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2017 Subaru Legacy Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Daniel Wilson·3 Critical Recalls
2017 Subaru Legacy Report

Overall Score

7.2/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Standard All-Wheel Drive enhances traction in poor weather.
  • Excellent 5-star NHTSA safety rating.
  • Frequent reports of spontaneous windshield cracking are a major ownership cost.
  • Electrical system issues, including battery drain and starting failures, are common.
See the 6 checks before you buyFree • Takes 20s • Saves Thousands $
OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2017 Subaru Legacy

The 2017 Subaru Legacy stands out with standard all-wheel drive, a rarity in its segment, making it appealing for adverse weather. It provides a comfortable ride, ample interior space, and a 5-star NHTSA safety rating. However, its 'Below Average' reliability is a significant concern, stemming from numerous owner complaints and recalls. Key issues include spontaneous windshield cracking and electrical system problems like battery drain. Buyers should prioritize verifying that critical steering and airbag recalls have been addressed.

Critical Failure Risk

Standard All-Wheel Drive enhances traction in poor weather.

Early detection can reduce the odds of major repair bills.

Analysis pending

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls3
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

135
Visibility/Wiper33
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Horsepower
256HP
Torque
247 lb–ftLB-FT
Fuel Efficiency
Combined
23
MPG
City
20
MPG
Highway
28
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.0/ 10

Practicality

5.2/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing standard all-wheel drive and strong safety ratings, especially in areas with challenging weather.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience with minimal unexpected repair costs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2017 Subaru Legacy Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2017 Subaru Legacy.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Horsepower
256 hp
Torque
247 lb-ft
Transmission
Automatic (AV-S6)
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
23

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See the full 2017 Subaru Legacy buyer report before you decide

Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Visibility

Most reported

Usage: 33 reports

2. Electrical System

Usage: 27 reports

First Service Interval

Unlock the full maintenance guide for the first service interval, the schedule after it, and repair-cost context.
Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
3 recall campaign details & remedy notes
135 owner complaints by system
Final buyer verdict: should you buy?
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2017 Subaru Legacy reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2017 Subaru Legacy is 8.0/10. Reliability score is 8.0/10. NHTSA recalls: 3. Owner complaints: 135.

How practical is the 2017 Subaru Legacy for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.2/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 23 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 425 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2017 Subaru Legacy?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2017 Subaru Legacy is 7.2/10. Overall score is 7.2/10 (Good). Confidence 71%. Tuning 5.0/10. Practicality 5.2/10.

What is the MSRP range for the 2017 Subaru Legacy?▾

Base MSRP is $31,640.

What engine is in the 2017 Subaru Legacy?▾

Engine specs list Flat-6 • 6 • 3.6. Output is 256 hp • 247 lb-ft.

What transmission does the 2017 Subaru Legacy use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Subaru Legacy, transmission is Automatic (AV-S6). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2017 Subaru Legacy?▾

EPA combined estimate is 23 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2017 Subaru Legacy?▾

7 standard and 5 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

What is the fuel economy range for the 2017 Subaru Legacy?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Subaru Legacy, fuel economy range is 20-28 mpg combined.

How many people fit in a 2017 Subaru Legacy?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Subaru Legacy, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2017 Subaru Legacy?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Subaru Legacy, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2017 Subaru Legacy use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Subaru Legacy, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (AV-S6).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2017 Subaru Legacy?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 5/5.

Is the 2017 Subaru Legacy good for tuning?▾

Tuning potential is rated 5/10. The 2017 Subaru Legacy 3.6R presents a moderate tuning platform. While aftermarket support exists for performance enhancements, it's crucial... Popular platforms: Subaru Legacy.

Should I tune the 2017 Subaru Legacy?▾

The 3.6R model has a more powerful engine and is part of a model line with aftermarket support, making it a candidate for tuning. However, it's not as common for tuning as dedicated sports sedans.

What are the most common visibility/wiper problems on the 2017 Subaru Legacy?▾

Top complaint category: visibility/wiper (33 reports, 24.4% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2017 Subaru Legacy?▾

This model year has 3 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

Tuning guide

Potential + upgrade path

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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