Model-year record

2020 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
121
Reports to NHTSA, 2020
Safety recalls
6
NHTSA campaigns on record
NHTSA crash test
Overall NCAP rating
Combined MPG
28.5
EPA estimate
Known issues
Visibility/Wiper issues lead owner complaints (43% of 121 reports), followed by unknown or other (20%).
+ 9 more component categories with fewer reports.
Share of all 121 NHTSA complaints for this model year, grouped by the component owners named. Bars are scaled to the largest category. Examples: ODI 11588664, ODI 11548905, ODI 11510789, ODI 11504932, ODI 11496556.
Individual complaint reports(121)
Showing the 50 most recent reportsSteeringJun 2026 · ODI 11745403Details +Close −
While driving there is a loss of power, the battery fails, electronic components shut down and car stops. Has happened intermittently. Replaced battery. This is a significant safety issue happened on freeway near exit ramp, in parking lot in driveway, everything cuts out. Opened hood and seems to be battery terminal connector. Recall was issued for certain Subaru models but not legacy. No warning, just cuts off. Is not a standard battery terminal connector. Had to secure battery down with cable ties.
- Reported
- Jun 2026
- Incident date
- Jun 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SeatsApr 2026 · ODI 11728577Details +Close −
Driver's seat structurally unstable due to factory-installed welded nut shearing off the seat rail anchor at approximately 32,000 miles. Confirmed by Napleton Subaru technician on video. Physical component in owner's possession. Failure is consistent with prior Subaru seat rail weld recalls. This affects seat stability, occupant restraint geometry, and crash protection.
- Reported
- Apr 2026
- Incident date
- Mar 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
VisibilityNov 2025 · ODI 11697739Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2020 Subaru Legacy. The contact stated that during inclement weather, the front driver and front passenger’s side power windows failed to automatically roll up as intended. The contact was forced to hold the power window button to slowly roll the windows up. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where the contact was informed that there was debris in the slides inside the windows, causing the windows to fail to retract. The contact stated that the driver’s side window retractor was replaced; however, the failure returned soon after the repair. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 29,000.
- Reported
- Nov 2025
- Incident date
- Jul 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemJul 2025 · ODI 11674078 · fireDetails +Close −
One hour into traveling on the highway smoke began to come from under the hood so we pulled off to the side of the road. Upon opening the hood, after the smoke cleared, a fire was observed. At that point the passengers exited the vehicle and called 911. There was no warning lights or sounds indicating any problems prior to this. The car burned very quickly and the firefighters extinguished the fire but not before the entire car was burned to ashes. The car is wrapped and in the possession of the insurance company pending investigation.
- Reported
- Jul 2025
- Incident date
- Jul 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- Fire
Unknown Or OtherMar 2025 · ODI 11647859Details +Close −
Power window driver side intermittently fails to function, leaving window partly or completely open. This is an ongoing problem. Often I have to restart the car to get the window to operate properly. Difficult to drive when weather conditions change suddenly and window won’t close.
- Reported
- Mar 2025
- Incident date
- Jan 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemFeb 2025 · ODI 11642640Details +Close −
in inclement weather the windows will not roll up, especially heavy rain events. The window will attempt to go up and then go into the fully open position. You have to wait a minute before the window will allow you to attempt again of reset the windows. This happen to me on the highway in a heavy rain. It has happened several times. Subaru knows of this problem and has a technical bulletin about it to change the motor and window tracks. They all should be changed before a fatality occurs
- Reported
- Feb 2025
- Incident date
- Jan 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherJan 2025 · ODI 11638833Details +Close −
Defective Cam Carrier Seal
- Reported
- Jan 2025
- Incident date
- Jan 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsSep 2024 · ODI 11616662Details +Close −
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.
- Reported
- Sep 2024
- Incident date
- Sep 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Visibility/WiperMay 2024 · ODI 11588664Details +Close −
I have had two spontaneous window cracks within 6 to 9 months apart. I had a full windshield replacement and the windshield has just cracked again. The second incident, the vehicle was parked overnight so it wasn't caused by a rock or from following a car.
- Reported
- May 2024
- Incident date
- May 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Fuel/Propulsion SystemMar 2024 · ODI 11578035Details +Close −
The Thermo control valve is faulty and my friends is too. There is a class action lawsuit concerning this part. I replacement part was designed in 2021 and Subaru is aware of this issue, but refuses to do a recall. So far 2019, 2020 and 2021 models are affected.
- Reported
- Mar 2024
- Incident date
- Feb 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherMar 2024 · ODI 11576744Details +Close −
Windshield On 3/5/24 I drove to work,...the windshield was intacted as of 8AM.. after my shift at 4PM mysteriously there was a line (crack in the window on the drivers side) around 6 inches....haven't been to my car since Wednesday 3/6/24... today 3/11/24 that crack has expanded to 12-14 inches across the drivers side The car is parked in my driveway
- Reported
- Mar 2024
- Incident date
- Mar 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherJan 2024 · ODI 11568119Details +Close −
Sunroof exploded spontaneously while traveling down freeway. No one was within 3/4 of a mile in all directions.
- Reported
- Jan 2024
- Incident date
- Jan 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineJan 2024 · ODI 11565945Details +Close −
The engine thermo control valve has been defective and Subaru has known this issue since 2022 and has tried to do some software update but it is defective [XXX] ) despite multiple tries. This can overheat an engine, result in the front collision warning system (eyesight) and rear auto-braking not working. Specific to my case, the front and rear collision warning systems are off, auto lane departure avoidance system is off, the engine can overheat and has had reduced performance, and the check engine lights are also on. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
- Reported
- Jan 2024
- Incident date
- Jan 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainJan 2024 · ODI 11564299Details +Close −
The coolant bypass valve was defective. You would have to ask the dealership to inspect it, they kept it when they changed it out. It is unsafe because the engine could have overheated and exploded. The problem has been confirmed Subaru of Little Rock. They replaced the valve and some other parts. The check engine light came on when I started the car the night of Dec 22, 2023. At this time, the heat was struggling, the vents were barely blowing, and the thermometer would only work sometimes. I want to upload the Subaru dealership paperwork I received when I picked up the car, but the upload function is not working. Please send me an email if you would like a copy.
- Reported
- Jan 2024
- Incident date
- Dec 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherDec 2023 · ODI 11561151Details +Close −
We recently purchased a used 2020 Subaru Legacy sedan with ~33,000 miles on it. It has a salvage title due to previous owner hitting a deer, (no air bag deployed, just minor body work) and it was professionally repaired to "like-new" condition. Last weekend, when starting the car, the check engine light and a bunch of other warning lights came on. An OBDI scan showed a code of "P263A" indicating a problem with the Thermo Control Valve. As a result of the defective TCV, several major functions of the vehicle were automatically disabled: adaptive cruise control, eyesight system with lane keeping, automatic braking, as well as all cabin heating, windshield defrost function, and the engine temperature gauge. Without these systems properly working, the drivability of the vehicle is greatly impaired, especially in a Minnesota winter without a functional windshield defrost and engine temperature monitoring gauge. When taking the car into the local Subaru dealership for full diagnostics, they confirmed that indeed the TCV was bad, and quoted me a cost of $1135 to replace it. They claimed that since the car has a salvage title, Subaru's warranty will not cover any part of this repair. However, there is a known wide-spread failure of this Thermo Control Valve in the 2019-2021 cars as listed in Subaru Technical Bulletin [XXX] which clearly states that there is a redesigned TCV that replaces the defective earlier part and fixes the earlier design flaws of the one installed in 2019-2021 vehicles. I spoke with the Subaru of America Client Advocacy representative, and he was adamant that the salvage title negates any responsibility for Subaru to fix this know defectively designed Thermo Control Valve. My thinking is that the defective TCV is both a drivability and a safety issue, and due to the wide-spread early life failure of this part, Subaru should be compelled by a recall to replace the defective car in all customer cars. All ADAS is affected by a bad TCV. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
- Reported
- Dec 2023
- Incident date
- Dec 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainDec 2023 · ODI 11558437Details +Close −
At approximately 30k miles we had noticed the vehicle sounded loud, like a Turbo. It got worse and after returning from our vacation trip to Maine, it was noticeable louder but couldn’t place a finger on the problem. We brought the vehicle in to Victory Subaru in Morristown and they diagnosed the two rear failed wheel bearings. My question is how can both wheel bearings fail at only 20k and is there a potential for a system wide recall? Thanks
- Reported
- Dec 2023
- Incident date
- Nov 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
TiresNov 2023 · ODI 11557557Details +Close −
While driving on freeway the tire pressure warning light came on. I started to slow down and pull over and I felt the car wobble. I pulled to the side of the road and the tire had completely failed. The sidewalls, inside and out, had square chunks completely gone along the complete sidewall.
- Reported
- Nov 2023
- Incident date
- Nov 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemNov 2023 · ODI 11555488Details +Close −
The front door window regulator of our 2020 Subaru Legacy is not working properly. It fails to raise and lower correctly and reliably which can be a safety issue especially in an emergency. The problem occurred without any prior warnings or messages. I am told by the dealership (Bob Moore Subaru of Oklahoma City) that it is part #61041AN00A that requires replacement.
- Reported
- Nov 2023
- Incident date
- Nov 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemOct 2023 · ODI 11549397Details +Close −
Thermo Control Valve failed. Caused a short which affected all electrical components on its circuit. The car became inoperable in traffic.
- Reported
- Oct 2023
- Incident date
- Oct 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Visibility/WiperOct 2023 · ODI 11548905Details +Close −
This past Sunday evening, I drove to the convenience store 4 blocks away. As I returned, I noticed a crack in the windshield starting in the middle from the left edge and was about 12 inches long. No gravel marks were found, it had cracked for no apparent reason. Sitting the next night in the garage, the crack increased about 6 more inches by the next morning. Filed claim with my insurance and was subsequently replaced by Safelite here in Knoxville Tn. This cost me $100 out of pocket and no telling how much my insurance had paid. I just found the class action today.
- Reported
- Oct 2023
- Incident date
- Oct 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemSep 2023 · ODI 11544993Details +Close −
Thermo Control Valve has malfunctioned. It disables all driver assistance, like lane assist, blind spot, RAB, collision braking, etc. I have seen on many forums that this is a known issue, across multiple vehicles from Subaru from 2019 to about 2021. The was a TSB put out about a new and improved part to fix this known issue.
- Reported
- Sep 2023
- Incident date
- Sep 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
VisibilityAug 2023 · ODI 11540581Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2020 Subaru Legacy. The contact stated that there was a crack on the front windshield that was not caused by an impact. The vehicle was taken to a dealer and the front windshield was replaced; however, the failure reoccurred. The manufacturer was contacted and stated that the contact would receive a callback. The failure mileage was 8,000.
- Reported
- Aug 2023
- Incident date
- Nov 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainAug 2023 · ODI 11539913Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2020 Subaru Legacy. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact stated that several unknown warning lights illuminated, and the gear shifter was inoperable. The contact stated that the transmission failed to shift as needed. The vehicle was towed to the dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 69,738.
- Reported
- Aug 2023
- Incident date
- Aug 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
StructureJul 2023 · ODI 11535129Details +Close −
Windshield spontaneously cracked at top. I came outside in the morning after a temperature fluctuation and there was a crack at the top with one piece of the glass sitting lower… it has since grown. I have been forced to drive with the crack as Subaru will do anything to not honor a warranty, ever. The eyesight I am learning is necessary for the vehicle to avoid front end collisions and to properly deploy the airbag. The crack started in November, it’s almost August, and I cannot get it replaced under the warranty I paid. I see many people have the same problem. You can even see where the windshield cracked where an iPass was mounted from a temperature change. The wipers also cannot keep up with moderate rain, causing rain blindness in moderate precipitation and the lightest rain will turn off the eyesight causing a malfunction that will not assist in avoiding a collision. In addition, I will be complaining with the CFTC for the warranty issues. I cannot even get records of my warranty or service. Example: window regulator was a problem off the log, and salesman used it as an example, service won’t repair. I regret buying a Subaru, they claim to be safe and reliable with great service, I am only having problems that affect the safe operation of the vehicle and I paid all this extra for full bumper to bumper and they tell me that it doesn’t exist. In addition, that vehicle claims to get close to 30mpg, I am being completely honest when I say I had about the same mileage in a 1995 Cadillac Deville, and the mileage I got in a 2009 BMW twin-turbo far exceeded the mpg. I tried to get it repaired today under warranty. I was yelled at that it was an impact, and I wish I knew… would have said, “is it more likely that I’m lying or the company that’s been successfully sued 4 times for this exact problem is at fault?” Perhaps there was a light impact in the months AFTER it broke parked in a unheated garage.
- Reported
- Jul 2023
- Incident date
- Nov 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Back Over PreventionMay 2023 · ODI 11520756Details +Close −
Center console/head unit will regularly lock up and eventually reboot when Apple CarPlay is in use, cruise control, lane keep will turn off, and car will warn that ADAS is not available, backup camera does not work during this time. HVAC controls are not accessible during this time as well
- Reported
- May 2023
- Incident date
- Apr 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Visibility/WiperMar 2023 · ODI 11510789Details +Close −
2020 Subaru Legacy Touring XT - Windshield cracked for no apparent reason. No stone or rock chips visible. Had same issue on previously owned 2015 Subaru Legacy. The crack starts at the base of the passenger side where heat strips are located to keep the wiper blades from freezing. The cracked windshield may cause the Subaru EyeSight safety system to malfunction, putting all passengers at risk for a potential accident. I had it inspected at a Subaru dealership. The service technician confirmed that this was a know problem. He suggested I call Subaru of America for assistance. I'm still within the 3 year warranty period but windshields are not covered. He said Subaru dealerships do not repair windshields. They will engage a 3rd party repair shop if needed. My vehicle is included in a pending class action lawsuit against Subaru for this issue. Safelite Autoglass estimated my windshield replacement at $1,035.00 (without insurance).
- Reported
- Mar 2023
- Incident date
- Feb 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherMar 2023 · ODI 11509643Details +Close −
windshield crack in lower part on passenger side for no apparent reason.
- Reported
- Mar 2023
- Incident date
- Feb 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainFeb 2023 · ODI 11509131Details +Close −
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 powertrain warranty is warranted.
- Reported
- Feb 2023
- Incident date
- Feb 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Visibility/WiperFeb 2023 · ODI 11504932Details +Close −
Windshield cracked for no apparent reason. May cause the Subaru EyeSight safety system to malfunction. Crack started at the bottom of passenger side windshield where the heat strips are located for wiper blades not to freeze.
- Reported
- Feb 2023
- Incident date
- Jan 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Visibility/WiperDec 2022 · ODI 11496556Details +Close −
A crack appeared in the windshield overnight while parked in the driveway with no sign of impact or other causes. This seems to be an ongoing problem with Subaru since they changed to acoustic glass for their windshields.
- Reported
- Dec 2022
- Incident date
- Dec 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainOct 2022 · ODI 11488576Details +Close −
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) chain may slip and/or break. NHTSA recall 21V955000 Subaru recall WRK21 A software issue in the transmission control unit (TCU) may allow the continuously variable transmission to engage before the drive chain is properly secured, the automaker says. This could result in the chain slipping and breaking, leading to a loss of power and a risk of a crash. Component has not been inspected by the manufacturer. NHTSA reported this recall Dec. 9th, 2021. Received Subaru recall notice in mail Feb. 2022, stating the remedy is expected to be available in April 2022. I have contacted the Subaru dealer 3 times since April 2022 and each time they say "waiting for parts, we will notify you". It is now Oct. 9th, 2022 with no response or resolve. Driving 10 months since NHTSA reported this issue should be considered a huge safety violation by the manufacturer.
- Reported
- Oct 2022
- Incident date
- Dec 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Visibility/WiperAug 2022 · ODI 11481091Details +Close −
Front Windshield has broken last year without any sign of impact. This year front windshield has broken after very light impact. Front windshield is very weak and is not reliable even after replacement.
- Reported
- Aug 2022
- Incident date
- Jul 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherAug 2022 · ODI 11479635Details +Close −
Windshield cracked starting in the lower middle of the windshield. Crack started from underneath the rubber edge and grew straight up, then out to either side within a matter of days.
- Reported
- Aug 2022
- Incident date
- Feb 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainAug 2022 · ODI 11478462Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2020 Subaru Legacy. The contact stated that while in a parking space with her foot on the brake pedal and the transmission in drive(D), the vehicle independently accelerated without warning. The contact stated that the vehicle drove over the parking median; however, she managed to stop the vehicle before accelerating up a hill. Due to the failure, the contact had the vehicle towed to a dealer but the mechanic found no defect with vehicle. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a complaint was filed. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 45,000.
- Reported
- Aug 2022
- Incident date
- Aug 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherJun 2022 · ODI 11471222Details +Close −
cracked windshield
- Reported
- Jun 2022
- Incident date
- Feb 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherMay 2022 · ODI 11462910Details +Close −
My windshield was cracked about 6” for no apparent reason when I examined the car on the morning of 9/4/2021. The crack expanded to over 18” by the time I was able to have the windshield replaced a week later.
- Reported
- May 2022
- Incident date
- Sep 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Visibility/WiperMay 2022 · ODI 11462968Details +Close −
The windshield developed a crack that started at the right A Pillar center of glass and is about 18" long. There are no visible "impact" points from anything hitting the glass. There is no "star" either. I did not hear anything hit the glass. The fissure just appeared one day.
- Reported
- May 2022
- Incident date
- Apr 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemApr 2022 · ODI 11462088Details +Close −
The battery discharged to the point where I was unable to start the car. I had been driving all day and was waiting for my wife for half an hour with the radio on. This left us stranded about 15 miles from home. I had to call to have someone take my wife home while I waited for a tow truck. My battery also discharged to the point where I couldn't start my car after the car sat overnight. I needed to take my son to a doctor's appointment, and I had to cancel the appointment. And no, I didn't leave the lights on or a door open.
- Reported
- Apr 2022
- Incident date
- Apr 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Visibility/WiperApr 2022 · ODI 11462139Details +Close −
For the second time in 2 months my windshield spontaneously cracked while the car was parked.
- Reported
- Apr 2022
- Incident date
- Apr 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherApr 2022 · ODI 11461978Details +Close −
Cracked Right passenger side WINDSHIELD. Crack begins at windshield right passenger side bottom and is moving upward and towards drivers side of windshield. Crack is presently about 8" on length and spreading. Vehicle is not driven often. Vehicle has NOT hit any potholes, bumps, curbs. NO pebbles, stones, objects have hit windshield via roadway, other travelling vehicles whatsoever. No ice storms, hail. Crack is causing a dangerous visibility and a heavy cost to repair.
- Reported
- Apr 2022
- Incident date
- Apr 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Forward Collision AvoidanceApr 2022 · ODI 11461729Details +Close −
Since last October when a software update was performed on the vehicle I have had multiple(8-10) instances where the EyeSight system caused the emergency braking to activate when no other vehicles were nearby and a crash was not imminent. Usually it has been when entering a left hand gentle curve with a guardrail nearby, but it has also happened going straight ahead. The audible and visual alerts appear and hard braking occurs. The braking is severe enough that on rain or snow covered roads a crash might occur. The dealer inspected the vehicle and claims they found the calibration was off but the problem has occurred 3 more times since the calibration. I have contacted the dealer again but they have refused to acknowledge the problem further.
- Reported
- Apr 2022
- Incident date
- Apr 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Vehicle Speed ControlApr 2022 · ODI 11460011 · crash · 1 injuriesDetails +Close −
The contact's wife owned a 2020 Subaru Legacy. The contact stated while his wife was driving approximately 3 MPH in a parking lot the vehicle suddenly accelerated and jumped the curb into woods and collided with a tree. The contact said his wife was not aware of any warning lights being illuminated. The vehicle front bumper and hood hit in the center and were both crumpled back about six inches. The contact hit the top of his head severely damaging the windshield on the passenger side and sustained minor cuts. Due to the sudden acceleration he had not been able to buckle his seat belt, additionally the airbags did not deploy. The contact was transported by ambulance to a hospital. The police were called, a report was written and the vehicle was towed to a holding lot. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact's insurance provider declared the vehicle a total loss. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 16,200.
- Reported
- Apr 2022
- Incident date
- Dec 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- Crash 1 injuries
Visibility/WiperMar 2022 · ODI 11457460Details +Close −
Front windshield cracked and there was no apparent ding from rock. Crack came from side and spread quickly. I had it replaced by Subaru and 4 months later it happened again. The crack again came from the side with no reason. Two replacements out of my own pocket. My 2020 Legacy windshield must be defective
- Reported
- Mar 2022
- Incident date
- Sep 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
VisibilityMar 2022 · ODI 11457329Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2020 Subaru Legacy. The contact stated while driving approximately 25-30 MPH on a smooth residential road, the windshield started cracking. The contact stated that there was no external cause for the failure. The contact stated that the horizontal crack was located at the base of the windshield and was 7-inches long starting on the driver’s side. The contact stated that the crack was extending. The dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that he would be responsible for the cost of the repair. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 9,000.
- Reported
- Mar 2022
- Incident date
- Feb 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
VisibilityFeb 2022 · ODI 11454025Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2020 Subaru Legacy. The contact stated that while driving approximately 15 MPH, the contact noticed a fracture at the bottom center of the windshield that was approximately 12-inches long. The contact stated that this would be the fourth fractured windshield in approximately a year and a half due to sudden fractures without impact. The contact took the vehicle to the dealer who confirmed the fracture was not caused by an impact. The windshield was replaced. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 12,000.
- Reported
- Feb 2022
- Incident date
- Jul 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemFeb 2022 · ODI 11451609Details +Close −
At a stop, the vehicle shut off, which required a jump start. The vehicle is fairly new, so a discharged battery shouldnt have been an issue.
- Reported
- Feb 2022
- Incident date
- Feb 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
VisibilityFeb 2022 · ODI 11451317Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2020 Subaru Legacy. The contact stated that upon entering the vehicle, he discovered a vertical crack had formed on the lower center section of the windshield without incident. The contact stated that the crack then spread horizontally and was obstructed his vision while driving. The contact took the vehicle to a dealer where the windshield was inspected and pictures were taken; the contact was informed that the pictures would be sent to the manufacturer for final approval for repair. The contact had not yet received a response from the dealer. The manufacturer was not notified by the contact about the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 27,000.
- Reported
- Feb 2022
- Incident date
- Jan 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemFeb 2022 · ODI 11449672Details +Close −
In a class action lawsuit filed against Subaru of America, it is alleged that several models have defective Controller Area Network (CAN) modules that cause premature battery drainage. New Jersey Judge [XXX] arbitrarily dismissed two models, Forester and Legacy, from the lawsuit even though they have the same problem because none of the plaintiffs owned either of those model vehicles. I own a 2020 Legacy that has stranded me and my wife on two separate occasions due to a low battery. Once the car died in the middle of a major intersection when I stopped to allow oncoming traffic to pass and the auto start/stop turned the car off. When I attempted to restart the car the battery was dead. This left me in a very unsafe condition. I had to exit my car, dodge traffic and physically move my car from the middle of the intersection. I have had my car inspected by a Subaru Service Dept. and told nothing is wrong. I want Subaru to fix their mistake. What is my recourse? Sincerely, [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
- Reported
- Feb 2022
- Incident date
- Dec 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherJan 2022 · ODI 11449503Details +Close −
My front windshield has cracked 2 times within the last year. The first time my wife was driving and thought she heard something hit the windshield but wasn’t sure. It created a crack across the whole windshield and Subaru replaced it free of charge. Last week I’m driving 01/20/2022 and I do see a very small object hit the windshield and creates a crack again. I spoke with the service advisor and does mention their windshields are made a little thinner and could see that being an issue. I haven’t spoke with the Manager yet but I am going to give him a call and see if I could get it replaced again. I have been driving for 23 years and have not had a windshield crack on me once. Also after the second crack I did some research and realized they have been having issues with the windshields since 2015 on various models.
- Reported
- Jan 2022
- Incident date
- Jan 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Service BrakesJan 2022 · ODI 11446728Details +Close −
Brake pedal of my Subaru Legacy 2020 stopped working suddenly. It kind of gets stuck. It happened to me twice and that is why I am reporting it now. Luckily it happened when I was starting the car not while driving on the road. But I am a little afraid to drive the car on roads now thinking that brake may get stuck again.
- Reported
- Jan 2022
- Incident date
- Jan 2022
- 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(6)
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.
Power TrainAug 2022 · 22V485000Details +Close −
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Outback and Legacy vehicles. A programming error in the Transmission Control Unit (TCU) may allow the clutch to engage before the drive chain is completely clamped.
Risk: An improperly secured drive chain may slip and break, causing a loss of drive power and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will reprogram the TCU, inspect TCU data for chain slip, and visually inspect the chain guide. If evidence of chain slippage or damage is found, the transmission will be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed August 24, 2022. Owners may contact Subaru's customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRK-22. This recall is an expansion of previous recall number 21V-955.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Power TrainSep 2021 · 21V955000Details +Close −
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ascent, 2020 Legacy and Outback vehicles. A programming error in the Transmission Control Unit (TCU) may allow the clutch to engage before the drive chain is completely clamped.
Risk: An improperly secured drive chain may slip and break, causing a loss of drive power and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will reprogram the TCU, inspect TCU data for chain slip, and visually inspect the chain guide. If evidence of chain slippage or damage is found, the transmission will be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 19, 2022. This recall includes all vehicles previously recalled under 19V-855. Vehicles previously recalled under 19V-855 will need to have the new remedy performed for this recall once available. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRK-21.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Back Over PreventionOct 2020 · 20V766000Details +Close −
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2020 Legacy and Outback vehicles equipped with "high" grade and "mid" grade multimedia navigation. The August 2020 over-the-air software update may have timed out without completing the installation, corrupting the data, and causing the rearview display to shutoff intermittently. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Risk: The intermittent loss of the rearview image reduces the driver's visibility and increases the risk of crash.
Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the software and, if necessary, replace the Cockpit Control Module, free of charge. The recall began January 22, 2021. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRH-20.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Service Brakes · 19V664000Details +Close −
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2020 Outback and Legacy vehicles. The brake pedal mounting bracket may have a missing or insufficiently tightened bolt.
Risk: A missing or loose bolt may cause the brake pedal mounting area to deform over time, which can reduce braking performance and increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the brake pedal mounting bracket hardware and replace the hardware or brake pedal assembly, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began October 1, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUL-97.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Fuel System · 21V587000Details +Close −
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ascent, 2018 Forester, 2018-2020 Impreza, Legacy, Outback, 2018-2019 BRZ, WRX, and Toyota 86 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
Risk: Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the low-pressure fuel pump, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 24, 2021. Subaru and Toyota owners may call customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRG-21.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Air Bags · 24V227000Details +Close −
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Outback and Legacy vehicles. A capacitor in the sensors for the Occupant Detection System (ODS) may crack and short circuit, which can prevent the front passenger air bag from deploying in a crash.
Risk: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the ODS sensors on the front passenger seat, free of charge. Owner notifications were mailed February 3, 2025. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRA-24.
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
2020 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 (AV-S8) | 27 | 35 | 30 |
| Legacy AWD | 2.4L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (AV-S8) | 24 | 32 | 27 |
EPA laboratory estimates by trim and engine. Actual mileage varies with driving, weather, load, and maintenance. EPA source.
Before you buy
Useful next checks
Federal records tell you about patterns. These checks can tell you more about the specific car in front of you.
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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.
2020 Subaru Legacy: frequently asked
What does the complaint record show for the 2020 Subaru Legacy?
Owners filed 121 NHTSA complaints about the 2020 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 2020 Subaru Legacy?
The most-reported problem areas are Visibility/Wiper (43% of complaints) and unknown or other (20%).
How many recalls does the 2020 Subaru Legacy have?
6 recalls have been issued that affect the 2020 Subaru Legacy, covering components such as power train. 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 2020 Subaru Legacy get?
The EPA rates the 2020 Subaru Legacy between 27 and 30 mpg combined, depending on trim and drivetrain.