2015 Subaru Legacy
2015 Subaru Legacy
Overview
The 2015 Subaru Legacy is a mid-size sedan known for its standard all-wheel-drive system and comfortable ride. It offers a choice between two horizontally opposed boxer engines: a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder and a more powerful 3.6-liter six-cylinder. Both are paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Reliability for the 2015 model year is generally considered good, with owners reporting satisfaction with its performance and longevity. However, like any vehicle, there are specific areas that have seen more attention from mechanics and owners, particularly concerning the CVT and certain engine components. This analysis focuses on documented technical issues beyond routine maintenance.
Engine
2.5L Boxer (FB25)
Oil Consumption
- Symptoms: Excessive oil burning between oil changes, potentially leading to low oil levels.
- Solution: Engine internal inspection, piston ring replacement, or in severe cases, engine replacement.
- Cost: $1,500 - $3,500
Head Gasket Leaks
- Symptoms: Coolant leaks, white smoke from exhaust, engine overheating, coolant in oil.
- Solution: Replacement of head gaskets and associated components.
- Cost: $1,800 - $3,000
3.6L Boxer (EZ36)
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Transmission
CVT (TR580/TR690)
Hesitation or Shuddering
- Symptoms: Jerking, shuddering, or delayed acceleration during operation.
- Solution: Software updates, transmission fluid flush and replacement, or internal transmission repair/replacement.
- Cost: $800 - $3,000
Transmission Fluid Leaks
- Symptoms: Visible fluid leaks from transmission seals or lines, low transmission fluid level.
- Solution: Replacement of leaking seals or lines, or transmission repair.
- Cost: $300 - $1,200
Suspension
Standard Chassis
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No Major Issues
- Solution: No Major Issues
- Cost: No Major Issues
Electrical
Standard Electrical System
Infotainment System Glitches
- Symptoms: Touchscreen unresponsiveness, Bluetooth connectivity issues, freezing.
- Solution: Software updates, system reset, or replacement of head unit.
- Cost: $100 - $800
Exterior
Body and Trim
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No Major Issues
- Solution: No Major Issues
- Cost: No Major Issues
Interior
Cabin Components
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No Major Issues
- Solution: No Major Issues
- Cost: No Major Issues
Summary Verdict
The 2015 Subaru Legacy generally presents a reliable package, especially with its robust all-wheel-drive system. The 3.6L engine variant appears to be particularly trouble-free. However, owners of the 2.5L engine should be aware of potential oil consumption and head gasket issues, which can be costly to repair. The CVT, while common in modern Subarus, has also seen reports of hesitation and fluid leaks, necessitating diligent maintenance and prompt attention to any unusual symptoms. Electrical issues are typically minor, often related to the infotainment system. Overall, with proper maintenance and awareness of these specific potential concerns, the 2015 Legacy can be a dependable vehicle.