2012 Subaru Legacy
2012 Subaru Legacy
Overview
The 2012 Subaru Legacy is a mid-size sedan known for its standard all-wheel-drive system and comfortable ride. It offers a range of engine options, from efficient four-cylinders to a more powerful six-cylinder. Generally, the 2012 Legacy is considered a reliable vehicle, with owners appreciating its practicality and Subaru’s reputation for durability. However, like any vehicle, specific components can experience issues over time. This report details common technical reliability data for the 2012 model year, focusing on documented problems beyond routine maintenance.
Engine
2.5L Naturally Aspirated (FB25)
Oil Consumption
- Symptoms: Excessive oil burning, requiring frequent top-offs. May be accompanied by blue smoke from the exhaust.
- Solution: Engine internal inspection, potential piston ring replacement or cylinder head gasket repair.
- Cost: $1,500 - $3,500
Head Gasket Leaks
- Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating, white smoke from exhaust, milky oil, or external coolant leaks.
- Solution: Replacement of head gaskets and related components.
- Cost: $1,800 - $3,000
2.5L Turbocharged (EJ25)
Turbocharger Failure
- Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noises, excessive smoke, check engine light.
- Solution: Turbocharger replacement or rebuild.
- Cost: $1,200 - $2,500
Head Gasket Leaks
- Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating, white smoke from exhaust, milky oil, or external coolant leaks.
- Solution: Replacement of head gaskets and related components.
- Cost: $1,800 - $3,000
3.6L Naturally Aspirated (EZ36)
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Transmission
CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)
Hesitation or Shuddering
- Symptoms: Noticeable delay in acceleration, jerky movements, or vibrations during operation.
- Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement, or potential transmission unit replacement.
- Cost: $300 - $800 (fluid service), $3,000 - $6,000 (replacement)
5-Speed Manual Transmission
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
5-Speed Automatic Transmission
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Suspension
Standard Chassis
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Electrical
General Electrical System
Infotainment System Glitches
- Symptoms: Screen freezing, unresponsiveness, Bluetooth connectivity issues, or audio problems.
- Solution: Software update or head unit replacement.
- Cost: $100 - $500 (software update), $500 - $1,500 (replacement)
Battery Drain
- Symptoms: Premature battery failure, car not starting, electrical components malfunctioning.
- Solution: Diagnosis of parasitic draw, repair of faulty modules or wiring.
- Cost: $200 - $600
Exterior
Body and Paint
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Interior
Cabin Materials
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Summary Verdict
The 2012 Subaru Legacy generally presents a solid reliability record, particularly with its standard all-wheel-drive system. The 3.6L engine and manual transmission variants are noted for fewer common issues. However, owners of models with the 2.5L naturally aspirated and turbocharged engines should be aware of potential oil consumption and head gasket concerns, which can be costly to repair. The CVT transmission, while common, can sometimes exhibit hesitation or shuddering. Electrical gremlins, such as infotainment system glitches and battery drain, are also reported but are typically manageable. Overall, with proactive maintenance and awareness of these specific potential issues, the 2012 Legacy can be a dependable vehicle.