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Subaru Legacy Problems & Known Issues

The most common Subaru Legacy problems ranked by severity — what to watch for, what it costs to fix, and what happens if you ignore it.

Generations

BL — Third Generation
1998–2003
2.0L flat-four, 2.0L flat-four, 2.0L flat-four, 2.5L flat-four
BM — BM (2009-2014)
2009–2014
2.0L flat-four, 2.0L flat-four, 2.0L diesel flat-four, 2.0L flat-four, 2.0L flat-four, 2.5L flat-four
BN — BN (2014-2020)
2014–2020
2.0L flat-four, 2.0L flat-four, 2.5L flat-four

Top issues to watch for

The most serious Subaru Legacy problems ranked by severity. We track 5 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.

Dangerous
Vehicle structure corrosion
BL, BL/BP, BM/BR, BN/BS1998–202080k–150k miles
Subaru Legacy models show structural corrosion rates up to 11.1 times higher than the fleet average, particularly affecting the subframe and structural mounting points. This is a dangerous defect that compromises the vehicle's structural integrity. The issue is most prevalent on higher-mileage vehicles and those exposed to road salt. MOT data shows this fault occurring across all engine variants, with peak failures in the 120,000-150,000 mile range.
What happens if ignoredStructural corrosion is classified as dangerous because it reduces the vehicle's crash protection and can lead to suspension or steering component detachment. The vehicle should not be driven until professionally assessed. Repair typically requires welding or component replacement costing £500-£2,000 depending on extent. Severe cases may render the vehicle economically unviable.
Independent garage
£500–£2,000
Specialist
£600–£2,200
Parts only
£200–£800
Major
Excessive suspension component wear
BL, BL/BP, BM/BR, BN/BS1998–202020k–150k miles
Subaru Legacy models show excessive wear rates in suspension bushes, joints, and pins compared to the fleet average. MOT data indicates failure rates up to 32 times higher than typical vehicles, particularly affecting lower control arm bushes, anti-roll bar links, and ball joints. The flat-four engine layout and all-wheel-drive system place different stresses on the suspension compared to conventional front-wheel-drive cars. Worn components cause poor handling, uneven tyre wear, and MOT failures.
What happens if ignoredWorn suspension components compromise vehicle handling and safety, particularly in emergency manoeuvres. Continued driving accelerates tyre wear and can lead to MOT failure. Complete suspension overhaul typically costs £800-£1,500 depending on which components require replacement.
Independent garage
£200–£800
Specialist
£300–£1,000
Main dealer
£400–£1,200
Parts only
£80–£400
Major
CVT transmission failure
BM/BR, BN/BS2009–202080k–200k miles
Fifth and sixth generation Legacy models with CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) suffer from premature transmission failure, particularly the torque converter and internal components. NHTSA complaints document 55 specific torque converter failures and 39 general CVT issues. The transmission may slip, shudder, or fail to engage properly. Subaru initially marketed the CVT fluid as 'lifetime' but specialists now recommend changes at 100,000 miles to prevent failure.
What happens if ignoredCVT failure typically requires complete transmission replacement or rebuild, with costs ranging from £3,000-£5,000. The car may become undriveable if the transmission fails completely. Early intervention with fluid changes and software updates can extend transmission life significantly.
Independent garage
£2,500–£4,000
Specialist
£3,000–£4,500
Main dealer
£4,000–£6,000
Parts only
£2,000–£3,500
Major
Head gasket failure
BL, BL/BP1998–200980k–200k miles
Early Subaru flat-four engines are prone to head gasket failure, particularly external coolant leaks rather than internal combustion chamber breaches. The horizontal engine layout places different stresses on the head gaskets compared to conventional upright engines. NHTSA complaints document recurring head gasket problems with multiple repairs required. Symptoms typically develop gradually and may initially present as minor coolant loss.
What happens if ignoredHead gasket failure can lead to engine overheating, coolant loss, and potential engine damage if not addressed promptly. Repair involves removing the cylinder heads and typically costs £1,200-£2,000. If coolant enters the oil system, internal engine damage may occur requiring complete engine rebuild.
Independent garage
£1,000–£1,800
Specialist
£1,200–£2,000
Main dealer
£1,500–£2,500
Parts only
£200–£400

1 more known issues tracked

Including wear items, electrical niggles, and generation-specific problems. Check a specific car to see which issues apply to its age and mileage.

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MOT failure hotspots

Based on DVSA MOT test data. These are the items where the Subaru Legacy fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.

ABS fault
Brakes · 60-80k miles
MOT failure rate: 28x the fleet average
Sample: 473 tests
Anti-roll bar links worn
Suspension · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 27x the fleet average
Sample: 1,089 tests
Emissions failure
Exhaust & Emissions · 150k+ miles
MOT failure rate: 17x the fleet average
Sample: 1,012 tests
Headlight fault
Lights & Electrics · 80-100k miles
MOT failure rate: 16x the fleet average
Sample: 575 tests
Suspension component damaged or corroded
Suspension · 120-150k miles
MOT failure rate: 13x the fleet average
Sample: 1,445 tests
Steering rack wear
Steering · 120-150k miles
MOT failure rate: 11x the fleet average
Sample: 1,165 tests

Buying a Subaru Legacy?

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Related

Subaru Legacy reliability FAQs

What are the most common problems with the Subaru Legacy?

The Subaru Legacy has 5 known issues across 2 severity levels. The most serious are: Vehicle structure corrosion.

Is the Subaru Legacy reliable?

The Subaru Legacy has 1 dangerous and 4 major known issues. Most can be avoided with a thorough pre-purchase check and full service history.

How much does it cost to fix Subaru Legacy problems?

Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Vehicle structure corrosion) costs £500–£2,000 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.

Which Subaru Legacy generation is most reliable?

The BM (2009–2014) has the fewest dangerous issues (0). However, condition and service history matter more than generation — a well-maintained earlier car can be more reliable than a neglected newer one.