Model-year record

2011 Subaru Legacy
See the complaints, recalls, crash rating, and fuel economy in the public record. Then check the mileage and history of the car you found.
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Complaints filed
167
Reports to NHTSA, 2011
Safety recalls
16
NHTSA campaigns on record
NHTSA crash test
Overall NCAP rating
Combined MPG
21.5
EPA estimate
Known issues
Power Train issues lead owner complaints (28% of 167 reports), followed by air bags (14%).
+ 10 more component categories with fewer reports.
Share of all 167 NHTSA complaints for this model year, grouped by the component owners named. Bars are scaled to the largest category. Examples: ODI 11695074, ODI 11694423, ODI 11480812, ODI 11452944, ODI 11413744.
Individual complaint reports(167)
Showing the 50 most recent reportsSuspensionJul 2026 · ODI 11748911Details +Close −
The subframe rotted through broke as I was driving on Thruway. My mechanic confirmed it needs to be replaced and is very common in heavy winter states.
- Reported
- Jul 2026
- Incident date
- Jun 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherDec 2025 · ODI 11706641Details +Close −
Description of the Safety Defect: The front subframe on my 2011 Subaru Legacy exhibits advanced structural corrosion with measurable material loss, concentrated primarily on the driver-side subframe. The corrosion affects a primary load-bearing structural member responsible for supporting suspension mounting points and maintaining chassis integrity. The deterioration is asymmetric, with the driver side showing severe degradation while the passenger side remains comparatively intact. This non-uniform corrosion pattern is not consistent with normal environmental exposure, age-related wear, or routine vehicle operation, and indicates a localized failure of corrosion protection or material integrity. The extent of corrosion compromises the subframe’s ability to safely support suspension loads and maintain alignment geometry. This presents a progressive structural safety risk, as continued operation may lead to sudden loss of suspension mounting integrity, steering instability, or loss of vehicle control without prior warning. Safety Risk Description: The front subframe is a critical safety component designed to: Support engine and transmission loads Secure lower control arms and suspension geometry Maintain steering stability and predictable handling Absorb and distribute crash forces Structural degradation of this component increases the risk of: Suspension separation or displacement under normal driving loads Alignment instability during braking or cornering Reduced crash energy management capability Failure of this component could result in loss of directional control, increasing the risk of a crash. Subaru of America has acknowledged prior subframe corrosion issues on other Subaru models through recalls, service campaigns, or goodwill repairs. However, Subaru has declined assistance for this vehicle based solely on time and mileage, without addressing whether the observed structural deterioration constitutes a safety defect.
- Reported
- Dec 2025
- Incident date
- Dec 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainOct 2025 · ODI 11695074Details +Close −
An issue has surfaced with my car that it turns off while driving. Obviously this is a serious safety hazard and likely to result in an accident. Now that it has happened, it is continuing and frequently happening. I reached out to Subaru as I saw there was a recall for my car's make and model that is causing the same issue. The issue is listed as NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID: 19V297000, described as "The engine turning off unexpectedly can increase the risk of a crash. " and affecting many Subarus, including the 2011 legacy. I believe my car is impacted given the behavior it is exhibiting. When I reached out to Subaru, they dismissed it saying it did not apply to my car and they were not willing to investigate. I believe this poses a grave risk to many people given that it will cause an accident and the severity of the defect.
- Reported
- Oct 2025
- Incident date
- Oct 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainOct 2025 · ODI 11694423Details +Close −
The week after purchase: The car shuts off when braking and needs to be put into park to be started again. Also the check engine light came on and I wonder if it has electrical issues.
- Reported
- Oct 2025
- Incident date
- Oct 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SuspensionJul 2025 · ODI 11674244Details +Close −
While turning the wheel to back out of a parking spot, we heard a loud clunking sound. From that point on, while braking there were loud clunking sounds and the car pulled to the right. We brought it to our mechanic and was informed the front sub frame/ engine cradle, was completey rusted out due to corrosion from the inside. There was a mounting bolt protruding through a hole in the subframe and the suspension components were loose and damaged. They provided a photo showing the large hole and mounting bolt protruding. We were told it was unsafe to drive. We have to replace the sub frame, control arms and sway bar links. The sub frame supports these components, the engine and other parts!
- Reported
- Jul 2025
- Incident date
- Jul 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
StructureOct 2024 · ODI 11618103Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2011 Subaru Legacy. The contact stated that while driving 35 MPH and driving over a speed bump, there was an abnormal sound coming from underneath the vehicle. The vehicle was driven to an independent mechanic and the contact was informed that the subframe was damaged and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 14,000. The VIN was not available.
- Reported
- Oct 2024
- Incident date
- Sep 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherJan 2024 · ODI 11564023Details +Close −
THIS CAR STALLS OUT AND JUST STOPS WHEN YOU ARE DRIVING DUE TO A FAILING TORQUE CONVERTER WHICH SUBARU KNEW ABOUT AND DID NOT DO A RECALL ON. THEY DID A SERVICE BULLETIN WITH AN EXTENDED WARRANTY BUT WHEN I BROUGHT MY CAR WHILE IT STILL WAS UNDER THE EXTENDED WARRANTY PERIOD TO THE DEALER NO ONE ADVISED ME OF THIS SO NOW IT IS OUT OF THE EXTENDED WARRANTY PERIOD AND THEY WILL NOT HELP ME. MY SON ALMOST GOT KILLED WHEN THIS HAPPENED THIS NEEDS TO ADDRESSED BY SUBARU BECAUSE WE CANNOT DRIVE THIS CAR AS IT IS UNSAFE.
- Reported
- Jan 2024
- Incident date
- Dec 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Service BrakesSep 2023 · ODI 11547322Details +Close −
Brakes failed due to a rusty brake line. Rear passenger side where theres a 4 way block 2 lines in 2 lines out. All 4 lines are rusted where they connect, one of the lines broke to cause a significant leak. This caused me to have very little brakes as the vehicle ran out of brake fluid. I can see brake fluid on the ground and diagnosed the issue myself. It seems as it is a common issue. The brake light did come on when the brake fluid was low enough, but at that point there was little to no brakes anyway because the leak was so consistent .
- Reported
- Sep 2023
- Incident date
- Sep 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SuspensionAug 2023 · ODI 11537308Details +Close −
This 2011 Subaru Legacy would pull severely to the right when braking, nearly jerking the steering wheel out of the drivers hand. The car was taken to a private auto repair shop where it was found the motor cradle (part #50527AJ00B) was completed rusted out so the A-arm to the wheel was unstable. In trying to locate a new part, online and from local dealers, it was found the part was on backorder. We were number 142 in line to receive the part. There is obviously a severe and dangerous problem with this issue as a car would veer into the other lane or offroad when braking. Subaru corporate office was contacted and I was told I would have to take the vehicle to the Subaru dealer. This would require a tow so I decided to have the private auto repair shop fix it as it was also undriveable. This complaint is to bring attention to this as a safety issue. My grandchildren were transported in this vehicle and were at risk of serious injury or death because of this problem. I feel Subaru should notify other owners of this problem on this make and model to avoid risk of serious injury or death. I have a video of the car and tire that shows what was happening before I took it to the auto repair shop. I was unable to upload the video file but would like to get it sent for your review. I can be emailed at brune5@msn.com. My phone number is (309) 696-8849. Daniel Brune
- Reported
- Aug 2023
- Incident date
- Apr 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringApr 2023 · ODI 11515967Details +Close −
Front sub-frame rusted through. Local mechanic said unsafe to drive. Insurance will not cover claim because this is "prior issue" not accident related. Subaru dealership confirmed safety risk and will repair for >$3000.
- Reported
- Apr 2023
- Incident date
- Mar 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SuspensionFeb 2023 · ODI 11505073Details +Close −
While braking at lower speed the driver's side lower control arm broke out causing the car to pull very hard to the left. Both lower control arms and the subframe had to be replaced.
- Reported
- Feb 2023
- Incident date
- Feb 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Service BrakesJan 2023 · ODI 11503657Details +Close −
To Whom It May Concern: I am an owner of the Subaru 2011 Legacy AWD, VIN # [XXX], [XXX] at [XXX], Parker, Colorado, reaching out to you about a well-known and recognized toque converter issue described in the 2011 Subaru Legacy F4-2.5 L SOHC, Vehicle - Technical Service Bulletin applicability :2010-2012 MY Legacy Models equipped with CVT Transmission. I purchased my car after its previous owner with a salvage title due to an accident, however it turns out it has a torque converter issue which makes a car die every time I use a break when coming to a stop, described in the above Subaru Technical Service Bulletin. The Subaru of North America has a customer satisfaction program which allows me and similarly situated Subaru Legacy 2010-2012 owners to have this issue without Subaru qualifying it as a safety recall issue. Should this been qualified as a safety recall, my salvage title would be eligible for a free repair from the Subaru of North America, however since this is a frequently reported issue Subaru manufacturer is responsible for creating in the 2010-2012 Subaru Legacy F4-2.5 L vehicles, it allowed the Subaru of North America to use it as a basis for their refusal to repair my vehicle for free provided that the torque converter issue is their responsibility. I'd appreciate you reaching out to me with a possible options which may exist for me as an owner of the vehicle. [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
- Reported
- Jan 2023
- Incident date
- Jan 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Exterior LightingJan 2023 · ODI 11501043Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2011 Subaru Legacy. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, the headlights failed to illuminate. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.
- Reported
- Jan 2023
- Incident date
- Jan 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SuspensionSep 2022 · ODI 11486094Details +Close −
The front subframe failed due to corrosion from the inside according to the service department. The vehicle is unsafe to drive with this condition. It only has 38,180 miles on it. It has not been driven in a reckless fashion. I have never heard of this failure in a low mileage auto.
- Reported
- Sep 2022
- Incident date
- Sep 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainAug 2022 · ODI 11480812Details +Close −
Sometimes as I'm coming to a stop, such as at a red light or a stop sign, just before I stop, the car lurches and then stalls. This is an automatic transmission car, but the best way I can think of to describe what is happening is it is acting as if it is a manual transmission, and when you come to a stop and don't press in the clutch. If this happens at an inopportune time, it could cause an accident. Possibly you're slowing down as you turn through an intersection and it lurches and stalls. You would then be stopped in the middle of the intersection. There are no warning lamps or messages before this happens.
- Reported
- Aug 2022
- Incident date
- Jul 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SuspensionMay 2022 · ODI 11466155Details +Close −
The vehicle was diagnosed at a Subaru Dealership as having a rusted sub-frame with mounting bolt holes loose and suspension components moving freely. The vehicle is deemed unsafe to drive. (On April 8, 2022, my car suddenly made a loud clunking noise and drove very rocky). The car had not given any previous warning signals of this problem.
- Reported
- May 2022
- Incident date
- Apr 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainFeb 2022 · ODI 11452944Details +Close −
It's a 6mt. Randomly reverse stopped working. Seems like it wants to go in reverse. But when any bit of gas pedal pressed it grinds and pops out of reverse. I have no reverse. 1st thru 6th gear works shifting wise. Shifter has some play though.
- Reported
- Feb 2022
- Incident date
- Feb 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SeatsFeb 2022 · ODI 11450754Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2011 Subaru Legacy. The contact stated that while driving or coming to a complete stop, the driver's side front seat would inadvertently move back and forth. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The vehicle had previously been serviced for the front driver's side seat by the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that the seat warranty had expired and that the contact needed to pay out of pocket for the repair. The failure mileage was approximately 77,000.
- Reported
- Feb 2022
- Incident date
- Feb 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Fuel SystemMay 2021 · ODI 11415504Details +Close −
TL* THE CONTACT CALLED ON BEHALF OF HER DAUGHTER WHO OWNS A 2011 SUBARU LEGACY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE SPUTTERED WHILE SLOWING DOWN TO COME TO A COMPLETE STOP. THE VEHICLE LOSS MOTIVE POWER BEFORE COMING TO A STOP. THE VEHICLE WAS RESTARTED. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO FIRST TEAM SUBARU NORFOLK (6633 E VIRGINIA BEACH BLVD, NORFOLK, VA 23502, (877) 274-7828) HOWEVER, THE MECHANIC WAS UNABLE TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE MECHANIC SUGGESTED THAT FUEL ADDITIVE SHOULD BE ADDED TO THE FUEL TO PROVIDE A TEMPORARY FIX. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT YET REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000.
- Reported
- May 2021
- Incident date
- Feb 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainApr 2021 · ODI 11413744Details +Close −
FIRST THE VEHICLE STARTED WITH A SCREECHING NOISE AND THE RPM'S WOULD SPIKE. APPARENTLY IF THE CVT TRANSMISSION SLIPPING. I TOOK THE VEHICLE IN VARIATIONS OCCASIONS TO THE DEALER. REACHED OUT SUBARU USA. SENT VIDEO OF THE OCCURRENCE AND THEY INDICATED THEY COULD NOT CLASSIFY THE OCCURRENCE AND FOUND IT INCONCLUSIVE. I NOTICE IT WOULD OCCUR IN TEMPERATURES LOWER THEN 45 DEGREES FAHRENHEIT. MONTHS LATER THE VEHICLE STARTED FLASHING VARIOUS WARNING LIGHTS SUCH AS CHECK ENGINE, CRUISE CONTROL, VEHICLE DYNAMICS CONTROL. TOOK THE CAR TO LOCAL DEALER AND WAS DIAGNOSED AS A OXYGEN SENSOR. BUT WHAT STARTED OCCURRING AFTER THE REPAIR WAS STARTLING AND DANGEROUS. THE VEHICLE NOW STARTED STALLING OUT WHEN I PRESSED ON THE BRAKES TO STOP. ON LONG DRIVES THIS WOULD NOT OCCUR. IT OFTEN HAPPENS WHEN DRIVING LOCALLY AND STOPPING AT INTERSECTIONS. WHAT I LEARNED TO AND IMPLEMENTED WAS AS THE STALLING WAS STARTING TO OCCUR YOU WOULD GET A JITTERING FROM THE VEHICLE I WOULD SHIFT THE CAR TO NEUTRAL AND THE CAR WOULD NOT STALL. THIS IS NEITHER THE NORM OR SAFE, BUT SAFER THEN STALLING IN AN INTERSECTION WITH VEHICLES COMING AT YOU. THIS ISSUE STILL CONTINUES TO OCCUR. I HAVE NOT BOTHERED WITH THE DEALER NOR SUBARU BECAUSE MY LAST ISSUE WITH THE TRANSMISSION WAS NEVER RESOLVED, I'M ABLE TO COUNTER THE STALLING BUT MY WIFE WHO HAS TO GO OUT WITH MY 1YR OLD SON AND 10 YR DAUGHTER IS SCARED TO USE THE VEHICLE BECAUSE IF IT WAS TO STALL IN AN INTERSECTION AS SHE IS TRYING TO CROSS IN THE VEHICLE A MAJOR ACCIDENT CAN OCCUR. PLEASE HELP AND INVESTIGATE THIS ISSUE THAT I AM SURE IT IS HAPPENING TO OTHER SUBARU OWNERS. THANK YOU
- Reported
- Apr 2021
- Incident date
- Oct 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Service BrakesMar 2021 · ODI 11403042Details +Close −
WHY DOES MY BREAK LIGHT KEEP FLASHING??
- Reported
- Mar 2021
- Incident date
- Jul 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainMar 2021 · ODI 11399884Details +Close −
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 SUBARU LEGACY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE TRANSMISSION FAILED TO PROPERLY DOWNSHIFT CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO STALL. DURING THE FAILURE, THE POWER STEERING AND POWER BRAKES ALSO BECOME INOPERABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE POWER TRAIN TORQUE CONVERTER WAS FAULTY AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT YET REPAIRED. THE LOCAL DEALER SUBARU CITY OF MILWAUKEE LOCATED AT 4640 S 27TH ST, MILWAUKEE, WI 53221 AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 140,000.*DT CONSUMER STATED HIS DAUGHTER [XXX] IS THE OWNER OF THE VEHICLE.*JB
- Reported
- Mar 2021
- Incident date
- Mar 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemMar 2021 · ODI 11399636Details +Close −
WAS WARNED BY OTHER DRIVERS THAT MY TAIL LIGHTS WERE OUT SEVERAL TIMES. CLOCK AND SAVED RADIO STATIONS WENT OUT AND NOW BROUGHT THE CAR IN FOR YEARLY INSPECTION AND MAJOR OIL LEAK FROM GASKET. 16,000 MILES ON THIS CAR. NEVER HAVE I HAD SO MANY PROBLEMS.
- Reported
- Mar 2021
- Incident date
- Mar 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainMar 2021 · ODI 11399479Details +Close −
2011 SUBARU OUTBACK WITH CVT STALLS WHEN COMING TO A ABRUPT STOP. SUBARU HAS A TSB AND KNOWS THERE IS AN ISSUE WITH THE TORQUE CONVERTER. CAR IS OUT OF THE WARRANTY PERIOD THEREFORE CUSTOMER MUST PAY FOR THE FIX. THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE THAT SHOULD BE CORRECT VIA A RECALL.
- Reported
- Mar 2021
- Incident date
- Mar 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsFeb 2021 · ODI 11395968Details +Close −
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 SUBARU LEGACY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE PASSENGER SEAT BELT WARNING LIGHT WAS FLASHING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO BURLINGTON SUBARU (351 SHELBURNE RD, BURLINGTON, VT 05401, (802)448-3880) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE WIRING HARNESS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND OFFERED TO COVER A PORTION OF THE COST FOR THE REPAIRS. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 78,000.
- Reported
- Feb 2021
- Incident date
- Feb 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringDec 2020 · ODI 11385420Details +Close −
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 SUBARU LEGACY. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH, THE HORN ACTIVATED INDEPENDENTLY WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SYMPTOM WAS LIKE NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 10V283000 (STEERING). THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN TO WEBSTER GROVES SUBARU (7982 BIG BEND BLVD, WEBSTER GROVES, MO 63119, (314) 476-9638) TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE STEERING WHEEL ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 149,000.
- Reported
- Dec 2020
- Incident date
- Dec 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsNov 2020 · ODI 11372495Details +Close −
I HAVE OWNED MY LEGACY SINCE '14 AND MY BROTHER OWNED IT BEFORE THAT. HE RARELY HAD PASSENGERS RIDE WITH HIM AND SINCE I'VE OWNED IT THE FEW PASSENGERS I'VE HAD HAVE ALWAYS BEEN HEAVIER THAN ME. (I USUALLY DID ALL THE DRIVING). ABOUT A YEAR AND A HALF AGO, I TOOK A ROAD TRIP WITH A FRIEND AND HE DID MOST OF THE DRIVING. WE STARTED NOTICING THAT WHEN I WAS IN THE PASSENGER SEAT THE AIRBAG LIGHT FOR THE PASSENGER SIDE WOULD SAY OFF. I TRIED ADJUSTING MY SEAT AND CHANGING POSITIONS AND OCCASIONALLY I COULD GET IT TO TURN BACK ON. WE SWITCHED SEATS AND IT IMMEDIATELY WORKED FOR HIM. I AM 5' 9" AND WAS ABOUT 150 # AT THE TIME. HE IS 5'8" AND ABOUT 165. I TOOK IT IN TO THE LOCAL DEALERSHIP AND THEY CONFIRMED SOMETHING WAS INDEED WRONG AND TOLD ME THAT I MUST HAVE SPILLED LIQUID ON THE SEAT THAT HAD RUINED THE SENSORS. THIS DIDN'T MAKE ANY SENSE TO ME BECAUSE WHILE I COULD NOT ACTIVATE THE SENSORS, THE DEALERSHIP EMPLOYEE BEING HEAVIER THAN ME ACTIVATED IT IMMEDIATELY WHEN SITTING IN THE SEAT. MY BROTHER AND I ARE VERY PARTICULAR WITH OUR VEHICLES AND NO SUCH THING EVER OCCURRED. THEY TOLD ME IT WOULD COST A FEW THOUSAND DOLLARS TO FIX. I COULD NOT AFFORD THAT EXPENSE AND FIGURED THAT I WOULD JUST TRY TO LIVE WITH IT. FAST FORWARD TO RECENTLY WHEN I TOOK ANOTHER TRIP WITH A FRIEND AND THIS TIME I COULD NOT GET THE AIRBAG TO TURN ON NO MATTER WHERE OR HOW I SAT. I AM NOW DOWN TO ABOUT 135 # AND APPARENTLY THE SEAT DOESN'T RECOGNIZE THAT WEIGHT AS AN ADULT. I HAVE BEEN RESEARCHING WHAT TO DO FOR THIS PROBLEM BECAUSE, AS A FIRE FIGHTER, I HAVE SEEN WHAT HAPPENS WHEN AN AIRBAG DOES NOT DEPLOY IN A WRECK. I HAVE FOUND MANY FORUMS ONLINE WITH DOZ OF PEOPLE STATING THAT THEY HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM AND HAVE BEEN HAVING IT SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS NEW. THIS IS AN OBVIOUS MANUFACTURING ISSUE THAT HOPEFULLY HAS NOT COST ANY LIVES AND SOA NEEDS TO BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE FOR THEIR DISHONESTY.
- Reported
- Nov 2020
- Incident date
- Apr 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringOct 2020 · ODI 11366301Details +Close −
HORN SOUNDS UNINTENTIONALLY POSSIBLY SIMILAR/ RELATED TO CAMPAIGN 10V283000 FROM PREVIOUS MODEL YEAR. HORN SOUNDS WHEN I AM TURNING THE WHEEL AND ACCELERATING, ESPECIALLY WHEN GOING FROM A STOP, UP A HILL, OR HARDER ACCELERATION. OCCASIONALLY WHEN GOING STRAIGHT, ESPECIALLY OVER SPEED BUMPS. HORN ALSO SOUNDS WHEN I HIT THE RIM OF THE STEERING WHEEL WITH MY FIST.
- Reported
- Oct 2020
- Incident date
- Oct 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainOct 2020 · ODI 11362471Details +Close −
ENGINE STALLING WHEN DEPRESSING BRAKES DASH LIGHTS ALL COMING ON NO CRUISE CONTROL NO TRACTION CONTROL AT OIL LIGHT CHECK ENGINE LIGHT. DANGEROUS IN DRIVING THIS CAR.SUBARU WILL NOT HELP FIX
- Reported
- Oct 2020
- Incident date
- Sep 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainSep 2020 · ODI 11352699Details +Close −
CHANGED OUT THE TIMING BELT AS PART OF RECOMMEND SERVICE BY SUBARU ONLY TO LEARN THAT THE HEAD GASKETS WERE LEAKING AND IT'S A KNOWN PROBLEM WITH ALL SUBARUS BUILT BEFORE 2013. SUBARU IS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM, AND HAS CREATED A CONDITIONER THAT IS ADDED TO THE COOLING SYSTEM AS A "BAND AID."
- Reported
- Sep 2020
- Incident date
- Sep 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherJul 2020 · ODI 11342476Details +Close −
TORQUE CONVERTER NOT FUNCTIONING CORRECTLY AND SUBARU IS AWARE OF THIS ISSUE...IS CAUSING SUDDEN ACCELERATION...COST OF REPAIR IS $2000
- Reported
- Jul 2020
- Incident date
- Apr 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsJul 2020 · ODI 11338393 · crash · 1 injuriesDetails +Close −
2 CAR COLLISION ON A CITY STREET. BOTH CARS IN MOTION. OUR CAR WAS TURNING LEFT ONTO THE MAIN ROAD AND WAS HIT IN THE LEFT FRONT AREA CAUSING SIGNIFICANT DAMAGE RESULTING IN THE TOTAL LOSS OF BOTH VEHICLES. THE DRIVER OF OUR CAR WAS TAKEN BY AMBULANCE TO THE HOSPITAL TO BE CHECKED OUT. THE DRIVER OF OUR CAR SUFFERED A HEAD INJURY ON THE LEFT SIDE RESULTING IN PAIN AND IN PARTICULAR SHORT TERM MEMORY LOSS. THE ACCIDENT REPORT IS AVAILABLE THRU THE KIRKLAND, WA POLICE DEPARTMENT, CASE #20-19103. ALTHOUGH THE REPORT DOES CONTAIN ERRORS AND OMISSIONS IT MOSTLY DESCRIBES WHAT HAPPENED AND INCLUDES SEVERAL PHOTOS. THE REASON FOR THIS COMPLAINT IS WE ARE WONDERING WHY THE AIRBAGS (SIDE ONES IN PARTICULAR) DID NOT DEPLOY? WE FEEL IT'S VERY LIKELY THE HEAD INJURY WOULD NOT HAVE HAPPENED HAD THE AIRBAG(S) DEPLOYED.
- Reported
- Jul 2020
- Incident date
- Jun 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- Crash 1 injuries
Unknown Or OtherJun 2020 · ODI 11329321Details +Close −
MY SUBARU HAS A STALLING PROBLEM. IT WILL STALL AT HARD STOPS OR WHEN I ROLL TO A STOP. IT CAN BE VERY DANGEROUS WHEN GOING UP A HILL WHERE YOU NEED TO SLOW DOWN OR IF SOMEONE STOPS HARD IN FRONT OF ME. IT SHUDDERS LIKE IT WANTS TO STALL MANY TIMES THROUGHOUT THE DAY. SUBARU NEED TO LOOK INTO THIS CAUSE MANY PEOPLE HAVE THIS PROBLEM AND IT IS VERY UNSAFE. *TR
- Reported
- Jun 2020
- Incident date
- May 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainMar 2020 · ODI 11318813Details +Close −
WHEN DRIVING MY VEHICLE ON A HIGHWAY ONCE REACHING THE ACCELERATION SPEED OF 65-75 THE CAR SOUNDS AS IF THE GEARS ARE SLIPPING AND SQUEAL ONCE IT KICKS IN. STOPPED AT DEALERSHIP ON OUR WAY BACK TO OUR HOME STATE. THEY TESTED AND RECOMMENDED REPLACING THE CVT. THIS APPARENTLY HAD AN EXTENDED WARRANTY IN 2017. WILL MY CAR STILL BE COVERED. WE HAVE 113K ON THE CAR.
- Reported
- Mar 2020
- Incident date
- Mar 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainMar 2020 · ODI 11318822Details +Close −
VEHICLE STALLS WHEN COMING TO A STOP. IT STARTED OUT BEING SPORADIC, DIDN'T HAPPEN TOO OFTEN. THEN GRADUALLY THE STALLING HAPPENED MORE OFTEN UNTIL IT'S TO THE POINT WHERE IT STALLS ALMOST EVERY TIME IT IS DRIVEN. FOUND OUT IT IS A KNOWN PROBLEM OF THE TORQUE CONVERTER, WHICH CAN CAUSE METAL SHAVINGS TO GO INTO THE TRANSMISSION, WHICH COULD CAUSE THAT TO GO AS WELL. WITH CHILDREN IN THE CAR ON A REGULAR BASIS THIS IS TERRIFYING, WHAT IF SOMEONE HITS THE CAR DUE TO THE ENGINE STOPPING? SUBARU SAYS IT ISN'T COVERED UNDER EXTENDED WARRANTY BECAUSE OF THE MILEAGE IN THE CAR. IF IT'S A KNOWN ISSUE SHOULDN'T IT RECEIVE MORE CONCERN/CHECKUPS TO ENSURE THAT PART ISN'T FAILING?
- Reported
- Mar 2020
- Incident date
- Jun 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineMar 2020 · ODI 11316257Details +Close −
WHEN COMING TO STOP SIGN OR SUDDEN STOPS THE CAR WILL STALL. YOU HAVE TO BE QUICK AND RESTART CAR OR YOUR GOING TO GET HIT, YOU LOSE ALL CONTROL. THIS HAS BEEN HAPPENING SINCE WE BOUGHT THE CAR IN APRIL OF 2019
- Reported
- Mar 2020
- Incident date
- Apr 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainJan 2020 · ODI 11300116Details +Close −
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 SUBARU LEGACY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE TRAVELING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT AFTER COMING TO A COMPLETE STOP ON AN INCLINE, THE VEHICLE STALLED WHILE DEPRESSING THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL. THERE WAS NO PRIOR WARNING BEFORE THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE THE VEHICLE WAS YET TO BE DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER HAD NOT BEEN NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. UPON INVESTIGATION, THE CONTACT LINKED RECALL NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 10V326000 (POWER TRAIN) WITH THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 133,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
- Reported
- Jan 2020
- Incident date
- Dec 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineDec 2019 · ODI 11289717Details +Close −
ALL POWER CUTS OFF PERIODICALLY WHILE DRIVING. WHICH CAN BE VERY DANGEROUS AND CAUSE AN ACCIDENT.
- Reported
- Dec 2019
- Incident date
- Dec 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainDec 2019 · ODI 11286320Details +Close −
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 SUBARU LEGACY. WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT HAD TO APPLY THE BRAKES QUICKLY AND THE VEHICLE SHUT OFF. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO RESTART THE VEHICLE AND DRIVE TO HIS DESTINATION. SUBARU OF MUSKEGON (1878 E STERNBERG RD, MUSKEGON, MI 49444, (231) 799-2886) DIAGNOSED THAT THE TORQUE CONVERTER NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE DEALER STATED THAT THEY EXTENDED A WARRANTY IN 2018, BUT IT HAD EXPIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND STATED THE SAME THING AS THE DEALER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 140,000.
- Reported
- Dec 2019
- Incident date
- Oct 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainDec 2019 · ODI 11286502Details +Close −
MY VEHICLE BEGAN TO HAVE TROUBLE STALLING WHEN I SLOWED SLOWED DOWN BECAUSE THE RPMS DROPPED FAR TOO LOW. I WAS NOT ABLE TO STOP PROPERLY WITHOUT THREAT OF STALLING. MY VEHICLE HAS NOW STALLED MORE THAN 5 TIMES WHILE ON THE ROADS AND HIGHWAYS. I FEEL THAT MY SAFETY IS THOROUGHLY AT STAKE WHEN MY CAR SUDDENLY TURNS OFF. I AM VERY DISSATISFIED WITH THE LACK OF COOPERATION THAT SUBARU HAS TO GIVEN TO COMPENSATE ME. IF STALLING OUT WAS NOT ENOUGH, MY CAR HAS NOW BEGUN TO SQUEAL AND BUCK DURING ACCELERATION. I WAS ON VACATION WHEN THIS ISSUE BECAME WORSE AND COULD BARELY MAKE IT BACK HOME FOR WORK ON MONDAY. IN MY RESEARCH I HAVE FOUND THAT THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH LEGACIES & OUTBACKS FROM THE YEARS 2010-2012. I FIND UNETHICAL THAT ALL SUBARU WILL DO IS OFFER AN EXTENDED WARRANTY THAT DOES NOT COVER ME.
- Reported
- Dec 2019
- Incident date
- Nov 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainNov 2019 · ODI 11279605Details +Close −
WHEN SLOWING DOWN AND MAKING A TURN THE CAR SHUTS OFF FORCING ME TO PUT IT IN PARK AND START IT UP AGAIN WHILE ALMOST BEING HIT BY TRAFFIC. WHEN COMING TO A STOP ALSO IT MAKES IT HARDER TO STOP BECAUSE THE ENGINE IS TRYING TO KEEP THE CAR MOVING. THIS HAS HAPPED MULTIPLE TIMES AND STILL IS.
- Reported
- Nov 2019
- Incident date
- Nov 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemNov 2019 · ODI 11277544Details +Close −
BRAKE LIGHT FLASHES WHEN IT RAINS AND THE UNDERCARRIAGE GETS WET. LIGHT REMAINS ON AND CONTINUOUSLY FLASHES WHEN THE CAR IS WET. THE PARKING BRAKE IS OFF. THE PARKING BRAKE CANNOT BE TURNED ON WHEN IT IS RAINING EITHER.
- Reported
- Nov 2019
- Incident date
- Oct 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineOct 2019 · ODI 11270075Details +Close −
MY 2011 SUBARU LEGACY IS EXPERIENCING SHUDDERING AND STALLS WHEN COMING TO A STOP RESULTING IN THE ENGINE SHUTTING OFF. I CAN DESCRIBE THIS CONDITION SIMILAR TO COMING TO A STOP IN A MANUAL TRANSMISSION EQUIPPED VEHICLE WITHOUT DEPRESSING THE CLUTCH. IT IS SEEM SIMILAR TO LIKE THE VEHICLE IS STALLING OR CAUSE IT TO STALL.
- Reported
- Oct 2019
- Incident date
- Aug 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemOct 2019 · ODI 11269096Details +Close −
THE ENGINE TURNING OFF UNEXPECTEDLY WHEN I AM DRIVING. ESPECIALLY WHEN I GO TO SLOW DOWN. THIS HAS BEEN AN ISSUE SINCE I BOUGHT THE VEHICLE. FROM DAY ONE.
- Reported
- Oct 2019
- Incident date
- Apr 2015
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainSep 2019 · ODI 11265212Details +Close −
JUST HAD CAR 120,000 SERVICE DONE EARLY AT AROUND 119000 SO MY 2011 CAR HAD JUST BEEN GONE OVER THOROUGHLY. I AM VERY GOOD ABOUT HAVING MAJOR SERVICES DONE BY AUTHORIZED DEALERS TOO. THIS PARTICULAR CAR HAD PREVIOUSLY SHUDDERED WHEN BRAKING ON OFF RAMPS FOR WHICH I WOULD SHIFT CAR INTO NEUTRAL SINCE IT FELT AS IF CAR TRANSMISSION WAS BINDING SIMILAR TO HOW AN OLDER NON SLIP 4 WHEEL DRIVE SYSTEM WOULD "CRAB" AROUND TURNS. I HAD ASKED ABOUT THIS A NUMBER OF TIMES BETWEEN 60K-120K. HOWEVER, NOW MY CAR WAS STALLING WHENEVER I CAME TO A QUICK STOP. TOOK IT BACK TO DEALER WITHIN A WEEK. TORQUE CONVERTER. I LOOKED INTO THIS AND SEE NUMEROUS PEOPLE HAVE BEEN HAVING ISSUES WITH THIS TRANSMISSION AND THIS POWER TRAIN. IT APPEARS THE MANUFACTURER HAS ONLY EXTENDED THE WARRANTY. HAVE ANY DEATHS OCCURRED DUE TO THIS ISSUE? SHIFTING INTO NEUTRAL TO AVOID BUCKING OR ENGINE STOPS ON OFF RAMPS, OR GETTING HIT BECAUSE YOU ARE STATIONARY OR STALLED IN A ROADWAY AFTER BRAKING ARE ISSUES. I AM LUCKY I HAD ENOUGH MONEY TO FIX. THERE APPEAR TO BE MANY COMPLAINTS ABOUT IT. I ACTUALLY, BECAUSE I AM AN OLDER (NOT ELDERLY) AND MORE EXPERIENCED DRIVER, DID NOT HAVE ANY ACCIDENT DUE TO THIS ISSUE. BUT, I COULD SEE THIS BEING A ISSUE FOR A YOUNGER DRIVER THAT COULD RESULT IN A REAL PROBLEM ACCIDENT OR DEATH IF THEY HAVE TO FUMBLE TO TAKE THE CAR OUT OF DRIVE TO PREVENT BUCKING OR STALLING. I HAD DECIDED TO INVEST AND MAINTAIN THIS CAR FOR MY 15 YEAR OLD, SOON TO DRIVE, DAUGHTER. HOWEVER AND BECAUSE OF THIS ONE ISSUE, I NOW KNOW IT IS A UNSAFE VEHICLE IF IT CAN THROW A CURVE-BALL AT A YOUNG DRIVER BY STALLING WHEN BRAKING QUICKLY OR IN A PANIC BRAKING SITUATION. HAVING TO SHIFT OUT OF GEAR WHILE STILL MOVING TO STOP OFF RAMP BUCKING OR STALLING IN BRAKING SITUTATION SEEM LIKE THEY COULD LEAD TO ACCIDENTS, DEATHS OR UNCONFIRMED DEATHS DUE TO THIS PROBLEMATIC TORQUE CONVERTER?
- Reported
- Sep 2019
- Incident date
- Jan 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainSep 2019 · ODI 11257393Details +Close −
CAR SHUDDERS AND STALLS OUT WHEN BRAKING. CAR POSES A SERIOUS SAFETY RISK ON THE ROAD WHEN THIS HAPPENS.
- Reported
- Sep 2019
- Incident date
- Jun 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Exterior LightingAug 2019 · ODI 11245637Details +Close −
AS OTHER DRIVER COMPLAINS, MY LOW BEAM HEAD LIGHT BULBS (BOTH SIDES) HAVE BEEN BURNED OUT EVERY 6 TO 10 MONTHS. SOMETIMES I NEEDED TO REPLACE THEM IN ICE COLD WINTER OUTSIDE IN THE SNOW. BECAUSE MUD GUARDS NEED TO BE MOVED TO REPLACE BULBS, PLASTIC FASTENERS ALSO NEEDED TO BE REPLACED EVERY SO OFTEN. THIS IS QUITE RIDICULOUS.
- Reported
- Aug 2019
- Incident date
- Aug 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainAug 2019 · ODI 11244202Details +Close −
THE CAR IS JUST SHY OF 8 YEARS OLD. THE TRANSMISSION FAILED CAUSING THE CAR TO SUDDENLY STOP, SHUT OFF AND LOSE POWER STEERING WHILE TRAVELING DOWN THE ROAD. CURRENTLY THE ENGINE IS LEAKING EXHAUST FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT THAT CAN BE SMELLED IN THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. IT IS ALSO LEAKING HOT OIL FROM THE CYLINDER HEAD ONTO THE LOWER EXHAUST AND LEAKING HOT COOLANT FROM THE RADIATOR. THE EXHAUST AND FLUID LEAKS OCCUR WHEN STATIONARY OR IN MOTION.
- Reported
- Aug 2019
- Incident date
- Jul 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainJun 2019 · ODI 11220419Details +Close −
I PURCHASED THIS CAR ONE WEEK AGO FROM THE ORIGINAL OWNER, AND WHILE IT TESTED FINE THE DAY I PURCHASED IT, DEPENDING ON HOW I COME TO A STOP AND HOW HARD THE BRAKE IS PRESSED, THE CAR STALLS. THIS PROBLEM WAS EVIDENT ON THE SECOND DAY I OWNED THE CAR, COMING TO A STOP AT A STOP SIGN WHERE I HAD TO BREAK HARDER THAN I WOULD HAVE LIKED. THE ORIGINAL OWNER STATES NO KNOWLEDGE OF THE PROBLEM. A HAZARDOUS SITUATION SINCE THIS TORQUE CONVERTER MANUFACTURER DEFECT CAUSES THE VEHICLE TO SUDDENLY AND UNEXPECTEDLY STALL WHEN COMING TO A RAPID STOP. ONE WEEK POST PURCHASE, NOW THIS VEHICLE SUDDENLY STALLS AT A STOP SIGN OR STOP LIGHT. IT CAN EASILY RESULT IN AN ACCIDENT. IN 2014 SUBARU PUT OUT A SERVICE BULLETIN RECOGNIZING A DESIGN FLAW IN THE TORQUE CONVERTER AND EXTENDING THE WARRANTY ON THESE VEHICLES TO 100,000 MILES. THE CAR I PURCHASED HAS 157,000. THIS IS NOT A WEAR AND TEAR ISSUE. IT IS A VERY SERIOUS, POTENTIALLY LIFE-THREATENING DESIGN FLAW AND SUBARU NEEDS TO MAKE THIS AN OFFICIAL RECALL, REMEDYING THIS HAZARD. I SPOKE WITH CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS, AND THEY TOLD ME THAT THE EXPENSE WILL HAVE TO COME FROM MY POCKET. I AM IN NEGOTIATIONS WITH MY LOCAL SUBARU DEALER/SERVICE CENTER AND HOPE THEY OFFER TO REMEDY THE SITUATION. SUBARU ABSOLUTELY NEEDS TO MAKE THIS A RECALL ON 2011 VEHICLES. THEY THEMSELVES ACKNOWLEDGED THE DEFECT AND CORRECTED IT ON FUTURE MODELS. IT SEEMS UNREASONABLE THAT THEY ARE HOLDING OWNERS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE REPAIR SINCE IT IS NOT DEPENDENT ON WEAR AND TEAR. IT IS A DESIGN FLAW.
- Reported
- Jun 2019
- Incident date
- Jun 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineMay 2019 · ODI 11208024Details +Close −
WHEN DRIVING AT A HIGH SPEED ON THE HIGHWAY AND THEN COMING TO AN ABRUPT STOP THE CAR STALLED. THE CAR IS AN AUTOMATIC. APPARENTLY SUBARU DISTRIBUTED A BULLETIN NOTING THAT THIS WAS COMMON IN LEGACY AND OUTBACK MODELS MADE BEFORE 2013 (SEE ATTACHED) AND IS DUE TO A TORQUE CONVERTER PROBLEM. THIS SEEMS DANGEROUS AS IT CAN HAPPEN WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY WITH OTHER CARS MOVING AT HIGH SPEEDS. APPARENTLY THIS IS OVER $1500 TO FIX, BUT I BELIEVE SUBARU SHOULD COVER SOME IF NOT ALL OF THE COST. THE CAR IS NOT UNDER WARRANTY AND HAS 147K MILES.
- Reported
- May 2019
- Incident date
- May 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
This page shows the latest 50 reports to keep it usable. The count above includes every complaint NHTSA has returned for this model year.
Recalls(16)
Open a recall to read what NHTSA says is wrong, what can happen, and how it gets fixed. Check the VIN and remedy eligibility with a dealer; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though a manufacturer may offer more coverage.
Air BagsFeb 2020 · 20V001000Details +Close −
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (STI included), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators with alternate inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-20.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Air BagsFeb 2020 · 20V002000Details +Close −
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (including STI), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-20.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Air BagsFeb 2020 · 20V003000Details +Close −
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (including STI), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "Zone C." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKC-20.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Electrical SystemNov 2019 · 19V297000Details +Close −
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, 2008-2011 Impreza vehicles, 2008-2014 WRX vehicles, 2005-2014 Legacy vehicles, 2005-2014 Outback vehicles and 2006-2008 Tribeca vehicles equipped with a mechanical key ignition switch installed as a replacement part. The ball spring inside the switch may break, reducing the strength of the ignition switch. If this occurs, the weight on the key ring and certain road conditions could cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position to the accessory position, turning off the engine.
Risk: The engine turning off unexpectedly can increase the risk of a crash. If a crash occurs under this condition, the air bag may not deploy, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the ignition switch, replacing the ignition switch, if necessary, free of charge. The recall began May 10, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUF-91.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Air BagsSep 2019 · 19V007000Details +Close −
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2013 Forester, 2010-2014 Tribeca, WRX, Outback, Legacy, and 2010-2011 Impreza vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Risk: An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: Subaru has notified owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began January 25, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-19.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Air BagsSep 2019 · 19V008000Details +Close −
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2014 Tribeca, WRX, Outback, and Legacy vehicles, 2010-2011 Impreza vehicles and 2010-2013 Forester vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Risk: An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: Subaru is notifying owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began January 25, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-19.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Air BagsSep 2019 · 19V009000Details +Close −
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2014 Tribeca, WRX, Legacy and Outback vehicles, 2010-2011 Impreza vehicles and 2010-2013 Forester vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Risk: An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: Subaru is notifying owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on January 25, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is TKC-19.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Air BagsSep 2018 · 18V012000Details +Close −
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Legacy, Forester, Tribeca, WRX and Outback vehicles, and 2009-2011 Impreza vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Risk: An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on February 9, 2018. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-18.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Air BagsOct 2017 · 17V014000Details +Close −
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2005-2006 Subaru Baja, 2006-2011 Impreza (including WRX and STI models), 2006-2012 Tribeca, 2009-2012 Forester, Legacy, Outback, and 2012 WRX vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Risk: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began March 6, 2017. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-17.
Open full NHTSA recall record →VisibilityJul 2011 · 11V467000Details +Close −
SUBARU IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 OUTBACK AND LEGACY VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM AUGUST 3, 2010, THROUGH JULY 1, 2011. THE MOONROOF GLASS MAY COME LOOSE OR DETACH. THE AMOUNT AND POSITION OF THE ADHESIVE BETWEEN THE GLASS AND RETAINER WAS INADEQUATELY APPLIED.
Risk: THE MOONROOF GLASS CAN LOOSEN AND DETACH FROM THE VEHICLE DURING DRIVING, RESULTING IN A POTENTIAL ROAD HAZARD FOR OTHER VEHICLES, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy: SUBARU WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE GLASS ADHESION CONDITION AND EITHER APPLY ADDITIONAL ADHESIVE OR REPLACE THE MOONROOF GLASS, FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING OCTOBER 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SUBARU AT 1-800-782-2783.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Power Train · 10V326000Details +Close −
SUBARU IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2010 AND 2011 OUTBACK AND LEGACY PASSENGER VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM APRIL 28 THROUGH JUNE 23, 2010. DUE TO A PROGRAMMING ERROR, A LUBRICATION HOLE WITHIN THE 6-SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION WAS OMITTED.
Risk: IF THE TRANSMISSION GEARS ARE NOT PROPERLY LUBRICATED, A GROANING SOUND MAY BEGIN TO DEVELOP ALERTING THE DRIVER OF A PROBLEM. IF THE SOUND IS IGNORED AND NO ACTION IS TAKEN, THE GEARS WILL EVENTUALLY BREAK AND THIS CONDITION WILL LEAD TO VEHICLE POWER LOSS, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A CRASH.
Remedy: SUBARU WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE VEHICLES BY DRILLING AN OIL LUBRICATION HOLE AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE INTERNAL PARTS WITH NEW ONES FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SUBARU AT 1-800-782-2783.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Exterior Lighting · 12V602000Details +Close −
Subaru is recalling certain model year 2010 and 2011 Legacy and Outback vehicles, certain model year 2006 through 2012 Tribeca vehicles sold before January 2012, and certain model year 2009 through 2012 Forester vehicles sold before January 2012. Up to 78,650 of these vehicles may have been equipped with accessory puddle lights that, when illuminated, brighten the area under the doors of the vehicle. A short circuit can develop when either the puddle light or connector are exposed to an electrolytic moisture source (such as road spray that has road salt in it) and it penetrates the circuit board of the puddle light or the pins of the puddle light connector(s).
Risk: Over time, migration of the moisture into the circuit board and/or into the connector cavity, may result in a short circuit of the puddle light system. This may generate heat which may melt the plastic resulting in smoke or fire.
Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will install an additional fused-harness, free of charge. The recall began February 19, 2013. Owners may contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783 for more information.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Electrical System · 13V061000Details +Close −
Subaru is recalling certain model year 2010-2012 Legacy and Outback vehicles equipped with an automatic or CVT transmission and an Audiovox remote engine starter (RES) accessory, certain model year 2012-2013 Impreza vehicles equipped with a CVT transmission and an Audiovox remote engine starter (RES) accessory, and certain model year 2013 XV Crosstrek vehicles equipped with a CVT transmission and an Audiovox remote engine starter (RES) accessory. Additionally included are certain model year 2013 Legacy and Outback vehicles that may have received replacement RES fobs. If the RES fob is dropped, the fob may malfunction and randomly transmit an engine start request without pressing the button.
Risk: The engine may inadvertently start and run for up to fifteen minutes. The engine may continue to start and stop until the fob battery is depleted, or until the vehicle runs out of fuel. If the vehicle is parked in an enclosed area, there is a risk of carbon monoxide build-up which may cause headaches, dizziness or, in extreme cases, unconsciousness and/or asphyxiation.
Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the RES key fobs, free of charge. The recall began on April 22, 2013. Owners may contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783 for more information.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Air Bags · 16V358000Details +Close −
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2003-2004 Legacy, Outback, 2009-2011 Legacy, Outback, Forester, 2006-2011 Impreza, Tribeca, 2003-2006 Baja, and 2006 Saab 9-2x vehicles originally sold or that have ever been registered in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." These vehicles may be equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
Risk: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began August 26, 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-856-488-8500. Saab owners may contact GM at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-16.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Visibility · 16V694000Details +Close −
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2010-2014 Legacy vehicles manufactured November 26, 2008, to June 7, 2013, and 2010-2014 Outback vehicles manufactured January 9, 2009 to June 7, 2013. Due to contamination, components within the windshield wiper motor bottom cover may interfere with each other. If an obstruction, such as a buildup of snow or ice prevents the wiper arms from being able to stop in the parked position, the wiper motor may overheat and the bottom cover may melt.
Risk: If the windshield wiper motor overheats, the wipers may fail, reducing driver visibility and increasing the risk of a crash. Additionally, the wiper motor cover may melt, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the windshield wiper motor bottom cover assembly, free of charge. The recall began October 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WTK-71. Note: This recall supersedes recall 11V-469. All vehicles that were remedied under that campaign are affected by this campaign, and need to have their wiper motor bottom cover replaced again.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Parking Brake · 18V626000Details +Close −
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2014 Subaru Legacy and Outback vehicles equipped with a manual transmission. The electronic parking brake (EPB) may not engage as intended, allowing the vehicle to rollaway if the transmission is not in the proper gear when parked.
Risk: A vehicle rollaway can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the EPB actuator assembly, free of charge. The recall began July 19, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WTV-81.
Open full NHTSA recall record →A campaign can apply to this model year without being incomplete on a specific vehicle. Check the VIN with NHTSA or a dealer to confirm whether a particular car needs repair.
Investigations
0 NHTSA investigations on record
No investigations are on record as of Jul 2026. An empty record is not a clean bill of health.
Crash-test ratings
2011 Subaru Legacy 4 DR AWD NHTSA source
- Overall
- Frontal
- Side
- Rollover
Fuel economy by trim
| Trim | Engine | Drivetrain | Transmission | City | Hwy | Combined |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Legacy AWD | 2.5L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (variable gear ratios) | 22 | 30 | 25 |
| Legacy AWD | 2.5L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Manual 6-spd | 19 | 26 | 22 |
| Legacy AWD | 2.5L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Manual 6-spd | 18 | 25 | 21 |
| Legacy AWD | 3.6L 6-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S5) | 18 | 24 | 20 |
EPA laboratory estimates by trim and engine. Actual mileage varies with driving, weather, load, and maintenance. EPA source.
Before you buy
Useful next checks
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Compare the year-by-year record
Open another year for its own evidence-gated decision. TireKick does not crown a best year from raw complaint totals.
2011 Subaru Legacy: frequently asked
What does the complaint record show for the 2011 Subaru Legacy?
Owners filed 167 NHTSA complaints about the 2011 Subaru Legacy. This is raw owner-reported complaint volume with no production or exposure normalization, so it is not a reliability score or a best/worst-year ranking.
What are the most common problems on the 2011 Subaru Legacy?
The most-reported problem areas are Power Train (28% of complaints) and air bags (14%).
How many recalls does the 2011 Subaru Legacy have?
16 recalls have been issued that affect the 2011 Subaru Legacy, covering components such as air bags. Check the VIN with NHTSA and ask a dealer to confirm remedy eligibility; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though manufacturers may offer more coverage.
What gas mileage does the 2011 Subaru Legacy get?
The EPA rates the 2011 Subaru Legacy between 20 and 25 mpg combined, depending on trim and drivetrain.