ADDED H2O. 2 MONTHS LATER, DRIVING ON A HOT DAY WITH AC ON, SUDDEN CLICKING, CHECK ENGINE LIGHT, LOST POWER, SMOKE, STOPPED. TOWED TO GARAGE THAT SPECIALIZES IN SUBARU AND THEY FOUND HOLE IN HEAD GASKET. REPAIRS TO COST $3K AND THIS IS SOMETHING THEY SEE 2X A WEEK WITH SUBARU VEHICLES. FOUND A WEB SITE WHERE DOZENS OF PEOPLE COMPLAIN OF THE SAME ISSUE OVER THE YEARS. SUBARU APPARENTLY HAS A RECALL ON 1999-2002 VEHICLES, BUT NOT OTHERS WITH THE SAME ISSUE. SUBARU SHOULD BE PAYING FOR THE PARTS ON THIS WIDESPREAD AND KNOWN ISSUE!
NHTSA complaint #10197311 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 144,000 milesSeattle, WA
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
MY 98 SUBARU LEGACY OUTBACK 2.5 LITER, 144K MILES WAS SPORADICALLY OVERHEATING WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY THROUGH A SNOW/RAIN STORM. THE TEMPERATURE GAUGE WOULD GO UP, AND THE CABIN HEATER WOULD START PRODUCING COOL AIR. I PULLED OVER AND LET IT COOL DOWN, FILLED THE RADIATOR BACK UP WITH WATER (IT HAD OVERFLOWED) AND DROVE SLOWLY HOME. WHEN I TOOK IT TO THE MECHANIC, HE SUGGESTED WHEN HEARING THE SYMPTOMS THAT IT WAS A BLOWN HEAD GASKET, AND THAT THIS SUBARU ENGINE WAS NOTORIOUS FOR THIS. HE EVEN SUGGESTED A CLASS ACTION SUIT. AFTER HE CHECKED IT OUT, IT WAS INDEED A BLOWN HEAD GASKET. AFTER SOME WEB RESEARCH ON CAR FORUMS, I FOUND SEVERAL OTHER PEOPLE WITH EXACTLY THE SAME PROBLEM WITH THIS PARTICULAR ENGINE.
NHTSA complaint #10176174 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
NEW York, NYCrash1 injured
SEATS
INQUIRING HOW A GOVERNMENT INITIATED RECALL THE YEAR OF A CAR OR REPLACEMENT PARTS WORKS, INJURED IN A 1998 LEGACY WAGON. *KB THE CONSUMER TRIED TO RECOVER THE ORIGINAL HEAD REST FROM THE VEHICLE, BUT WAS TOLD IT WAS NO LONGER AVAILABLE AND IT WOULD BE REPLACED WITH A MUCH SAFER MODEL. THE CONSUMER LEARNED THAT THE MANUFACTURER UNOFFICIALLY REPLACED THE SEATS AND HEAD RESTS OF HER MAKE AND MODEL BEGINNING WITH THE 1999. *JB
NHTSA complaint #10164727 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
