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2019 Subaru Legacy VIN Check, Recalls & Reliability

The 2019 Subaru Legacy has good reliability. There are 3 recalls and 123 owner complaints on file for the 2019 Subaru Legacy. Severity signals include 2 crash-related complaints and 1 fire-related complaint. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Visibility Wiper (46), Electrical System (34), Unknown Or Other (15).

Legacy reliability snapshot

69/100
Latest model-year reliability score
4.0/5
RepairPal rating (medium)
$563
Avg annual repair cost vs $526 category avg
#16/24
Ranking in midsize cars · better than 33% of peers

Data sourced from Auto Reliability Index, aggregating NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, and RepairPal repair-cost records.

Used-car research

Research the Subaru Legacy before checking the VIN

Compare model years, recurring problems, safety campaigns and market value first. Then use the VIN to verify the history of the individual car.

Most-reported 2019 Subaru Legacy issues

Owner-reported problem categories from NHTSA complaint filings. Counts reflect complaints per category for the most-recent model year on file.

  • Visibility Wiper46
  • Electrical System34
  • Unknown Or Other15
  • Engine5
  • Fuel Propulsion System4
  • Vehicle Speed Control3

Pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2019 Subaru Legacy

Hands-on checks distilled from real NHTSA complaint patterns and recall histories. Bring this list to a test drive or mechanic inspection.

  • Test infotainment system for screen delamination and erratic behavior
  • Check for signs of parasitic battery drain, especially if vehicle is not driven daily
  • Inspect for oil leaks around the engine, particularly from the cam carrier
  • Verify fuel pump operation by testing acceleration from a stop
  • Examine windshield for cracks or signs of weakness
  • Ensure Subaru EyeSight system functions correctly, especially reverse automatic braking

What owners reported

2019 Subaru Legacy owner complaints in detail

Owners have reported 2 crashes and 1 fire to NHTSA for the 2019 Subaru Legacy. These are unverified owner reports, not confirmed defect rates.

Owner complaints46

VISIBILITY/WIPER

Owners report frequent issues with the windshields of the 2019 Subaru Legacy, primarily involving cracks that appear with minimal or no apparent impact. Complaints often describe windshields cracking spontaneously or following very minor impacts, such as small pebbles, leading to significant crack expansions that impair visibility. Several owners mention experiencing multiple windshield replacements within a short period, sometimes within weeks or months, suggesting a pattern of recurring failures. The safety implications noted by owners include concerns about visibility and the structural integrity of the windshield, though no crashes or injuries are reported. These issues typically arise regardless of vehicle mileage, indicating the problem may not be directly related to wear and tear.

Owner complaints34

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Owners report two primary issues with the electrical system of the 2019 Subaru Legacy: persistent battery drain and infotainment system failures. Multiple complaints describe a parasitic battery drain linked to the vehicle's DCM searching for a defunct 3G network, causing frequent dead batteries even after replacement. This issue often leaves drivers stranded, with some reporting needing jump starts despite regular vehicle use. Additionally, owners frequently mention problems with the infotainment system, including screen delamination and erratic behavior such as random phone calls and navigation changes, typically emerging around 34,000 to 50,000 miles. These issues may contribute to safety concerns, particularly when the infotainment system distracts or the vehicle fails to start unexpectedly.

Owner complaints15

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Owners report several issues with the 2019 Subaru Legacy, most notably problems with the infotainment system and windshield integrity. Complaints frequently mention the infotainment system malfunctioning, including erratic screen behavior, unresponsive controls, and random switching between functions, which can distract drivers. Multiple owners describe recurring windshield cracks occurring under various conditions, with some experiencing multiple incidents within a short timeframe. The reports also include a case involving a fire following a collision, highlighting potential safety risks. These issues appear across a range of mileages, with some occurring as early as 14,000 miles, which may be relevant for used car buyers assessing potential maintenance needs.

Severity signals: 0 crash, 1 fire, 0 injury reports

Owner complaints5

ENGINE

Owners of the 2019 Subaru Legacy report several engine-related issues, with frequent mentions of parasitic battery drain leading to repeated battery replacements and concerns about reliability, especially for those needing the vehicle for night shifts. Another common issue involves oil leaks from the cam carrier due to sealant problems, which some owners suggest could pose a fire risk if oil contacts the exhaust. Reports also include catalytic converter failures at around 56,000 miles, causing overheating and disabling safety features due to melted oxygen sensors. Additionally, multiple owners describe persistent oil consumption without visible leaks, which they find abnormal. These issues appear across a range of mileages, with some occurring as early as 15,000 miles.

Owner complaints4

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

Owners of the 2019 Subaru Legacy frequently report issues related to the fuel system, particularly involving the fuel pump. Complaints commonly describe symptoms such as hesitation and stalling during acceleration, especially from a stop or at low speeds, with some incidents occurring in intersections. These issues are noted at mileages around 56,000 to 65,000 miles. One owner mentions the vehicle becoming undriveable due to stalling and shaking, while another reports a complete vehicle shutdown near a busy intersection. Although no crashes or injuries are reported, multiple owners express concerns about near-miss situations due to unexpected power loss, indicating potential safety implications. These patterns suggest that prospective buyers should be aware of possible fuel system issues in vehicles with similar mileage.

Owner complaints3

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

Owners of the 2019 Subaru Legacy report issues with the vehicle's speed control system, particularly related to the Subaru EyeSight Driver Assist technology. Complaints frequently mention failures of the reverse automatic braking and self-driving features, leading to two reported crashes where the system did not apply brakes as expected, resulting in collisions. Another owner describes an incident where they unintentionally activated the cruise control, losing speed control momentarily, due to the proximity of control buttons around the steering wheel. These incidents underscore potential safety implications, particularly when the EyeSight system fails to function as intended. The reported issues occur at various times, with one owner noting the problem shortly after purchase.

Severity signals: 2 crash, 0 fire, 0 injury reports

Owner complaints3

STEERING

Owners of the 2019 Subaru Legacy report issues with the steering system, with complaints frequently mentioning a loss of power steering and unexpected steering behavior. One owner describes the power steering failing entirely, while others note the steering wheel turning on its own or requiring unexpected adjustments during driving, especially at highway speeds. These issues occur at varying mileages, with one report noting problems as early as 2,400 miles. Safety implications include potential loss of control, as owners describe needing to correct the vehicle's direction suddenly. This information may be important for used car buyers to consider, particularly if the vehicle is not part of a recall addressing similar issues in other models.

Owner complaints2

VISIBILITY

Owners of the 2019 Subaru Legacy report issues related to visibility, particularly with the driver side mirror and windshield. One complaint describes difficulty in adjusting the driver side mirror to effectively see vehicles in the blind spot, with inconsistent performance of the blind spot detection light. Another owner reports the front windshield cracking spontaneously without impact at approximately 50,000 miles, necessitating replacement. Safety implications are suggested by the inability to see vehicles in the blind spot and potential visibility obstruction due to windshield cracking. These issues could be relevant for used car buyers considering this model, particularly those concerned with visibility and safety features.

2019 Legacy recalls (3)

Every NHTSA safety recall logged against the 2019 Legacy. A VIN check confirms whether any recall remains unrepaired on a specific vehicle.

  1. FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINENHTSA 20V218000Apr 16, 2020

    Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019 Impreza, Outback, Legacy, and Ascent vehicles. The low pressure fuel pump may become inoperative.

    Consequence: If the low pressure fuel pump fails, the engine may stall without the ability to restart the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

    Remedy

    Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the low pressure fuel pump, free of charge. The recall began June 4, 2020. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRD-20.

  2. STRUCTURENHTSA 19V493000Jun 26, 2019

    Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019 Legacy and Outback vehicles. Spot welds located on the duct below the cowl panel may have been improperly applied, impacting the vehicle's body strength.

    Consequence: In the event of a crash, the reduced strength of the vehicle body may increase the risk of injury.

    Remedy

    Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the vehicles and repair or repurchase the vehicle, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began July 26, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUH-93.

  3. FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINENHTSA 21V587000Jul 29, 2021

    Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ascent, 2018 Forester, 2018-2020 Impreza, Legacy, Outback, 2018-2019 BRZ, WRX, and Toyota 86 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.

    Consequence: Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.

    Remedy

    Dealers will replace the low-pressure fuel pump, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 24, 2021. Subaru and Toyota owners may call customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRG-21.

Used-market value

2019 Subaru Legacy resale snapshot

$22,645median asking price from 14 listings

Listing benchmarks establish a market range; trim, mileage, condition, title history and prior damage determine what one vehicle is worth.

2019 Subaru Legacy on the road

35,063 2019 Subaru Legacy units were sold new in the US — a key signal for the size of today's used-market inventory.

How the 2019 Subaru Legacy stacks up against rivals

The most-shopped alternatives in the same segment. Each link opens a side-by-side reliability and cost comparison.

Reliability verdict for the 2019 Subaru Legacy

The 2019 Subaru Legacy presents a mixed reliability profile with a score of 69 out of 100. This indicates moderate reliability, particularly when considering the segment's lack of sufficient data for a direct comparison. Complaints are notably concentrated in the visibility and wiper systems, suggesting potential concerns in these areas. Electrical system issues also feature prominently, further contributing to the vehicle's moderate reliability standing.

With three recalls, the recall count is neither minimal nor excessive, suggesting a moderate level of manufacturer intervention. The distribution of complaints across several categories, with a focus on visibility and electrical systems, signals areas that could affect overall user experience.

In summary, the 2019 Subaru Legacy carries an elevated reliability risk, warranting careful consideration of its potential issues.

What you get in a 2019 Subaru Legacy report

Available title brand history
Odometer readings & rollback detection
Accident & damage records
Auction sales with photos
Open safety recalls
Theft & stolen vehicle check

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2019 Subaru Legacy — Frequently asked questions

Is the 2019 Subaru Legacy reliable?

The 2019 Subaru Legacy presents a mixed reliability profile with a score of 69 out of 100. This indicates moderate reliability, particularly when considering the segment's lack of sufficient data for a direct comparison. Complaints are notably concentrated in the visibility and wiper systems, suggesting potential concerns in these areas. Electrical system issues also feature prominently, further contributing to the vehicle's moderate reliability standing.

How many recalls does the 2019 Subaru Legacy have?

3 NHTSA safety recalls have been issued for the 2019 Subaru Legacy. A VIN check confirms whether any remain unrepaired on a specific vehicle.

What are the most common 2019 Subaru Legacy problems?

The most-reported 2019 Subaru Legacy problem areas are: Visibility Wiper (46), Electrical System (34), Unknown Or Other (15).

Should I run a VIN check on a 2019 Subaru Legacy?

Yes. A VIN report verifies title brands, odometer history, accident records, and recall completion on a specific 2019 Subaru Legacy, complementing the model-year reliability data on this page.