Auto Recall Watch
U.S. public vehicle records

1997 Subaru LEGACY: complaints, problems and recalls

Explore the records behind recurring owner reports.

Key facts

139 owner complaints analyzed

5 distinct recall campaigns

92,000 mi median reported failure mileage

Scope: 1997 model year. Data updated: . 23 complaints include usable failure mileage. View data status.

Owner-reported patterns

Most common problems

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip is the most frequently named component, appearing in 14 of 139 complaints (10.1%). A complaint can name multiple components.

Recurring terms in complaint narratives
TopicMatching reportsShare of complaints
Braking behavior3223.0%
Transmission and shifting139.4%
Electrical and battery issues85.8%
Engine operation53.6%
Steering behavior53.6%
Fuel system concerns53.6%

Topic matches use published keyword rules. They describe mentions, including negations or comparisons, and do not confirm a diagnosis. Read the matching rules.

Component breakdown

Number of unique complaints naming each component. Top eight shown.

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip
14
Engine And Engine Cooling:Engine
10
Engine And Engine Cooling:Engine:Gasoline
10
Vehicle Speed Control
8
Suspension
7
Engine And Engine Cooling
6
Power Train:Automatic Transmission
6
Air Bags
5
Component breakdown data
CategoryCount
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip14
Engine And Engine Cooling:Engine10
Engine And Engine Cooling:Engine:Gasoline10
Vehicle Speed Control8
Suspension7
Engine And Engine Cooling6
Power Train:Automatic Transmission6
Air Bags5

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip: 14; Engine And Engine Cooling:Engine: 10; Engine And Engine Cooling:Engine:Gasoline: 10; Vehicle Speed Control: 8; Suspension: 7; Engine And Engine Cooling: 6; Power Train:Automatic Transmission: 6; Air Bags: 5

Reported problems by failure mileage

Complaint counts in mileage bands. These are not failure rates per vehicle or mile.

Under 25,000
0
25,000 to 49,999
2
50,000 to 74,999
3
75,000 to 99,999
9
100,000 to 149,999
5
150,000 and above
4
Reported problems by failure mileage data
CategoryCount
Under 25,0000
25,000 to 49,9992
50,000 to 74,9993
75,000 to 99,9999
100,000 to 149,9995
150,000 and above4

Under 25,000: 0; 25,000 to 49,999: 2; 50,000 to 74,999: 3; 75,000 to 99,999: 9; 100,000 to 149,999: 5; 150,000 and above: 4

75,000 to 99,999 miles has the most reports with usable mileage (9). 116 complaints have missing, zero or invalid mileage.

Complaints over time

Year the complaint was filed, not the vehicle model year or incident year. The snapshot year is partial.

1996
3
1997
14
1998
27
1999
17
2000
13
2001
16
2002
13
2003
10
2004
1
2005
5
2006
2
2007
1
2008
6
2009
2
2010
1
2012
2
2013
2
2014
2
2017
1
2020
1
Complaints over time data
CategoryCount
19963
199714
199827
199917
200013
200116
200213
200310
20041
20055
20062
20071
20086
20092
20101
20122
20132
20142
20171
20201

1996: 3; 1997: 14; 1998: 27; 1999: 17; 2000: 13; 2001: 16; 2002: 13; 2003: 10; 2004: 1; 2005: 5; 2006: 2; 2007: 1; 2008: 6; 2009: 2; 2010: 1; 2012: 2; 2013: 2; 2014: 2; 2017: 1; 2020: 1

Pattern summary

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip leads the component reports. Braking behavior appears in 32 complaint narratives. Transmission and shifting appears in 13 complaint narratives. Electrical and battery issues appears in 8 complaint narratives. Use these patterns to inspect individual reports and prepare questions for a mechanic.

Calculated from recorded counts. An AI narrative has not been published for this selection.

Examples from the source records

Examples provide context, not a representative sample or a verified diagnosis.

Owner report 10002691 · 2003-01-14 (January 14, 2003)

MY 1997 SUBARU LEGACY WAS TOTALLED IN A FRONT END COLLISION. THE COLLISION OCCURRED AT 30-35 MPH, MY 97 LEGACY'S ENGINE WAS DESTROYED IN THIS COLLISION, AND I WAS CRUNCHED INTO THE STEERING WHEEL BECAUSE THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. I SUFFERED INTERNAL INJURIES AND WAS TAKEN BY AMBULANCE TO THE HOSPITAL EMERGENCY ROOM. BOTH AIRBAGS IN MY 97 LEGACY FAILED. THE LEGACY WAS TOTALLED.

Owner-reported narrative. 49,882 miles reported. Look up ODI 10002691 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10021114 · 2003-06-05 (June 5, 2003)

WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AT A SPEED OF APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH, THE HOOD UNLATCHED, FLEW BACK, AND CONTACTED THE WINDSHIELD AND FORWARD ROOF. THE WINDSHIELD SHATTERED, BUT FORTUNATELY I WAS ABLE TO SEE THROUGH THE SPACE BETWEEN THE DASH AND BOTTOM OF THE HOOD AND MANAGED TO GET THE CAR TO THE MEDIAN. THE HOOD AND WINDSHIELD WERE RUINED, AND THE ROOF SUSTAINED CONSIDERABLE DAMAGE.*AK

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 10021114 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10033998 · 2003-08-15 (August 15, 2003)

VEHICLE HAS BEEN LOOKED AT DURING A PERIOD OF TIME AND MECHANIC FOUND SEVERAL PROBLEMS. RADIATOR AND HEAD GASKETS WERE REPLACED. OIL WAS LEAKING FROM THE MOTOR, AND THE AXLE ON THE PASSENGER SIDE HAD GONE BAD. *AK

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 10033998 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10038415 · 2003-10-12 (October 12, 2003)

THE VEHICLE WAS LEAKING OIL FROM THE REAR SEPARATOR PLATE AND OIL PUMP SEAL. *AK THIS CAUSED COPIOUS AMOUNTS OF SMOKE TO BILLOW OUT FROM UNDER THE HOOD AND OUT THE FRONT WHEEL WELLS WHEN STOPPED AFTER DRIVING SEVERAL MILES. TOOK SEVERAL MINUTES FOR THE SMOKE TO SUBSIDE. CONSUMER QUESTIONED WHETHER THERE WERE ANY FINES FOR THIS FAILURE. HE HEARD SUBARU MADE CHANGES TO THE NEWER MODEL LEGACY. CONSUMER LEARNED OF TWO OTHER SUBARU OWNER'S THAT EXPERIENCE THE SAME DEFECT. *PH *NLM

Owner-reported narrative. 70,000 miles reported. Look up ODI 10038415 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10040582 · 2003-09-22 (September 22, 2003)

VEHICLE ENGINE IS LEAKING OIL. *MR THE OIL LEAKED FROM THE OIL PUMP SEAL AND ALSO FROM THE REAR SEPARATOR PLATE THAT COULD START A FIRE. THE CONSUMER FOUND TWO OTHER OWNERS WITH THE EXACT SAME PROBLEM. SCC *JB

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 10040582 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10042496 · 2003-10-07 (October 7, 2003)

WHILE TRAVELING AT 70 MPH ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED AND SMOKE CAME FROM UNDER HOOD. DRIVER PULLED OVER, POPPED HOOD, AND NOTICED COOLANT AND OIL SPRAYED OVER ENGINE. ALSO A COUPLE OF FLAMES WERE PRESENT. DEALER SAID IT WAS A BLOWN HEAD GASKET.*AK

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 10042496 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10042764 · 2003-11-05 (November 5, 2003)

WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS RUNNING IN THE PARK POSITION, THE CONSUMER WAS UNABLE TO SHIFT THE GEARS IN ANY DIRECTION. VEHICLE WAS NOT DRIVABLE. *AK THE CAUSE WAS DUE TO POOR GROUND TO THE SHIFTER SOLENOID. THIS WOULD NOT ACUATE TO ALLOW THE SHIFTER IN GEAR. THE CONSUMER WAS TOLD BY SEVERAL MECHANICS THAT THIS WAS A COMMON PROBLEM IN THIS MAKE/MODEL. *SCC *JB

Owner-reported narrative. 113,000 miles reported. Look up ODI 10042764 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10049945 · 2003-12-03 (December 3, 2003)

PROBLEMS WITH VEHICLE BLOWING HEAD GASKETS.*MR WHILE DRIVING, THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED, SMOKE CAME FROM UNDER THE HOOD AND THE TAIL PIPE. VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A SUBARU DEALERSHIP WHERE IT WAS DISCOVERED THE PROBLEM WAS A BLOWN HEAD GASKET. COOLANT AND OIL SPRAYED ALL OVER THE ENGINE AND IGNITED A SMALL FIRE ON THE EXHAUST MANIFOLD, BUT IT EXTINGUISHED ITSELF. CONSUMER HAD VEHICLE TOWED TO HER LOCAL DEALER. SHE OBTAINED TWO OPINIONS AND THEY BOTH SAID THE SAME THING. EXTREME COOLANT LOSS BUT NO EVIDENCE OF A LEAK. IT APPEARED W…

Owner-reported narrative. 63,000 miles reported. Look up ODI 10049945 at NHTSA ↗

Recall history

5 distinct campaigns affect this selection. Announcement dates below are different from vehicle model years. A campaign may cover multiple years.

01V216000 · Suspension:Front:Springs:Coil Springs

Reported: 2001-06-25 (June 25, 2001)

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH FRONT COIL SPRINGS ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, KENTUCKY, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW YORK, NEW JERSEY, NEW HAMPSHIRE, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, VIRGINIA, WEST VIRGINIA, AND WISCONSIN, AND IN THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. THE FRONT COIL SPRINGS WERE PRODUCED WITH POOR PAINT QUALITY WHICH, AFTER CONTINUED EXPOSURE TO CORROSIVE SALT, CAN RESULT IN BREAKAGE OF THE SPRING.

Consequence: DEPENDING ON THE LOCATION OF THE FRACTURE, A BROKEN SPRING COULD MOVE PAST THE SPRING SEAT AND CONTACT A FRONT TIRE. SOME TIRES HAVE DEFLATED DUE TO CONTACT WITH A BROKEN SPRING.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL NOTIFIY CUSTOMERS TO BRING THEIR VEHICLE TO AN AUTHORIZE DEALERSHIP TO HAVE A SPRING GUARD INSTALLED ON BOTH FRONT STRUTS TO PREVENT TIRE PUNCTURE AND REPLACE ANY BROKEN SPRINGS FREE OF CHARGE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN SEPTEMBER 18, 2001. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT SUBARU AT 1-800-782-2783.

NHTSA campaign record ↗
97V210000 · Exterior Lighting:Hazard Flashing Warning Lights:Switch

Reported: 1997-11-13 (November 13, 1997)

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. INSUFFICIENT CLEARANCE WITHIN THE HAZARD WARNING LIGHT SWITCH HOUSING CAN CAUSE A BINDING BETWEEN THE ACTUATING BUTTON AND THE HOUSING.

Consequence: THE SWITCH COULD STICK IN AN INTERMEDIATE POSITION WHEN DEACTIVATING, RESULTING IN THE TURN SIGNALS BECOMING INOPERABLE.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A MODIFIED HAZARD WARNING SWITCH.

NHTSA campaign record ↗
98V035000 · Vehicle Speed Control

Reported: 1998-02-20 (February 20, 1998)

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE THROTTLE SHAFT BALL BEARING ON THE SENSOR SIDE OF THE THROTTLE BODY ASSEMBLY WAS NOT INSTALLED IN CERTAIN THROTTLE BODIES.

Consequence: OPERATION OF A VEHICLE WITH A MISSING THROTTLE SHAFT BEARING CAN EVENTUALLLY LEAD TO AN INCOMPLETE RETURN OF THE THROTTLE VALVE RESULTING IN A HIGH IDLING CONDITION.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE THROTTLE BODY AND REPLACE THE THROTTLE ASSEMBLY IF THE BEARING IS MISSING.

NHTSA campaign record ↗
98V042000 · Power Train:Automatic Transmission:Gear Position Indication (Prndl)

Reported: 1998-02-20 (February 20, 1998)

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS. DUE TO POOR WELDS, IGNITION KEYS CAN STICK, SHIFT LEVERS/LINKAGES CAN BREAK AND SHIFT LEVERS CAN MOVE.

Consequence: THIS CONDITION CAN CAUSE UNEXPECTED MOVEMENT OF THE VEHICLE INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH OR PROPERTY DAMAGE.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION SHIFT LEVER ASSEMBLIES (EXCEPT THE HANDLE GRIP).

NHTSA campaign record ↗
98V091000 · Suspension:Front:Springs:Leaf Spring Assembly:Hanger,Bracket

Reported: 1998-05-04 (May 4, 1998)

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER STATION WAGON, SEDAN AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. DUE TO IMPROPER WELDING, FRACTURES CAN OCCUR ON THE SUPPORT BRACKET OF THE FRONT TRANSVERSE LINK.

Consequence: SUCH FRACTURES CAN RESULT IN PARTIAL OR COMPLETE SEPARATION OF THE BRACKET CAUSING A FAILURE OF THE LOWER SUSPENSION MOUNTING, LEADING TO A LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND REPLACE IF NECESSARY THE FRONT SUSPENSION SUPPORT BRACKETS.

NHTSA campaign record ↗
Explore the data

Vehicle analysis explorer

Inspect model-year patterns, reported mileage, monthly activity and the evidence behind each signal.

Data completeness

139 unique complaints in this selection. Analysis snapshot: 2026-09-30.

16.5%Usable mileage23 / 139 records
76.3%Valid incident date106 / 139 records
100.0%Valid filing date139 / 139 records
76.3%Ordered incident and filing dates106 / 139 records

Missing, zero and invalid mileage is excluded. Dates after the snapshot are excluded. Examples are limited selections, not a representative sample.

Problems by model year

Model-wide comparison of the eight most reported components across the model. Cells show counts and shares within each model year. Open a cell for source examples.

Component complaint heatmap
Component201120122013201420152016201720182019202020212022202320242025
Electrical System
1810.8%
ODI 10370360 · 100 mi

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 SUBARU LEGACY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH IN SNOWY CONDITIONS, SHE NOTICED THE CHECK ENGINE AND ABS LIGHTS ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENTAL PANEL. THE VEHICLE WAS INSPECTED BY A DEALER WHO INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT SHE NEEDED TO REPLACE BATTERY, THE STARTER, THE CABLE AND THE ECM. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 100. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.

Look up ODI 10370360 at NHTSA ↗

44.4%
ODI 10701305 · 50,000 mi

I HAVE BEEN IN TOUCH WITH SUBARU REGARDING THEIR INABILITY TO FIX A ONGOING ISSUE WITH THE ENGINE, CRUISE CONTROL, BRAKE, ETC LIGHT FLASHING. AT THIS POINT WE CAN NOT PASS INSPECTION, SELL THE CAR, OR USE THE CAR. HOW CAN A MANUFACTURER BE ALLOWED TO SELL A VEHICLE THEY CAN NOT FIX. *TR

Look up ODI 10701305 at NHTSA ↗

69.1%
ODI 10532495

2013 SUBARU LEGACY. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO VEHICLE ACCELERATION PROBLEMS. *SMD THE CONSUMER STATED THE ENGINE STALLED QUITE FREQUENTLY ON ACCELERATION, USUALLY AT SPEEDS OF 35 MPH. IT WOULD OCCUR WHEN GOING UP SLIGHT HILLS, DOWN HILL AND LEVEL ROADS. THE ENGINE WOULD RE-START ITSELF AFTER LOOSING 5-10 MPH. APPLYING THE ACCELERATOR MADE NO DIFFERENCE. THE DEALER REPROGRAMMED THE COMPUTER, BUT THE PROBLEM RETURNED, SHORTLY THEREAFTER. THE DEALER WAS UNABLE TO FIND ANYTHING WRONG.

Look up ODI 10532495 at NHTSA ↗

1120.8%
ODI 10695291 · 19,320 mi

EXPERIENCED STUCK DRIVER'S WINDOW LAST SUMMER IN PERIOD OF TEMPERATURE FLUCTUATIONS (EXTREME TO MODERATE HEAT), REPORTED/SHOWN TO DEALERSHIP; SAME ISSUE THIS FEBRUARY (EXTREME TO MODERATE COLD). OTHERWISE, NO PROBLEMS WITH CAR SINCE BEGAN LEASE FALL 2014. ON MONDAY, MARCH 9, 2015, PARKED CAR ACROSS THE STREET FROM MY HOUSE ABOUT 6:15/6:30PM. DID ERRANDS, RETURNED ABOUT 30/45 MINUTES LATER TO GET GLASSES OUT OF CENTER CONSOLE -- 7/7:15PM. THEN I LOCKED THE CAR WITH REMOTE KEY PIECE. CAR ACKNOWLEDGED WITH SOUND, LIGHTS. THIS WAS THE LAST INTE…

Look up ODI 10695291 at NHTSA ↗

3723.3%
ODI 10667636 · 7,000 mi

DRIVING ON FREEWAY WITH CRUISE SET AT 72MPH, REACHED DOWN TO THE CENTER COUNCIL TO GRAB AN ITEM, AND PULLED UP ON THE ELECTRONIC PARKING BRAKE BUTTON. THE BUTTON IS LOCATED TOO CLOSE TO REACHABLE PLACES. THE CAR CAME TO A SCRATCHING HALT, LUCKY THE VEHICLES BEHIND ME WERE ABLE TO SWERVE OUT OF THE WAY IN TIME. *TR

Look up ODI 10667636 at NHTSA ↗

4933.3%
ODI 11015151 · 10,000 mi

EYE SITE SAFETY MAIN WIRING HARNESS RODENT DAMAGE HARNESS INSERTION MADE WITH SOYBEAN SO ITS MADE OF FOOD HAPPENED PARKED IN DRIVEWAY

Look up ODI 11015151 at NHTSA ↗

2924.4%
ODI 11231381 · 8,000 mi

THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT HAS BEEN GOING ON IN MY 2017 SUBARU LEGACY WITH ONLY 8,000 MILES & STILL UNDER WARRANTY. ON JUNE 18TH WE LEFT HOUSTON FOR SOUTH DAKOTA WITH ASSURANCE FROM THE DEALERSHIP THAT AS LONG AS THE LIGHT WAS NOT FLASHING THE CAR WAS SAFE TO DRIVE. ON THE 2ND DAY OF OUR TRIP THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT STAYED ON CONSTANTLY & WE WERE NOT UNABLE TO USE OUR CRUISE CONTROL. WE HAD THE CAR DIAGNOSED & REPAIRED IN RAPID CITY, SD. AT COURTESY SUBARU. IT WAS DIAGNOSED AS A WIRING HARNESS. IT WOULD TAKE 1500 HOURS TO REPAIR. THE VEHICLE WA…

Look up ODI 11231381 at NHTSA ↗

3832.5%
ODI 11076906 · 69 mi

PURCHASED A NEW SUBARU LEGACY FEB. 28, 2018. AFTER ONLY 70 MILES THE WARNING LIGHT FOR SEAT BELTS AND AIRBAG MALFUNCTION APPEARED ON A STARLINK SYSTEM AND DASH. AFTER IMMEDIATELY TAKING IT IN AT THE LOCAL CAR DEALER, SERVICE AGENTS CLAIMED THAT A "RODENT" HAS CAUSED THE DAMAGE. AFTER FURTHER RESEARCH, WE HAVE DISCOVERED A NATIONAL CIVIL SUIT AGAINST SUBARU. APPARENTLY THEY ARE USING BIODEGRADABLE MATERIALS ON THE WIRING OF MANY NEW CARS THAT ATTRACTS SQUIRRELS AND MICE. WE HAVE LIVED AT OUR CURRENT RESIDENCE FOR OVER 35 YEARS WITH NUMEROUS…

Look up ODI 11076906 at NHTSA ↗

3528.5%
ODI 11243278 · 2,400 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2019 SUBARU LEGACY. WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL TURNED ON ITS OWN TO THE LEFT. THE CONTACT MANAGED TO REGAIN CONTROL OF THE STEERING WHEEL WITH NO ISSUE. ON ANOTHER OCCASION, WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH AND MAKING A LEFT TURN, THE STEERING WHEEL MADE A SHARP LEFT TURN AND BECAME DIFFICULT TO TURN. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED ON BOTH OCCASIONS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO PUTNAM SUBARU (LOCATED AT 85 CALIFORNIA DR, BURLINGAME, CA 94010, [phone removed]), BUT THE FAILURE COULD NOT BE DUPLICATED. THE FAIL…

Look up ODI 11243278 at NHTSA ↗

1512.4%
ODI 11396240 · 14,628 mi

RADIO AND CONTROL UNIT RANDOMLY RESTARTS AND FREEZES, AFFECTING THE RADIO FROM WORKING, THE VEHICLE CONTROL AND DRIVING ASSISTANCE OPTIONS, AND THE TWO USB PORTS WHICH ARE THE ONLY POWER SOURCES IN THE VEHICLE FROM WORKING CORRECTLY. I HAVE NO AUDIO AND CANNOT RESET THE RADIO AND CANNOT CHANGE VEHICLE CONTROL FUNCTIONS. WHEN I SELECT CERTAIN BUTTONS IT DOES NOTHING.

Look up ODI 11396240 at NHTSA ↗

516.1%
ODI 11432643

There seems to be an issue with the infotainment system. The system will randomly turn off which also turns off the safety features. I would like to associate this while CarPlay is in use, but I have witnessed it happen without CarPlay. Subaru has already replaced the head unit under warranty, but the problem continues. For the cost of the car, this should not be an issue.

Look up ODI 11432643 at NHTSA ↗

39.4%
ODI 11495794

The DCM/Telematics unit has now failed twice in this vehicle, despite already being completely replaced a first time. All remote app controls fail. Starlink call connection buttons are unresponsive despite the car being in a clear, unobstructed coverage area. The only indications of failure are attempts to send remote commands via the app and the lack of a green LED next to the Starlink buttons. This presents a safety issue because the system is not presenting an obvious sign of failure and critical items like "Automatic Collision Notification"…

Look up ODI 11495794 at NHTSA ↗

110.0%
ODI 11733553

All electronic instrument panels failed to power on upon ignition. Vehicle was drive-able, but all key information provided by instrument panel was not available: such as actual speed, gear selection, engine RPMs, backup cameras. Additionally, infotainment system was not available either, so none of vehicle controls that reside on the displays were available. This condition persisted thru the length of drive.

Look up ODI 11733553 at NHTSA ↗

529.4%
ODI 11576140

Apparently the wiring is made of soy based product causing mice to chew it. The power steering was compromise along with many electrical components , luckily I was not on the road when this happened the thought that I would be on the road frightens me. When I went to the dealer, Subaru of Newton NJ, they said it wasn't their fault and they are charging my insurance for repairs. Subaru is causing potential fatal accidents by not addressing this issue, they are aware of the problem and willing to do nothing. My car has been in the shop since Dece…

Look up ODI 11576140 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Air Bags
2515.0%
ODI 10443573 · 6,000 mi

FRONT PASSENGER AIRBAG SENSOR DOES NOT DETECT WHEN A 150 POUND 5 FOOT 1 ADULT IS SITTING IN FRONT PASSENGER SEAT. AIRBAG LIGHT SAYS OFF. MOVING AROUND IN THE SEAT MAKES NO DIFFERENCE. *TR

Look up ODI 10443573 at NHTSA ↗

1112.2%
ODI 10824298 · 42,000 mi

ON 2/19/14 I WAS DRIVING S ON INTER 99 IN LINDLEY, NY IN R LANE WHEN TOYOTA PASSED ME IN L LANE, LOST CONTROL, CRASHED INTO CONCRETE BARRIER ON L AND SLID ACROSS L AND R LANES CAUSING ME TO CRASH INTO HIS PASSENGER SIDE. MY AIR BAG DID NOT DEPLOY AND I WAS INJURED INCLUDING PERMANENTLY TO HAND. FRONT END DAMAGE $15,345. ## VIN PASSED ## SUBARU LEGACY 2012 ##

Look up ODI 10824298 at NHTSA ↗

1421.2%
ODI 10568076 · 1,500 mi

AIRBAG FAULT WARNING LIGHT TURN ON WITH FRONT PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF LIGHT TURN ON AND THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT BELT UNBUCKLE WARNING ALSO TURN ON WHILE DRIVING. THERE IS A PASSENGER IN THE FRONT SEAT WITH SEAT BELT ON. TURN OFF THE CAR AND STARTED THE CAR AGAIN MULTIPLE TIME DID NOT RESOLVE THE PROBLEM, THE PASSENGER AIR BAG LIGHT STAY OFF WITH SEAT BELT WARNING LIGHT ON EVEN WITH OR WITHOUT FRONT PASSENGER. *TR

Look up ODI 10568076 at NHTSA ↗

1426.4%
ODI 10552894 · 468 mi

ON 11/18/13, AT APPROXIMATELY 5:15 PM, I WAS HEADING DOWN A STREET TO MAKE A LEFT TO GO HOME FROM WORK. ALL OF A SUDDEN THE CAR ACCELERATED AND WOULD NOT SLOW DOWN AFTER I PUSHED DOWN ON THE BRAKE WITH MY RIGHT FOOT. I IMMEDIATELY BEGAN TO TURN THE WHEEL TO THE RIGHT ONTO AN EMPTY STREET TO AVOID TWO OTHER CARS AT THE INTERSECTION WHO WERE GOING TO MAKE THE SAME LEFT I ORIGINALLY WANTED TO MAKE. FOR SOME REASON, THE CAR DID NOT GO ALL THE WAY RIGHT AND WENT DIAGONALLY FROM THE INTERSECTION ACROSS THE STREET. THE CAR THEN JUMPED A CURB HITTIN…

Look up ODI 10552894 at NHTSA ↗

106.3%
ODI 10807366 · 32,000 mi

SLOWLY PULLING INTO A PARKING SPOT, WHEN THE CAR ACCELERATED (UNINTENDED ACCELERATION) INTO A BRICK WALL. MY PASSENGER SUFFERED 3 BROKEN RIBS FROM THE SEAT BELT, AND I SUFFERED WHIPLASH, BRUISING FROM SEAT BELT, AND BRUISED KNEES. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. SUBARU CORP DECIDED TO DO NOTHING, AND SUGGESTED THAT I TRADE IN THE CAR, WHICH I HAVE ONLY OWNED FOR A FEW WEEKS. DO THEY THEN SELL IT TO SOME UNSUSPECTING PERSON. PLEASE HELP. VIN [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR

Look up ODI 10807366 at NHTSA ↗

21.4%
ODI 11022436 · 12,000 mi

TAKATA RECALL NOT RECALLED YET, DO NOT KNOW IF I AM AT RISK

Look up ODI 11022436 at NHTSA ↗

75.9%
ODI 11016509

HAD A FRONTAL IMPACT HITTING A DEER IN CENTER OF FRONT GRILL AT 45-50 MPH. DURING IMPACT STEERING WHEEL AIRBAG DEPLOYED AND ALL SIDE IMPACT AIRBAGS DEPLOYED. PASSENGER SIDE DID NOT DEPLOY. CANNOT GET ANSWER AS TO WHY...SIDE IMPACT AIRBAGS DEPLOYED?? SUBARU DEALER SAID THEY WILL ONLY DEPLOY WHEN YOU HAVE A ROLL OVER OR SIDE IMPACT. MECHANIC STATED THAT NONE OF THE SENSORS WERE EFFECTED AND NONE OF THE AIRBAGS SHOULD HAVE DEPLOYED.

Look up ODI 11016509 at NHTSA ↗

32.6%
ODI 11076906 · 69 mi

PURCHASED A NEW SUBARU LEGACY FEB. 28, 2018. AFTER ONLY 70 MILES THE WARNING LIGHT FOR SEAT BELTS AND AIRBAG MALFUNCTION APPEARED ON A STARLINK SYSTEM AND DASH. AFTER IMMEDIATELY TAKING IT IN AT THE LOCAL CAR DEALER, SERVICE AGENTS CLAIMED THAT A "RODENT" HAS CAUSED THE DAMAGE. AFTER FURTHER RESEARCH, WE HAVE DISCOVERED A NATIONAL CIVIL SUIT AGAINST SUBARU. APPARENTLY THEY ARE USING BIODEGRADABLE MATERIALS ON THE WIRING OF MANY NEW CARS THAT ATTRACTS SQUIRRELS AND MICE. WE HAVE LIVED AT OUR CURRENT RESIDENCE FOR OVER 35 YEARS WITH NUMEROUS…

Look up ODI 11076906 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

10.8%
ODI 11616662

The contact owns a 2020 Subaru Legacy. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V227000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Look up ODI 11616662 at NHTSA ↗

619.4%
ODI 11593648

The contact owns a 2021 Subaru Legacy. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V227000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Look up ODI 11593648 at NHTSA ↗

13.1%
ODI 11627822

Emergency breaking deployed during traffic where no indication of collision was about to take place; vehicle safety features disabled and enabled off and on automatically while driving, this led up to sudden stop of vehicle in heavy traffic and vehicle would never restart. Subaru starlink emergency services failed to work or respond after trying for several minutes. Steering wouldn’t work to guide vehicle safely out of traffic

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220.0%
ODI 11533683

My wife is a petite woman, 4 feet 7 inches, 85pounds clothed. We bought the car March 29, 2023 and drove home, and the passenger airbag worked properly thru April 2. Behavior after that became erratic, passenger airbag sometimes on, sometimes not. Became more erratic and brought to dealer (Balise Subaru) April 12. Service technician reported system worked properly, no error codes. I asked Service manager to look at the car with my wife rather than a 180 pound technician sitting in it. He observed that with my wife in the passenger seat he would…

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317.6%
ODI 11627530

When my wife (who weighs under 99 pounds) is seated in the front passenger seat the indicator light for the passenger airbags does not always show that the airbags are on. When I sit in the front passenger seat the indicator light always shows that the airbags are on. The car was taken to the selling dealer (Pinebelt Subaru, Lakewood, NJ) who stated that the weight sensor for the front passenger seat was calibrated properly and they could not adjust it for my wife's weight. Since this also happens with my 2024 Subaru Legacy and also occurred…

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116.7%
ODI 11711901

I purchased my 2025 Legacy from Brunswick Subaru (Brunswick,OH) on 9/22/25. A few days later, while riding in the passenger seat, the airbag light/icon stayed off. I am a petite female, weighing 100 pounds. I immediately called Brunswick Subaru's service department. The service manager drove me around, and he saw that what I was reporting was true. He said he would order sensors to fix the problem. I was told that the airbags should deploy at 35 pounds from my salesperson and 80 pounds from the service director. The sensors arrived in Decem…

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Unknown Or Other
1810.8%
ODI 10380818 · 1,500 mi

AT HIGHWAY CRUISING SPEEDS OF 60-75MPH THERE IS A VIBRATION/SHAKE THAT IS FELT THROUGH THE STEERING WHEEL. WHEN TRAVELING LONG DISTANCES THIS VIBRATION CAUSES DISCOMFORT TO HANDS/ARMS. DECREASED TIRE PRESSURE, ROAD FORCE BALANCE, AND STEERING WHEEL REPLACEMENT (SOA TSB) DID NOT FIX. NEXT STEP IS TO REPLACE TIRES. THESE ARE "BANDAIDS" TO THE PROBLEM. PLEASE FORCE A REAL SOLUTION.

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1213.3%
ODI 10837825 · 52,500 mi

TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM ON ONE TIRE FAILED BEFORE 5 TO 7 YEAR EXPECTED LIFE SPAN THUS MAKING THE FAIL-SAFE SYSTEM INOPERABLE

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57.6%
ODI 10549572 · 1,887 mi

AS I DROVE MY VEHICLE INTO A PARKING SPACE WITH A CONCRETE BUMPER AT THE HEAD, JUST AS IT WAS READY TO STOP, IT SUDDENLY LUNGED FORWARD OVER THE CONCRETE BUMPER AND FINALLY CAME TO A STOP WHEN THE BACK WHEELS MADE CONTACT WITH THE CONCRETE BUMPER AND THE IGNITION WAS TURNED OFF. A VERY FRIGHTENING EXPERIENCE. AM NOT COMFORTABLE DRIVING THIS CAR FOR FEAR OF ANOTHER SIMILAR OCCURRENCE. *TR

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713.2%
ODI 10881451 · 15,000 mi

DOOR LOCKS EITHER DON'T UNLOCK OR LOCK. THEY MUST BE DONE MANUALLY. THIS CAUSED A PROBLEM WITH A CHILD IN THE BACK SEAT. YOU CANNOT GET THE DOOR UNLOCKED FROM THE OUTSIDE USING THE REMOTE. WE HAVE COMPLAINED TO SUBARU AND THEY WILL NOT FIX UNDER WARRANTY. THE CAR WAS STATIONARY, PARKING LOT. THIS IS A CONTINUAL PROBLEM

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2717.0%
ODI 10715800 · 12,412 mi

I THINK THERE IS A POTENTIAL RECALL PROBLEM WITH EYESIGHT-EQUIPPED 2015 LEGACY MODELS. I TOOK MY CAR IN SEVERAL WEEKS AGO BECAUSE ONE DAY ALL OF THE HAZARD LIGHTS CAME ON, INCLUDING THE ABS LIGHT AND THE BRAKE LIGHT (FLASHING RED) ON THE SPEEDOMETER GAUGE, THE EYESIGHT AND THE ANTI-SKID LIGHT ON THE CENTER CONSOLE, AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT, THE ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL LIGHT, AND THE LANE DEPARTURE LIGHT ON THE TACHOMETER. I STOPPED DRIVING IT FOR TWO DAYS WHILE I WAITED FOR MY SERVICE APPOINTMENT DAY TO ARRIVE. THE LIGHTS DID NOT COME BAC…

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4127.9%
ODI 10781185 · 5,000 mi

THE HEADREST ANGLE IS COMPLETELY UNCOMFORTABLE. IT WILL CAUSE PEOPLE DO ACCIDENT, BECAUSE THEY CAN'T DRIVE WITH EASE.

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2117.6%
ODI 11039358 · 8,750 mi

WINDSHEILD- THE MATERIALS USED FOR THE WINDSHIELD IN THIS VEHICLE ARE SUBSTANDARD. I LEASED THE VEHICLE ON 4/18/2017 AND IT IS NOW 10/24/2017 AND MY WINDSHEILD HAS CRACKED TWICE. THE FIRST TIME IT CRACKED I HAD IT REPLACED RIGHT AWAY. THIS TIME I DECIDED TO WAIT A WEEK OR SO TO SEE IF IT WOULD CONTINUE TO HAVE ISSUES THE WINDSHIELD HAS NOW CRACKED IN THREE DIFFERENT PLACES. I HAVE NOT CHANGED MY DRIVING HABITS AND MY PREVIOUS VEHICLES HAVE NEVER HAD THIS ISSUE. I DID SOME ONLINE RESEARCH AND SPOKE TO SOME OTHER SUBARU OWNERS AND THIS IS A KNOWN…

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2924.8%
ODI 11161977 · 12,700 mi

SUNROOF GLASS EXPLODED AND SHATTERED WHILE DRIVING. THERE WAS NO CAR IN FRONT FOR POTENTIAL ROCK DAMAGE.SUNROOF WAS COVERED SO MOST OF THE GLASS WAS CONTAINED ON THE COVER. THE GLASS WAS BOWED OUTWARD AS IF THERE MAY BE TOO MUCH STRESS FORCED UP ON THE GLASS.

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2016.3%
ODI 11317975 · 4,000 mi

DRIVING DOWN THE EXPRESSWAY AT A SPEED LESS THAT 50MPH WHEN MY WINDSHIELD CRACKED UNEXPECTEDLY AND SEEMING FROM NOTHING BEING FLUNG TOWARD THE VEHICLE OR DROPPING FROM THE SKY.

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2621.5%
ODI 11325871 · 2,500 mi

MY LEGACY WAS 4 MONTHS OLD, WHEN A SPONTANEOUS CRACK APPEARED IN THE WINDSHIELD. THE CRACK IS THINNER THAN A HUMAN HAIR. IT'S NOT ROUND LIKE, THE COMMON ROCK CHIP. JUST A VERY, VERY FINE CRACK.*DT CONSUMER STATED CRACK ON THE WINDSHIELD IS 8 INCHES LONGER NOW.*JB

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722.6%
ODI 11386917 · 5,300 mi

ON JANUARY 7, 2020 AT APPROXIMATELY 8AM, I WAS DRIVING MY CAR WHICH HAD BEEN WARMED UP AND DRIVING FOR APPROXIMATELY 15-20 MINUTES WHEN MY WINDSHIELD SPONTANEOUSLY CRACKED ON THE DRIVERS SIDE ABOUT 8 INCHES OFF CENTER. THERE WAS NO VEHICLE IN FRONT OF ME AT THE TIME AND NO VISIBLE OR AUDIBLE DEBRIS THAT COULD HAVE STRUCK THE WINDSHIELD. THE CRACK WAS ABOUT 8 INCHES LONG AND RAN VERTICALLY UP THE WINDSHIELD. FURTHER INSPECTION SHOWED THAT THE CRACK APPEARS TO HAVE STARTED BELOW THE WINDSHIELD WIPER WHERE THE GLASS MEETS THE PLASTIC, A LOCATION W…

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825.0%
ODI 11422097

While attempting to restart the battery, and upon opening the hood of the vehicle, an explosion occurred, causing a fire under the hood between what we believe to be the AC pipe and the battery/fuse box terminals. The car was not on, but we did notice that there appears to be a hole in the pipe that is leaking what we presume to be Freon. Reporting on behalf of GSA Fleet. Not expecting any actions, just reporting for your records.

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330.0%
ODI 11688050

Voice command in my 2023 legacy is not working. I can not speak into system to say call a person already entered without taking hands off steering wheel. Already reported to dealer & to corporate Subaru & it is a known issue. Reference # with corporate is 250620-1900992. This was reported to dealer in June 2025 when in for service & no fix has been noted other than Subaru is working on it? Feature built into car at purchase is thus useless & seems like a safety issue if I can’t use hands free when driving.

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529.4%
ODI 11576140

Apparently the wiring is made of soy based product causing mice to chew it. The power steering was compromise along with many electrical components , luckily I was not on the road when this happened the thought that I would be on the road frightens me. When I went to the dealer, Subaru of Newton NJ, they said it wasn't their fault and they are charging my insurance for repairs. Subaru is causing potential fatal accidents by not addressing this issue, they are aware of the problem and willing to do nothing. My car has been in the shop since Dece…

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116.7%
ODI 11706406

The Legacy (my third one) was about a month old and had about 30 miles on the odometer. I had no warning of any problem with the car. On or about 5:45 PM on Oct 22, 2025 I was driving my Subaru Legacy when the engine stalled. I was in the HOV lane of an interstate highway. Multiple times the starter failed to restart the engine. Traffic was blocked in my lane and diverting around me. It was dusk with a misty rain. My wife and I were felt we were at high risk of being rearended at any moment. After about 5-10 minutes, during which we called 911,…

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Visibility/Wiper
21.2%
ODI 10706159 · 96,577 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 SUBARU LEGACY. WHILE IN PARK, THE WIPERS WERE ACTIVATED BUT FAILED TO FUNCTION. THE CONTACT REPLACED THE FUSE; HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 11V469000 (VISIBILITY). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 96,577.

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33.3%
ODI 10904581 · 52,000 mi

STATIONARY OR MOVING WITH KEY ON OR WITH ENGINE RUNNING FRONT WIPERS RUN WITH SWITCH IN OFF POSITION.

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11.5%
ODI 11190614 · 52,000 mi

I HAVE AN URGENT NEED TO ADDRESS A SAFETY RECALL FOR PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG AND WINDSHIELD WIPER REPLACEMENTS . THERE ARE NO SUBARU DEALERSHIPS IN MY AREA THAT CAN TEND TO THIS REPAIR IN A TIMELY MANNER. THEY ARE ALL BOOKED OUT UNTIL SEPTEMBER. THIS IS UNACCEPTABLE. I AM LOCATED IN SEATTLE WASHINGTON AND DRIVE A SUBARU 2013 LEGACY SEDAN. PLEASE HELP. THANK YOU, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR

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11.9%
ODI 11287679 · 25,000 mi

SPONTANEOUS WINDSHIELD CRACK DEVELOPED. STARTED IN FRONT OF THE STEERING WHEEL COLUMN, GOES UP 3-4 INCHES, TURNS AND GOES ACROSS THE BOTTOM OF THE WS TO A POINT IN FRONT OF THE GLOVE BOX. NO EVIDENCE OF AN IMPACT CHIP. CRACK MAY HAVE STARTED WHEN THE FRONT DEFROSTER AND SEAT HEATERS WERE BOTH ON. SUBARU REFUSED TO REPAIR UNDER WARRANTY OR PRODUCT DEFECT PROVISION.

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3622.6%
ODI 10716388 · 2,200 mi

CRACK IN WINDSHIELD APPEARED WITHOUT KNOWN CAUSE. IN SEARCHING THE INTERNET FOR SIMILAR INCIDENTS THERE ARE A NUMBER OF NEW SUBARU LEGACY OWNERS WHO HAVE THIS SAME EXPERIENCE. THE GLASS IS ON BACKORDER SO REPAIRS MAY BE SEVERAL WEEKS OUT. SOME OF THE OWNERS HAVE REPORTED MORE THAN ONE CRACKED WINDSHIELD ON THE SAME NEW VEHICLE.

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1711.6%
ODI 10811326 · 850 mi

HIGH GLOSS NAVIGATION SCREEN AND HIGH GLOSS FINISH ON VENTS REFLECT SUN AT CERTAIN ANGLES AND RESULT IN SUN BEING REFLECTED INTO DRIVERS EYES CAUSING A BLINDING CONDITION. THIS HAPPENS WHEN DRIVING DURING DAYLIGHT WHEN SUN IS OUT. THIS IS A SEVERE AND SIGNIFICANT SAFETY ISSUE. I HAVE DRIVEN SUBARUS FOR YEARS AND JUST GOT THE 2016 LEGACY. HAVE NEVER HAD THIS PROBLEM WITH ANY OTHER VEHICLE. HAVE TO PUT A TOWEL OVER AREA WHEN SUN IS OUT TO DRIVE WITHOUT BEING BLINDED.

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3327.7%
ODI 10945396 · 4,500 mi

SUNROOF GLASS SPONTANEOUSLY BROKE WHILE DRIVING ON A TWO LANE DIVIDED HIGHWAY. THERE WERE NO OTHER VEHICLES AROUND WHEN THIS HAPPENED. THIS CAUSED GLASS TO FALL DOWN ONTO ALL THE PASSENGERS IN THE VEHICLE. *TR

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2521.4%
ODI 11184397

THE DRIVERS SIDE MIRROR OF 2018/2019 LEGACY'S WITH BLIND SPOT DETECTION WILL NOT ADJUST OUT FAR ENOUGH TO SEE BLIND SPOT OF VEHICLE FOR SEAT POSITION ADJUSTED FOR AVERAGE TO TALL DRIVERS. WHILE THE MIRROR DETECTION LIGHT WORKS THERE IS NO WAY TO PHYSICALLY CONFIRM SIDE TRAFFIC POSITION. DANGEROUS, ESPECIALLY IN CONGESTED MULTI-LANE ENVIRONMENTS. IT WAS DETERMINED THAT ALL MIRRORS AT A DEALERSHIP WITH BLIND SPOT DECTION HAS THE SAME ISSUE. THIS ISSUE MAY EXIST FOR OTHER YEARS AND MODELS AS WELL. VEHICLES USING MIRRORS WIITHOUT BLIND SPOT DETE…

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4939.8%
ODI 11149876 · 500 mi

MY CAR IS 2 WEEKS OLD. I USED THE DEFROSTER ON SATURDAY NIGHT AND ON SUNDAY MORNING THERE WAS A CRACK ON MY WINDSHIELD FROM THE BOTTOM CENTER. UP AND TO THE PASSENGER'S SIDE. I DO NOT HEAR A STONE HIT MY WINDSHIELD WHILE DRIVING. SUBARU SAID IT WAS A STONE AND IS CHARGING ME OVER $700.00 TO REPLACE IT. I HAVE BEEN DRIVING FOR MANY YEARS AND HAVE NEVER GOTTEN A CRACK LIKE THIS. I BELIEVE IT IS A FAULTY WINDSHIELD THAT CRACKED WITH THE CHANGE IN TEMPERATURE.

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5747.1%
ODI 11309876 · 9,000 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2020 SUBARU LEGACY. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL SOUND EMITTING FROM THE WINDSHIELD. THE CONTACT BECAME AWARE FRACTURES TO THE WINDSHIELD IN THREE SEPARATE PLACES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO BE DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. A DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 9,000.

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516.1%
ODI 11435842

Windshield spontaneously cracked while using defrost function on 9/9/2021. Crack started from bottom center of windshield, at the ceramic defrost line, below rubber seal. Crack approximately 6 inches long. Called Subaru within minutes and directed to take to dealership to have photo taken and submitted to Subaru for warranty work. Visited dealership and photos taken on 9/13/2021. Have been told by dealership multiple times still waiting on Subaru to approve the warranty work. Since then the crack has continued to spread and now goes up approxi…

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1650.0%
ODI 11444756

My car's windshield was hit by a small stone while driving on highway speed. At first it seemed to be a small chip/ crack. After a minute or two the crack got bigger. This is the second time I'm facing this issue. Same kind of incident happened a month ago as well. I thought subaru had best safety ratings. But if this happens to someone while driving in the middle of nowhere and the glass shatters all of a sudden for just a mere tiny stone chips, I don't feel safe driving this car at all. I have attached my previous insurance claim info and pic…

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110.0%
ODI 11635400

Accorn fell on windshield. At 14,000 miles windshield cracked. Was driving approximately 35MPH

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423.5%
ODI 11569882

Highway travel , approximately 70 mph , small object struck windshield and cracked it . Cracked far too easily . Less than 3000 miles on vehicle.

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00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Engine
2213.2%
ODI 10659768 · 30,000 mi

VEHICLE WAS STOPPED AT A RED LIGHT. UPON LIGHT ACCELERATION, CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON (AND STAYED ON), PARKING BRAKE LIGHT BEGAN TO BLINK, CRUISE CONTROL INDICATOR BEGAN TO BLINK, AND TRACTION CONTROL LIGHT CAME ON AND STAYED ON. DRIVER DID NOT DETECT ANY SLIPPAGE. AUTHORIZED SUBARU DEALER FOUND NO PROBLEM WITH OIL CONTROL VALVE (OCV) DESPITE COMPUTER CODE INDICATING POTENTIAL PROBLEM WITH THAT PART. DEALER, HOWEVER, INDICATED OIL FLUSH, RATHER THAN SIMPLY AN OIL CHANGE, WAS NECESSARY DESPITE LESS THAN 5,000 MILES SINCE PREVIOUS OIL CHAN…

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2325.6%
ODI 10461249 · 14,000 mi

PURCHASED BRAND NEW SUBARU LEGACY OCTOBER 31ST OF 2011. AFTER ONLY FIVE MONTHS AND 14,000 MILES BEGINNING IN MARCH OF 2012 I WAS SHOCKED TO DISCOVER THE FOLLOWING PROBLEM(S) WITH MY LEGACY: LOW IDLING, BOGGING DOWN, AT OIL LIGHT ILLUMINATED, AND NEARLY STALLING OUT. THIS ISSUE IS STILL CONTINUING TO THIS DAY, SPORADICALLY. I NOW HAVE 25,500 MILES AND THERE IS NO SOLUTION TO THIS PROBLEM. I EXPERIENCED THIS LOW IDLE, BOGGING DOWN, AND NEARLY STALLING OUT- AT THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTED MILEAGES: 14,989 MILES, 15,120 MILES,17,007 MILES, 17,714…

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1827.3%
ODI 10638419 · 7,500 mi

LOW OIL WARNING LIGHT CAME ON. TOOK VEHICLE TO DEALER. THEY TOLD ME IT WAS NORMAL. AT 10,500 MILES, SAME THING HAPPENED. LIKE CLOCKWORK, EVERY 3,000 MILES THE LIGHT GOES ON AND I'M DOWN AT LEAST A QUART OF OIL. THIS HAS HAPPENED EVERY 3,000 MILES SINCE THEN. I'VE BEEN DRIVING FOR 50+ YEARS AND HAVE NEVER HAD ANY VEHICLE, FOREIGN OR DOMESTIC, USE A QUART OF OIL EVERY 3,000 MILES NO MATTER HOW OLD OR NEW THE CAR WAS. BEING TOLD THIS IS "NORMAL" IS RIDICULOUS. THERE MUST BE FLAW IN THE 2.5L BOXER ENGINE PRODUCED BY SUBARU. *TR

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59.4%
ODI 10649644 · 2,500 mi

VEHICLE HAD A 2-5 SECONDS ACCELERATION HESITATION. TAKING OFF FROM A YIELD SIGN AND GOING ACROSS A HWY, THE CAR HAD ENOUGH POWER TO ROLL FORWARD. TRIED FLOORING THE ACCELERATOR, BUT ALSO DID NOT RESPOND TO FULL THROTTLE UNTIL AFTER A FEW SECONDS THE CAR STARTED TO SLOWLY MOVE. THE ENGINE IS ON LOW RPMS AND DOES NOT LAUNCH FORWARD AS TO INDICATE A TRANSMISSION ISSUE..... IT LOOKS MORE LIKE A FUEL DELIVERY OR THROTTLE SENSOR ISSUE. I ALSO HAD THIS SAME ISSUE WITH A 2013 SUBARU IMPREZA (TRADED IN THE IMPREZA THINKING IT WAS A QUIRK WITH THE…

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2314.5%
ODI 10680632

UPON LOW SPEEDS TRANSMISSION HOWLS, HESITATION FOLLOWED BY FAST ACCELERATION. KEY INSERTION INTO IGNITION IS DIFFICULT AND ROUGH. *TR

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74.8%
ODI 10862438 · 100 mi

3.6 LITER 6-CYL ENGINE SURGES AFTER A COLD START. WHEN THE CAR IS STARTED, THE IDLE SPEED IS HIGH. WHEN THE CAR IS PUT INTO GEAR, AS THE BRAKES ARE RELEASED AND THE CAR BEGINS TO MOVE, THE IDLE SPEED DROPS. IF THE CAR IS BROUGHT TO A STOP OR A VERY LOW (CREEPING) SPEED, THE IDLE SPEED INCREASES, CAUSING THE CAR TO LURCH. FOOT NEVER TOUCHES ACCELERATOR PEDAL AT ALL. THIS BEHAVIOR CAUSES THE CAR TO MOVE UNEXPECTEDLY AFTER IT IS BROUGHT TO A STOP BY THE BRAKES. IT ALSO MAKES IT IMPOSSIBLE TO MOVE THE CAR AT CREEPING SPEED - EASING OFF THE BRAKE…

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54.2%
ODI 10980237 · 800 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 SUBARU LEGACY. WHILE DEPRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL AND COMING TO A COMPLETE STOP, THE ENGINE SHUT OFF WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO RESTART THE VEHICLE AND IT OPERATED NORMALLY; HOWEVER, THE FAILURE LATER OCCURRED SEVERAL TIMES. THE DEALER PERFORMED DIAGNOSTIC AND FUEL TESTING, WHICH PRODUCED A CODE OF P1603 AND A GOOD FUEL READING; HOWEVER, THE CONTACT WAS ADVISED TO USE A DIFFERENT FUEL STATION. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 800.

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108.5%
ODI 11170153 · 15,365 mi

ON THE DASHBOARD SHOWED THAT THE REMAIN MILEAGE WAS 70, BUT IT STOPPED ALL THE SUDDEN DUE TO NO GAS. I ALMOST CAUSED AN ACCIDENT BECAUSE THE CAR STOPPED ON A PUBLIC STREET WITH HEAVY TRAFFIC. AFTER MANY TIMES TRYING TO START THE CAR, IT DID NOT WORK; IT WAS COMPLETELY DEAD. I HAD TO LEAVE THE CAR STRANDED TO GO AND GET GAS TO THE NEAREST GAS STATION.

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64.9%
ODI 11565478

Keep burning oil. I’m being told it’s normal and I know for sure it’s not leaking.

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43.3%
ODI 11509131

Check engine light came on at 55,500 miles on exactly the third anniversary of purchase. Local mechanic determined the code related to Thermo Control Valve failure. Apparently an ongoing issue with many Subarus since replacing the thermostat with this in their cars. Lost all eyesight features, including cruise control and high beams, as well as cabin heat in the midst of winter in the northeast. A simple google search reveals MANY instances of this subpar part falling on Subaru cars. $1,066 later, I feel a recall or coverage under powert…

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26.5%
ODI 11671806

Subaru has released a service bulletin regarding concerns with the Thermo Control Valve in specific vehicles. Unfortunately, individuals with vehicles bearing a rebuilt title, including myself, are required to cover expenses exceeding $2,000 out of their own pockets. Despite evidence indicating that the issue with the engine area is unrelated to the vehicle's rebuilt title, Subaru has chosen not to initiate a recall. This unequal treatment of titled vehicle owners is unjust, especially considering that these vehicles have passed all necessary l…

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13.1%
ODI 11730321

I experienced unintended acceleration while operating my vehicle. I was slowly pulling into a parking space at a gym when, without warning, the vehicle suddenly accelerated rapidly forward. I did not intentionally press the accelerator at that time. The unexpected acceleration caused the vehicle to surge ahead and collide with a light post, resulting in significant damage to the front bumper. Fortunately, there were no pedestrians or other vehicles in front of me, so no injuries occurred. This incident created a serious safety risk, as the su…

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00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

15.9%
ODI 11751237

To start, I had to replace the engine in my 2024 Legacy that I purchased brand new in June 2024. Subaru of America handled the situation incredibly poorly, I was unable to use any warranty and I was out over 6,000 dollars. Second, my passenger airbag light has been on since September 2024. I was told to replace the sensor the whole seat rail would need replaced and would be over 1000 dollars. Apparently not covered under warranty either. Lastly, god forbid you have to drive West when the sun is going down. MULTIPLE times my vehicle has popped t…

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350.0%
ODI 11705999

At the end of a drive of 75 mi, 55-65 MPH on an 8 lane highway the engine stalled. Stopped in HOV lane. Restarting failed several attempts. Called police 911. Dusk, with light rain, slick highway. Poor visibility. Wife and I prayed a lot. Scarier than my year in Vietnam. Restarted after about 10 minutes, and prior to police arriving. Made it home 5 min away. Neither dealer nor Subaru can recreate or define the cause. My family and I fear the thought of driving again in that car. Not knowing the cause means no one can fix it.

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Power Train
4426.3%
ODI 10378318 · 1,700 mi

ENGINE SPEED SURGES OCCASIONALLY ( 4 EPISODES IN 6 MONTHS) WHEN MOVING VERY SLOWLY (PARKING) AND WHEEL IS BEING TURNED. HARD BRAKING STOPS CAR AND ENGINE SPEED RETURNS TO NORMAL. *LN

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3235.6%
ODI 10615541 · 2,000 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 SUBARU LEGACY. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 75 MPH, THE CONTACT HEARD A WHINING SOUND COMING FROM THE ENGINE. THE VEHICLE WOULD ALSO STALL WHEN DRIVING AT LOW SPEEDS OR IDLING. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE TRANSMISSION WAS FAULTY. THE TRANSMISSION WAS REPLACED AND THE FAILURES WERE REMEDIED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 2,000.

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1218.2%
ODI 10926121 · 49,000 mi

ABOUT MID SEPTEMBER MY SON TOOK THE CAR IN DUE TO A NOISE HE HEARD, WAS ADVISED THAT IT WAS THE SERPENTINE BELT & NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. HAD THE RECOMMENDED SERVICE DONE..HEARD NOISE AGAIN AND RETURNED CAR, WAS ADVISED "TECH CAN NOT DUPLICATE NOISE". TOOK CAR BACK 3RD TIME AND MADE TECH GET INTO CAR WITH HIM TO GO FOR RIDE..TECH NOW HEARS NOISE AND ADVISES MY SON TO LEAVE THE CAR, YOU'LL HAVE IT BACK IN AN HOUR. A COUPLE HOURS LATER HE GETS A CALL ADVISING THAT THEY COULDN'T DIAGNOSE THE PROBLEM AND WOULD CONTACT A FIELD ENGINEER TO RESPOND TO …

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611.3%
ODI 10649644 · 2,500 mi

VEHICLE HAD A 2-5 SECONDS ACCELERATION HESITATION. TAKING OFF FROM A YIELD SIGN AND GOING ACROSS A HWY, THE CAR HAD ENOUGH POWER TO ROLL FORWARD. TRIED FLOORING THE ACCELERATOR, BUT ALSO DID NOT RESPOND TO FULL THROTTLE UNTIL AFTER A FEW SECONDS THE CAR STARTED TO SLOWLY MOVE. THE ENGINE IS ON LOW RPMS AND DOES NOT LAUNCH FORWARD AS TO INDICATE A TRANSMISSION ISSUE..... IT LOOKS MORE LIKE A FUEL DELIVERY OR THROTTLE SENSOR ISSUE. I ALSO HAD THIS SAME ISSUE WITH A 2013 SUBARU IMPREZA (TRADED IN THE IMPREZA THINKING IT WAS A QUIRK WITH THE…

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159.4%
ODI 10680632

UPON LOW SPEEDS TRANSMISSION HOWLS, HESITATION FOLLOWED BY FAST ACCELERATION. KEY INSERTION INTO IGNITION IS DIFFICULT AND ROUGH. *TR

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128.2%
ODI 10862438 · 100 mi

3.6 LITER 6-CYL ENGINE SURGES AFTER A COLD START. WHEN THE CAR IS STARTED, THE IDLE SPEED IS HIGH. WHEN THE CAR IS PUT INTO GEAR, AS THE BRAKES ARE RELEASED AND THE CAR BEGINS TO MOVE, THE IDLE SPEED DROPS. IF THE CAR IS BROUGHT TO A STOP OR A VERY LOW (CREEPING) SPEED, THE IDLE SPEED INCREASES, CAUSING THE CAR TO LURCH. FOOT NEVER TOUCHES ACCELERATOR PEDAL AT ALL. THIS BEHAVIOR CAUSES THE CAR TO MOVE UNEXPECTEDLY AFTER IT IS BROUGHT TO A STOP BY THE BRAKES. IT ALSO MAKES IT IMPOSSIBLE TO MOVE THE CAR AT CREEPING SPEED - EASING OFF THE BRAKE…

Look up ODI 10862438 at NHTSA ↗

32.5%
ODI 11373821 · 33,000 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 SUBARU LEGACY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED IN THE DRIVEWAY ON A HILL AND WHEN HE STARTED TO EXIT THE VEHICLE IT STARTED TO ROLL BACKWARDS DOWN THE DRIVEWAY. THE CONTACT HAD TO QUICKLY TURN THE STEERING WHEEL IN TO A BACKWARDS U TURN TO TURN THE VEHICLE BACK INTO HIS YARD. THE CONTACT AVOIDED THE VEHICLE CRASHING INTO THE NEIGHBOR'S YARD. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO RESTART THE VEHICLE AND DRIVE IT BACK IN TO THE DRIVEWAY AND PUT ON THE PARKING BRAKES. HE ALSO PLACED STONES BEHIND THE TWO REAR WHEELS T…

Look up ODI 11373821 at NHTSA ↗

21.7%
ODI 11292333 · 44,768 mi

WHILE STOPPED AT A RED LIGHT AS SOON AS THE LIGHT TURNED GREEN I PROCEEDED TO ACCELERATE AND HEARD A RATTLE AND THEN A LOUD BOOM EXPLOSION SOUND. MY TORQUE CONVERTER, ENGINE, AND FLEXPLATE EXPLODED CAUSING IT IN OPERABLE AND PLACED ME IN AN UNSAFE LOCATION STRANDED ON THE ROADWAY. SUBARU OF AMERICA HAS NOW HAD THE CAR SINCE THANKSGIVING THIS A MAJOR SAFETY PROBLEM,I STILL DON'T HAVE MY CAR.

Look up ODI 11292333 at NHTSA ↗

10.8%
ODI 11672332

CVT failed at 85,000 miles. It started slipping and squealing and had to be replaced by the dealership. The car was never driven rough, in mountainous terrain, etc. Very disappointing.

Look up ODI 11672332 at NHTSA ↗

75.8%
ODI 11397972 · 18,500 mi

MY CAR BEGINS TO JERK OR PULSATE, AS IF POWER IS BEING APPLIED AND REMOVED QUICKLY, WHILE THE CAR IS UNDER LOAD. I FIRST NOTICED THIS PROBLEM WHILE DRIVING UP LONG INCLINES ON THE INTERSTATE. THEN, I NOTICED IT WHILE ACCELERATING FROM RELATIVELY SLOW SPEED TO HIGHWAY SPEEDS. TODAY, WHILE DRIVING ON A LEVEL HIGHWAY MAINTAINING SPEED, THE CAR KEPT DOING IT IN A VERY NOTICEABLE (HARD) MANNER. I HAVE TAKEN THE CAR TO THE DEALERSHIP, BUT THEY DIDN'T OBSERVE THIS PROBLEM AND SAID THE CAR WASN'T SHOWING ANY CODES. MY CAR HAS BETWEEN 18,500 MILES ON IT…

Look up ODI 11397972 at NHTSA ↗

26.5%
ODI 11674975

CVT Transmission Failure. Failure occurred at approximately 66,706 miles on 5/16/25. The Check Engine and AT Temp lights appeared in the instrument cluster. The driving conditions when this happened were a safety concern. First, the vehicle would crawl, shutter, and almost stall with high RPMs when attempting to climb a hill. Second, on a level surface at any given time the vehicle would not respond then lunge forward unexpectedly. The vehicle was inspected by a Subaru Dealership and the diagnosis was "Internal failure of transmission". …

Look up ODI 11674975 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Vehicle Speed Control
53.0%
ODI 10415061 · 150 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 SUBARU LEGACY. THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE WAS IN PARK WHEN IT ACCELERATED IN REVERSE THROUGH A YARD CRASHING INTO A RETAINING WALL. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO TURN THE VEHICLE AFTER IT CRASHED INTO THE RETAINING WALL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE CONTACTS RESIDENCE BUT HAD NOT BEEN INSPECTED. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 150.

Look up ODI 10415061 at NHTSA ↗

44.4%
ODI 10491717 · 4,300 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 SUBARU LEGACY. THE CONTACT ENTERED HER CAR, AND WHEN SHE STEPPED ON THE BRAKE, WHICH IS REQUIRED TO SHIFT THE GEAR FROM PARK TO DRIVE, THE BRAKE WAS FROZEN AND SUDDENLY THE CAR WENT QUICKLY BACKWARDS DOWN THE HILL, THEN IT WENT FASTER AND FASTER AT A HIGH RATE OF SPEED BACKWARDS, UNTIL IT CRASHED INTO A POLE. THE CONTACT WAS NOT INJURED. THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN TO HER HOME. THE POLICE WERE NOT NOTIFIED. THE DEALER WAS NOTIFIED AND THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A BODY REPAIR SHOP FOR REPAIRS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED …

Look up ODI 10491717 at NHTSA ↗

46.1%
ODI 10559214 · 8,400 mi

MY VEHICLE SHOWED SIGNIFICANT LAG IN SPEEDING UP AFTER PRESSING THE ACCELERATOR AND REVVED VERY HIGH RPMS (34-4200). THIS ALSO OCCURRED WHEN I REMOVED MY FOOT FROM THE ACCELERATOR GOING DOWN A HILL...HIGH RPM (34-400) WITHOUT DECREASE IN SPEED. SUBARU OF MANCHESTER DETERMINED TRANSMISSION CAME FROM MANUFACTURER WITH OVERFILLED FLUID CAUSING HESITANCY AND LAG. REPAIRED AND RESET. ON 12/28/13, MY VEHICLE WOULD NOT ACCELERATE WHILE TRAVELLING AT 60MPH ON A HIGHWAY SO I COULD AVOID BEING HIT BY ANOTHER VEHICLE WHO WAS DRIFTING TOWARDS MY RIGHT SIDE…

Look up ODI 10559214 at NHTSA ↗

35.7%
ODI 10552894 · 468 mi

ON 11/18/13, AT APPROXIMATELY 5:15 PM, I WAS HEADING DOWN A STREET TO MAKE A LEFT TO GO HOME FROM WORK. ALL OF A SUDDEN THE CAR ACCELERATED AND WOULD NOT SLOW DOWN AFTER I PUSHED DOWN ON THE BRAKE WITH MY RIGHT FOOT. I IMMEDIATELY BEGAN TO TURN THE WHEEL TO THE RIGHT ONTO AN EMPTY STREET TO AVOID TWO OTHER CARS AT THE INTERSECTION WHO WERE GOING TO MAKE THE SAME LEFT I ORIGINALLY WANTED TO MAKE. FOR SOME REASON, THE CAR DID NOT GO ALL THE WAY RIGHT AND WENT DIAGONALLY FROM THE INTERSECTION ACROSS THE STREET. THE CAR THEN JUMPED A CURB HITTIN…

Look up ODI 10552894 at NHTSA ↗

138.2%
ODI 10680643 · 900 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2015 SUBARU LEGACY. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO CROSS TWO LANES OF ONCOMING TRAFFIC AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE VEHICLE HESITATED TO ACCELERATE AND THEN ACCELERATED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, BUT THE FAILURE COULD NOT BE DUPLICATED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE RECURRED SEVERAL TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 900.

Look up ODI 10680643 at NHTSA ↗

96.1%
ODI 10956370 · 4,042 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 SUBARU LEGACY. ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS, WHETHER THE VEHICLE WAS PLACED IN REVERSE OR DRIVE, IT ACCELERATED INDEPENDENTLY. THE DEALER DIAGNOSED THAT THE VEHICLE OPERATED AS INTENDED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 4,042.

Look up ODI 10956370 at NHTSA ↗

21.7%
ODI 10986373 · 300 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 SUBARU LEGACY. WHILE PARKING THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT RELEASED HER FOOT FROM THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL AND THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED UNINTENDED ACCELERATION. THE FAILURE OCCURRED WITHOUT WARNING. AS A RESULT, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED UP A HILL AND CRASHED INTO A WALL. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER, BUT THE FAILURE COULD NOT BE REPLICATED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THERE WERE NO INJURIES AND A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 300.

Look up ODI 10986373 at NHTSA ↗

32.6%
ODI 11048499

OUR RECENT PURCHASE OF A 2018 SUBARU LEGACY HAS LEFT US WITH A VERY UNHAPPY REALIZATION. WE HAVE A SUBARU OUTBACK AND LIKE THE CAR BUT VERY UNHAPPY WITH THE CRUISE. WE DID NOT REALIZE THE CRUISE CONTROL ADVANCES 1 OR 5 MPH RATHER THAN THE CONVENTIONAL CRUISE OF 1 MPH. WE HAVE FOUND THIS FEATURE TO BE NOT ONLY ON SUBARU BUT MANY OTHER MAKES OF VEHICLES. FROM RESEARCHING ONLINE AND TALKING TO OTHERS HAVE FOUND WE ARE NOT THE ONLY ONES THAT DO NOT LIKE IT AND FEEL IT IS UNSAFE. THERE DOES NOT SEEM TO BE A REASON TO ADVANCE 5 MPH RATHER THAN 1 MPH.…

Look up ODI 11048499 at NHTSA ↗

43.3%
ODI 11186924 · 100 mi

ABOUT TWO WEEKS AFTER PURCHASING A 2019 SUBARU LEGACY, I WAS DRIVING ON A HIGHWAY IN HEAVY TRAFFIC WHEN SUDDENLY, FOR NO APPARENT REASON, THE SPEED OF MY VEHICLE WAS NO LONGER UNDER MY CONTROL. I WAS IN A PANIC FOR MY SAFETY AND LIFE! AFTER A FEW SECONDS OF THIS LOSS IN SPEED CONTROL, I EITHER APPLIED MY BRAKE OR ACCELERATOR (I AM NOT SURE WHICH) AND I REGAINED CONTROL OF MY CAR'S SPEED. A FEW MINUTES LATER, I NOTICED A NUMBER OF ICONS ON MY SCREEN THAT WERE STRANGE TO ME AT THE TIME. READING THE OWNER'S MANUAL DAYS LATER, I LEARNED THAT …

Look up ODI 11186924 at NHTSA ↗

32.5%
ODI 11386146 · 6,000 mi

TRAVELING APPROXIMATELY 50 MPH ALL THE WARNING LIGHTS DISPLAYED AND THE VEHICLE LOST POWER. THE VEHICLE WAS PULLED OVER TO THE SHOULDER. UNABLE TO PUT IT IN PARK. TURNED IT OFF AND ON A COUPLE OF TIMES BEFORE IT WOULD GO INTO PARK. DROVE IT TO THE DEALER BUT IT WOULDN'T GO MORE THAN 30 MPH. THIS HAS HAPPENED THREE TIMES AFTER HAVING THIS VEHICLE FOR LESS THAN SIX MONTHS.

Look up ODI 11386146 at NHTSA ↗

13.2%
ODI 11588661

After shifting my car into reverse, I slowly started removing my foot from the brake pedal. At this time, the car started rapidly accelerating backwards so I put pressure back on the brake pedal to stop the car. When doing so, the ABS light came on my dashboard, I heard a griding sound like the car was still trying to accelerate, and there was a loud constant beep. I was able to shift the car into neutral and then into park to stop the car and then turned the car off. I contacted the dealership about the issue, but have not yet been able to …

Look up ODI 11588661 at NHTSA ↗

26.3%
ODI 11586322 · 15,000 mi

The contact owned a 2022 Subaru Legacy. The contact stated that while driving into their driveway at unknown speeds, the vehicle independently accelerated forward. The contact placed the vehicle in reverse, however, the vehicle continued to accelerate independently, and the contact's rear bumper crashed into the neighbor's garage. No injuries were sustained. The neighbor's garage was damaged. The vehicle was towed to the tow company's lot. The vehicle was diagnosed as totaled. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mile…

Look up ODI 11586322 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

116.7%
ODI 11705999

At the end of a drive of 75 mi, 55-65 MPH on an 8 lane highway the engine stalled. Stopped in HOV lane. Restarting failed several attempts. Called police 911. Dusk, with light rain, slick highway. Poor visibility. Wife and I prayed a lot. Scarier than my year in Vietnam. Restarted after about 10 minutes, and prior to police arriving. Made it home 5 min away. Neither dealer nor Subaru can recreate or define the cause. My family and I fear the thought of driving again in that car. Not knowing the cause means no one can fix it.

Look up ODI 11705999 at NHTSA ↗

Service Brakes
1810.8%
ODI 10484755 · 23,500 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 SUBARU LEGACY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH THE BRAKES ENGAGED AND LOCKED UP. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT ALL THE WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENTAL PANEL IMMEDIATELY AFTER. THE VEHICLE WAS UNABLE TO BE DRIVEN AND WAS LATER TOWED TO A DEALER. AFTER DIAGNOSIS THEY ADVISED HER THAT THE FAILURE WAS DUE TO THE GAS CAP TEARING AND THE TRANSMISSION MOTOR MOUNT HAD A LEAK. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED FOR THE GAS CAP ONLY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND THEY ADVISED HER THAT THERE WE…

Look up ODI 10484755 at NHTSA ↗

66.7%
ODI 10583494 · 21,500 mi

VEHICLE VIBRATES AND PULSATES EVERY TIME YOU APPLY THE BRAKES WHILE DRIVING AT SPEEDS ABOVE 50 MPH- VIBRATIONS ARE FELT THROUGHOUT THE VEHICLE AND THE STEERING WHEEL. ON MARCH 11TH; SUBARU DEALERSHIP TECHNICIANS TOOK A LOOK AT THE PROBLEM AND DROVE THE VEHICLE AND CONFIRMED THE STEERING WHEEL VIBRATIONS WHILE BRAKING ON SPEEDS ABOVE 50 MPH, THEY ALSO FOUND ALL BRAKES AT 7MM AND FRONT ROTORS WITH ADDED MATERIAL TO IT MEASURING ABOVE 0.0008" - TECHNICIANS RECOMMENDED A SIMPLE RESURFACE OF ROTORS (CHARGED AT OWNERS EXPENSE) OR TO WAIT UNTIL THE…

Look up ODI 10583494 at NHTSA ↗

46.1%
ODI 10937925 · 30,000 mi

ELECTRONIC PARKING BRAKES- MALFUNCTION CAUSING THE ELECTRONIC PARKING BRAKES TO BECOME STUCK AND WILL NOT DISENGAGE CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO BE IMMOBILE.

Look up ODI 10937925 at NHTSA ↗

11.9%
ODI 11582107

Na

Look up ODI 11582107 at NHTSA ↗

127.5%
ODI 10667636 · 7,000 mi

DRIVING ON FREEWAY WITH CRUISE SET AT 72MPH, REACHED DOWN TO THE CENTER COUNCIL TO GRAB AN ITEM, AND PULLED UP ON THE ELECTRONIC PARKING BRAKE BUTTON. THE BUTTON IS LOCATED TOO CLOSE TO REACHABLE PLACES. THE CAR CAME TO A SCRATCHING HALT, LUCKY THE VEHICLES BEHIND ME WERE ABLE TO SWERVE OUT OF THE WAY IN TIME. *TR

Look up ODI 10667636 at NHTSA ↗

85.4%
ODI 10789608 · 12 mi

EYESIGHT PACKAGES ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL WITH LANE-DEPARTURE AND AUTO-BRAKING DOESN'T WORK. DEALER REFUSES TO FIX.

Look up ODI 10789608 at NHTSA ↗

54.2%
ODI 10898435 · 8 mi

TWO WEEK OLD VEHICLE WITH 980 MILES. THIS PROBLEM HAS OCCURRED SINCE DELIVERY. THE BRAKES ARE SOFT AND GO ALL THE WAY TO THE FLOOR WITH NO FURTHER PEDAL TRAVEL AFTER COMING TO A COMPLETE STOP. THIS IS REPEATABLE AND OCCURS EVERY TIME YOU COME TO A COMPLETE STOP AT A LIGHT OR STOP SIGN AND MAINTAIN THE PRESSURE ON THE BRAKE PEDAL. THE PEDAL WILL SLOWLY SINK TO THE FLOOR IF PRESSURE IS MAINTAINED. SUBARU OF AMERICA IS AWARE OF THIS ISSUE AND IS UNABLE TO FIX PROBLEM AT THIS TIME. THEY HAVE ASSIGNED A CASE NUMBER TO MY ISSUE WITH THIS VE…

Look up ODI 10898435 at NHTSA ↗

54.3%
ODI 11221454 · 3,800 mi

CAR WAS AT A TURNING INTERSECTION. CAR WAS COMPLETELY STOPPED, FOOT WAS APPLIED TO BRAKE WITH NORMAL PRESSURE. WITHIN A FEW SECONDS, CAR STARTED TO PROGRESS FORWARD, I LIFTED FOOT OFF BRAKE AND REAPPLIED. THE BRAKE DID NOT SENSE PRESSURE, I PUT THE CAR IN PARK. THESE ACTIONS DID NOT STOP THE CAR. LAST EFFORT ATTEMPT WAS TO LIFT THE EMERGENCY BRAKE APPLIED. THIS STOPPED THE CAR. I TURN OFF THE ENGINE AND RESTARTED THE CAR.

Look up ODI 11221454 at NHTSA ↗

21.6%
ODI 11557493

Vehicle was using the self driving feature of the Subaru Eyesight system. With the system engaged, the vehicle is supposed to accelerate and apply brakes accordingly as to keep a distance from the vehicle in front. Today, that system failed. The vehicle, with the Eyesight system engaged, accelerated right into the vehicle in front. There was no warning. The vehicle will be go for repair on 12/5/23. I have used the Eyesight system since purchasing the vehicle in 2019 with no issues, except for today. Luckily, I was driving at a very low speed bu…

Look up ODI 11557493 at NHTSA ↗

21.7%
ODI 11352881 · 4,300 mi

I WAS DRIVING ON THE CAPITAL BELTWAY IN SILVER SPRING DURING EVENING RUSH HOUR GOING APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH WHEN THE VEHICLE STARTED TO SLOW DOWN ON ITS OWN AND THE WARNING LIGHTS ON THE DASH ASSOCIATED WITH THE EMERGENCY BRAKING SYSTEM ( WHICH CAUSES THE CAR TO ABRUPTLY STOP IF YOU ARE GOING TO CRASH) STARTED TO FLASH. IT LASTED ABOUT 5-10 SECONDS . I DID NOT TAKE MY FOOT OFF THE GAS OR BRAKE THE CAR. THEN IT ACCELERATED ON ITS OWN TO 60 MPH.

Look up ODI 11352881 at NHTSA ↗

26.5%
ODI 11512323

2021 SUBARU LEGACY TOURING. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARD TO ISSUES WITH THE REAR AUTOMATIC BRAKING SYSTEM (RAB). See attached document for complaint

Look up ODI 11512323 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

15.9%
ODI 11733299

All Safety features stopped working while driving multiple times and loading feature pops up on the display screen. Speakers will go mute randomly, no sound will emit including phone calls. Automatic stop feature has engaged on the interstate multiple times, locking breaks (This is extremely dangerous) and lane assist does not recognize the difference between a lane or tar strips road patches. Will Automatically move the car into the next lane, even when a vehicle is in the lane. I have reported the issues to the dealership I bought my vehicle …

Look up ODI 11733299 at NHTSA ↗

116.7%
ODI 11677013

I own a 2025 Subaru Legacy. On at least two occasions during rainy weather, while driving at low speeds (20-30 mph), the brake pedal suddenly became soft and sank to the floor with little braking response. I had to mash the pedal to stop the car to stop the car and there was a "grinding" sensation, possibly from ABS activation. On July 26, I was trying to stop at a stop sign. Fortunately, there was no car in front of me, otherwise I could have rear-ended them. This created a dangerous situation where I wasn't able to stop the vehicle properl…

Look up ODI 11677013 at NHTSA ↗

Darker cells indicate a larger share of submitted complaints. Components overlap. This measures complaint composition, not failure probability.

Failure mileage by component

Median and middle 50% of usable owner-reported mileages. Ranges require at least five records.

Component failure mileage distribution
ComponentMileage range (25th–75th percentile)MedianUsable recordsExamples
Engine And Engine Cooling:EngineToo few reports for a range132,874 mi2 (sparse)
ODI 10038415 · 70,000 mi

THE VEHICLE WAS LEAKING OIL FROM THE REAR SEPARATOR PLATE AND OIL PUMP SEAL. *AK THIS CAUSED COPIOUS AMOUNTS OF SMOKE TO BILLOW OUT FROM UNDER THE HOOD AND OUT THE FRONT WHEEL WELLS WHEN STOPPED AFTER DRIVING SEVERAL MILES. TOOK SEVERAL MINUTES FOR THE SMOKE TO SUBSIDE. CONSUMER QUESTIONED WHETHER THERE WERE ANY FINES FOR THIS FAILURE. HE HEARD SUBARU MADE CHANGES TO THE NEWER MODEL LEGACY. CONSUMER LEARNED OF TWO OTHER SUBARU OWNER'S THAT EXPERIENCE THE SAME DEFECT. *PH *NLM

Look up ODI 10038415 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10259756 · 195,748 mi

I AM SURE YOU HAVE RECEIVED OTHER COMPLAINTS REGARDING THE 2.5L ENGINE IN 1997 SUBARU LEGACY GT'S. THE HEAD GASKETS ARE VERY WEAK, WHICH WHEN THEY BLOW, CAN CAUSE A LOSS OF POWER DUE TO A RUSH OF COOLANT FLOWING INTO THE SYSTEM, WHICH KILLS THE ENGINE. THIS PROBLEM IS VERY WIDESPREAD, AND SUBARU DOES NOT ADMIT ANYTHING. HOWEVER, IN CANADA, SUBARU WAS SUED FOR THIS SAME ISSUE. THERE ARE THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE OUT THERE THAT ARE EXPERIENCING ERRATIC FAILURE WITH THESE HEAD GASKETS, AND THERE ISN'T EVEN A TSB ON THEM. PLEASE, HELP US!

Look up ODI 10259756 at NHTSA ↗

SuspensionToo few reports for a range225,812 mi1 (sparse)
ODI 11013111 · 225,812 mi

1997 SUBARU LEGACY OUTBACK. CAME OUT TO MY PARKED VEHICLE WITH THE RIGHT FRONT TIRE FLAT DUE TO PART OF THE SUSPENSION SPRING BEING SNAPPED AND STICKING INTO INSIDE OF THE TIRE. SPRING WAS INTACT WHEN I PARKED IT. FRIGHTENING TO THINK IF THAT HAD HAPPENED WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY OF WHICH I WAS THE DAY BEFORE THIS HAPPENED.

Look up ODI 11013111 at NHTSA ↗

Engine And Engine Cooling93,412–118,000 mi116,000 mi5
ODI 10060133 · 80,500 mi

I HAVE NOW REPLACED MY SUBARU 97 ENGINE 5 TIMES, AND EACH TIME THE NEW/USED ENGINE FAILED. EACH ENGINE HAD BETWEEN 60 AND 80,000 MILES ON IT. IN MOST OF THESE CASES, THE ENGINE BLEW A HEADGASKET.

Look up ODI 10060133 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10111315 · 93,412 mi

WHILE DRIVING AT 45-50 MPH VEHICLE OVERHEATED. VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A REPAIR SHOP, AND MECHAIC CONFIRMED THAT IT WAS A BLOWN HEAD GASKET ON A 2.5L ENGINE. THE DEALER WAS NOTIFIED.*AK

Look up ODI 10111315 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10204444 · 224,992 mi

SUDDEN OVERHEATING OCCURRING MOSTLY ABOVE 60 KM/H SYMPTOMS INCLUDED LARGE POCKETS OF AIR IN COOLING SYSTEM AS WELL AS SMALL BUBBLES. FIRST THOUGHT BY MECHANIC WAS HEAD GASKET, HOWEVER TESTS ON COOLANT SHOWED OTHERWISE. SMALL LEAK FOUND IN WATER PUMP GASKET, REPLACED ENTIRE PUMP AND GASKET, AS WELL AS THERMOSTAT, BELTS, HOSES, ETC. CURRENT RESEARCH HAS PROVEN THAT YEARS 1997 THROUGH 2002 ALL DO THIS AS A RESULT OF A DESIGN FLAW THAT CAUSES THE HEAD GASKET TO FAIL. *JB

Look up ODI 10204444 at NHTSA ↗

Power Train:Automatic TransmissionToo few reports for a range113,000 mi1 (sparse)
ODI 10042764 · 113,000 mi

WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS RUNNING IN THE PARK POSITION, THE CONSUMER WAS UNABLE TO SHIFT THE GEARS IN ANY DIRECTION. VEHICLE WAS NOT DRIVABLE. *AK THE CAUSE WAS DUE TO POOR GROUND TO THE SHIFTER SOLENOID. THIS WOULD NOT ACUATE TO ALLOW THE SHIFTER IN GEAR. THE CONSUMER WAS TOLD BY SEVERAL MECHANICS THAT THIS WAS A COMMON PROBLEM IN THIS MAKE/MODEL. *SCC *JB

Look up ODI 10042764 at NHTSA ↗

Air BagsToo few reports for a range64,941 mi2 (sparse)
ODI 10002691 · 49,882 mi

MY 1997 SUBARU LEGACY WAS TOTALLED IN A FRONT END COLLISION. THE COLLISION OCCURRED AT 30-35 MPH, MY 97 LEGACY'S ENGINE WAS DESTROYED IN THIS COLLISION, AND I WAS CRUNCHED INTO THE STEERING WHEEL BECAUSE THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. I SUFFERED INTERNAL INJURIES AND WAS TAKEN BY AMBULANCE TO THE HOSPITAL EMERGENCY ROOM. BOTH AIRBAGS IN MY 97 LEGACY FAILED. THE LEGACY WAS TOTALLED.

Look up ODI 10002691 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10238404 · 80,000 mi

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 SUBARU LEGACY. THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT CONSTANTLY ILLUMINATES ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL, WHICH MEANS THAT SHE COULD EXPERIENCE SPORADIC AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT OR IMPROPER DEPLOYMENT IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER, BUT THEY COULD NOT DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 80,000 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 84,000.

Look up ODI 10238404 at NHTSA ↗

Complaint and recall timeline

Explore monthly filing activity alongside recall announcements. Up to ten years of monthly history is available.

1 reports2024-102026-09

Solid line: filed complaints. Dashed amber lines: recall announcement dates for this vehicle selection; markers include all recall components. The latest month is partial. Temporal proximity does not establish causation.

Monthly counts, recall campaigns and complaint examples
Monthly complaint and recall timeline
MonthComplaintsCampaigns announcedExamples
2024-100None

No examples available for this selection.

2024-110None

No examples available for this selection.

2024-120None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-010None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-020None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-030None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-040None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-050None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-060None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-070None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-080None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-090None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-100None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-110None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-120None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-010None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-020None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-030None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-040None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-050None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-060None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-070None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-080None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-09 (partial)0None

No examples available for this selection.

Emerging complaint spikes

Complete months in the latest six months with at least 10 complaints, at least twice the preceding 12-month average, and at least three square-root deviations above that average.

This is a descriptive screening rule, not a statistical defect finding. Publicity and reporting changes can increase submissions.

No complete months meet the spike thresholds for this selection.

Equal-age model-year comparison

Model-wide cumulative reports during the first three or five calendar years, starting with the model year (age 0). Only fully elapsed windows are compared.

Age 0Age 1Age 226 reports

2022: 26 complaints · 2023: 7 complaints

Equal observation windows
Model yearThrough age 0Through age 1Through age 2
202291826
2023337
Date coverage across each selected cohort
Date basis for all complaints in selected model years
YearIncident dates usedFiling date fallbacksExcluded dates
20223002
2023901

Incident date is preferred when valid and no later than filing; otherwise filing date is used. Model year approximates age. Equal observation time does not adjust for sales, distance driven or reporting delays. One complaint linked to multiple model years can appear in each cohort.

Components reported together

Each cell counts unique complaints naming both components. Open a nonzero cell for examples.

Component co-occurrence matrix
ComponentService Brakes, Hydraulic:Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited SlipEngine And Engine Cooling:EngineEngine And Engine Cooling:Engine:GasolineVehicle Speed ControlSuspensionEngine And Engine CoolingPower Train:Automatic TransmissionAir Bags
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip—0000000
Engine And Engine Cooling:Engine0—0000
1
ODI 756894

OIL LEAK FROM CRANK CASE SEAL DRIPS BACK ONTO EXHUST MANAFOLD DURING NORMAL DRIVING. ONCE CAR HAS STOPPED AND IS AT IDLE THE OIL BURNS OFF THE MANAFOLD AND LARGE AMOUNTS OF SMOKE POUR FROM UNDER THE HOOD AND UNDER THE CAR. IF VENTILATION SYSTEM LEFT ON THEN SMOKE ENTERS THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. NUMBER 2: THE CAR SHUDDERS WHEN TURNS LEFT OR RIGHT AT LOW SPEEDS (5MPH). NUMBER 3: THE METAL GUIDES FOR THE SIDE WINDOW (DRIVERS SIDE) HAVE SCRATCHED THE GLASS AND IT CAN'T BE REPAIRED MUST REPLACE. NUMBER 4: CAR STARTED TO SPUTTER OR MISS AFTER 61000…

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0
Engine And Engine Cooling:Engine:Gasoline00—0
2
ODI 538027

RADIO FAILED.

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ODI 899069

ENGINE WAS KNOCKING AND MAKING A TICKING NOISE, BRAKES WERE MAKING A SQUEAK/ LOUD NOISE, DEALERSHIP IS AWARE OF PROBLEM. *AK CONSUMER STATED THAT THE VEHICLE PULLS TO THE RIGHT AND STEERING WHEEL WOBBLES, ALSO RIM WAS REPLACED DUE TO IT BEING BENT. *YD

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000
Vehicle Speed Control000—0000
Suspension00
2
ODI 538027

RADIO FAILED.

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ODI 899069

ENGINE WAS KNOCKING AND MAKING A TICKING NOISE, BRAKES WERE MAKING A SQUEAK/ LOUD NOISE, DEALERSHIP IS AWARE OF PROBLEM. *AK CONSUMER STATED THAT THE VEHICLE PULLS TO THE RIGHT AND STEERING WHEEL WOBBLES, ALSO RIM WAS REPLACED DUE TO IT BEING BENT. *YD

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0—00
1
ODI 542567

VEHICLE LOT BALANCE CONTROL DURING SWIFT STEERING RESULTING IN COLLISION, VIOLENT DEPLOYMENT OF AIR BAG RESULTING IN INJURIES TO CONSUMER (FOREARM AND FACIAL).

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Engine And Engine Cooling00000—00
Power Train:Automatic Transmission0
1
ODI 756894

OIL LEAK FROM CRANK CASE SEAL DRIPS BACK ONTO EXHUST MANAFOLD DURING NORMAL DRIVING. ONCE CAR HAS STOPPED AND IS AT IDLE THE OIL BURNS OFF THE MANAFOLD AND LARGE AMOUNTS OF SMOKE POUR FROM UNDER THE HOOD AND UNDER THE CAR. IF VENTILATION SYSTEM LEFT ON THEN SMOKE ENTERS THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. NUMBER 2: THE CAR SHUDDERS WHEN TURNS LEFT OR RIGHT AT LOW SPEEDS (5MPH). NUMBER 3: THE METAL GUIDES FOR THE SIDE WINDOW (DRIVERS SIDE) HAVE SCRATCHED THE GLASS AND IT CAN'T BE REPAIRED MUST REPLACE. NUMBER 4: CAR STARTED TO SPUTTER OR MISS AFTER 61000…

Look up ODI 756894 at NHTSA ↗

0000—0
Air Bags0000
1
ODI 542567

VEHICLE LOT BALANCE CONTROL DURING SWIFT STEERING RESULTING IN COLLISION, VIOLENT DEPLOYMENT OF AIR BAG RESULTING IN INJURIES TO CONSUMER (FOREARM AND FACIAL).

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00—

Co-reporting does not establish that one component caused another concern.

Recurring narrative patterns

Specific keyword mentions beyond broad component labels. Matching includes negations and comparisons and does not confirm a diagnosis.

6 patterns with matching reports.

Warning lights and dashboard alerts

7 mentions · 5.0% of complaints

Median mileage: 71,500 mi (2 usable records).

ODI 10049945 · 63,000 mi

PROBLEMS WITH VEHICLE BLOWING HEAD GASKETS.*MR WHILE DRIVING, THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED, SMOKE CAME FROM UNDER THE HOOD AND THE TAIL PIPE. VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A SUBARU DEALERSHIP WHERE IT WAS DISCOVERED THE PROBLEM WAS A BLOWN HEAD GASKET. COOLANT AND OIL SPRAYED ALL OVER THE ENGINE AND IGNITED A SMALL FIRE ON THE EXHAUST MANIFOLD, BUT IT EXTINGUISHED ITSELF. CONSUMER HAD VEHICLE TOWED TO HER LOCAL DEALER. SHE OBTAINED TWO OPINIONS AND THEY BOTH SAID THE SAME THING. EXTREME COOLANT LOSS BUT NO EVIDENCE OF A LEAK. IT APPEARED W…

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ODI 10238404 · 80,000 mi

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 SUBARU LEGACY. THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT CONSTANTLY ILLUMINATES ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL, WHICH MEANS THAT SHE COULD EXPERIENCE SPORADIC AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT OR IMPROPER DEPLOYMENT IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER, BUT THEY COULD NOT DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 80,000 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 84,000.

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ODI 716964

CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WENT ON - CAR DROVE WITHOUT INCIDENT - LIGHT WENT OUT- LIGHT WENT ON AGAIN, AND CAR BEGAN TO VIBRATE AND MAKE KNOCKING SOUNDS. WAS TAKEN TO DEALER, WHERE THEY FOUND WIRING DEFECTIVE. *AK

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Matching rule\b(warning light\w*|check engine|dashboard warning\w*|malfunction indicator)\b

Brake response concerns

6 mentions · 4.3% of complaints

Median mileage: 70,000 mi (1 usable records).

ODI 10218307

1997 SUBARU LEGACY OUTBACK WITH SUDDEN ACCELERATION PROBLEMS. CONSUMER STATES THAT THE VEHICLE MADE A LOUD NOISE AND THE BRAKE PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR AND VEHICLE SURGED WITHOUT WARNING AND HIT THE VEHICLE IN FRONT OF THE CONSUMER. *KB THE CONSUMER STATED BOTH VEHICLES HAD MINIMAL DAMAGE. THE DEALER REPLACED THE FAST IDLE AIR CONTROL VALVE. THE CONSUMER DOESN'T BELIEVE THAT THE SUDDEN ACCELERATION PROBLEM HAS BEEN RECTIFIED. THE CONSUMER DIDN'T STATE IF A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. *JB

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ODI 10226565 · 70,000 mi

IN COLD WEATHER (ZERO OR BELOW), THE BRAKE PEDAL ON MY 1997 SUBARU LEGACY SEDAN BECOMES HARD, AND WHEN I PUT IT ANY GEAR, FORWARD OR REVERSE, THE IDLE SPEED WILL CAUSE THE CAR TO MOVE AND THE BRAKES WILL NOT STOP THE CAR-I HAVE TO SHIFT INTO NEUTRAL. I HAVE LEARNED THAT PUMPING THE BRAKE PEDAL WHILE THE CAR IS AT IDLE IN N OR P WILL USUALLY HELP, AT -20 DEGREES, I HAVE TO LET THE CAR IDLE FOR 5 TO 10 MINUTES AND THEN TRY IT. THE DEALER INDICATED THAT THIS IS NOT UNCOMMON, BUT THAT THERE IS NO EASY FIX FOR THIS. THIS HAS HAPPENED EVERY WINTE…

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ODI 524944

ANTI LOCK BRAKES FAIL CONTINUOUSLY, WHEN APPLYING BRAKES THEY LOCK UP.

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Matching rule\b(brake fail\w*|brakes fail\w*|brake pedal|braking distance|unintended braking|phantom braking)\b

Stalling or loss of power

5 mentions · 3.6% of complaints

Median mileage: 146,502 mi (2 usable records).

ODI 10259756 · 195,748 mi

I AM SURE YOU HAVE RECEIVED OTHER COMPLAINTS REGARDING THE 2.5L ENGINE IN 1997 SUBARU LEGACY GT'S. THE HEAD GASKETS ARE VERY WEAK, WHICH WHEN THEY BLOW, CAN CAUSE A LOSS OF POWER DUE TO A RUSH OF COOLANT FLOWING INTO THE SYSTEM, WHICH KILLS THE ENGINE. THIS PROBLEM IS VERY WIDESPREAD, AND SUBARU DOES NOT ADMIT ANYTHING. HOWEVER, IN CANADA, SUBARU WAS SUED FOR THIS SAME ISSUE. THERE ARE THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE OUT THERE THAT ARE EXPERIENCING ERRATIC FAILURE WITH THESE HEAD GASKETS, AND THERE ISN'T EVEN A TSB ON THEM. PLEASE, HELP US!

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ODI 11375007 · 97,255 mi

CAR WAS SOMETIMES DIFFICULT TO START, OTHER TIMES IT WOULD STALL/HESITATE WHEN IN MOTION ON CITY STREET. DISCOVERED TO BE CAUSED BY AGED/WORN FUEL PUMP CAUSING OVERCURRENT DRAW THAT FAILS TO BLOW FUSE CAUSING MELTDOWN IN WIRING HARNESS CONNECTOR WHERE PIGTAIL FROM PUMP CONNECTS TO THE CHASSIS SIDE OF THE WIRING HARNESS. HEAT/SPARK POTENTIAL IS CREATED IN CLOSE PROXIMITY TO FUEL TANK THAT HAS MANY REPORTED CASES OF FUEL FILLER NECK RUSTING OFF AND LEAKING FUEL. A QUICK GOOGLE SEARCH REVEALS THAT A NUMBER OF PEOPLE, WITH PHOTOS, HAVE EXPERIENCED …

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ODI 512386

IGNITOR FAILED, CAUSING INTERMITTENT STALLING. *AK

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Matching rule\b(stall\w*|loss of power|lost power|engine shut\w* off)\b

Fuel smell or leak mentions

2 mentions · 1.4% of complaints

Median mileage: 199,932 mi (1 usable records).

ODI 10158980

FUEL TANK FILLER PIPE ROTTED OUT. PLASTIC SHIELD OVER FILLER NECK TRAPS SAND. STEEL FILLER PIPE RUSTS WHERE WET SAND IS TRAPPED AGAINST IT. INTERMITTENT FUEL LEAK DEPENDING ON FUEL LEVEL WAS THE FIRST SYMPTOM OF PROBLEM (MARKS ON DRIVEWAY). ONLY FUEL IN FILLER PIPE LEAKS. DEALERSHIP STAFF SUGGESTED THIS IS A COMMON OCCURRENCE. *NM

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ODI 10551508 · 199,932 mi

WHEN THE GAS TANK IS FILLED ABOVE HALF A TANK, FUEL LEAKS ONTO THE GROUND IN LARGE AMOUNTS NEAR THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THIS IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS SINCE A SPARK OR CIGARETTE WOULD CAUSE AN EXPLOSION. *TR

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Matching rule\b(fuel leak\w*|gas leak\w*|gas(?:oline)? smell|smell\w* (?:of )?(?:fuel|gas))\b

Battery drain and no-start mentions

1 mentions · 0.7% of complaints

Median mileage: Unavailable (0 usable records).

ODI 894633

CONSUMER TRIED TO START VEHICLE, AND IT WOULD NOT START. VEHICLE TOWED TO DEALER. DEALER FOUND A PINCHED WIRE IN WIRING HARNESS. WIRE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED AT A COST OF $ 2200.00 . CONSUMER FELT SUBARU WAS RESPONSIBLE FOR REPAIRS. *AK

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Matching rule\b(parasitic drain|battery drain\w*|dead battery|won.t start|would not start|no.start)\b

Hard or delayed shifting

1 mentions · 0.7% of complaints

Median mileage: 44,000 mi (1 usable records).

ODI 10105986 · 44,000 mi

VEHICLE LURCHES FORWARD AFTER BRAKES ARE APPLIED. VEHICLE JUMPS FORWARD A FEW FEET BEFORE STOPPING COMPLETELY. HAPPENS WHEN VEHICLE IS STOPPED. LAST INCIDENT RESULTED TO IMPACT WITH ANOTHER CAR IN PARKING LOT. DEALER COULD NOT FIND FAULT ON TWO OCCASIONS. SAYS IT MAY BE DUE TO AIR CONDITIONER COMING ON.*AK

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Matching rule\b(hard shift\w*|rough shift\w*|delay\w* shift\w*|shift\w* hard|jerk\w*|lurch\w*)\b