Owners have filed 75 complaints
about the 2009 Subaru Legacy with NHTSA between 2009 and 2025.
The largest single group is the airbags.
Across this model's run it ranks 27 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 — 32
Against the median year of the Subaru Legacy. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 55
10.7% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 38
22% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
10,000 – 24,999 miles
612.0%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
714.0%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
1224.0%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
1122.0%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
1122.0%
150,000+ miles
36.0%
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.
Side barrier 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
2009 Subaru Legacy 4-DR. w/SAB
—
—
—
10.7% risk
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.
Apr 2009peak 6Jan 2025
Recalls on the 2009 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
20V002000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (including STI), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
20V001000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (STI included), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
20V003000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (including STI), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "Zone C." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
19V297000
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, 2008-2011 Impreza vehicles, 2008-2014 WRX vehicles, 2005-2014 Legacy vehicles, 2005-2014 Outback vehicles and 2006-2008 Tribeca vehicles equipped with a mechanical key ignition switch installed as a replacement part. The ball spring inside the switch may break, reducing the strength of the ignition switch. If this occurs, the weight on the key ring and certain road conditions could cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position to the accessory position, turning off the engine.
Risk: The engine turning off unexpectedly can increase the risk of a crash. If a crash occurs under this condition, the air bag may not deploy, increasing the risk of injury.
18V014000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009 Tribeca, Impreza, Forester, WRX, Legacy, and Outback vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Risk: An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
18V013000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2010 Tribeca, Impreza, Forester, WRX, Legacy, and Outback vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Risk: An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
18V012000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Legacy, Forester, Tribeca, WRX and Outback vehicles, and 2009-2011 Impreza vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Risk: An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
17V026000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2005-2006 Baja, 2009 Forester, Legacy and Outback and 2006-2009 Impreza (including WRX and STI models) and Tribeca vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Risk: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 202000123,159 units in Canada
Airbag
Issue: This recall is for certain vehicles that had an airbag inflator replaced as a part of an earlier recall campaign. This recall provides a final repair. Long-term exposure to high absolute humidity and temperature, combined with high temperature cycling, may eventually degrade the propellant contained in the passenger-front airbag. This could cause the airbag to deploy with more force than normal. If the airbag inflator ruptures, fragments could be propelled toward vehicle occupants or cause damage to the airbag assembly, preventing its proper function. Safety Risk: If the vehicle is involved in a crash requiring an airbag deployment, the airbag inflator could rupture and create a risk of injury. Corrective Actions: Owners will be notified by mail and instructed to take their vehicle to a dealer to inspect the passenger-front airbag inflator. The passenger-front airbag module or inflator will be replaced as necessary. Note: The Canadian climate results in the propellant degrading slowly. This recall is being conducted as a precaution to address future risk. It is expected that all airbag inflators will be replaced before their function would be affected.
Recall 2019191100 units in Canada
Electrical
Issue: A problem with certain replacement ignition switches may allow the key turn out of the “ON” position while driving. This could cause the engine to turn off suddenly. It could also cause the airbag system not to work properly in a crash. Note: This is a voluntary service campaign that is not being conducted under the requirements of the Motor Vehicle Safety Act. This problem only affects certain parts used for replacement of original parts. Safety Risk: A sudden loss of engine power could increase the risk of a crash. An airbag system that does not work properly in a crash could cause an increased risk of injuries. Corrective Actions: The company will notify owners by mail and instruct them to take their vehicle to a dealer to inspect the ignition switch, and replace it as necessary.
Recall 201801920,453 units in Canada
Airbag
On certain vehicles, long-term exposure to high absolute humidity and temperature, combined with high temperature cycling, could eventually degrade the propellant contained in the passenger frontal airbag. This could cause the airbag to deploy with more force than normal. As a result, if the vehicle were involved in a collision that warrants airbag deployment, fragments could be propelled toward vehicle occupants, and the airbag assembly could be damaged, preventing proper function. These issues could increase the risk of injury. Correction: Dealers will replace the passenger frontal airbag inflator. Note: Canadian climate results in the propellant degrading slowly. The recall is being conducted as a precaution to address future risk, and is expected to replace airbag inflators before their function would be affected.
Recall 201649215,378 units in Canada
Electrical
On certain turbocharged vehicles, the relay which controls the secondary air injection pump may have been manufactured incorrectly. As a result, the relay may allow the pump to operate continuously. If this condition were to occur, the pump may overheat and melt, causing burning smell or smoke and possibly resulting in a fire. This could increase the risk of injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will install a revised relay.
Recall 2014223105,649 units in Canada
Brakes
On certain vehicles, the center and rear brake lines may become perforated due to corrosion. This would cause a leak in the brake system potentially increasing stopping distances, which could increase the risk of a crash causing injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will inspect vehicles and either apply an anti-corrosion coating to the lines, or replace them as necessary. Note: This recall supersedes recall 2013092. Vehicles that were inspected and/or repaired under the previous recall will require re-inspection and/or repair.
Recall 201309225,732 units in Canada
Brakes
On certain vehicles, due to the design of the fuel tank protector, the center and rear brake lines may become perforated due to corrosion. This would cause a leak in the brake system potentially increasing stopping distances, which could increase the risk of a crash causing injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will inspect vehicles and either apply an anti-corrosion coating to the lines, or replace them as necessary. Note: This recall is superseded by recall 2014223.
Recall 20083331,489 units in Canada
Engine
On certain vehicles equipped with a 2.5L turbo engine, the oil supply pipe to the turbocharger may crack at the stay brazing on the cylinder head-side. If the pipe cracks it will allow oil to leak and if the leaking oil contacts components operating at high temperatures, an engine compartment fire could occur. Correction: Dealers will replace the cracked pipe with a modified unit or if no crack is found an additional bracket will be installed to increase the rigidity of the pipe.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
Tioga, PACrash
SERVICE BRAKES
Following traffic and under heavy braking due to lead vehicle braking hard and making turn without turn signal, brake pedal went to floor and vehicle continued traveling forward resulting in rear end collision with vehicle in front. Upon inspection at dealership both rear brake lines found to be corroded badly and sever leakage from both left and right rear brake lines. Corrosion & weeping also noted by dealership body shop on both lines coming out of vehicle from under rear seat above fuel tank. The corrosion and leakage matches with recall campaign ID: 14V311000.
NHTSA complaint #11439301 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 85,000 milesHowell, NJFire
ENGINE
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 SUBARU LEGACY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO SHAKING BEFORE DECELERATING. THE CONTACT THEN NOTICED FLAMES AND SMOKE COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD. THE CONTACT STOPPED THE VEHICLE, SHUT THE ENGINE OFF AND EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS DIAGNOSED BY THE DEALER AND A INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO BOTH INDICATED THAT THE DEFECT WAS CAUSED BY AN ENGINE PISTON THAT MALFUNCTIONED AND CREATED A HOLE IN THE ENGINE BLOCK. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND NO SOLUTION WAS OFFERED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 85,000.
NHTSA complaint #10567161 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 18,000 milesGarden Grove, CACrash2 injured
SEAT BELTS
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 SUBARU LEGACY. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 50 MPH THE VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A CRASH AND THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE SEAT BELT ALSO FAILED TO HOLD HER FIRMLY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT AS WELL AS THE PASSENGER OF ANOTHER VEHICLE WERE REPORTED INJURED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED TO AN INSURANCE LOT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT EXAMINED FOR THE CAUSE OF FAILURE AND WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 18,000.
NHTSA complaint #10364066 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 18,000 milesGarden Grove, CACrash2 injured
AIR BAGS
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 SUBARU LEGACY. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 50 MPH THE VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A CRASH AND THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE SEAT BELT ALSO FAILED TO HOLD HER FIRMLY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT AS WELL AS THE PASSENGER OF ANOTHER VEHICLE WERE REPORTED INJURED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED TO AN INSURANCE LOT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT EXAMINED FOR THE CAUSE OF FAILURE AND WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 18,000.
NHTSA complaint #10364066 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 17,500 milesNorth Tonawanda, NYCrash
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
ON APRIL 14TH I WAS INVOLVED IN A CHAIN REACTION ACCIDENT ON THE I90 IN AMHERST, NEW YORK. MY 2009 SUBARU LEGACY WAS THE LAST CAR OF THREE INVOLVED. I INCURRED SIGNIFICANT FRONT END DAMAGE OF AT LEAST $9,000. THE MOST SERIOUS COMPLAINT IS THAT THE AIR BAG NEVER DEPLOYED. I COMPLAINED TO SUBARU ABOUT THIS AND WANTED THEM TO LOOK AT THE VEHICLE. THEY REFUSED AND SAID IT WAS NOT THEIR ISSUE.
NHTSA complaint #10328625 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Rochester Hills, MI2 injured
SEATS
2009, 2010 HEAD RESTS ARE SO UNCOMFORTABLE I AM ACTUALLY DEVELOPING LOWER BACK PAIN FOR THE FIRST TIME IN MY LIFE. YOU HAVE SACRIFICED PERMANENT DISABLING BACK PROBLEMS FOR A SAFETY ISSUE. THE HEAD IS PUSHED TO FAR FORWARD, STRAINING MY NECK. I AM A TALL WOMAN SO I SIT UP STRAIGHT UNLIKE A MAN. I AM IN A CHRONIC STATE OF DISCOMFORT BECAUSE OF THE NEW HEAD RESTS. WE HAVE DECIDED TO LEASE A CAR VERSUS PURCHASING A CAR BECAUSE OF THIS SERIOUS ISSUE. WE WERE GOING TO PURCHASE A NEW GM VEHICLE BUT CAN NOT BECAUSE OF THESE NEW HEAD RESTS. I HAVE SHOPPED ALL CAR MAKES, TOYOTA, CHRYSLER, SUBARU, AND ALL THE SEATS ARE IMPOSSIBLY UNCOMFORTABLE AND CREATE EITHER A NECK ACHE, LOWER BACK ACHE, OR BOTH. PLEASE CHANGE YOUR POLICY ON THIS ISSUE, NO ONE WANTS THESE CARS THEY ARE SO BAD. EVEN MY 28 YEAR OLD DAUGHTER TRIED SOME AND SAID SHE WILL KEEP HER OLDER CAR GOING BEFORE SHE WOULD SIT IN CARS MADE SO UNCOMFORTABLY.
NHTSA complaint #10275113 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Kennedale, TX
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Subaru puts on plastic fuel tanks, and overtime the connections that connected to the car that are metal will rub a hole into the fuel tank and caused leaking. If you park this in a garage a puddle will form any spark, such as a outlet will ignite the garage and blow up the house.
NHTSA complaint #11639977 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
New Britain, CT
SERVICE BRAKES
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.
NHTSA complaint #11611948 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
New Britain, CT
VISIBILITY/WIPER
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.
NHTSA complaint #11611948 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
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.
NHTSA complaint #11611948 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Auburn, ME
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
2009 Subaru Legacy 2.5I Parasitic Drain If vehicle is not driven every 2-4 days in winter or every 6-8 days when is warmer it will need a jump start. I looked for a recall but there isn't one for the year of my car or for the Fourth Generation 2005-2009 series. I took it to the dealer 4 times and they said there was nothing wrong the first two times. On the 3rd time they said it was my problem was that the battery was old and to prove them wrong I got one of their Subaru brand/label batteries and the same problem kept happening. I took it to one more mechanic with the same results. I keep seeing this articles on blogs online about Subaru's from multiple years and series having Parasitic Drain issues. I do have the receipts pack in boxes if need it.
NHTSA complaint #11610709 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 56,000 milesBronx, NY
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
The contact owns a 2009 Subaru Legacy. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake pedal was depressed and went to the floorboard. The vehicle failed to stop immediately. The brake warning light was illuminated. The contact activated the parking brake to stop the vehicle. The contact was able to drive to the residence. Upon inspection, the contact noticed that the brake line was corroded and leaking brake fluid. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The contact stated that the vehicle was previously repaired at the dealer under NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V311000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the failure recurred. The failure mileage was approximately 56,000.
NHTSA complaint #11551993 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Leonardtown, MD
SERVICE BRAKES
Passenger rear brake line corroded and burst causing loss of brake fluid. Due to the loss of brake fluid, I lost 95% of brake pressure making it very difficult to stop. Only reason I say 95% is because the brake system is designed to still function in limp mode, but still terrifying while driving. The problem was discovered by myself as I was a certified technician for over 10 years for this brand. The vehicle hasn’t been looked at by anyone but myself. The brake lamp indicator did come on shortly before the line burst.
NHTSA complaint #11500035 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Tioga, PACrash
SERVICE BRAKES
Following traffic and under heavy braking due to lead vehicle braking hard and making turn without turn signal, brake pedal went to floor and vehicle continued traveling forward resulting in rear end collision with vehicle in front. Upon inspection at dealership both rear brake lines found to be corroded badly and sever leakage from both left and right rear brake lines. Corrosion & weeping also noted by dealership body shop on both lines coming out of vehicle from under rear seat above fuel tank. The corrosion and leakage matches with recall campaign ID: 14V311000.
NHTSA complaint #11439301 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Naugatuck, CT
SERVICE BRAKES
While driving the brakelines were affected and brakes weren't working any longer. I see online there is a recall for my specific car. The recall is for corrosion of the brake lines in specific snow states and the use of salt. I live in CT and bought the car from a private owner. I looked to see if the car was ever serviced for the recall and I am finding nothing on it. Thr exact spot indicated in the recall is exactly where the brake lines corroded so much that there is a hole now. Thanks for your time.
NHTSA complaint #11426246 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 134,000 milesCincinnati, OH
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
The contact owns a 2009 Subaru Legacy. The contact stated while driving 30 mph, the brake line ruptured with the brake pedal depressing to the floorboard. The contact stated there was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed with the brake line needing to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was relating the failure to NHTSA campaign number: 14V311000 (Service brakes, Hydraulic) however, the recall repair was previously serviced in 2014. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and referred the contact to a local dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 134,000.
NHTSA complaint #11421074 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 152,000 milesTower City, PA
AIR BAGS
AIR BAG LIGHT IS ON (ON DASH).
NHTSA complaint #11402728 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 140,000 milesTower City, PA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I HAVE A STICKY DASH. IN THE SUMMER, IT GETS HOT AND EXTREMELY SHINY TO THE POINT IT REFLECTS INTO THE WINDSHIELD AND VERY HARD TO SEE WHILE DRIVING. I HAVE TALKED WITH A SUBARU DEALERSHIP ABOUT THE RECALL BUT I WAS TOLD MY VEHICLE IS UNAFFECTED BY THE RECALL.
NHTSA complaint #11402730 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 174,000 milesNorthfield, NH
SERVICE BRAKES
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 SUBARU LEGACY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE APPROACHING A STOP SIGN, THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED AND WENT TO FLOORBOARD. THE VEHICLE WAS COASTED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROADWAY. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO ED REILLY SUBARU (150 MANCHESTER ST, CONCORD, NH 03301) TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE BRAKE LINE WAS CORRODED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE BRAKE LINES RECEIVED ANTI-CORROSION TREATMENT AS PER THE RECALL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DEALER DID NOT COVER THE FENDER AS THE RECALL INDICATED, TO PREVENT THE LINE FROM CORRODING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED DUE TO THE REPAIR COST. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE VEHICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY REPAIRED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 13V110000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC) AND 14V311000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 174,000.
NHTSA complaint #11361989 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 136,000 milesStaten Island, NY
STEERING
EVERY TIME I STARTED THE CAR TO PULL OUT OF A PARKING SPACE THE WHEEL WOULD GET STUCK. MAKING IT HARD TO TURN LEFT OR RIGHT.
NHTSA complaint #11350756 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Salt Lake City, UT
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
WHENEVER I PARK MY CAR AND MY WHEELS ARE NOT STRAGHT, THE KEY IS HAVING HARDTIME TAKEN OUT FROM THE LOCK CYLINDER. ALSO, IF I INSERT THE KEY TO START THE ENGINE, THE KEY GETS STUCKED INSIDE AND I CAN'T TURN THE KEY, IT DOES NOT ROTATES. I GOT THE CAR IN THE MAY OF THE LAST YEAR AND IT IS HAPPENING EVERY MONTH. I SEE MANY PEOPLE HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM ON MANY SUBARU LINES BUT THE BRAND IS CHARGING $600 FOR THE REPAIR. PLEASE INVESTIGATE FOR US. THANK YOU.
NHTSA complaint #11350725 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 90,000 milesFort Wayne, IN
ENGINE
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 SUBARU LEGACY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE CONSUMED A LOT OF OIL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE ENGINE NEEDED TO BE REBUILT OR REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. NEITHER THE DEALER NOR THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 90,000.
NHTSA complaint #11339907 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 131,000 milesBellevue, WA
STRUCTURE:BODY
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS 2009 SUBARU LEGACY. THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V311000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC) HOWEVER, THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE BRAKE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED AND THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE BRAKE LINES WERE LEAKING DUE TO CORROSION. THE CONTACT WAS ALSO INFORMED THAT THE FUEL TANK WAS ALSO RUSTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 131,000.
NHTSA complaint #11325292 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 131,000 milesBellevue, WA
SERVICE BRAKES
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS 2009 SUBARU LEGACY. THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V311000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC) HOWEVER, THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE BRAKE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED AND THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE BRAKE LINES WERE LEAKING DUE TO CORROSION. THE CONTACT WAS ALSO INFORMED THAT THE FUEL TANK WAS ALSO RUSTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 131,000.
NHTSA complaint #11325292 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 96,800 milesValley View, PA
AIR BAGS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 SUBARU LEGACY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED FIRST WEEK HE BOUGHT IT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE WAS INTERMITTENT. STEVE MOYER SUBARU (201 S CENTRE AVE, LEESPORT, PA 19533), WAS CONTACTED BY PHONE. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAGS SENSOR WAS REPLACED AS PART OF A RECALL PREVIOUSLY BY AN UNKNOWN DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. DEALER TOLD THE CONSUMER THEY COULD FIX IT BUT THE CONSUMER WOULD NEED TO PAY FOR THE REPAIR. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 96,800. *BF
NHTSA complaint #11321003 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Valley View, PA
AIR BAGS
2009 SUBARU LEGACY. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARD TO AIRBAG ISSUE, THE AIRGBAG LIGHT CAME ON. *AS
NHTSA complaint #11319492 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 220,000 milesMissoula, MT
VISIBILITY/WIPER
I WAS DRIVING MY 2009 SUBARU LEGACY SEDAN ON A RURAL HIGHWAY ON MY USUAL DAILY COMMUTE TO WORK. IT WAS DECEMBER 18, 2019 IN MONTANA, SO COLD, BUT NOT UNUSUALLY COLD, AND IT WAS SUNNY . I WAS DRIVING FOR ABOUT 50 MINUTES, AND WAS PROBABLY GOING AROUND 65-70MPH, WHEN I HEARD A LOUD NOISE ABOVE ME LIKE AN EXPLOSION. I LOOKED UP AND SAW AN OBLONG, SOMEWHAT RECTANGULAR, HOLE IN MY SUNROOF THAT WAS PROBABLY AROUND 8-9 INCHES LONG AND PROBABLY ABOUT 4 INCHES WIDE AT ITS WIDEST. THE REST OF THE SUNROOF WAS ALSO SHATTERED, THOUGH STILL INTACT. LOOKING AT THE SUNROOF FROM OUTSIDE, HOWEVER, THE SHATTERING WAS LESS EVIDENT. I IMMEDIATELY LOOKED AHEAD OF ME TO SEE WHETHER THERE WAS A TRUCK OR SOMETHING FROM WHICH SOMETHING COULD HAVE FLOWN OFF AND HIT MY SUNROOF. THERE WAS A PASSENGER CAR THAT WAS MAYBE AROUND 100 FEET AHEAD OF ME, AND THEN, AHEAD OF THAT CAR, THERE WAS A LOGGING TRUCK (CARRYING TREE LOGS), THAT WAS PROBABLY AT LEAST AN 1/8 MILE AHEAD OF ME. I DID NOT SEE ANYTHING FLY TOWARDS THE CAR BEFORE THE SUNROOF SHATTERED. THERE WAS LITTLE GLASS IN THE CAR, AND I PULLED OVER AND COULD FIND NO EVIDENCE OF ANY FOREIGN OBJECT INSIDE THE CAR. I EXITED THE CAR AND LOOKED AT THE SUNROOF. THE GLASS AROUND THE HOLE IN THE SUNROOF GAVE AN APPEARANCE OF THE IMPACT COMING FROM INSIDE THE CAR AS THE GLASS AROUND THE HOLE WAS PUFFED MILDLY, BUT DISTINCTLY, OUTWARD TOWARD THE SKY. I SAW NO EXTERNAL EVIDENCE OF AN IMPACT BY A FOREIGN OBJECT. THE SUNROOF HOLE WAS ALSO SOMEWHAT UNDERNEATH ONE OF THE CROSS-BARS OF MY CAR-TOP KAYAK RACK, SO EVEN THOUGH THE HOLE LOOKED LIKE A DIRECT IMPACT (EVEN IF IT HAD BEEN CAUSED FROM ABOVE), IT APPEARED AS THOUGH THE KAYAK RACK CROSS-BAR WOULD HAVE DEFLECTED ANY FOREIGN OBJECT IF IT HAD COME FROM ABOVE. I EXITED THE CAR AND RETRACED MY PATH ALONG THE HIGHWAY, LOOKING FOR ANY FOREIGN OBJECTS ON THE ROAD, SHOULDER OR DITCH. I SAW NOTHING.
NHTSA complaint #11290416 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Homewood, IL
AIR BAGS
I GOT AN AIRBAG RECALL IN THE MAIL, INTERNATIONAL SUBARU IN ORLAND PARK WANTS TO CHARGE ME FOR THIS RECALL.
NHTSA complaint #11259120 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 121,000 milesCaledonia, NY
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 SUBARU LEGACY. WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO BRAKE AND THE BRAKE PEDAL TRAVELED TO THE FLOORBOARD. THE CONTACTED PUMPED THE BRAKES, BUT NOTHING HAPPENED. THE CONTACT PULLED THE VEHICLE INTO A FUEL STATION AND HAD IT TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE MECHANIC DIAGNOSED THAT THE MASTER CYLINDER NEEDED TO BE REPLACED BECAUSE THE BRAKE LINE WAS CORRODED AND BEGAN TO LEAK. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND PROVIDED A CASE NUMBER. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS RECALLED FOR THE SAME FAILURE FIVE YEARS AGO, WHICH WAS WHY SUBARU WOULD NOT REPAIR THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 121,000.
NHTSA complaint #11230840 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 120,000 milesCopper Center, AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
TL* THE CONTACT CALLED ON BEHALF OF HIS DAUGHTER WHO OWNS A 2009 SUBARU LEGACY. ON TWO SEPARATE OCCASIONS, WHILE DRIVING HIGHWAY SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO RESTART THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. A DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 19V297000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM). THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 120,000.
NHTSA complaint #11208685 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 120,000 milesCopper Center, AK
ENGINE
TL* THE CONTACT CALLED ON BEHALF OF HIS DAUGHTER WHO OWNS A 2009 SUBARU LEGACY. ON TWO SEPARATE OCCASIONS, WHILE DRIVING HIGHWAY SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO RESTART THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. A DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 19V297000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM). THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 120,000.
NHTSA complaint #11208685 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
