What are the most common problems with the 2023 Subaru Legacy?

**Forward Collision Avoidance (FCA)** system malfunctions are a primary concern, with reports of false activations and failures to detect obstacles, leading to collisions.

How many recalls does the 2023 Subaru Legacy have?

The 2023 Subaru Legacy currently has 6 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2023 Subaru Legacy a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. **Forward Collision Avoidance (FCA)** system malfunctions are a primary concern, with reports of false activations and failures to detect obstacles, leading to collisions. **Airbag system** issues, particularly concerning occupant detection, present a potential safety gap, with one report of complete failure in a severe accident. Six recalls were issued, with a significant focus on the **driveshaft** potentially disconnecting due to loose center support bolts. Visibility issues, including **windshield** cracks and **wiper system** problems, have been reported. All-wheel drive and a 5-star NHTSA safety rating are key strengths, but potential buyers must weigh these against documented reliability concerns. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2023 Subaru Legacy?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2023 Subaru Legacy.

2023 Subaru Legacy Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026Ryan Davis

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

Forward Collision Avoidance (FCA) system malfunctions are a primary concern, with reports of false activations and failures to detect obstacles, leading to collisions.
Airbag system issues, particularly concerning occupant detection, present a potential safety gap, with one report of complete failure in a severe accident.
Six recalls were issued, with a significant focus on the driveshaft potentially disconnecting due to loose center support bolts.
Visibility issues, including windshield cracks and wiper system problems, have been reported.

See the 5 checks before you buyFree • Takes 20s • Saves Thousands $

Overview

2023 Subaru Legacy

The 2023 Subaru Legacy is a practical, all-wheel-drive sedan known for its strong safety ratings. However, used car shoppers should be aware of its average reliability. With six recalls and ten complaints logged, potential repair costs are a consideration. It boasts a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, good fuel economy for an AWD vehicle (26 MPG combined), and a spacious interior. The standard 2.4-liter engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission provides adequate power for daily driving.

Critical Failure Risk

The Forward Collision Avoidance (FCA) system can exhibit false activations or fail to detect obstacles, leading to collisions. This system is also potentially linked to infotainment and climate control failures upon cold starts.

Early detection can help you avoid a $400-$1,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls6

Service Bulletins0

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

Air Bags2

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

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-wheel drive capability and strong safety ratings in a sedan.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Prospective buyers who demand top-tier reliability.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2023 Subaru Legacy Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Transmission: Automatic (AV-S8)
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Sedan
EPA Combined MPG: 26

CarFocal account required

See the full 2023 Subaru Legacy buyer report before you decide

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

Most Common Issues

1. Airbags

Most reported

Usage: 2 reports

2. Visibility

Usage: 1 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change and Filter Replacement (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Brake Inspection - Suspension Inspection - Drive Shafts and Boots Inspection - Fluid Level Check (Parts: Brake Fluid, Coolant, Power Steering Fluid, Windshield Washer Fluid) - Wiper Blade Inspection

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

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

6 recall campaign details & remedy notes

Create free account

Free • Takes 20 seconds • Saves Thousands $

Already have an account? Log in

FAQ

Is the 2023 Subaru Legacy reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2023 Subaru Legacy is 8.7/10. Reliability score is 8.7/10. NHTSA recalls: 6. Owner complaints: 10.

How practical is the 2023 Subaru Legacy for daily use?

Practicality score is 5.0/10. EPA combined economy is 26 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2023 Subaru Legacy?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2023 Subaru Legacy is 7.8/10. Overall score is 7.8/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.8/10. Tuning 4.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2023 Subaru Legacy?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change and Filter Replacement (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Brake Inspection - Suspension Inspection - Drive Shafts and Boots Inspection - Fluid Level Check (Parts: Brake Fluid, Coolant, Power Steering Fluid, Windshield Washer Fluid) - Wiper Blade Inspection at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: Forward Collision Avoidance System (typical at 50 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $1,200).

What engine is in the 2023 Subaru Legacy?

Engine specs list 4 • 2.4.

What transmission does the 2023 Subaru Legacy use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Subaru Legacy, transmission is Automatic (AV-S8). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2023 Subaru Legacy?

EPA combined estimate is 26 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2023 Subaru Legacy?

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

What body style is the 2023 Subaru Legacy?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Subaru Legacy, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2023 Subaru Legacy use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Subaru Legacy, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (AV-S8).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2023 Subaru Legacy?

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

Is the 2023 Subaru Legacy good for tuning?

Tuning potential is rated 4/10. The 2023 Subaru Legacy is a practical sedan with a standard All-Wheel Drive system and a 2.4L turbocharged engine.

What are the most common air bags problems on the 2023 Subaru Legacy?

Top complaint category: air bags (2 reports, 20% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2023 Subaru Legacy?

This model year has 6 official safety campaigns listed.