Not all Subaru Legacies are the same. Some model years have more problems than others. For example, the 2009 Subaru Legacy often has head gasket issues.
The 2010 and 2011 models have major transmission problems. The 2015 Legacy also has complaints about loud wind noise and engine troubles.
Knowing about these issues can help you avoid problems in the future. So, which are the years to avoid, and what problems do they have? Let’s take a closer look so you can make a smart choice.
Key Takeaways
- The 2009 Legacy often has head gasket problems that can cause serious engine damage.
- The 2011 Legacy is known for major engine and transmission failures.
- The 2010 Legacy has issues with its CVT transmission, which affects how it drives.
- The 2015 Legacy has complaints about too much wind noise and a burning smell.
- The 2018 Legacy has issues with its infotainment system, like screens freezing and connectivity problems.
2009 Subaru Legacy
If you’re thinking about getting a Subaru Legacy, you should know that the 2009 model has some serious engine problems.
The 2009 Subaru Legacy is known for its frequent head gasket failures. This issue can cause major engine damage if not fixed quickly. Many owners have reported that the head gasket can fail as early as 80,000 miles, leading to expensive repairs.
This isn’t just a one-off problem; it happens a lot and has given the 2009 Legacy a bad reputation. If you want a reliable car, be careful with this model year.
It’s important to consider these risks before deciding, as the engine problems with the 2009 Subaru Legacy are well-known.
2010 Subaru Legacy
When looking at the 2010 Subaru Legacy, keep in mind a few potential problems. This year is known for having issues with headlights and CVT transmissions, which can be expensive to fix.
Because of these ongoing problems, it’s best to steer clear of the 2010 Legacy.
Faulty Headlights Issue
The 2010 and 2011 Subaru Legacy models had well-known problems with their headlights. These issues made it hard to see at night and made driving less safe. The headlights burned out quickly, so you’d to replace them often.
Many drivers said these bad headlights made nighttime driving dangerous and made them worry about the car’s dependability.
Owners of these Subaru Legacy models had to deal with a lot of hassle and extra costs because of the ongoing headlight problems. These issues hurt the car’s overall performance, making the 2010 and 2011 models less attractive.
If you care about safety and reliability, it’s best to avoid these Subaru Legacy years.
CVT Transmission Problems
Aside from the headlight problems, the 2010 Subaru Legacy also had major issues with its CVT transmission, which raised serious reliability concerns. Many owners reported transmission troubles that badly affected how the car drove. Common problems included slipping, jerking, and a noticeable loss of power, all of which made driving the 2010 Legacy difficult.
These transmission issues often led to expensive repairs and lowered the car’s resale value. If you’re thinking about buying a used 2010 Legacy, it’s important to know about these transmission problems. The potential for costly repairs and the overall impact on the car’s reliability make this model a risky choice.
Always be careful and thoroughly check for any signs of transmission issues before deciding.
Quick Headlight Burnouts
The 2011 Subaru Legacy has a big issue with headlights burning out quickly, causing you to replace them more often than you’d like. Owners frequently report that the headlight bulbs don’t last long, which means more maintenance costs and safety risks.
When your headlights go out, it can make driving at night or in bad weather more dangerous. This common problem with the 2011 Legacy means you’ll likely spend more time and money changing headlight bulbs compared to other car models.
While the 2011 Legacy has its good points, the frequent headlight burnouts are a major downside, making it a model you might want to skip if you’re looking at a Subaru Legacy.
2011 Subaru Legacy
When thinking about buying a Subaru Legacy, it’s good to know which model years had problems. The 2009 Subaru Legacy had major engine failure issues.
The 2010 and 2011 models often had headlights burn out and had transmission problems.
The 2015 model had a lot of complaints about loud wind noise and a burning smell from the engine.
While things did get better, the 2018 Subaru Legacy still had issues with its infotainment system.
2015 Subaru Legacy
When thinking about the 2015 Subaru Legacy, know that some people have complained about too much wind noise and a burning smell from the engine.
These problems can really affect how you feel about driving the car.
Make sure to think about these issues before choosing this model.
Excessive Wind Noise Issues
Many people who own a 2015 Subaru Legacy have complained about too much wind noise, which affects their driving experience. This usually happens at highway speeds, where the loud wind makes the inside of the car less comfortable.
The problem is probably due to poor insulation or sealing issues in the 2015 Legacy, which lets air leak into the car. These design or manufacturing problems can make long drives uncomfortable and tiring.
Some owners have tried to fix the wind noise by adding aftermarket soundproofing materials or getting professional help, but these solutions can be expensive and mightn’t completely solve the problem.
If you’re thinking about getting a 2015 Subaru Legacy, keep this common complaint in mind and consider how important a quiet, comfortable ride is to you.
Engine Burning Smell Complaints
Besides the problems with wind noise, owners of the 2015 Subaru Legacy often reported a troubling burning smell coming from the engine. This issue raised serious concerns about safety and reliability.
Many drivers noticed this unpleasant odor, leading to several complaints. These reports suggested that the car might need repairs and that owners should keep a close eye on it. If you’re thinking about buying a 2015 Legacy, be aware that this burning smell could signal mechanical issues.
Always get a thorough inspection to avoid any surprises. This ongoing problem is another reason some people might choose to skip the 2015 model.
2018 Subaru Legacy
Some Subaru Legacy models have major issues that you might want to avoid.
The 2009 Subaru Legacy often has engine problems.
The 2010 model has faulty headlights and transmission troubles.
The 2011 Legacy also has headlight and transmission issues.
The 2015 model has complaints about loud wind noise and an engine burning smell.
Even though the 2018 Subaru Legacy is more reliable, it still has problems with its infotainment system.
If you’re thinking about getting a Subaru Legacy, it’s best to stay away from these years for a smoother, more reliable ride.
Common Legacy Problems
Subaru Legacy cars have had their share of problems over the years. Many cars from the early 2010s use too much oil. If you have a 2010 or 2011 Legacy, your headlights might burn out more often than normal.
Older models from 2000 to 2006 often have issues with oxygen sensors, which can make the check engine light come on. The 2018 Legacy has problems with its infotainment system, while the 2015 model is known for being noisy and sometimes has a burning smell coming from the engine.
Knowing about these problems can help you take care of your car and make better choices if you’re thinking about buying one.
Engine Failure Issues
Engine problems have been a big issue for some Legacy models, hurting their reliability and how happy owners are with them. The 2009 Subaru Legacy is especially known for these problems. Many owners have reported sudden engine failures that often need expensive repairs or even full replacements. These issues have scared off potential buyers and dropped resale values.
While Subaru has improved engine reliability in newer models, the 2009 Legacy still serves as a warning. If you’re thinking about buying a used Subaru Legacy, be extra careful with this model year. Engine troubles can be really costly and stressful, so it’s important to do your homework and maybe choose a different year with a better history.
Faulty Headlights
While some Subaru Legacy models have engine problems, another issue to watch out for is the faulty headlights in the 2010 and 2011 versions. Owners often report that the headlights burn out too soon, which can be both annoying and dangerous. These models are known for this defect, causing many drivers to replace headlight bulbs much more often than they should.
This ongoing problem not only adds to maintenance costs but also raises safety concerns, especially when driving at night or in bad weather. If you’re thinking about buying a used Subaru Legacy, it’s a good idea to avoid the 2010 and 2011 models to avoid the hassle of dealing with bad headlights.
CVT Transmission Problems
If you’re dealing with CVT transmission problems in the 2010 and 2011 Subaru Legacy models, you might notice jerking, hesitation, or even complete failure. These issues can lead to expensive repairs or replacements, affecting how well your car drives and its reliability.
Many owners of these models have reported major problems, making the CVT transmission in the Subaru Legacy a big concern. Although Subaru fixed these issues in later models, the early versions still have significant reliability risks.
If you’re thinking about buying a used Subaru Legacy, be careful with the 2010 and 2011 models to avoid these known transmission problems. Doing thorough research and getting a detailed inspection can save you from future headaches and high repair costs.
Excessive Wind Noise
The 2015 Subaru Legacy is known for having a lot of wind noise, especially when driving on the highway. Many owners have complained about how loud it gets at higher speeds, making long trips uncomfortable.
This problem is likely due to poor insulation or issues with the car’s design. Fixing the wind noise can be tough and might take several tries. Some people have added extra insulation or soundproofing materials to help, but these fixes don’t always work.
If you’re thinking about getting a 2015 Legacy, keep in mind that this wind noise issue is common and could be frustrating.
Infotainment System Errors
The 2018 Subaru Legacy’s infotainment system has problems that can really mess with your driving. The screen often freezes, and the controls sometimes don’t work.
There are also issues with the user interface and the audio system, which can be annoying. Because of these problems, you might end up going to the dealership a lot, which can lower your overall satisfaction with the car.
Common Infotainment Glitches
Drivers of the 2018 Subaru Legacy often get frustrated by ongoing problems with the infotainment system. These issues include screens that freeze and controls that don’t work. Many owners have tried to fix these glitches but still face problems that affect their driving experience.
Sometimes the touchscreen goes blank or won’t respond, causing a lot of inconvenience. Connectivity issues also make it hard to use important features like navigation and audio controls. These problems take away from the car’s good safety features and driving performance.
If you’re thinking about getting this model, be ready for potential headaches with the infotainment system that could spoil an otherwise good ride.
User Interface Problems
User interface issues are a big problem for the 2018 Subaru Legacy. The screens often freeze, and the controls can stop working, impacting the whole driving experience. It’s hard to rely on navigation and other important functions when the system crashes or shows errors without warning. Many owners are frustrated by these unexpected failures.
Connectivity issues make things worse, as Bluetooth and other features frequently don’t work right. Although Subaru improved these systems in the 2020 Legacy, the 2018 model still has these significant problems. If you’re thinking about getting a 2018 Subaru Legacy, be aware of these ongoing infotainment system issues.
Audio System Malfunctions
Owners of the 2018 Subaru Legacy have often complained about annoying problems with the car’s audio system, like sudden breakdowns and connectivity issues. These problems usually show up as frozen screens, blackouts, and unresponsive touchscreens.
Even though the 2018 model is generally reliable, these infotainment issues can really affect your experience and leave owners unhappy. Bluetooth connectivity is a common problem, messing up hands-free calls and music streaming.
Subaru knows about these issues, but the system’s performance is still hit or miss. If you’re thinking about getting a 2018 Legacy, keep in mind that while the car is mostly dependable, its audio system problems might need extra attention and could take away from your driving enjoyment.
Excessive Oil Consumption
Some Subaru Legacy models, especially those from 2013 to 2015, use too much oil, which can cause serious engine damage and safety problems if not taken care of right away.
You need to keep an eye on the oil levels and add more oil regularly to avoid engine breakdowns. Many owners have complained that these cars use more oil than normal.
Subaru knows about this issue and has sometimes given extended warranties or recalls to help fix it. But, it’s still your job to make sure your car’s oil use is safe.
If you ignore this problem, you could end up with expensive repairs and a car that’s not reliable or safe to drive.
Failed Oxygen Sensors
Failed Oxygen Sensors
If you own a Subaru Legacy, especially a model from 2000 to 2006, keep an eye on your oxygen sensors. When these sensors fail, they often cause the check engine light to turn on. This can lead to worse gas mileage, engine misfires, and higher emissions. Ignoring these issues can even damage your catalytic converter.
| Issue | Effect | Consequence |
|---|---|---|
| Failed Oxygen Sensor | Check Engine Light | Poor Fuel Economy |
| Unresolved Sensor Failure | Possible Catalytic Converter Damage | Engine Misfires |
| Regular Maintenance | Checks Sensor Health | Prevents Drive Issues |
Fixing broken oxygen sensors quickly can solve these problems and boost your Subaru Legacy’s performance. Regular check-ups are crucial to avoid any driving troubles.
Headlight Bulb Issues
If you have a 2010 or 2011 Subaru Legacy, you might’ve noticed that the headlight bulbs burn out quickly. This happens a lot and suggests there are electrical problems that can affect how well the car works and how safe it is.
These headlight issues are common for these particular years.
Rapid Burnout Problems
The 2010-2011 Subaru Legacy models are notorious for their headlights burning out quickly. This forces owners to replace the bulbs often, which can make driving less safe. Many drivers had to change their headlights multiple times in a short period.
| Model Year | Problem | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| 2010 | Headlights burn out quickly | Need to replace bulbs often |
| 2011 | Headlights burn out quickly | Reduced visibility and safety |
The frequent headlight burnout in the 2010-2011 Legacy models made it hard to see while driving and meant owners had to keep an eye on their headlights and replace them regularly. This was a common complaint and made driving these cars less enjoyable. If you’re thinking about getting a Legacy from these years, be aware that you might face higher maintenance costs and safety risks due to these headlight problems.
Electrical System Concerns
The 2010-2011 Subaru Legacy models had a lot of problems with their electrical systems, especially with their headlights. Owners often had to replace headlight bulbs multiple times in a short period, which was really frustrating. These headlight issues led to many complaints and made people question the car’s reliability.
Here are some key points:
- Frequent Replacements: Many owners had to change headlight bulbs often, sometimes within just a few months.
- Safety Concerns: When headlights don’t work properly, it makes it hard to see at night or in bad weather, which is dangerous.
- Cost Implications: Buying and installing new bulbs over and over can get expensive.
Fixing these electrical problems could make the car much safer and more reliable.
Legacy Lawsuits and Recalls
When looking at the history of the Subaru Legacy, several important lawsuits and recalls show serious safety and reliability problems. Lawsuits like Sampson v. Subaru and Khona v. Subaru brought up issues with EyeSight technology and cracked windshields. Powell v. Subaru also dealt with windshield problems, while Bare v. Subaru highlighted dangerous unintended acceleration in Subaru Legacy models. Adnan v. Subaru focused on failures with Denso fuel pumps.
The Legacy has also been subject to many recalls, including the well-known issues with Takata airbags and fuel pump defects.
| Lawsuit | Issue |
|---|---|
| Sampson v. Subaru | EyeSight problems |
| Khona v. Subaru | Cracked windshields |
| Powell v. Subaru | Windshield issues |
| Bare v. Subaru | Unintended acceleration |
These legal cases emphasize the need to be aware of potential problems with the Subaru Legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Years Are Best for Subaru Legacy?
The best Subaru Legacy models are from 2004, 2007, 2012, 2013, 2016, and 2019. These years are known for their great features, reliability, and few problems, making them a smart choice.
What Is the Most Common Problem With Subaru Legacy?
The most common problem with the Subaru Legacy is that it uses too much oil, which can affect the engine’s reliability. Transmission problems are also common, but the oil issue is the biggest concern. Fixing these issues early can help avoid more damage.
Is a Subaru Legacy a Reliable Car?
The Subaru Legacy is usually a reliable car, but some years had issues. Maintenance costs are average, and regular care keeps it running well. Be sure to read reviews for the specific model you’re interested in before buying.
What Is Considered High Mileage for a Subaru Legacy?
High mileage for a Subaru Legacy is usually between 150,000 and 200,000 miles. If you take good care of it, you can keep its resale value, improve its performance, and maintain good fuel efficiency. This will help your car stay reliable even with high mileage.
When looking at performance cars, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Subaru Outback, Subaru Legacy, Subaru Impreza and Subaru Forester. Knowing which model years to target and which to avoid is crucial. Our expert reviews break down these models, providing insights into the years that are celebrated for their engineering excellence and driving satisfaction, as well as those that are best to avoid due to potential issues.
Conclusion
So, you’re interested in a Subaru Legacy?
Just be sure to avoid the 2009, 2010, 2011, and 2015 models.
Also, keep in mind that the 2018 model has issues with excessive oil consumption.
Do your research, steer clear of these problematic years, and hopefully, you’ll find a Legacy that you’ll be happy with.
Good luck!
