Owners have filed 236 complaints
about the 2011 Subaru Legacy with NHTSA between 2010 and 2026.
The largest single group is the transmission & drivetrain.
Across this model's run it ranks 5 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 — 100
Against the median year of the Subaru Legacy. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 46
8.9% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 63
37% 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.
Under 1,000 miles
137.3%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
1910.7%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
2212.4%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
1810.2%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
2111.9%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
2212.4%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
4726.6%
150,000+ miles
158.5%
NHTSA crash tests
The agency crash-tested this model year itself. These are its own
photographs and star ratings.
Configuration
Overall
Front
Side
Rollover
2011 Subaru Legacy 4 DR AWD
10.1% 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.
Sep 2010peak 12Jul 2026
Recalls on the 2011 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.
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 2019013102,110 units in Canada
Airbag
Issue: On certain vehicles, 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 Action: Owners will be notified by mail and instructed to take their vehicle to a dealer to have the passenger-front airbag inflator replaced. 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 20185023,486 units in Canada
Brakes
On certain vehicles equipped with manual transmissions, components within the control unit for the electronic parking brake (EPB) may crack with vehicle use over time. If this were to occur, the brake warning lamp would illuminate and the EPB may not apply as intended. This could result in the unintended movement of a parked vehicle, increasing the risk of crash causing injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will replace the Parking Brake Actuator with a more durable one.
Recall 201647138,629 units in Canada
Visual System
On certain vehicles, a manufacturing defect could cause the windshield wipers to become inoperable. If an obstruction (such as snow or ice in the cowl area of the windshield) prevents the wipers from returning to the “park” position when wipers are turned off, the wiper arms would be forced to "park" at a higher than intended position on the windshield. The wiper arms will continuously attempt to return to the normal park position, generating an excessive amount of electrical current in the wiper motor bottom cover, possibly resulting in overheating. This could result in the windshield wipers becoming inoperable, or a possible fire in the bottom cover area of the wiper motor. These issues could impair the driver’s visibility and increase the risk of a crash causing injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will replace the front wiper motor bottom cover assembly with a countermeasure one.
Recall 20130632,813 units in Canada
Accessories
On certain vehicles equipped with a dealer-installed accessory remote engine starter, if the fob is dropped, movement of the internal battery retaining clip may occur and cause damage to a component on the printed circuit board. Under this condition, the fob may transmit an engine start (or stop) request without the user pressing the button. If the vehicle is in range and receives the request, the engine may start and run for up to 15 minutes (or until a stop request is received). The engine may continue to start and stop until the fob battery is depleted, or until the vehicle runs out of fuel. If that occurs when the vehicle is parked in an enclosed area, such as a garage, there is a risk of carbon monoxide build-up, which could result in asphyxiation or carbon monoxide poisoning. Correction: Dealers will replace the remote engine starter fob.
Recall 2012444293 units in Canada
Accessories
On certain vehicles equipped with dealer-installed accessory puddle lights, a short circuit may develop causing the lights to melt and/or emit smoke. This could result in a fire causing property damage and/or injury. Correction: Dealers will install an additional fused wiring harness to protect against short circuits.
Recall 20113435,220 units in Canada
Accessories
On certain vehicles, the moonroof glass may not have been correctly installed during vehicle assembly. A moonroof glass separating from the vehicle could strike another vehicle, stationary object, or bystander, causing property damage and/or personal injury. Correction: Dealers will inspect the glass adhesion and either apply additional adhesive or replace the moonroof glass.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
at 167,000 milesRenton, WACrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
2 CAR COLLISION ON A CITY STREET. BOTH CARS IN MOTION. OUR CAR WAS TURNING LEFT ONTO THE MAIN ROAD AND WAS HIT IN THE LEFT FRONT AREA CAUSING SIGNIFICANT DAMAGE RESULTING IN THE TOTAL LOSS OF BOTH VEHICLES. THE DRIVER OF OUR CAR WAS TAKEN BY AMBULANCE TO THE HOSPITAL TO BE CHECKED OUT. THE DRIVER OF OUR CAR SUFFERED A HEAD INJURY ON THE LEFT SIDE RESULTING IN PAIN AND IN PARTICULAR SHORT TERM MEMORY LOSS. THE ACCIDENT REPORT IS AVAILABLE THRU THE KIRKLAND, WA POLICE DEPARTMENT, CASE #20-19103. ALTHOUGH THE REPORT DOES CONTAIN ERRORS AND OMISSIONS IT MOSTLY DESCRIBES WHAT HAPPENED AND INCLUDES SEVERAL PHOTOS. THE REASON FOR THIS COMPLAINT IS WE ARE WONDERING WHY THE AIRBAGS (SIDE ONES IN PARTICULAR) DID NOT DEPLOY? WE FEEL IT'S VERY LIKELY THE HEAD INJURY WOULD NOT HAVE HAPPENED HAD THE AIRBAG(S) DEPLOYED.
NHTSA complaint #11338393 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 167,000 milesRenton, WACrash1 injured
STRUCTURE:BODY
2 CAR COLLISION ON A CITY STREET. BOTH CARS IN MOTION. OUR CAR WAS TURNING LEFT ONTO THE MAIN ROAD AND WAS HIT IN THE LEFT FRONT AREA CAUSING SIGNIFICANT DAMAGE RESULTING IN THE TOTAL LOSS OF BOTH VEHICLES. THE DRIVER OF OUR CAR WAS TAKEN BY AMBULANCE TO THE HOSPITAL TO BE CHECKED OUT. THE DRIVER OF OUR CAR SUFFERED A HEAD INJURY ON THE LEFT SIDE RESULTING IN PAIN AND IN PARTICULAR SHORT TERM MEMORY LOSS. THE ACCIDENT REPORT IS AVAILABLE THRU THE KIRKLAND, WA POLICE DEPARTMENT, CASE #20-19103. ALTHOUGH THE REPORT DOES CONTAIN ERRORS AND OMISSIONS IT MOSTLY DESCRIBES WHAT HAPPENED AND INCLUDES SEVERAL PHOTOS. THE REASON FOR THIS COMPLAINT IS WE ARE WONDERING WHY THE AIRBAGS (SIDE ONES IN PARTICULAR) DID NOT DEPLOY? WE FEEL IT'S VERY LIKELY THE HEAD INJURY WOULD NOT HAVE HAPPENED HAD THE AIRBAG(S) DEPLOYED.
NHTSA complaint #11338393 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 70,000 milesFairview, TNCrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2011 SUBARU LEGACY. WHILE DRIVING 75 MPH, THE CONTACT TOOK HIS EYES OFF THE ROAD AND CRASHED INTO A RETAINING WALL. THE FRONT DRIVER'S AIR BAG DEPLOYED AND PINNED HIS HEAD BETWEEN THE DRIVER'S WINDOW AND AIR BAG. THE OCCUPANT SUSTAINED A KNOT ON HIS HEAD, WHICH REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED WITH NASHVILLE METRO POLICE (#2017-1079256). THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO HILLWOOD WRECKER SERVICE AND DEEMED A TOTAL LOSS. THE LOCAL DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 70,000.
NHTSA complaint #11054167 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 24,350 milesBlackwood, NJCrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
I HAD A 2011 SUBARU LEGACY2.5;AT 1130 AM,I WAS PULLING INTO A PARKING SPACE AT A LOCAL CONVENIENCE STORE NEAR US THAT WE OFTEN GO TO,WHEN SUDDENLY ON TURNING RIGHT INTO THE SPACE I HEARD THE ENGINE "REV"AT A FAST SPEED EVEN THOUGH I HAD LIFTED MY FOOT FROM THE ACCELERATOR.(I USED TO DRIVE A MANUAL SHIFT,AND IT REMINDED ME OF THE SOUND AN ENGINE WOULD MAKE WHEN TRYING TO UPSHIFT TOO FAST BETWEEN GEARS)BEFORE I COULD REACT THE CAR SURGED FORWARD INTO THE SPACE,AND I WAS BARELY ABLE TO SLAM THE BRAKE BEFORE IT COVERED THE 6 TO 8 FEET AND HIT A GUARD POST,CRUMBLING THE FRONT END TO WHERE THE ENGINE IS BENT AND THE CAR A TOTAL LOSS. THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY.(FORTUNATE,AS WHEN I RETURNED HOME I FOUND THE LETTER FROM SUBARU THAT MY CAR WAS PART OF THE TAKATA RECALL)INTERESTINGLY,THE ENGINE STILL STARTED AND THE CAR WAS DRIVE-ABLE ,DESPITE THE RADIATOR BEING CRACKED IN HALF(WE WERE ABLE TO PARK IT AFTER HAVING IT TOWED). I LOOKED UP THE SYMPTOMS I EXPERIENCED AND FEEL THAT THERE MAY HAVE BEEN ISSUES WITH THE ELECTRONIC THROTTLE CONTROL MECHANISM OR THE APP(WHICH SENSES THE POSITION OF THE ACCELERATOR ,AS I AM SURE YOU KNOW)MY CHECK ENGINE LIGHT NEVER WENT ON.THE CAR HAD ACTED AS IF IT HAD IDLING ISSUES A COUPLE OF TIMES BUT NOT WITH REGULARITY, AND IT HAD NEVER STALLED OR DISPLAYED ANY OTHER WARNING OF THIS. I HAD JUST DRIVEN THE CAR ABOUT 7 MILES BEFORE THIS HAPPENED. I WILL NEVER BUY ANOTHER SUBARU;I HAVE HAD OTHER CARS WITH TROUBLES IN THE PAST BUT THIS IS BY FAR THE MOST DANGEROUS.I AM JUST THANKING THE LORD THAT THE AIRBAGS DIDN'T DEPLOY AND WE WEREN'T CRUSHED(MY 17 YEAR OLD DAUGHTER WAS IN THE PASSENGER SEAT).AND,THE CAR ONLY HAD 24,350 MILES ON IT! PRACTICALLY NEW CONDITION!SAD,BECAUSE I REALLY LIKED THIS CAR.
NHTSA complaint #10898386 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 24,350 milesBlackwood, NJCrash1 injured
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
I HAD A 2011 SUBARU LEGACY2.5;AT 1130 AM,I WAS PULLING INTO A PARKING SPACE AT A LOCAL CONVENIENCE STORE NEAR US THAT WE OFTEN GO TO,WHEN SUDDENLY ON TURNING RIGHT INTO THE SPACE I HEARD THE ENGINE "REV"AT A FAST SPEED EVEN THOUGH I HAD LIFTED MY FOOT FROM THE ACCELERATOR.(I USED TO DRIVE A MANUAL SHIFT,AND IT REMINDED ME OF THE SOUND AN ENGINE WOULD MAKE WHEN TRYING TO UPSHIFT TOO FAST BETWEEN GEARS)BEFORE I COULD REACT THE CAR SURGED FORWARD INTO THE SPACE,AND I WAS BARELY ABLE TO SLAM THE BRAKE BEFORE IT COVERED THE 6 TO 8 FEET AND HIT A GUARD POST,CRUMBLING THE FRONT END TO WHERE THE ENGINE IS BENT AND THE CAR A TOTAL LOSS. THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY.(FORTUNATE,AS WHEN I RETURNED HOME I FOUND THE LETTER FROM SUBARU THAT MY CAR WAS PART OF THE TAKATA RECALL)INTERESTINGLY,THE ENGINE STILL STARTED AND THE CAR WAS DRIVE-ABLE ,DESPITE THE RADIATOR BEING CRACKED IN HALF(WE WERE ABLE TO PARK IT AFTER HAVING IT TOWED). I LOOKED UP THE SYMPTOMS I EXPERIENCED AND FEEL THAT THERE MAY HAVE BEEN ISSUES WITH THE ELECTRONIC THROTTLE CONTROL MECHANISM OR THE APP(WHICH SENSES THE POSITION OF THE ACCELERATOR ,AS I AM SURE YOU KNOW)MY CHECK ENGINE LIGHT NEVER WENT ON.THE CAR HAD ACTED AS IF IT HAD IDLING ISSUES A COUPLE OF TIMES BUT NOT WITH REGULARITY, AND IT HAD NEVER STALLED OR DISPLAYED ANY OTHER WARNING OF THIS. I HAD JUST DRIVEN THE CAR ABOUT 7 MILES BEFORE THIS HAPPENED. I WILL NEVER BUY ANOTHER SUBARU;I HAVE HAD OTHER CARS WITH TROUBLES IN THE PAST BUT THIS IS BY FAR THE MOST DANGEROUS.I AM JUST THANKING THE LORD THAT THE AIRBAGS DIDN'T DEPLOY AND WE WEREN'T CRUSHED(MY 17 YEAR OLD DAUGHTER WAS IN THE PASSENGER SEAT).AND,THE CAR ONLY HAD 24,350 MILES ON IT! PRACTICALLY NEW CONDITION!SAD,BECAUSE I REALLY LIKED THIS CAR.
NHTSA complaint #10898386 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 24,350 milesBlackwood, NJCrash1 injured
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I HAD A 2011 SUBARU LEGACY2.5;AT 1130 AM,I WAS PULLING INTO A PARKING SPACE AT A LOCAL CONVENIENCE STORE NEAR US THAT WE OFTEN GO TO,WHEN SUDDENLY ON TURNING RIGHT INTO THE SPACE I HEARD THE ENGINE "REV"AT A FAST SPEED EVEN THOUGH I HAD LIFTED MY FOOT FROM THE ACCELERATOR.(I USED TO DRIVE A MANUAL SHIFT,AND IT REMINDED ME OF THE SOUND AN ENGINE WOULD MAKE WHEN TRYING TO UPSHIFT TOO FAST BETWEEN GEARS)BEFORE I COULD REACT THE CAR SURGED FORWARD INTO THE SPACE,AND I WAS BARELY ABLE TO SLAM THE BRAKE BEFORE IT COVERED THE 6 TO 8 FEET AND HIT A GUARD POST,CRUMBLING THE FRONT END TO WHERE THE ENGINE IS BENT AND THE CAR A TOTAL LOSS. THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY.(FORTUNATE,AS WHEN I RETURNED HOME I FOUND THE LETTER FROM SUBARU THAT MY CAR WAS PART OF THE TAKATA RECALL)INTERESTINGLY,THE ENGINE STILL STARTED AND THE CAR WAS DRIVE-ABLE ,DESPITE THE RADIATOR BEING CRACKED IN HALF(WE WERE ABLE TO PARK IT AFTER HAVING IT TOWED). I LOOKED UP THE SYMPTOMS I EXPERIENCED AND FEEL THAT THERE MAY HAVE BEEN ISSUES WITH THE ELECTRONIC THROTTLE CONTROL MECHANISM OR THE APP(WHICH SENSES THE POSITION OF THE ACCELERATOR ,AS I AM SURE YOU KNOW)MY CHECK ENGINE LIGHT NEVER WENT ON.THE CAR HAD ACTED AS IF IT HAD IDLING ISSUES A COUPLE OF TIMES BUT NOT WITH REGULARITY, AND IT HAD NEVER STALLED OR DISPLAYED ANY OTHER WARNING OF THIS. I HAD JUST DRIVEN THE CAR ABOUT 7 MILES BEFORE THIS HAPPENED. I WILL NEVER BUY ANOTHER SUBARU;I HAVE HAD OTHER CARS WITH TROUBLES IN THE PAST BUT THIS IS BY FAR THE MOST DANGEROUS.I AM JUST THANKING THE LORD THAT THE AIRBAGS DIDN'T DEPLOY AND WE WEREN'T CRUSHED(MY 17 YEAR OLD DAUGHTER WAS IN THE PASSENGER SEAT).AND,THE CAR ONLY HAD 24,350 MILES ON IT! PRACTICALLY NEW CONDITION!SAD,BECAUSE I REALLY LIKED THIS CAR.
NHTSA complaint #10898386 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Galway, NY
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The subframe rotted through broke as I was driving on Thruway. My mechanic confirmed it needs to be replaced and is very common in heavy winter states.
NHTSA complaint #11748911 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Galway, NY
SUSPENSION
The subframe rotted through broke as I was driving on Thruway. My mechanic confirmed it needs to be replaced and is very common in heavy winter states.
NHTSA complaint #11748911 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Cleveland, OH
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Description of the Safety Defect: The front subframe on my 2011 Subaru Legacy exhibits advanced structural corrosion with measurable material loss, concentrated primarily on the driver-side subframe. The corrosion affects a primary load-bearing structural member responsible for supporting suspension mounting points and maintaining chassis integrity. The deterioration is asymmetric, with the driver side showing severe degradation while the passenger side remains comparatively intact. This non-uniform corrosion pattern is not consistent with normal environmental exposure, age-related wear, or routine vehicle operation, and indicates a localized failure of corrosion protection or material integrity. The extent of corrosion compromises the subframe’s ability to safely support suspension loads and maintain alignment geometry. This presents a progressive structural safety risk, as continued operation may lead to sudden loss of suspension mounting integrity, steering instability, or loss of vehicle control without prior warning. Safety Risk Description: The front subframe is a critical safety component designed to: Support engine and transmission loads Secure lower control arms and suspension geometry Maintain steering stability and predictable handling Absorb and distribute crash forces Structural degradation of this component increases the risk of: Suspension separation or displacement under normal driving loads Alignment instability during braking or cornering Reduced crash energy management capability Failure of this component could result in loss of directional control, increasing the risk of a crash. Subaru of America has acknowledged prior subframe corrosion issues on other Subaru models through recalls, service campaigns, or goodwill repairs. However, Subaru has declined assistance for this vehicle based solely on time and mileage, without addressing whether the observed structural deterioration constitutes a safety defect.
NHTSA complaint #11706641 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Stamford, CT
POWER TRAIN
An issue has surfaced with my car that it turns off while driving. Obviously this is a serious safety hazard and likely to result in an accident. Now that it has happened, it is continuing and frequently happening. I reached out to Subaru as I saw there was a recall for my car's make and model that is causing the same issue. The issue is listed as NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID: 19V297000, described as "The engine turning off unexpectedly can increase the risk of a crash. " and affecting many Subarus, including the 2011 legacy. I believe my car is impacted given the behavior it is exhibiting. When I reached out to Subaru, they dismissed it saying it did not apply to my car and they were not willing to investigate. I believe this poses a grave risk to many people given that it will cause an accident and the severity of the defect.
NHTSA complaint #11695074 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Stamford, CT
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
An issue has surfaced with my car that it turns off while driving. Obviously this is a serious safety hazard and likely to result in an accident. Now that it has happened, it is continuing and frequently happening. I reached out to Subaru as I saw there was a recall for my car's make and model that is causing the same issue. The issue is listed as NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID: 19V297000, described as "The engine turning off unexpectedly can increase the risk of a crash. " and affecting many Subarus, including the 2011 legacy. I believe my car is impacted given the behavior it is exhibiting. When I reached out to Subaru, they dismissed it saying it did not apply to my car and they were not willing to investigate. I believe this poses a grave risk to many people given that it will cause an accident and the severity of the defect.
NHTSA complaint #11695074 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Stamford, CT
ENGINE
An issue has surfaced with my car that it turns off while driving. Obviously this is a serious safety hazard and likely to result in an accident. Now that it has happened, it is continuing and frequently happening. I reached out to Subaru as I saw there was a recall for my car's make and model that is causing the same issue. The issue is listed as NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID: 19V297000, described as "The engine turning off unexpectedly can increase the risk of a crash. " and affecting many Subarus, including the 2011 legacy. I believe my car is impacted given the behavior it is exhibiting. When I reached out to Subaru, they dismissed it saying it did not apply to my car and they were not willing to investigate. I believe this poses a grave risk to many people given that it will cause an accident and the severity of the defect.
NHTSA complaint #11695074 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Newburgh, NY
POWER TRAIN
The week after purchase: The car shuts off when braking and needs to be put into park to be started again. Also the check engine light came on and I wonder if it has electrical issues.
NHTSA complaint #11694423 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Newburgh, NY
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The week after purchase: The car shuts off when braking and needs to be put into park to be started again. Also the check engine light came on and I wonder if it has electrical issues.
NHTSA complaint #11694423 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Zeeland, MI
SUSPENSION
While turning the wheel to back out of a parking spot, we heard a loud clunking sound. From that point on, while braking there were loud clunking sounds and the car pulled to the right. We brought it to our mechanic and was informed the front sub frame/ engine cradle, was completey rusted out due to corrosion from the inside. There was a mounting bolt protruding through a hole in the subframe and the suspension components were loose and damaged. They provided a photo showing the large hole and mounting bolt protruding. We were told it was unsafe to drive. We have to replace the sub frame, control arms and sway bar links. The sub frame supports these components, the engine and other parts!
NHTSA complaint #11674244 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Zeeland, MI
STRUCTURE:BODY
While turning the wheel to back out of a parking spot, we heard a loud clunking sound. From that point on, while braking there were loud clunking sounds and the car pulled to the right. We brought it to our mechanic and was informed the front sub frame/ engine cradle, was completey rusted out due to corrosion from the inside. There was a mounting bolt protruding through a hole in the subframe and the suspension components were loose and damaged. They provided a photo showing the large hole and mounting bolt protruding. We were told it was unsafe to drive. We have to replace the sub frame, control arms and sway bar links. The sub frame supports these components, the engine and other parts!
NHTSA complaint #11674244 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 14,000 milesCanandaigua, NY
STRUCTURE
The contact owns a 2011 Subaru Legacy. The contact stated that while driving 35 MPH and driving over a speed bump, there was an abnormal sound coming from underneath the vehicle. The vehicle was driven to an independent mechanic and the contact was informed that the subframe was damaged and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 14,000. The VIN was not available.
NHTSA complaint #11618103 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Brighton, MA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
THIS CAR STALLS OUT AND JUST STOPS WHEN YOU ARE DRIVING DUE TO A FAILING TORQUE CONVERTER WHICH SUBARU KNEW ABOUT AND DID NOT DO A RECALL ON. THEY DID A SERVICE BULLETIN WITH AN EXTENDED WARRANTY BUT WHEN I BROUGHT MY CAR WHILE IT STILL WAS UNDER THE EXTENDED WARRANTY PERIOD TO THE DEALER NO ONE ADVISED ME OF THIS SO NOW IT IS OUT OF THE EXTENDED WARRANTY PERIOD AND THEY WILL NOT HELP ME. MY SON ALMOST GOT KILLED WHEN THIS HAPPENED THIS NEEDS TO ADDRESSED BY SUBARU BECAUSE WE CANNOT DRIVE THIS CAR AS IT IS UNSAFE.
NHTSA complaint #11564023 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Beaver Dams, NY
SERVICE BRAKES
Brakes failed due to a rusty brake line. Rear passenger side where theres a 4 way block 2 lines in 2 lines out. All 4 lines are rusted where they connect, one of the lines broke to cause a significant leak. This caused me to have very little brakes as the vehicle ran out of brake fluid. I can see brake fluid on the ground and diagnosed the issue myself. It seems as it is a common issue. The brake light did come on when the brake fluid was low enough, but at that point there was little to no brakes anyway because the leak was so consistent .
NHTSA complaint #11547322 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Peoria, IL
SUSPENSION
This 2011 Subaru Legacy would pull severely to the right when braking, nearly jerking the steering wheel out of the drivers hand. The car was taken to a private auto repair shop where it was found the motor cradle (part #50527AJ00B) was completed rusted out so the A-arm to the wheel was unstable. In trying to locate a new part, online and from local dealers, it was found the part was on backorder. We were number 142 in line to receive the part. There is obviously a severe and dangerous problem with this issue as a car would veer into the other lane or offroad when braking. Subaru corporate office was contacted and I was told I would have to take the vehicle to the Subaru dealer. This would require a tow so I decided to have the private auto repair shop fix it as it was also undriveable. This complaint is to bring attention to this as a safety issue. My grandchildren were transported in this vehicle and were at risk of serious injury or death because of this problem. I feel Subaru should notify other owners of this problem on this make and model to avoid risk of serious injury or death. I have a video of the car and tire that shows what was happening before I took it to the auto repair shop. I was unable to upload the video file but would like to get it sent for your review. I can be emailed at brune5@msn.com. My phone number is (309) 696-8849. Daniel Brune
NHTSA complaint #11537308 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Arlington Heights, IL
STEERING
Front sub-frame rusted through. Local mechanic said unsafe to drive. Insurance will not cover claim because this is "prior issue" not accident related. Subaru dealership confirmed safety risk and will repair for >$3000.
NHTSA complaint #11515967 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Arlington Heights, IL
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Front sub-frame rusted through. Local mechanic said unsafe to drive. Insurance will not cover claim because this is "prior issue" not accident related. Subaru dealership confirmed safety risk and will repair for >$3000.
NHTSA complaint #11515967 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Arlington Heights, IL
SUSPENSION
Front sub-frame rusted through. Local mechanic said unsafe to drive. Insurance will not cover claim because this is "prior issue" not accident related. Subaru dealership confirmed safety risk and will repair for >$3000.
NHTSA complaint #11515967 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
State College, PA
SUSPENSION
While braking at lower speed the driver's side lower control arm broke out causing the car to pull very hard to the left. Both lower control arms and the subframe had to be replaced.
NHTSA complaint #11505073 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Parker, CO
SERVICE BRAKES
To Whom It May Concern: I am an owner of the Subaru 2011 Legacy AWD, VIN # [XXX], [XXX] at [XXX], Parker, Colorado, reaching out to you about a well-known and recognized toque converter issue described in the 2011 Subaru Legacy F4-2.5 L SOHC, Vehicle - Technical Service Bulletin applicability :2010-2012 MY Legacy Models equipped with CVT Transmission. I purchased my car after its previous owner with a salvage title due to an accident, however it turns out it has a torque converter issue which makes a car die every time I use a break when coming to a stop, described in the above Subaru Technical Service Bulletin. The Subaru of North America has a customer satisfaction program which allows me and similarly situated Subaru Legacy 2010-2012 owners to have this issue without Subaru qualifying it as a safety recall issue. Should this been qualified as a safety recall, my salvage title would be eligible for a free repair from the Subaru of North America, however since this is a frequently reported issue Subaru manufacturer is responsible for creating in the 2010-2012 Subaru Legacy F4-2.5 L vehicles, it allowed the Subaru of North America to use it as a basis for their refusal to repair my vehicle for free provided that the torque converter issue is their responsibility. I'd appreciate you reaching out to me with a possible options which may exist for me as an owner of the vehicle. [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
NHTSA complaint #11503657 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 150,000 milesForked River, NJ
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
The contact owns a 2011 Subaru Legacy. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, the headlights failed to illuminate. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.
NHTSA complaint #11501043 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Bolingbrook, IL
SUSPENSION
The front subframe failed due to corrosion from the inside according to the service department. The vehicle is unsafe to drive with this condition. It only has 38,180 miles on it. It has not been driven in a reckless fashion. I have never heard of this failure in a low mileage auto.
NHTSA complaint #11486094 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lewis Center, OH
POWER TRAIN
Sometimes as I'm coming to a stop, such as at a red light or a stop sign, just before I stop, the car lurches and then stalls. This is an automatic transmission car, but the best way I can think of to describe what is happening is it is acting as if it is a manual transmission, and when you come to a stop and don't press in the clutch. If this happens at an inopportune time, it could cause an accident. Possibly you're slowing down as you turn through an intersection and it lurches and stalls. You would then be stopped in the middle of the intersection. There are no warning lamps or messages before this happens.
NHTSA complaint #11480812 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Charleston, SC
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The vehicle was diagnosed at a Subaru Dealership as having a rusted sub-frame with mounting bolt holes loose and suspension components moving freely. The vehicle is deemed unsafe to drive. (On April 8, 2022, my car suddenly made a loud clunking noise and drove very rocky). The car had not given any previous warning signals of this problem.
NHTSA complaint #11466155 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Charleston, SC
SUSPENSION
The vehicle was diagnosed at a Subaru Dealership as having a rusted sub-frame with mounting bolt holes loose and suspension components moving freely. The vehicle is deemed unsafe to drive. (On April 8, 2022, my car suddenly made a loud clunking noise and drove very rocky). The car had not given any previous warning signals of this problem.
NHTSA complaint #11466155 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Madrid, NY
POWER TRAIN
It's a 6mt. Randomly reverse stopped working. Seems like it wants to go in reverse. But when any bit of gas pedal pressed it grinds and pops out of reverse. I have no reverse. 1st thru 6th gear works shifting wise. Shifter has some play though.
NHTSA complaint #11452944 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.