2020 Subaru Legacy

The 2020 Subaru Legacy marked the start of the seventh generation of this mid-size sedan. It was available with two engine options: a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine producing 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque and a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with paddle shifters and an 8-speed manual mode. Many owners praised the Legacy for its standard all-wheel drive, comfortable ride, spacious interior, and user-friendly infotainment system. Common complaints included the somewhat bland styling and the occasionally sluggish performance of the base engine.

Engine

2.5L Naturally Aspirated Engine

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring them to add oil between scheduled oil changes. Symptoms include the low oil level light illuminating on the dashboard, smoky exhaust, and engine knocking.
  • Solution: Some owners have had success with switching to a different brand or weight of oil. In more severe cases, the piston rings may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+ depending on the severity and the repair needed.
  • Recalls: None Found

2.4L Turbocharged Engine

No Issues Found

Transmission

Lineartronic CVT (Both Engine Options)

• Harsh or Jerky Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report experiencing harsh or jerky shifting, particularly at low speeds or during acceleration. This can manifest as a noticeable shudder or hesitation.
  • Solution: A software update to the transmission control module (TCM) may resolve the issue. In some cases, a CVT fluid flush or replacement of the valve body may be necessary. In rare instances, the CVT may require replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update - $100-$200, Fluid flush: $200-$400, Valve body replacement: $1,000-$2,000, CVT replacement: $5,000 - $8,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• CVT Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Complete transmission failure. Vehicle may not accelerate or move, or may make loud grinding noises.
  • Solution: Replacement of the CVT.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

No Issues Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system may freeze, become unresponsive, or crash unexpectedly. This can affect navigation, audio, and climate control functions.
  • Solution: A software update may resolve the issue. If the problem persists, the head unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update - $0 (if available and performed under warranty) or $100-$200 (if performed outside of warranty), Head unit replacement: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery may drain quickly, especially if the vehicle is not driven frequently. This can result in difficulty starting the car.
  • Solution: Check for parasitic drains and repair any faulty circuits. Ensure the battery is in good condition and properly charged. In some cases, replacing the battery may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Battery replacement: $150 - $300, Parasitic drain diagnosis and repair: $100 - $500+ depending on the source of the drain.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Windshield Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported windshields cracking easily, often from small impacts.
  • Solution: Windshield Replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling in Dashboard/Door Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported rattles emanating from the dashboard or door panels, particularly on rough roads.
  • Solution: Identify the source of the rattle and secure any loose components. This may involve tightening screws, adding foam padding, or replacing worn clips.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ depending on the source and complexity of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Front seat not heating
  • Description/Symptoms: The heating function in the front seats has stopped working.
  • Solution: The heated seat element will need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Subaru Legacy, while generally a reliable vehicle, has some reported issues. The most concerning is the potential for CVT failure, which can be costly to repair. Excessive oil consumption in the base engine is another area to monitor. Electrical issues, such as infotainment system glitches and battery drain, are also relatively common. While some issues are minor annoyances (rattles), others can significantly impact the driving experience and reliability of the vehicle. The average repair cost for the identified issues ranges from relatively inexpensive fixes to potentially significant expenses, particularly if CVT replacement or major engine work is required.