1996 SUBARU LEGACY
4 recalls, 161 complaints - 36 TSBs
01V216000 Jun 25, 2001
SUSPENSION:FRONT:SPRINGS:COIL SPRINGS
Defect Description
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH FRONT COIL SPRINGS ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, KENTUCKY, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW YORK, NEW JERSEY, NEW HAMPSHIRE, OHIO, PE... Read more
Consequence
DEPENDING ON THE LOCATION OF THE FRACTURE, A BROKEN SPRING COULD MOVE PAST THE SPRING SEAT AND CONTACT A FRONT TIRE. SOME TIRES HAVE DEFLATED DUE TO CONTACT WITH A BROKEN SPRING.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL NOTIFIY CUSTOMERS TO BRING THEIR VEHICLE TO AN AUTHORIZE DEALERSHIP TO HAVE A SPRING GUARD INSTALLED ON BOTH FRONT STRUTS TO PREVENT TIRE PUNCTURE AND REPLACE ANY BROKEN SPRINGS FREE OF CHARGE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN SEPTEMBER 18, 2001. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZE... Read more
00I002000 May 15, 2000
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR
Defect Description
THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SAFETY ACT. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. SOME OF THESE VEHICLES HAVE AN ALTERNATOR PROBLEM THAT CAN RESULT IN A LOSS OF CHARGING CAPABILITY.
Consequence
IF THE ALTERNATOR FAILS, THE ALTERNATOR WARNING TELLTALE WILL ALERT THE DRIVER TO THE PROBLEM, GIVING AMPLE OPPORTUNITY TO SEEK REPAIR BEFORE A LOSS OF BATTERY POWER, WHICH, IF THE WARNING WERE IGNORED, COULD ULTIMATELY RESULT IN A LOSS OF VEHICLE POWER (ENGINE STALL).
Remedy
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE ALTERNATOR WITH A MODIFIED ALTERNATOR. OWNERS WILL ALSO BE CAUTIONED THAT, SHOULD THE ALTERNATOR TELLTALE WARNING LAMP ILLUMINATE, THEY MUST SEEK IMMEDIATE REPAIR TO AVOID THE EVENTUAL LOSS OF ELECTRICAL POWER, WHICH COULD RESULT IN AN ENGINE STALL.
98V315000 Dec 11, 1998
AIR BAGS
Defect Description
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. INADVERTENT AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT CAN OCCUR AFTER UNDERCARRIAGE CONTACT OF THE TOW HOOKS WITH CURBS, DIPS, SPEEDBUMPS, POTHOLES, ETC.
Consequence
UNEXPECTED AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT COULD RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL REMOVE THE FRONT TOW HOOKS.
98V091000 May 4, 1998
SUSPENSION:FRONT:SPRINGS:LEAF SPRING ASSEMBLY:HANGER,BRACKET
Defect Description
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER STATION WAGON, SEDAN AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. DUE TO IMPROPER WELDING, FRACTURES CAN OCCUR ON THE SUPPORT BRACKET OF THE FRONT TRANSVERSE LINK.
Consequence
SUCH FRACTURES CAN RESULT IN PARTIAL OR COMPLETE SEPARATION OF THE BRACKET CAUSING A FAILURE OF THE LOWER SUSPENSION MOUNTING, LEADING TO A LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND REPLACE IF NECESSARY THE FRONT SUSPENSION SUPPORT BRACKETS.
Complaint Statistics
161 total complaints
32 crashes 4 fires 18 injuries
Top Reported Components
| Component | Complaints |
|---|---|
| AIR BAGS:FRONTAL | 20 |
| SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP | 14 |
| ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE | 11 |
| UNKNOWN OR OTHER | 7 |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR | 7 |
| ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE | 7 |
| VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL | 6 |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION | 5 |
| SUSPENSION:FRONT:SPRINGS:COIL SPRINGS | 5 |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY | 4 |
POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DIFFERENTIAL UNIT
Mar 6, 2012
Incident date: Mar 2, 2012
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 SUBARU LEGACY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH, THERE WAS A LOUD NOISE COMING FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT THEN NOTICED THAT THERE WAS SMOKE AND FLAMES COMING FROM THE REAR END OF THE VEHICLE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CONTACTED AND A FIRE REPORT ... Read more
Fire
AIR BAGS
Oct 20, 2011
Incident date: Oct 15, 2011
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 SUBARU LEGACY. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING 5 MPH WHEN ANOTHER VEHICLE CRASHED INTO HIS BUMPER AND THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. THERE WERE NO PHYSICAL DAMAGES TO THE VEHICLE AND THERE WERE NO INJURIES REPORTED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED OF THE INCIDENT. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A LO... Read more
Crash
POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE
Sep 22, 2010
Incident date: Sep 16, 2010
MY DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING HER 96 SUBARU LEGACY THE OTHER DAY TO THE STORE WHEN SHE WAS ALERTED BY ANOTHER DRIVER THAT HER CAR WAS ON FIRE. LUCKILY THEY HAD A FIRE EXTINGUISHER AND WAS ABLE TO PUT IT OUT. BEECHMONT SUBARU SAID THIS WAS THE FIRST TIME THEY EVER SAW A REAR DIFFERENTIAL CATCH ON FIRE. I... Read more
Fire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Aug 7, 2010
Incident date: Aug 5, 2010
1996 SUBURU LEGACY SHUTS DOWN ALL ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. PURCHASED IN UTAH DROVE TO DENVER AREA. WENT TO DMV TO REGISTER THEN CAR QUIT. RESTS A WHILE THEN STARTS. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
Jul 9, 2007
Incident date: Jun 24, 2007
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 SUBARU LEGACY. THE VEHICLE FAILED TO START AND WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER. THE DEALER ATTRIBUTED THE CAUSE OF FAILURE TO THE WIRES INSIDE THE FUEL TANK BEING BURNT BECAUSE THE INTERNAL CONNECTOR HAD LOOSE TERMINALS. THE FUEL PUMP MODULE WAS REPLACED. THE CURRENT MILEAGE I... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:FILLER PIPE AND CAP
May 2, 2007
Incident date: May 2, 2007
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 SUBARU LEGACY. WHILE FILLING THE GAS TANK THE CONTACT NOTICED A PUDDLE OF GAS FORMING UNDER THE VEHICLE. THE FILLER PIPE RUSTED THROUGH AND CAUSED THIN HOLES. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 110,000.*AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:FILLER PIPE AND CAP
Aug 16, 2006
Incident date: Aug 9, 2006
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED AN ODOR OF FUEL WAS DETECTED AND A PUDDLE BEGAN TO FORM ON THE GROUND WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALERSHIP AND THE FUEL FILLER TUBE WAS REPLACED. UPDATED 9/5/2006 - *NM
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Oct 18, 2005
Incident date: Oct 9, 2005
DT: CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE PULLING INTO THE GARAGE VEHICLE ACCELERATED WITHOUT WARNING AND HIT THE REAR OF THE GARAGE AND DID DAMAGE TO THE BUILDING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOTALED. DEALER SAID THEY NEVER HEARD OF THIS PROBLEM. MANUFACTURER HAS NOT BEEN CONTACTED YET. *AK UPDATED 11/16/2005 - *NM
Crash
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:STORAGE:FUEL GAUGE SYSTEM
Sep 15, 2005
Incident date: Aug 15, 2005
DT: THE CALLER SAYS HIS GAS GAUGE WILL SHOW EMPTY WHEN IT GETS DOWN TO HALF A TANK. HE STATES THAT IT DOES NOT HAPPEN ALL THE TIME. IT HAS BEEN HAPPENING FOR A MONTH. DEALER AND MANUFACTURER HAVE NOT BEEN CONTACTED YET.*AK THE CONSUMER DID CONTACT THE MANUFACTURER AND WAS TOLD TO TAKE THE VEHICLE ... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
Aug 21, 2005
Incident date: Jul 21, 2005
STONE GAURD PROTECTING FUEL FILLER PIPE CAUSED DIRT TO BE TRAPPED BLOCKING DRAIN AND WATER TO ACCUMULATE AGAINST FILLER PIPE. RUSTED FILLER PIPE CAUSING LEAKING.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
Jul 22, 2005
Incident date: Jun 28, 1999
REQUEST FOR REIMBURSEMENT REGARDING THE REPAIR OF THE 1996 SUBARU LEGACY DRIVER'S SIDE FRONT SPRING.*MR DURING A ROUTINE INSPECTION, IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT THE SPRING ON THE LEFT FRONT OF THE CONSUMERS VEHICLE HAD FAILED FOR THE SECOND TIME. WHEN THE ORIGINAL SPRING FAILED THE FIRST TIME, IT CAUSE... Read more
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
Jul 22, 2005
Incident date: Jun 28, 1999
REQUEST FOR REIMBURSEMENT REGARDING THE REPAIR OF THE 1996 SUBARU LEGACY DRIVER'S SIDE FRONT SPRING.*MR DURING A ROUTINE INSPECTION, IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT THE SPRING ON THE LEFT FRONT OF THE CONSUMERS VEHICLE HAD FAILED FOR THE SECOND TIME. WHEN THE ORIGINAL SPRING FAILED THE FIRST TIME, IT CAUSE... Read more
SUSPENSION:FRONT:SPRINGS:COIL SPRINGS
Jul 22, 2005
Incident date: Jun 28, 1999
REQUEST FOR REIMBURSEMENT REGARDING THE REPAIR OF THE 1996 SUBARU LEGACY DRIVER'S SIDE FRONT SPRING.*MR DURING A ROUTINE INSPECTION, IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT THE SPRING ON THE LEFT FRONT OF THE CONSUMERS VEHICLE HAD FAILED FOR THE SECOND TIME. WHEN THE ORIGINAL SPRING FAILED THE FIRST TIME, IT CAUSE... Read more
AIR BAGS
Jul 13, 2005
Incident date: Jun 14, 2005
MY 1996 SUBARU OUTBACK EXPERIENCED AN AIR BAG MALFUNCTION ON 6/14/2005. WHILE DRIVING DOWN OUR LOCAL HIGHWAY AT 55 MPH THE VEHICLE'S AIR BAG SUDDENLY DEPLOYED. THE SUDDEN DEPLOYMENT CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO STALL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER BUT DUE TO THE MILEAGE ON THE VEHICLE THEY REFUSED... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:FILLER PIPE AND CAP
Jun 29, 2005
Incident date: Jun 29, 2005
DT: THE FILLER PIPE ON FUEL TANK ROTTED OUT AND LEAKED FUEL ALL OVER THE PLACE. DEALER SAID IT WAS NOT A SAFETY DEFECT AND NO RECALL WAS NOTED.
SUSPENSION:FRONT:SPRINGS:COIL SPRINGS
Jun 17, 2005
Incident date: Jun 17, 1996
TODAY, 06/17/05, DURING A ROUTINE NYS SAFETY INSPECTION, IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT THE SPRING ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE FRONT OF MY 1996 SUBARU LEGACY FAILED FOR A SECOND TIME. IN 1999 THE ORIGINAL SPRING SNAPPED CAUSING DAMAGE TO BOTH THE TIRE AND THE SPARE. AT THAT TIME THE SPRING WAS REPALCED.I CONTACTED... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER
Sep 8, 2004
Incident date: Aug 17, 2004
THE VEHICLE WAS SLOWLY MOVING INTO DRIVEWAY AND THE BRAKES WERE APPLIED AND FAILED TO STOP THE VEHICLE AND HIT THE HOUSE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED. THE CONSUMER WAS INFORMED BY DEALERSHIP THAT THE MASTER CYLINDER FAILED. THE MASTER CYLINDER NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. *AK THE CONSUMER STATED THAT TH... Read more
Crash
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY
Aug 17, 2004
Incident date: Aug 12, 2004
WHILE DRIVING THE BATTERY WARNING LIGHT CAME ON FOLLOWED BY ENGINE STALLING. VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A SERVICE STATION , WHO INDICATED THAT THIS OCCURRED BECAUSE OF ALTERNATOR FAILURE. THE ALTERNATOR AND BATTERY WERE REPLACED. THE FAILURE RECURRED. AN ALTERNATOR RECALL 00I002000 WAS ISSUED, BUT THIS... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR
Aug 17, 2004
Incident date: Aug 12, 2004
WHILE DRIVING THE BATTERY WARNING LIGHT CAME ON FOLLOWED BY ENGINE STALLING. VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A SERVICE STATION , WHO INDICATED THAT THIS OCCURRED BECAUSE OF ALTERNATOR FAILURE. THE ALTERNATOR AND BATTERY WERE REPLACED. THE FAILURE RECURRED. AN ALTERNATOR RECALL 00I002000 WAS ISSUED, BUT THIS... Read more
SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER
Aug 9, 2004
Incident date: Jul 28, 2004
MY DAUGHTER SPUN HER 1996 SUBARU LEGACY WAGON WHILE TRYING TO MISS A DEER AT ABOUT 45 MPH. SHE HIT A TREE GOING BACKWARDS. IN THE COLLISION THE SEAT BACK BROKE ON THE DRIVERS SEAT. THIS CAUSED HER TO HIT HER HEAD AND NECK AND SHE SUFFERED A BROKEN NECK. THE SEAT BACK SHOULD NOT HAVE BROKEN IN A REA... Read more
Crash
1 injured
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HOOD:LATCH
Jul 29, 2004
Incident date: Feb 12, 2004
WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH THE HOOD FLEW OPEN, SHATTERING THE FRONT WINDSHIELD. DEALERSHIP WAS NOTIFIED, BUT DID NOT RESOLVE THE PROBLEM. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Jan 4, 2004
Incident date: Jan 2, 2004
1996 SUBARU LEGACY, BRIGHTON MODEL SW 65,000 MILES I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE NEW. I HAVE HAD PLUGS AND WIRES REPLACED SEVERAL TIMES IN THE PAST YEAR. THIS LAST TIME ONE PLUG WIRE AND PLUG WAS BAD. THE PROBLEM I WAS HAVING WAS WHEN ACCELERATING AT HIGH SPEEDS THERE WAS A MISS OR HESITATION IN THE E... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Dec 22, 2003
WHILE TRAVELING AT 35 MPH HEAD GASKET BLEW OUT, DRIVER LOST POWER STEERING, AND ENGINE DIED. VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A MECHANIC, WHO INDICATED THAT ENGINE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED ALONG WITH SOME OTHER COMPONENTS. *AK
SUSPENSION:FRONT:SPRINGS:COIL SPRINGS
Jul 11, 2003
Incident date: Jul 11, 2003
CONSUMER MADE AN APPOINTMENT WITH THE DEALER ABOUT TWO WEEKS AGO FOR RECALL 01V216000 REPAIRS REGARDING FRONT COIL SPRINGS. THE CONSUMER HAD TAKEN THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER ON 7/11/2003, AND THE DEALER STATED NO PARTS WERE AVAILABLE, AND THERE WAS NOTHING THEY COULD DO TO FURTHER ASSIST THEM. *... Read more
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Jul 7, 2003
Incident date: Jul 7, 2003
1996 SUBARU LEGACY - AUTO TRANS. CAR BINDS ON SLOW TURNS. SUBARU TECH. STATES THAT VEHICLE NEEDS ABOUT $1000 IN REPAIR TO THE AWD SYSTEM, THIS INCLUDES TRANSFER CLUTCHES, HOUSING, ETC. ONLY 44,000 MILES ON VEHICLE! TECH STATED THAT HE HAS NEVER SEEN THIS PROBLEM ON A VEHICLE WITH SUCH LOW MILEAG... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM
Jun 30, 2003
Incident date: Sep 2, 2002
I HAVE A 1996 SUBARU LEGACY L WITH AN INTERMITTENT ENGINE MISS WITH A P0304 (MISS IN CYLINDER 4) CODE. MOST OF THE TIME IT RUNS FINE BUT WHEN IT MISSES, IT IS VERY VIOLENT. IT SEEMS TO RESONATE. CHANGING SPEED USUALLY MAKES IT GO AWAY. WHEN IT FIRST STARTED, IT ONLY OCCURRED ONCE A MONTH. OVER THE P... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CRANKCASE (PCV)
Jun 30, 2003
Incident date: Sep 2, 2002
I HAVE A 1996 SUBARU LEGACY L WITH AN INTERMITTENT ENGINE MISS WITH A P0304 (MISS IN CYLINDER 4) CODE. MOST OF THE TIME IT RUNS FINE BUT WHEN IT MISSES, IT IS VERY VIOLENT. IT SEEMS TO RESONATE. CHANGING SPEED USUALLY MAKES IT GO AWAY. WHEN IT FIRST STARTED, IT ONLY OCCURRED ONCE A MONTH. OVER THE P... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Jun 30, 2003
Incident date: Sep 2, 2002
I HAVE A 1996 SUBARU LEGACY L WITH AN INTERMITTENT ENGINE MISS WITH A P0304 (MISS IN CYLINDER 4) CODE. MOST OF THE TIME IT RUNS FINE BUT WHEN IT MISSES, IT IS VERY VIOLENT. IT SEEMS TO RESONATE. CHANGING SPEED USUALLY MAKES IT GO AWAY. WHEN IT FIRST STARTED, IT ONLY OCCURRED ONCE A MONTH. OVER THE P... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Jun 30, 2003
Incident date: Sep 2, 2002
I HAVE A 1996 SUBARU LEGACY L WITH AN INTERMITTENT ENGINE MISS WITH A P0304 (MISS IN CYLINDER 4) CODE. MOST OF THE TIME IT RUNS FINE BUT WHEN IT MISSES, IT IS VERY VIOLENT. IT SEEMS TO RESONATE. CHANGING SPEED USUALLY MAKES IT GO AWAY. WHEN IT FIRST STARTED, IT ONLY OCCURRED ONCE A MONTH. OVER THE P... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:FILLER PIPE AND CAP
Jun 30, 2003
Incident date: Sep 2, 2002
I HAVE A 1996 SUBARU LEGACY L WITH AN INTERMITTENT ENGINE MISS WITH A P0304 (MISS IN CYLINDER 4) CODE. MOST OF THE TIME IT RUNS FINE BUT WHEN IT MISSES, IT IS VERY VIOLENT. IT SEEMS TO RESONATE. CHANGING SPEED USUALLY MAKES IT GO AWAY. WHEN IT FIRST STARTED, IT ONLY OCCURRED ONCE A MONTH. OVER THE P... Read more
POWER TRAIN:TRANSFER CASE (4-WHEEL DRIVE)
Jun 26, 2003
WHILE TRAVELING AT 10 MPH THROUGH THE SNOW VEHICLE GOT STUCK IN THE SNOW. VEHICLE WAS SUPPOSE TO BE EQUIPPED WITH ALL WHEEL DRIVE, BUT DIDN'T PERFORM LIKE IT.*AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Jun 26, 2003
CONSUMER STATES THAT THE VEHICLE LURCHES FOWARD UNEXPECTEDLY. CAUSE UNKNOWN. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION.**AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
Jun 7, 2003
Incident date: Mar 15, 2003
AFTER A PROLONGED PERIOD OF SMELLING BURNING OIL, A MECHANIC FOUND DEFECTIVE SEALS ON THE CRANKSHAFT PULLEY AND ELSEWHERE. THIS HAS NOW HAPPENED THREE TIMES. THE DETAILS ARE ESSENTIALLY IDENTICAL TO THOSE DESCRIBED IN COMPLAINT ODI ID#855347. IN TWO CASES, THIS HAS RESULTED IN FOULED TIMING BELTS, W... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
May 16, 2003
Incident date: Apr 7, 2003
SUBARU 1996 ENGINE DEFECT IN WHICH EXHAUST VALVE GUIDES PREMATURELY FAIL AROUND 70-90000 MILES, FALLING INTO THE ENGINE AREA AND CAUSING MISFIRING AND OTHER ENGINE DAMAGE. *NLM
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR
May 7, 2003
WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE SHUT DOWN. THE DEALER INDICATED THAT THE ALTERNATOR WAS BAD AND STATED THAT IT WAS RECALLED FOR LEGACY MODELS BUT NOT GT LEGACY MODELS. *NLM
PARKING BRAKE
May 6, 2003
Incident date: Jul 16, 2002
CAR WAS PARKED, WITH EMERGENCY BRAKE ON AND IN GEAR ON A HILL. OWNER HEARD A SHARP METALLIC NOISE AFTER CAR HAD BEEN PARKED FOR 10 MIN. AND SAW CAR BEGIN ROLLING DOWNHILL FROM THE PARKED POSITION, PICKED UP SPEED AND CRASHED. NO ONE WAS IN THE VEHICLE, AND WHEN THE CRASH WAS OVER IT WAS FOUND WITH E... Read more
Crash
TIRES:TREAD/BELT
Aug 30, 2002
Incident date: Aug 18, 2002
WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED AND NO WARNING TIRE TREAD IS STARTING TO SEPARATE ON FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE AND PASSENGER'S SIDE. IT COULD CAUSE A FUTURE BLOW OUT. DEALER NOTIFIED. PLEASE PROVIDE THE SIZE AND DOT#.*AK
POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY
Aug 6, 2002
NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOVE VEHICLE. *AK
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
Jun 2, 2002
Incident date: Jun 1, 2002
VEHICLE WAS REAR ENDED AND FORCE INTO THE BACK OF A PICK UP AND NEITHER BAG BAGS DEPLOYED. FEEL FREE TO PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:INTERIOR/UNDER DASH
May 31, 2002
Incident date: May 22, 2002
WHILE DRIVING 65MPH, WARNING INDICATOR LIGHT ON DASHBOARD ILLUMINATED AND WINDSHIELD WIPERS CAME ON. WHEN VEHICLE WAS PULLED OVER SMOKE CAME FROM UNDER DASHBOARD. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM WAS BURNED; 90 PERCENT OF DASHLIGHTS, HEADLIGHTS, COMPUTERS, ETC, WAS AFFECTED. DEALER WAS NOTIFIED. *AK CONSUMER ... Read more
Fire
SUSPENSION:FRONT:SPRINGS:COIL SPRINGS
May 14, 2002
Incident date: Jun 18, 2001
CONSUMER RECEIVED RECALL 01V216 AND HAD RECALL WORK DONE AND IS NOW REQUESTING REIMBURSEMENT. *SLC
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR
Apr 25, 2002
Incident date: Apr 13, 2002
WHILE DRIVING ENGINE STALLED, LOST ALL POWER.BATTERY ACID WAS LEAKING FROM BATTERY CAP. ALTERNATOR FAILED WHICH MELTED FUSE BOX. BATTERY LOST ALL CHARGING CAPACITY. DEALER CONTACTED. OVER A $1000.00 IN REPAIRS. *AK *CB
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY
Apr 25, 2002
Incident date: Apr 13, 2002
WHILE DRIVING ENGINE STALLED, LOST ALL POWER.BATTERY ACID WAS LEAKING FROM BATTERY CAP. ALTERNATOR FAILED WHICH MELTED FUSE BOX. BATTERY LOST ALL CHARGING CAPACITY. DEALER CONTACTED. OVER A $1000.00 IN REPAIRS. *AK *CB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
Apr 25, 2002
Incident date: Apr 13, 2002
WHILE DRIVING ENGINE STALLED, LOST ALL POWER.BATTERY ACID WAS LEAKING FROM BATTERY CAP. ALTERNATOR FAILED WHICH MELTED FUSE BOX. BATTERY LOST ALL CHARGING CAPACITY. DEALER CONTACTED. OVER A $1000.00 IN REPAIRS. *AK *CB
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
Mar 8, 2002
Incident date: Dec 11, 2000
CAR WOULDN'T START AFTER WARM. TOOK 6 TIMES TO GET IT CORRECTED. ALSO, HAS HAD THREE OIL LEAKS IN 6 YEARS. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
Mar 8, 2002
Incident date: Dec 11, 2000
CAR WOULDN'T START AFTER WARM. TOOK 6 TIMES TO GET IT CORRECTED. ALSO, HAS HAD THREE OIL LEAKS IN 6 YEARS. *AK
POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION
Nov 29, 2001
Incident date: Aug 10, 1998
WHEN THE REAR CLUTCH PACK FAILS THE REAR OF CAR BINDS AND ON SLIPPERY ROADS THE CAR'S BACK END WILL LOCK UP UPON LETTING OFF THE GAS. THE REAR END SWINGS AROUND AND CAUSES THE CAR TO SPIN OUT OF CONTROL. ORIGINAL REPAIR WAS DONE AT 35000 MILES THE SAME PIECE HAS FAILED AGAIN AT 67000 MILES. EACH TRA... Read more
SUSPENSION:FRONT:SPRINGS:COIL SPRINGS
Nov 13, 2001
Incident date: Jun 18, 2001
CONSUMER RECEIVED RECALL 01V216 AND HAD RECALL WORK DONE AND IS NOW REQUESTING REIMBURSEMENT. *SLC
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Nov 6, 2001
Incident date: Aug 28, 1998
FRONT CRANK SEAL IS LEAKING OIL ONTO EXHAUST SYSTEM. *AK THE SEAL THAT SEPARATES THE BLOCK FROM THE OIL PUMP HAS FAILED SEVERAL TIMES, EACH TIME, A CLOUD OF SMOKE RISES FROM THE EXHAUST AS THE OIL IS SPRAYED BACK ONTO IT, ON ONE OCCASION THE SEAL COMPLETELY DUMPED SEVERAL QUARTS OF OIL ONTO THE GR... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Nov 6, 2001
Incident date: May 1, 2001
THE FRONT CRANK SEAL STARTED LEAKING FOR THE SECOND TIME AT APPROXIMATELY 102,000 MILES. THE ORIGINAL SEAL STARTING LEAKING AT APPROXIMATELY 44,000 MILES AND WAS REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY AT 59,195 MILES. HEAVY SMOKE AND A STRONG BURNING ODOR IS EMITTED FROM THE SIDES AND FRONT OF THE ENGINE AREA. ... Read more
Showing 50 of 161 complaints.
EPA Fuel Economy, 1996 SUBARU LEGACY
| Trim / Engine | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG | Fuel Type | Annual Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.2L 4-cyl, Automatic 4-spd (Front-Wheel Drive) | 21.0 | 29.0 | 24.0 | Regular | $2,600 |
| 2.2L 4-cyl, Manual 5-spd (Front-Wheel Drive) | 21.0 | 30.0 | 25.0 | Regular | $2,500 |
CO2 Emissions: -1.0 g/mile (Compact Cars)
Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Actual fuel economy may vary based on driving conditions.
Technical Service Bulletins, 1996 SUBARU LEGACY
36 manufacturer communications from 29 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.
Most Affected Components
| Component | Bulletins |
|---|---|
| 350000 EQUIPMENT | 10 |
| 020000 SUSPENSION | 3 |
| 110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | 3 |
| 021600 SUSPENSION:FRONT:WHEEL BEARING | 2 |
| 112000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR | 2 |
| 121000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS | 2 |
| 102000 POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION | 2 |
| 354300 EQUIPMENT:MECHANICAL:CARRIER/RACK | 1 |
12-249-23R
Jul 11, 2023
350000 EQUIPMENT
This bulletin announces the recommended cleaning procedures to followed when encountering vehicles with long time exposure to pollen on painted surfaces on vehicles imported from Japan. This bulletin does not apply to SIA built vehicles.
01-167-08R
Aug 23, 2022
350000 EQUIPMENT
This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models.
15-302-22
Aug 23, 2022
350000 EQUIPMENT
This bulletin contains illustrations of exchange components and their manufacturer as well as a description of the proper exchange procedure.
15-302-22
Aug 23, 2022
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
This bulletin contains illustrations of exchange components and their manufacturer as well as a description of the proper exchange procedure.
15-192-22R
Mar 18, 2022
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
This bulletin has been developed to outline the steps for gathering basic essential information during diagnosis and repair of the Infotainment concerns. (Applicable to all models with Harman or Denso CP1 Infotainment).
01-167-08R
Jun 17, 2021
350000 EQUIPMENT
This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models
01-167-08R
Jun 17, 2021
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models
09-51-08R
Jun 7, 2021
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
This bulletin is to advise of SOAa??s revised catalytic converter recycling program shipping procedure.
09-51-08R
Jun 7, 2021
350000 EQUIPMENT
This bulletin is to advise of SOAa??s revised catalytic converter recycling program shipping procedure.
14-22-16R
Feb 1, 2021
350000 EQUIPMENT
To help reduce confusion and increase technician efficiency, Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) has developed the following cross reference list to help locate the appropriate Special Service Tool.
14-22-16R
Aug 4, 2020
350000 EQUIPMENT
Special Service Tools Cross Reference List.
01-181-20
Apr 30, 2020
350000 EQUIPMENT
All Models (Vehicle Cleaning- COVID-19Best Practices)
06-68-19R
Jul 11, 2019
030000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
This Service Information bulletin announces instruction for application of additional lubrication between the brake caliper support and pad clips. This will prevent the pad from dragging due to corrosion buildup which may result in uneven o
Subaru Tech Tips
May 21, 2019
350000 EQUIPMENT
Subaru Service and Technical Support Line Newletter.
14-22-16R
May 6, 2019
350000 EQUIPMENT
To help reduce confusion and increase technician efficiency, Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) has developed the following cross reference list to help locate the appropriate Special Service Tool.
SB-05-50-10R
Feb 3, 2011
190000 TIRES
SUBARU: THERE IS A STEERING WHEEL VIBRATION AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS DUE TO AN IMPORPER WHEEL BALANCE. *RM
07
Jul 1, 2007
121000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
HEADLIGHT BULB SOCKET REPAIRS. *KB
02
Feb 1, 2006
061110 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:BELTS AND ASSOCIATED PULLEYS
RUBBING MARK ON TIMING BELT. SUBARU. *TT
170601
Apr 20, 2005
151400 SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
INFORMATION REGARDING SEAT BELT LATCH SLIDES TO THE LOWER SEAT BELT ANCHOR. *YH UPDATED *EH
035203
May 19, 2003
101000 POWER TRAIN:CLUTCH ASSEMBLY
CLUTCH PEDAL STICKING. *TT
035002
Dec 23, 2002
021600 SUSPENSION:FRONT:WHEEL BEARING
NEW PROCEDURE FOR REPLACING REAR WHEEL BEARINGS. *TT
17
Jan 1, 2002
102000 POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION
SUBJECT REGARDING SHIFTER RATTLE. *JG
010102
Jan 1, 2002
020000 SUSPENSION
INFORMATION REGARDING FRONT SPRING GUARD BULLETIN UPDATE. *YD
040901
Aug 15, 2001
010000 STEERING
SUBJECT ON REGARDING STEERING KNOCKING/RATTLE NOISE WHEN TURNING. *ET
WXW81
Oct 15, 2000
112000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR
SOME VEHICLES MAY EXPERIENCE A LOSS OF ALTERNATOR CHARGING DUE TO A BROKEN BRUSH WIRE. *TT
034899
Jul 14, 1999
102000 POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION
VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH MANUAL TRANSMISSIONS MAY EXHIBIT FIRST GEAR POPPING OUT WHILE DRIVING. *TT
130499
Apr 13, 1999
354600 EQUIPMENT:MECHANICAL:WRECKER AND WHEEL LIFT DEVICES
SUBJECT REGARDING FRONT TOW-HOOK REMOVAL CAMPAIGN. *TT
010898
Aug 1, 1998
105000 POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE
INFORMATION ON INSTALLING REAR DIFFERENTIAL PROTECTOR . *TT
WXK68
Jun 29, 1998
020000 SUSPENSION
PROCEDURES ON TRANSVERSE LINK ASSEMBLIES. *YC
WXK68
Jun 29, 1998
020000 SUSPENSION
SUBJECT ON TRANSVERSE LINK ASSEMBLIES. *YC
010398
Mar 1, 1998
121000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
SOME VEHICLES EXPERIENCE MOISTURE ACCUMULATION IN THE HEADLIGHTS. *YC
971006WXF63
Oct 6, 1997
112000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR
VEHICLES MAY EXPERIENCE LOSS OF VOLTAGE REGULATION FROM THE ALTERNATOR DUE TO INSUFFICIENT WIRING CONTACT TO THE ALTERNATOR IC REGULATOR. *YC
08-06097
Aug 6, 1997
036000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP
SERVICE MANUAL SUPPLEMENT VOLUME 7 FOR THE ABS 5.3I SYSTEM. *TT
SUB199701
Feb 1, 1997
021600 SUSPENSION:FRONT:WHEEL BEARING
1995-97 LEGACY REAR WHEEL BEARING/SEAL NOISE. *JD
0114195
Nov 1, 1995
354300 EQUIPMENT:MECHANICAL:CARRIER/RACK
CROSSBAR KIT INSTALLATION. *SD
159995
Nov 1, 1995
162200 STRUCTURE:BODY:BUMPERS
ACCESSORY PROTECTIVE BUMPER COVER ADHESION. *SD
NHTSA Safety Investigations, SUBARU LEGACY
Investigations opened by NHTSA into potential safety defects. These are separate from recalls and may or may not result in a recall.
PE99067
Opened: Nov 1, 1999 , Closed: May 31, 2000
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
ODI HAS RECEIVED 5,820 COMPLAINTS CONCERNING A VARIETY OF ELECTRICAL SYSTEM FAILURES THAT RESULT IN THE VEHICLE STALLING.OUR COMPLAINT ANALYSIS INDICATES THAT THE MAJORITY OF THESE COMPAINTS ARE CAUSED BY ALTERNATOR FAILURE.IN SOME INSTANCES, THE VEHICLE IS COMPLETELY DEAD AND WILL NOT RESTART.BASED... Read more
PE91039
Opened: Jan 23, 1991 , Closed: May 30, 1991
REVERSE DELAYED ENGAGEMENT
There is no summary currently available
SUBARU LEGACY - All Years Overview
Complete safety history for the SUBARU LEGACY across all model years (1990, 2023).
219
Total Recalls
4,163
Total Complaints
2
Investigations
381
Reported Crashes
79
Reported Fires
6
Reported Deaths
SUBARU LEGACY - Year by Year
Compare recalls and complaints across model years. Click any year to see full details.
| Year | Recalls | Complaints | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 0 | 10 | View |
| 2024 | 0 | 26 | View |
| 2023 | 2 | 12 | View |
| 2022 | 2 | 42 | View |
| 2021 | 3 | 43 | View |
| 2020 | 6 | 143 | View |
| 2019 | 3 | 142 | View |
| 2018 | 3 | 162 | View |
| 2017 | 2 | 140 | View |
| 2016 | 3 | 192 | View |
| 2015 | 3 | 232 | View |
| 2014 | 10 | 73 | View |
| 2013 | 12 | 84 | View |
| 2012 | 16 | 119 | View |
| 2011 | 16 | 236 | View |
| 2010 | 18 | 218 | View |
| 2009 | 13 | 75 | View |
| 2008 | 9 | 83 | View |
| 2007 | 9 | 45 | View |
| 2006 | 7 | 135 | View |
| 2005 | 9 | 248 | View |
| 2004 | 11 | 55 | View |
| 2003 | 15 | 69 | View |
| 2002 | 5 | 71 | View |
| 2001 | 8 | 90 | View |
| 2000 | 4 | 119 | View |
| 1999 | 3 | 119 | View |
| 1998 | 5 | 155 | View |
| 1997 | 6 | 179 | View |
| 1996 (current) | 4 | 161 | |
| 1995 | 2 | 230 | View |
| 1994 | 0 | 67 | View |
| 1993 | 1 | 90 | View |
| 1992 | 2 | 66 | View |
| 1991 | 3 | 121 | View |
| 1990 | 4 | 103 | View |
| 1989 | 0 | 1 | View |
| 1988 | 0 | 1 | View |
| 1987 | 0 | 1 | View |