What are the most common problems with the 2021 Subaru Legacy?

**Airbag System Defect:** A critical recall affects the front passenger airbag, which may not deploy due to a faulty Occupant Detection System (ODS) sensor. Confirm this recall has been addressed.

How many recalls does the 2021 Subaru Legacy have?

The 2021 Subaru Legacy currently has 5 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2021 Subaru Legacy a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. **Airbag System Defect:** A critical recall affects the front passenger airbag, which may not deploy due to a faulty Occupant Detection System (ODS) sensor. Confirm this recall has been addressed. **Windshield Cracking:** Spontaneous windshield cracks are a frequently reported issue, potentially impairing visibility and interfering with safety systems like EyeSight. **Electrical System Glitches:** Owners report issues with the infotainment system randomly shutting off and battery drain problems. **Powertrain Concerns:** While generally robust, there are recalls related to the Transmission Control Unit (TCU) and reports of CVT transmission failures. **Standard All-Wheel Drive:** A significant advantage for all-weather capability and confident handling. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2021 Subaru Legacy?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2021 Subaru Legacy.

2021 Subaru Legacy Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026Ryan Davis2 Critical Recalls

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

Airbag System Defect: A critical recall affects the front passenger airbag, which may not deploy due to a faulty Occupant Detection System (ODS) sensor. Confirm this recall has been addressed.
Windshield Cracking: Spontaneous windshield cracks are a frequently reported issue, potentially impairing visibility and interfering with safety systems like EyeSight.
Electrical System Glitches: Owners report issues with the infotainment system randomly shutting off and battery drain problems.
Powertrain Concerns: While generally robust, there are recalls related to the Transmission Control Unit (TCU) and reports of CVT transmission failures.

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Overview

2021 Subaru Legacy

The 2021 Subaru Legacy is a practical sedan with standard all-wheel drive and a comfortable interior. However, its "Below Average" reliability rating, stemming from 5 recalls and 42 complaints, warrants caution. Key issues include a critical airbag system defect and a high incidence of spontaneous windshield cracks. Despite these concerns, it boasts a 5-star overall safety rating and a respectable 27 MPG combined fuel economy. Original MSRP ranged from $22,895 to $37,070.

Critical Failure Risk

Owners report windshields cracking without apparent impact, potentially affecting visibility and safety systems. This is a common issue that requires regular inspection.

Early detection can reduce the odds of major repair bills.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls5

Service Bulletins0

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

Air Bags6

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Horsepower: 182–260HP
Torque: 176–277 lb–ftLB-FT

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing all-weather capability and strong safety ratings.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Risk-averse buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.

+1 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2021 Subaru Legacy Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Seating Capacity: 5
Horsepower: 182-260 hp
Torque: 176-277 lb-ft
Transmission: Automatic (AV-S8)
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Sedan
MSRP Range: $22,895 - $37,070
EPA Combined MPG: 27

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Most Common Issues

1. Airbags

Most reported

Usage: 6 reports

2. Electrical System

Usage: 5 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change and Filter Replacement (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Engine Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect brake pads, rotors, and lines - Check exhaust system - Inspect suspension components - Inspect drive belts - Check fluid levels (coolant, brake, power steering, windshield washer) - Inspect wiper blades

Est. shop cost: $100 - $150

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist

Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)

Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context

Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it

Full specs and trim-level context

5 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2021 Subaru Legacy reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Subaru Legacy is 8.1/10. Reliability score is 8.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 5. Owner complaints: 42.

How practical is the 2021 Subaru Legacy for daily use?

Practicality score is 5.5/10. EPA combined economy is 27 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 428 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2021 Subaru Legacy?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Subaru Legacy is 7.9/10. Overall score is 7.9/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.5/10. Tuning 6.0/10. Practicality 5.5/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Subaru Legacy?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change and Filter Replacement (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Engine Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect brake pads, rotors, and lines - Check exhaust system - Inspect suspension components - Inspect drive belts - Check fluid levels (coolant, brake, power steering, windshield washer) - Inspect wiper blades at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $500. Repair prediction highlight: Automatic Transmission (typical at 60,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $2,000 • Max: $4,000).

What is the MSRP range for the 2021 Subaru Legacy?

MSRP range is $22,895 - $37,070.

What engine is in the 2021 Subaru Legacy?

Engine specs list Flat-4 • 4 • 2.4. Output is 182-260 hp • 176-277 lb-ft.

What transmission does the 2021 Subaru Legacy use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Subaru Legacy, transmission is Automatic (AV-S8). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Subaru Legacy?

EPA combined estimate is 27 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Subaru Legacy?

14 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

What is the fuel economy range for the 2021 Subaru Legacy?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Subaru Legacy, fuel economy range is 24-30 mpg combined.

How many people fit in a 2021 Subaru Legacy?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Subaru Legacy, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2021 Subaru Legacy?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Subaru Legacy, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2021 Subaru Legacy use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Subaru Legacy, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (AV-S8).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Subaru Legacy?

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

Is the 2021 Subaru Legacy good for tuning?

Tuning potential is rated 6/10. The 2021 Subaru Legacy, particularly its turbocharged XT variants, presents a compelling case for enthusiasts seeking a blend of daily driva... Popular platforms: Subaru Legacy XT.

Should I tune the 2021 Subaru Legacy?

The Subaru Legacy GT models, particularly those with the turbocharged engine, offer good aftermarket support and engine tunability, fitting the criteria for a "sleeper" or enthusiast vehicle. While not as common as some other performance sedans, there's a dedicated community and parts availability for performance upgrades.

What are the most common air bags problems on the 2021 Subaru Legacy?

Top complaint category: air bags (6 reports, 14.3% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2021 Subaru Legacy?

This model year has 5 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2021 Subaru Legacy?

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2021 Toyota Camry and 2021 Mazda Mazda6.