Owners have filed 84 complaints
about the 2013 Subaru Legacy with NHTSA between 2013 and 2025.
The largest single group is the engine & cooling.
Across this model's run it ranks 17 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 — 36
Against the median year of the Subaru Legacy. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 68
13.1% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 91
53% 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
23.2%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
1016.1%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
1524.2%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
1321.0%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
34.8%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
711.3%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
1016.1%
150,000+ miles
23.2%
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.
Jun 2013peak 5Jul 2025
Recalls on the 2013 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
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.
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.
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.
19V009000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2014 Tribeca, WRX, Legacy and Outback vehicles, 2010-2011 Impreza vehicles and 2010-2013 Forester 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.
19V007000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2013 Forester, 2010-2014 Tribeca, WRX, Outback, Legacy, and 2010-2011 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.
19V008000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2014 Tribeca, WRX, Outback, and Legacy vehicles, 2010-2011 Impreza vehicles and 2010-2013 Forester 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.
18V626000
PARKING BRAKE
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2014 Subaru Legacy and Outback vehicles equipped with a manual transmission. The electronic parking brake (EPB) may not engage as intended, allowing the vehicle to rollaway if the transmission is not in the proper gear when parked.
Risk: A vehicle rollaway can increase the risk of a crash.
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 20152063,500 units in Canada
Accessories
On certain vehicles equipped with EyeSight driver assist technology, the French version of the EyeSight Owner’s Manual my contain incorrect translations of certain text. If the vehicle were to be operated as described in the mistranslated French text, it could increase the risk of a crash. Correction: Subaru will send corrected French EyeSight manuals directly to affected vehicle owners and additional corrected manuals will be available to all Dealers.
Recall 2013162401 units in Canada
Steering
On certain vehicles, the steering column may have been assembled incorrectly and could fail. If this occurs, the driver may suddenly lose the ability to steer the vehicle, which could result in a crash causing property damage and/or personal injury. Correction: Dealers will replace the steering column assembly.
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.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
at 30,000 milesMarquette, MICrash
AIR BAGS
THE VEHICLE SLAMMED INTO A SNOWBANK DUE TO ICY CONDITIONS. THE FRONT OF THE CAR WAS SIGNIFICANTLY DAMAGED, BUT THE AIRBAG DID NOT INFLATE UPON IMPACT
NHTSA complaint #11066442 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 30,000 milesMarquette, MICrash
STRUCTURE:BODY
THE VEHICLE SLAMMED INTO A SNOWBANK DUE TO ICY CONDITIONS. THE FRONT OF THE CAR WAS SIGNIFICANTLY DAMAGED, BUT THE AIRBAG DID NOT INFLATE UPON IMPACT
NHTSA complaint #11066442 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 86,000 milesNeenah, WICrash2 injured
AIR BAGS
CAR ACCIDENT THAT TOTALED CAR ON HIGHWAY WITH FRONT END COLLISION WITH GUARD RAIL AND AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. ACCIDENT DUE TO RAINY WEATHER.
NHTSA complaint #11020004 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Randallstown, MDCrash2 injured
AIR BAGS
ON 03/18/2017, I WAS INVOLVED IN A HEAD ON COLLISION WITH ANOTHER VEHICLE THAT RAN THE RED LIGHT, AND MY VEHICLE FAILED TO DEPLOY THE AIR BAGS. AS A RESULT I HIT MY HEAD ON THE WIDOW AND SUSTAINED VARIOUS INJURIES.
NHTSA complaint #10967479 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 18,669 milesLyndhurst, OHCrash
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 SUBARU LEGACY. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO PARK, THE VEHICLE UNINTENTIONALLY ACCELERATED WITHOUT WARNING AND CRASHED INTO A WALL. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED AND NO INJURIES WERE SUSTAINED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED; HOWEVER, THE BODY DAMAGE WAS REPAIRED. THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER, BUT THE FAILURE WAS UNABLE TO BE DETERMINED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 18,669. ...UPDATED 09/19/16 *BF UPDATED 08/10/2017
NHTSA complaint #10894711 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 27,500 milesStudio City, CACrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
SUBARU LEGACY DRIVER SIDE AIR BAG FAILURE. WAS PULLING FORWARD ON A GREEN LIGHT WHEN I WAS T-BONED ON DRIVERS SIDE DOOR AND FRONT WING/WHEEL. MY SPEED APPROX 5 MPH,, STRAIGHT, OTHER CAR DRIVING ABOVE THE THRESHOLD FOR A FRONT AIRBAG TO DEPLOY IN A HYUNDAI SONATA 2013, WHICH I BELIEVE ABOVE 14 MPH INTO SOLID CONCRETE WALL OR 28 MPH PARKED CAR PER TESTS. HYUNDAI CAR WAS PERPENDICULAR TO LEGACY WHEN IT STRUCK. SIDE AIRBAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY DESPITE EXTENSIVE DAMAGE TO DRIVER DOOR AND LEFT WING. LET FRONT WHEEL BENT UPWARDS INTO ENGINE AREA, WINDSCREEN CRACKED, COMPLETE DAMAGE TO LEFT FRONT END AND SIDE UP TO END OF DRIVER DOOR. REAR DOOR UNMARKED. UPDATE 9/15/15*CW
NHTSA complaint #10746004 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Penn Valley, CA
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
I am the original owner since purchased new on the dealer lot in 2013. Within the first year, the drivers side headlight prematurely burned out (low beam). I have had to replace four bulbs (so far) since owning vehicle. The first two incidents I payed over $100 to have the bulb changed/replaced by a local mechanic. Since then, I have figured out how to replace the bulbs myself; but unfortunately the remedy is to remove the front driver's tire, remove inner plastic wheel well, and finagle and twist my arm to do this procedure (not easy!). Two main issues: Subaru needs to recall and fix the issue that is prematurely burning out this bulb, and 2; bring back the ability to (engineering design) that allows the owner of the vehicle to replace this bulb from the engine bay - NOT going through a procedure that involves a lengthy and expensive repair.
NHTSA complaint #11670796 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Gloucester, MA
STRUCTURE:BODY
The passenger side frame rusted through. The bolt holding the frame collapsed through the rusted frame while I was driving on the highway and I lost control of my car as I was entering an exit off the highway. My mechanic said the air conditioning system drips on this area of the frame causing the rust and failure of the frame to hold the bolt. There were no warnings prior to the incident except that I heard a popping sound when I took a right turn out of my driveway before heading onto the highway.
NHTSA complaint #11606238 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Wellington, CO
ENGINE
I want to add my report of oil loss in the hope a recall is made. I found out after purchase that 2012-2014 or 2015 has a known problem with piston rings. With normal local driving I need to top off the oil every couple of weeks. With longer trips, say a couple hours of driving one way, the oil gets a quarter to half way down on the dipstick. I carry oil for all roadtrips and can't forget to keep checking the level. My understanding from many sources online is that Subaru is aware they put in bad piston rings and just call it good enough or within spec, but dumping so much oil isn't right. This isn't a wear and tear problem, although it can get worse over time and lead to other problems. The problem goes away when the rings and the engine block is replaced. Scotty Kilmer on Youtube tells a story of a customer that complained enough and after being persistent had it fixed for free (piston rings and block), and still has no oil loss issues after 60k miles. He also recommended reporting it here. This engine is used in various Subaru's, not just the Legacy.
NHTSA complaint #11583674 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Brecksville, OH
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
While driving the vehicle, there was a loud "clunk" from the front-end. After that, during turns there is a lot of scraping, banging and popping noises. During braking, the car veers toward the right. The car is very unstable going around bends and on/off ramps. I took it to a mechanic and was told the front subframe on my vehicle has rusted out to the point he can put his fist through some of the holes. He contacted a dealer to get a price on a replacement and was told they have been waiting over 9 months for that particular part and there is currently no ETA for it. I contacted several other dealers and was told the part has been on backorder since January or February with no ETA. All the dealers I talked with said they are waiting on 10 or more. Based on that information, this seems to be a common problem with this model that may warrant some investigation and/or action to prompt Subaru to make the part available and possibly replace them via a recall. I really like this car and don't want to lose it over a $600 part not being available.
NHTSA complaint #11545792 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Oakland, CA
POWER TRAIN
Faulty transmission, erratic gear shifting and now it seems the transmission is no longer working, mileage on vehicle is not even 130,000.
NHTSA complaint #11489837 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 169,000 milesClarks Summit, PA
ENGINE
The contact's son owns a 2013 Subaru Legacy. The contact stated that while her son was driving at an undisclosed speed and approaching a traffic light, the vehicle stalled. The contact's son was able to restart the vehicle and continued driving. However, the failure reoccurred on two different occasions. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle was experiencing excessive oil consumption. The contact stated that her son had added 10 quarts of oil in the vehicle within 2 weeks. The contact referenced Subaru Technical Service Bulletin Number: 02-157-14R. The contact also stated that the exhaust pipe was emitting black smoke. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who informed the contact that the vehicle needed an engine compression test. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The dealer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 169,000. The consumer stated that they no longer have the vehicle.
NHTSA complaint #11483253 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Harrisburg, PA
ENGINE
Transmission failed. Began to make bad noises then failed to accelerate in an intersection. Was almost hit by another car. Dealer indicated that the Subaru transmissions were only lasting 90, 000 to 100,000 miles before requiring replacement. Contracted Subaru who said they had a voluntary fix, but we were not notified and were outside of the short time frame for the fix. We replaced transmission at cost of $10,000. Subaru offered 1000 off a new car but was not concerned about the safety issue and would not fix/replace the transmission for this known issue.
NHTSA complaint #11471437 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 117,000 milesNewton, NJ
POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2013 Subaru Legacy. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 35 MPH, there was an abnormal noise coming from the transmission. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the technician informed the contact that the failure was the transmission. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the CVT transmission needed to be repaired. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 117,000.
NHTSA complaint #11447295 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Bridgeport, CT
ENGINE
I received a recall letter about problem with the Engine, They did to Tess at 1200 miles each but the car runs out of oil between 25 and 3000 mile every time but they did nothing about it
NHTSA complaint #11437352 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Jacksonville, FL
POWER TRAIN
When driving on interstate, all at once, dashboard lit up with lights, one of the lights being the check engine light. Towed car to dealership and found there was a problem in the CVT valve body which was replaced. I think this should be a recall because it's dangerous to be driving down an interstate with dashboard lit up. Have no idea what would have happened to engine or other parts of car if I wasn't able to get off highway in time.
NHTSA complaint #11427716 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Highlands Ranch, CO
ENGINE
Oil is consumed excessively. I had an oil change done at around 120K miles and my oil light is popping on to let me know that I need another oil change. I have only driven it 2,000 miles since my last oil change and my oil level is low. Looking back at the Carfax, the previous owner had oil changed every 2,000-3,000 miles, but the owner's manual states that oil should be changed every 5,000 miles. It seems this is a safety hazard and possible EPA violation.
NHTSA complaint #11421872 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 83,874 milesSUN City, AZ
POWER TRAIN
THE TRANSMISSION VALVE BODY FAILED ON THIS SUBARU LEGACY AT 83874 MILES. THIS CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO STALL AND THREE ENGINE LIGHTS CAME ON. THIS WAS COVERED UNDER AN EXTENDED WARRANTY AS THIS IS A KNOWN PROBLEM WITH THIS CAR. I HAVE THREE COMPLAINTS / CONCERNS WHERE I BELIEVE THE CONSUMER IS NOW ON THE HOOK FOR THE MANUFACTURER'S PROBLEM. I AM TOLD THE NEW VALVE BODY IS IDENTICAL TO THE OLD AND WILL FAIL AGAIN. THE DEALER ALSO TOLD ME THE TRANSMISSION FLUID MUST BE REPLACED EVERY 30000 MILES, NOT THE 100000 MILES IN THE OWNERS MANUAL. THIS IS AT A CURRENT COST OF $413.00; ALSO - I HAD TO PAY TODAY $413.00 TO REPLACE THE FLUID, WHICH IS NOT COVERED BY THE EXTENDED WARRANTY, EVEN THOUGH DIRTY FLUID IS THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THIS ISSUE AFFECTS MANY SUBARUS AND SHOULD BE ON A PERMANENT RECALL REPAIR LIST AT SUBARU'S EXPENSE FOR THE SERVICABLE LIFE OF THE CAR, OR A RECALL WHERE THE VALVE BODY IS REPLACED BY ONE THAT WILL NOT FAIL AGAIN. NO ONE SHOULD BE REQUIRED TO PERFORM A $413.00 FLUID CHANGE EVERY 30000 MILES.
NHTSA complaint #11396712 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 138,000 milesPlainwell, MI
POWER TRAIN
TORQUE CONVERTOR CLUTCH SOLENOID WENT OUT WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AT 75MPH. ENDED UP HAVING IT REPLACED AT 138,000 MILES ON 2013 SUBARU LEGACY. COST $1,700 AT SUBARU DEALERSHIP.
NHTSA complaint #11353968 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 150,000 milesHarrisburg, PA
POWER TRAIN
THERE WAS A HORRIBLE WHINING THAT STARTED VERY QUIET ON AND OFF IN 2017 AND BECAME LOUDER THIS YEAR. WE DROVE INTO A CITY INTERSECTION TO TURN, AND THE CAR STALLED. WE WERE LUCKY THAT WE DIDN'T GET HIT BY ANOTHER CAR. WE TOOK IT TO THE DEALERSHIP AS WE DO ALL RECOMMENDED MAINTENANCE AND SOMETHING WAS REALLY WRONG TO MAKE IT STALL LIKE THAT. THE DEALERSHIP SAID THAT IT IS A CVT TRANSMISSION, AND THEY ARE KNOWN TO HAVE THIS PROBLEM. TOLD US TO CALL SUBARU. THERE WAS AN EXTENDED WARRANTY OFFERED IN 2018, BUT WE NEVER WERE NOTIFIED OF THAT AND ARE THE ORIGINAL OWNER. IF WE HAD THE NOTIFICATION WE WOULD HAVE HAD THIS FIXED AS IT OCCASIONALLY MADE THE NOISE BUT IT DID NOT REPEAT WHEN AT OUR SERVICE CENTER. WE WOULD HAVE HAD THE DEALER CHECK IT IF WE KNEW ABOUT THE PROBLEM AND WARRANTY. I EXPECTED A SUBARU TO LAST LONGER THAN THIS BEFORE NEEDING AN $9,000 REPAIR. CALLED SUBARU AND THEY OFFERED ME $1,000 TOWARD A NEW SUBARU. I PAID $36,000 FOR THIS CAR. I DON'T THINK $1,000 OFF ONE NOW IS GOING TO HELP ME VERY MUCH FOR A KNOWN PROBLEM WITH THIS TRANSMISSION THAT PUT US IN A VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION.
NHTSA complaint #11343752 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 145,000 milesEugene, OR
POWER TRAIN
WHILE TRAVELING ON A BUSY INTERSTATE. MY CAR SUDDENLY JERKED AS IF I HAD PUT INTO NEUTRAL. I WAS TRAVELING APPROXIMATELY 65 MPH. NEARLY CAUSING AN ACCIDENT TRYING TO GET OFF THE HIGHWAY. IT WOULD NOT ENGAGE IN MANUAL OR AUTOMATIC MODE. AFTER HAVING IT TOWED TO A MECHANICS SHOP, IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT THE CVT TRANSMISSION HAD FAILED, WITHOUT WARNING. THIS COULD HAVE RESULTED IN A VERY SERIOUS ACCIDENT IF I WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN ABLE TO GET TO THE SHOULDER OF THE ROAD.
NHTSA complaint #11341920 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 98,000 milesMaryville, TN
POWER TRAIN
CAR HAS EXTENDED CRANKING ISSUE - IT ACTS LIKE THE STARTER IS BAD OR THE BATTERY IS DYING. TOOK IT TO THE DEALER AND TOLD THEM THAT THE CAR HAS A HARD TIME STARTING. IT HAS DIED A COUPLE TIMES SO I REPLACED THE BATTERY WITH AN INTERSTATE BATTERY AND THEY TOLD ME THAT THE BATTERY WAS BAD. I HAD THE BATTERY CHECKED AND IT IS DEFINITELY NOT BAD. ASKED THE DEALER TO CHECK THE STARTER AND THEY SAID IT IS FINE. IT SEEMS THAT THE CAR HAS SOME OTHER ISSUE WITH POWER BEING DRAWN FROM SOMEWHERE ELSE.
NHTSA complaint #11309418 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 98,000 milesMaryville, TN
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
CAR HAS EXTENDED CRANKING ISSUE - IT ACTS LIKE THE STARTER IS BAD OR THE BATTERY IS DYING. TOOK IT TO THE DEALER AND TOLD THEM THAT THE CAR HAS A HARD TIME STARTING. IT HAS DIED A COUPLE TIMES SO I REPLACED THE BATTERY WITH AN INTERSTATE BATTERY AND THEY TOLD ME THAT THE BATTERY WAS BAD. I HAD THE BATTERY CHECKED AND IT IS DEFINITELY NOT BAD. ASKED THE DEALER TO CHECK THE STARTER AND THEY SAID IT IS FINE. IT SEEMS THAT THE CAR HAS SOME OTHER ISSUE WITH POWER BEING DRAWN FROM SOMEWHERE ELSE.
NHTSA complaint #11309418 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 98,000 milesMaryville, TN
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
CAR HAS EXTENDED CRANKING ISSUE - IT ACTS LIKE THE STARTER IS BAD OR THE BATTERY IS DYING. TOOK IT TO THE DEALER AND TOLD THEM THAT THE CAR HAS A HARD TIME STARTING. IT HAS DIED A COUPLE TIMES SO I REPLACED THE BATTERY WITH AN INTERSTATE BATTERY AND THEY TOLD ME THAT THE BATTERY WAS BAD. I HAD THE BATTERY CHECKED AND IT IS DEFINITELY NOT BAD. ASKED THE DEALER TO CHECK THE STARTER AND THEY SAID IT IS FINE. IT SEEMS THAT THE CAR HAS SOME OTHER ISSUE WITH POWER BEING DRAWN FROM SOMEWHERE ELSE.
NHTSA complaint #11309418 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 100,128 milesPueblo, CO
POWER TRAIN
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 SUBARU LEGACY. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO BE SERVICED AT HEUBERGER SUBARU (1080 MOTOR CITY DR, COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80905, 719-475-1920) FOR TRANSMISSION FAILURE. INITIALLY, THE DEALER WOULD NOT COVER THE COST OF THE REPAIR DUE TO THE WARRANTY EXPIRING; HOWEVER, THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND ULTIMATELY AGREED TO SERVICE THE VEHICLE UNDER WARRANTY. SINCE THEN, THE VEHICLE REMAINED IN THE POSSESSION OF THE DEALER FOR NEARLY TWO MONTHS. THE DEALER INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE ECU UNIT AND GEAR SHIFTER WERE DEFECTIVE AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE REPAIR WOULD COST $1,900. THE CONTACT ASSOCIATED THE FAILURE WITH NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 19V297000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM). THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND STATED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. NO FURTHER ASSISTANCE WAS OFFERED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,128.
NHTSA complaint #11258047 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 109,339 milesBolivia, NC
POWER TRAIN
I BOUGHT THIS 2013 SUBARU LEGACY LIMITED ON JUNE 12,2019 AND A WEEK LATER THE EMERGENCY BRAKE LIGHT AND CRUISE CONTROL DID NOT WORK AND THE LIGHTS WERE ON THE DASHBOARD. I BROUGHT THE CAR TO A SUBARU DEALER IN WILMINGTON, NC AND WAS TOLD THAT IT NEEDED THE CONTROL PANEL FOR THE EMERGENCY BRAKE WHICH EFFECTS THE CRUISE CONTROL. THIS SAME PROBLEM IS A CURRENT RECALL IN SUBARU LEGACY MANUAL TRANSMISSION AND I FEEL THAT THERE SHOULD BE A RECALL WITH THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION AS WELL SINCE MY CAR IS AFFECTED BY THE SAME PROBLEM. THE CAR WAS JUST OUT OF WARRANTY AND JUST OVER 100,000 MILES . THE REPAIR IS OVER $1200 AND IT IS JUST NOT RIGHT THAT THIS HAS HAPPENED AND IT IS NOT A RECALL. PLEASE ISSUE A RECALL FOR THIS SAME PROBLEM AS THE MANUAL TRANSMISSIONS ON THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS. I CAN BE REACHED AT [XXX] . THANK YOU, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
NHTSA complaint #11244400 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 109,339 milesBolivia, NC
SERVICE BRAKES
I BOUGHT THIS 2013 SUBARU LEGACY LIMITED ON JUNE 12,2019 AND A WEEK LATER THE EMERGENCY BRAKE LIGHT AND CRUISE CONTROL DID NOT WORK AND THE LIGHTS WERE ON THE DASHBOARD. I BROUGHT THE CAR TO A SUBARU DEALER IN WILMINGTON, NC AND WAS TOLD THAT IT NEEDED THE CONTROL PANEL FOR THE EMERGENCY BRAKE WHICH EFFECTS THE CRUISE CONTROL. THIS SAME PROBLEM IS A CURRENT RECALL IN SUBARU LEGACY MANUAL TRANSMISSION AND I FEEL THAT THERE SHOULD BE A RECALL WITH THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION AS WELL SINCE MY CAR IS AFFECTED BY THE SAME PROBLEM. THE CAR WAS JUST OUT OF WARRANTY AND JUST OVER 100,000 MILES . THE REPAIR IS OVER $1200 AND IT IS JUST NOT RIGHT THAT THIS HAS HAPPENED AND IT IS NOT A RECALL. PLEASE ISSUE A RECALL FOR THIS SAME PROBLEM AS THE MANUAL TRANSMISSIONS ON THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS. I CAN BE REACHED AT [XXX] . THANK YOU, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
NHTSA complaint #11244400 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 96,000 milesSilver Spring, MD
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
DRIVER FRONT WINDOW REGULATOR GETS REALLY HOT. DOES NOT MOVE THE WINDOW UP OR DOWN. BEFORE THAT I HAD TO KEEP RE-SYNC THE WINDOW TO THE MASTER SWITCH FOR SOME REASON. IT WILL LOSE IT'S MEMORY RANDOMLY.
NHTSA complaint #11222034 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 109,339 milesBolivia, NC
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
WE JUST BOUGHT THIS CAR AND 2 DAYS LATER THE SERVICE ENGINE LIGHT WENT ON AND THE BRAKE ICON WAS BLINKING AND THE CRUISE CONTROL DIDNT WORK. A SUBARU DEALER TOLD ME THAT IT NEEDS THE PARKING BREAK ELECTRICAL CONTROL PANEL. I FIND THIS STRANGE AS THE CAR IS ONLY 6 YEARS OLD. PLEASE ADVISE ME WHAT YOU FIND OUT.
NHTSA complaint #11220297 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Wheeling, WV
AIR BAGS
I RECEIVED A RECALL FOR PASSENGER AIR BAG AND THE COMPANY SET UP AN APPOINTMENT FOR ME. HOWEVER, I REMEMBER RECEIVING A RECALL FOR THE DRIVERS SIDE AIR BAG A YEAR OR SO AGO, AND WHEN I CALLED THE COMPANY I PURCHASED IT FROM, THEY TOLD ME THE RECALL WAS NOT MEANT FOR MY LEGACY, SO I THREW AWAY THE LETTER. NOW I AM WONDERING - WAS THERE A RECALL FOR THE DRIVERS SIDE AND CAN I STILL GET IT REPLACE BY THAT COMPANY?
NHTSA complaint #11207114 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Syracuse, NY
AIR BAGS
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 SUBARU LEGACY. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 19V009000 (AIR BAGS). THE CONTACT CALLED ROMANO SUBARU AT 315-475-7933 (LOCATED AT 960 HIAWATHA BLVD W, SYRACUSE, NY 13204) AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND WAS NOT ABLE TO CONFIRM WHEN THE PARTS WERE TO BECOME AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
NHTSA complaint #11203514 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.