PROBLEM GUIDE

2010–2016 Subaru Legacy Common Problems

Here's what owners are experiencing, based on our research of real owner reports and repair data.

Last updated June 2026

66

complaints filed for the 2013 model year

2010–2016

Model years affected

$1,350 – $4,976

Typical repair cost, by problem

IMPORTANT — PASSENGER-SIDE FRAME RUST-THROUGH DOCUMENTED. A bolt holding the frame collapsed while driving, causing loss of vehicle control. The same frame rust is reported on the Subaru Outback, which shares this platform. Takata airbag recall parts shortages leave dealerships booking appointments 5-9 months out, limiting passenger seat use in the meantime.

Quick Scan: 10 Issues

Click a problem for the full write-up — symptoms, what we found, and typical repair costs where we have them.

Think this sounds like your Subaru Legacy?

Tell us what's happening and get a preliminary diagnosis, typical cost range, and trusted shops near you.

Get a Second Opinion

Compare estimates before authorizing major work.

Compare Estimates →

Talk to MyGearGuru

Answer a few questions and get a preliminary read plus shops near you.

Start my diagnosis →

PROBLEM DETAILS

Passenger-side frame rust-through, loss of control

A bolt holding the frame collapsed while driving

Check engine light: Off

A bolt holding the frame collapsed while driving, causing loss of vehicle control — similar frame rust is reported on the Subaru Outback, suggesting the defect may be shared across the Legacy/Outback platform.

↑ Back to the problem table

Takata airbag recall parts shortage

Dealerships booking appointments 5-9 months out

Check engine light: On

Dealerships are booking Takata airbag recall repair appointments 5-9 months out, limiting passenger seat use in the meantime.

Takata airbag replacement parts are in short supply across many manufacturers, so recall repairs can be delayed.

↑ Back to the problem table

Excessive oil consumption despite synthetic oil

Needs topping off every couple of weeks

Check engine light: On

One owner 'needs to top off the oil every couple of weeks,' burning a quart every 2,000-3,000 miles despite using synthetic oil.

↑ Back to the problem table

CVT transmission failure without warning at highway speed

"Transmission had failed, without warning" at 65 mph

Check engine light: On

Sudden, severe power loss at highway speed: 'transmission had failed, without warning' at 65 mph.

↑ Back to the problem table

Head gasket failure, "extremely common"

Reported repeatedly by owners

Check engine light: On

Head gasket failure is described as 'extremely common' across multiple model years — a recurring, well-known issue for this nameplate rather than an isolated problem.

$1,350 – $4,976

↑ Back to the problem table

Headlight replacement requires removing the front tire

A design that discourages timely bulb replacement

Check engine light: Off

Driver-side headlight replacement requires removing the front tire and inner wheel well — an access problem distinct from the bulb failure itself, since the repair's difficulty likely discourages timely replacement.

↑ Back to the problem table

Failure in ABS Causes Pump to Run Continuously and Wear Down Battery

A failure in the ABS causes the pump to run continuously and wear down the battery

Check engine light: Off

A failure in the ABS causes the pump to run continuously and wear down the battery. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 42 owner reports on file.

↑ Back to the problem table

Engine Oil May Leak From Camshaft/Crankshaft Front Seals

Engine oil leaks from the camshaft or crankshaft front seals

Check engine light: Off

Engine oil leaks from the camshaft or crankshaft front seals. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 24 owner reports on file.

↑ Back to the problem table

Radio Malfunction with Intermittent Audio Issues and Feedback Noise

The radio malfunctions with intermittent audio issues and feedback noise

Check engine light: Off

The radio malfunctions with intermittent audio issues and feedback noise. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 18 owner reports on file.

↑ Back to the problem table

Technical Service Bulletin for ABS Control Module

A technical service bulletin addresses the ABS control module

Check engine light: Off

A technical service bulletin addresses the ABS control module. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 15 owner reports on file.

↑ Back to the problem table

Takata airbag recall parts shortages leave dealerships booking appointments 5-9 months out, limiting passenger seat use in the meantime. Enter your VIN to get the confirmed, current recall picture for your specific car.

The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and is not a diagnosis. It is compiled from aggregated owner-reported data and publicly available sources, not from an inspection of your vehicle. Symptoms described here can have multiple causes, and the presence of a commonly reported problem does not mean your vehicle has it. Repair cost ranges are estimates that vary by region, shop, vehicle condition, and parts availability. Recall and service campaign information may be incomplete or out of date — verify current recall status with NHTSA or your manufacturer. MyGearGuru is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any vehicle manufacturer; manufacturer and model names are used for identification only. Always consult a qualified technician before making repair decisions.

Free instant car diagnosisKnow what's wrong before you go to the mechanic — takes 1 minute.