The 2021 Subaru Legacy has good reliability. There are 3 recalls and 31 owner complaints on file for the 2021 Subaru Legacy. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Unknown Or Other (5), Visibility Wiper (5), Air Bags (4).
Legacy reliability snapshot
75/100
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.
Owner-reported problem categories from NHTSA complaint filings. Counts reflect complaints per category for the most-recent model year on file.
Unknown Or Other5
Visibility Wiper5
Air Bags4
Electrical System4
Engine2
Power Train2
Pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2021 Subaru Legacy
Hands-on checks distilled from real NHTSA complaint patterns and recall histories. Bring this list to a test drive or mechanic inspection.
☐Inspect windshield for cracks and verify Eyesight system recalibration
☐Test infotainment system for random shutdowns
☐Check for unresolved airbag recall repairs
☐Verify battery health and check for any history of replacements
☐Test CVT transmission for shuddering or shifting issues
What owners reported
2021 Subaru Legacy owner complaints in detail
Owners have reported 1 injury to NHTSA for the 2021 Subaru Legacy. These are unverified owner reports, not confirmed defect rates.
Owner complaints5
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Owners of the 2021 Subaru Legacy report several issues, with battery failures and electrical system malfunctions being the most prominent. Complaints frequently mention repeated battery replacements and vehicle stalling, sometimes while driving, posing potential safety risks. Additionally, multiple owners describe dashboard warning lights activating, which disable key features like power steering, EyeSight, and lane assist, often following a computer system update. Spontaneous windshield cracking is also noted, with cracks appearing without visible impact, suggesting a potential defect. These issues occur at varying timelines, with some electrical problems persisting intermittently over several months.
Owner complaints5
VISIBILITY/WIPER
Owners of the 2021 Subaru Legacy frequently report windshield cracking issues, often occurring without any apparent impact. Complaints describe cracks forming spontaneously, sometimes while the vehicle is stationary or when using the defrost function. These incidents are reported within the first year of ownership, with some vehicles having as few as 6,000 miles. The cracks can interfere with the Subaru Eyesight Driver Assistance system, potentially affecting its functionality. Buyers of used models may want to verify if the windshield has been replaced and if the Eyesight system has been recalibrated following any replacement.
Owner complaints4
AIR BAGS
Owners of the 2021 Subaru Legacy report issues related to an airbag recall, specifically concerning the availability of parts needed for the repair. Complaints frequently mention that despite receiving recall notifications, the necessary parts to address the airbag issue are not available, leading to delays in completing the repair. These reports indicate that the issue has persisted for several months, with some owners expressing frustration about the extended wait times. No specific mileage is noted in relation to these complaints, and there are no reported incidents of crashes or injuries due to this issue. Potential buyers should be aware of the ongoing recall and the current unavailability of the remedy.
Owner complaints4
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Owners report several electrical issues with the 2021 Subaru Legacy, primarily involving the infotainment system and battery. Complaints frequently mention the infotainment system randomly turning off, which can disable safety features, with some owners noting this occurs both with and without CarPlay. Subaru has replaced head units under warranty, but problems persist. Additionally, battery failure is reported, with one owner experiencing a complete battery drain at just 690 miles, resulting in being stranded without warning. The ODS sensor recall is also noted as unresolved, with concerns about passenger airbag functionality in the event of a collision. These issues may affect vehicle safety and reliability, particularly for those considering purchasing a used model.
Owner complaints2
ENGINE
Owners of the 2021 Subaru Legacy report issues with the engine, specifically noting sudden internal knocking or tapping noises without any warning lights or prior symptoms, often around 65,000 miles. One complaint details a complete engine failure requiring replacement, despite regular maintenance and no diagnostic warnings such as misfires or overheating. Another complaint highlights concerns with the Thermo Control Valve, leading to a check engine light and significant repair costs, particularly for vehicles with a rebuilt title. Safety implications include potential loss of power or stalling at highway speeds, posing a hazard. These issues suggest potential mechanical flaws that may affect vehicle reliability and safety.
Owner complaints2
POWER TRAIN
Owners report that the 2021 Subaru Legacy experiences issues with the power train, specifically involving the CVT transmission. Complaints frequently mention symptoms such as the vehicle stuttering, failing to shift into first or second gear, and violent downshifts that cause high RPMs without power to the wheels. These issues occur intermittently and can lead to the car unexpectedly lunging forward. One owner reports transmission failure at approximately 66,706 miles, with diagnostic codes P0843 and P0867 indicating internal failure, necessitating a transmission replacement. Safety implications include the vehicle almost stalling, particularly concerning when climbing hills or driving on level surfaces, which could pose a risk in certain driving conditions.
2021 Legacy recalls (3)
Every NHTSA safety recall logged against the 2021 Legacy. A VIN check confirms whether any recall remains unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
AIR BAGSNHTSA 24V227000Mar 22, 2024
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Outback and Legacy vehicles. A capacitor in the sensors for the Occupant Detection System (ODS) may crack and short circuit, which can prevent the front passenger air bag from deploying in a crash.
Consequence: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the ODS sensors on the front passenger seat, free of charge. Owner notifications were mailed February 3, 2025. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRA-24.
POWER TRAINNHTSA 23V755000Nov 9, 2023
Subaru of America, Inc. is recalling certain model year 2021 Crosstrek, 2022 Forester, 2021-2023 Legacy, and Outback vehicles. An insufficient weld may allow water to enter the inhibitor switch, causing it to fail.
Consequence: An inoperative inhibitor switch may prevent the reverse lights from illuminating and the rearview camera image from displaying, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the inhibitor switch, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 8, 2024. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WRQ-23.
POWER TRAINNHTSA 22V485000Jul 8, 2022
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Outback and Legacy vehicles. A programming error in the Transmission Control Unit (TCU) may allow the clutch to engage before the drive chain is completely clamped.
Consequence: An improperly secured drive chain may slip and break, causing a loss of drive power and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will reprogram the TCU, inspect TCU data for chain slip, and visually inspect the chain guide. If evidence of chain slippage or damage is found, the transmission will be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed August 24, 2022. Owners may contact Subaru's customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRK-22. This recall is an expansion of previous recall number 21V-955.
2021 Subaru Legacy on the road
22,766 2021 Subaru Legacy units were sold new in the US — a key signal for the size of today's used-market inventory.
How the 2021 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.
The 2021 Subaru Legacy scores a solid 75 out of 100, indicating above-average reliability. With three recalls, the level is limited, suggesting Subaru has addressed specific issues without widespread systemic problems. Complaints total 31, with concerns distributed across several areas, including visibility, airbags, and the electrical system. However, no single issue dominates, implying no severe, recurring defect.
Being the second year of its generation, the Legacy benefits from early production refinements. The spread of complaints suggests that while some minor issues persist, they are not concentrated enough to significantly undermine reliability. Overall, the 2021 Subaru Legacy presents a reasonable risk level for buyers seeking a dependable midsize sedan.
What you get in a 2021 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
Check a 2021 Subaru Legacy now
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2021 Subaru Legacy — Frequently asked questions
Is the 2021 Subaru Legacy reliable?
The 2021 Subaru Legacy scores a solid 75 out of 100, indicating above-average reliability. With three recalls, the level is limited, suggesting Subaru has addressed specific issues without widespread systemic problems. Complaints total 31, with concerns distributed across several areas, including visibility, airbags, and the electrical system. However, no single issue dominates, implying no severe, recurring defect.
How many recalls does the 2021 Subaru Legacy have?
3 NHTSA safety recalls have been issued for the 2021 Subaru Legacy. A VIN check confirms whether any remain unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
What are the most common 2021 Subaru Legacy problems?
The most-reported 2021 Subaru Legacy problem areas are: Unknown Or Other (5), Visibility Wiper (5), Air Bags (4).
Should I run a VIN check on a 2021 Subaru Legacy?
Yes. A VIN report verifies title brands, odometer history, accident records, and recall completion on a specific 2021 Subaru Legacy, complementing the model-year reliability data on this page.
