2020 Subaru Legacy Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Spontaneous windshield cracking is the most prevalent and concerning issue, potentially impacting visibility and safety system calibration.
- A high number of recalls (51) points to potential systemic design or manufacturing flaws, particularly in the drivetrain and fuel system.
- Electrical system problems, including infotainment glitches and battery drain, can disable critical safety features like EyeSight.
- While safety ratings are excellent, the sheer volume of recalls and complaints warrants thorough pre-purchase inspection.
2020 Subaru Legacy
Critical Failure Risk
Spontaneous cracking of the windshield glass, often without apparent impact, is a frequently reported issue. This can originate from the edges or base and may be exacerbated by temperature fluctuations or defroster use. The problem suggests potential defects in glass material or installation.
Early detection can help you avoid a repair of about $0.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is dragged down by its weaker day-to-day practicality signals.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Buyers prioritizing standard AWD and a comfortable ride.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Risk-averse buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2020 Subaru Legacy Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2020 Subaru Legacy.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Transmission
- Automatic (AV-S8)
- Drivetrain
- AWD/All-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Sedan
- EPA Combined MPG
- 27
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Most Common Issues
1. Visibility
Most reportedUsage: 57 reports
2. Electrical System
Usage: 14 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) and Filter Replacement (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Engine Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect brake pads, rotors, and lines - Check exhaust system - Inspect suspension components - Check fluid levels (coolant, brake, power steering, windshield washer) - Inspect drive belts - Check cabin air filter
Est. shop cost: $100 - $150
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FAQ
Is the 2020 Subaru Legacy reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2020 Subaru Legacy is 6.4/10. Reliability score is 6.4/10. NHTSA recalls: 51. Owner complaints: 139.
How practical is the 2020 Subaru Legacy for daily use?
Practicality score is 4.9/10. The score is dragged down by its weaker day-to-day practicality signals. EPA combined economy is 27 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.
What is the overall score for the 2020 Subaru Legacy?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2020 Subaru Legacy is 7.2/10. Overall score is 7.2/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.7/10. Tuning 3.0/10. Practicality 4.9/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2020 Subaru Legacy?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) and Filter Replacement (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Engine Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect brake pads, rotors, and lines - Check exhaust system - Inspect suspension components - Check fluid levels (coolant, brake, power steering, windshield washer) - Inspect drive belts - Check cabin air filter at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: Windshield (typical at 40,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $800).
What is the MSRP range for the 2020 Subaru Legacy?
Base MSRP is $24,995.
What engine is in the 2020 Subaru Legacy?
Engine specs list 4 • 2.4.
What transmission does the 2020 Subaru Legacy use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Subaru Legacy, transmission is Automatic (AV-S8). The paired drivetrain is AWD/All-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2020 Subaru Legacy?
EPA combined estimate is 27 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2020 Subaru Legacy?
12 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2020 Subaru Legacy?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Subaru Legacy, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2020 Subaru Legacy?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Subaru Legacy, body style is sedan.
What drivetrain does the 2020 Subaru Legacy use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Subaru Legacy, drivetrain is AWD/All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (AV-S8).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2020 Subaru Legacy?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 5/5.
Is the 2020 Subaru Legacy good for tuning?
Tuning potential is rated 3/10. The 2020 Subaru Legacy, equipped with a 2.4L turbocharged engine and All-Wheel Drive, offers a stable platform for daily driving.
What are the most common visibility/wiper problems on the 2020 Subaru Legacy?
Top complaint category: visibility/wiper (57 reports, 41% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2020 Subaru Legacy?
This model year has 51 official safety campaigns listed.