2021 Subaru Legacy
2021 Subaru Legacy
Overview
The 2021 Subaru Legacy presents a generally reliable profile, building on Subaru’s reputation for dependable vehicles. This mid-size sedan offers a comfortable ride, standard all-wheel drive, and a choice of two capable boxer engines. While most owners report a positive experience, like any vehicle, there are specific areas where minor concerns have been noted. This analysis focuses on documented technical issues beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential areas of attention for owners and prospective buyers of the 2021 model year.
Engine
2.5L Boxer (FB25)
Oil Consumption
- Symptoms: Slightly higher than average oil consumption may be observed, particularly in newer vehicles. This often normalizes over time.
- Solution: Regular oil level checks and top-offs. Consult dealer if consumption is excessive or persistent.
- Cost: $0 - $50 (for oil)
2.4L Turbocharged Boxer (FA24)
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Transmission
CVT (Lineartronic)
Hesitation/Jerking
- Symptoms: Some drivers have reported occasional hesitation or slight jerking during acceleration or gear changes, particularly at low speeds.
- Solution: Software updates from the dealer can often resolve these issues. Regular fluid changes are recommended.
- Cost: $150 - $300 (for fluid service)
Suspension
Standard Chassis
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No Major Issues
- Solution: No Major Issues
- Cost: No Major Issues
Electrical
Infotainment System
Screen Freezing/Lag
- Symptoms: Occasional reports of the infotainment screen freezing, lagging, or becoming unresponsive. Bluetooth connectivity issues have also been noted.
- Solution: Software updates, system resets, or potential replacement of the head unit if persistent.
- Cost: $100 - $150 (for software update/diagnostic), $800 - $1500 (for head unit replacement)
Battery
Premature Failure
- Symptoms: A small number of owners have reported battery failures occurring earlier than expected.
- Solution: Battery replacement.
- Cost: $200 - $350
Exterior
Paint and Body
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Interior
Upholstery and Trim
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Summary Verdict
The 2021 Subaru Legacy is a solid choice for those seeking a reliable sedan with standard AWD. The powertrain, particularly the turbocharged engine, has shown good durability. The most frequently cited issues revolve around the infotainment system’s occasional glitches and some instances of early battery failure. While the CVT can sometimes exhibit minor hesitations, these are often addressable with software updates. Overall, the Legacy demonstrates good mechanical reliability, with most potential issues being minor electronic annoyances or common wear items that are not indicative of systemic flaws. Regular maintenance and addressing software updates promptly are key to ensuring a smooth ownership experience.