2021 Subaru Legacy: common problems and reliability
One of the better Legacy years.
31 owner complaints, most about air bags. 3 recalls.
Should I buy a 2021 Legacy?The 2021 Subaru Legacy has 31 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 3 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are air bags and electrical system.
Safety record for the 2021 model year
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2021 Subaru Legacy vehicles (US, public record).
The Year Score compares this year with other Legacy years only. How we score it
Is 2021 a good year for the Legacy?
Across the 30 Legacy model years we track, complaint volume runs from 10 (2023) to 184 (2005). With 31 complaints, the 2021 Legacy sits below the model's median of 90.
These are raw NHTSA complaint totals, not adjusted for how many cars sold or how long each model year has been on the road. Older and higher-selling years accumulate more complaints.
Where owners report problems
Recalls affecting the 2021 Legacy
power train:automatic transmission:control module (tcm/pcm/tecm)
Campaign 22V485000Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Outback and Legacy vehicles. A programming error in the Transmission Control Unit (TCU) may allow the clutch to engage before the drive chain is completely clamped.
power train:automatic transmission:park/neutral start interlock switch
Campaign 23V755000Subaru of America, Inc. is recalling certain model year 2021 Crosstrek, 2022 Forester, 2021-2023 Legacy, and Outback vehicles. An insufficient weld may allow water to enter the inhibitor switch, causing it to fail.
air bags:sensor:occupant classification:front passenger
Campaign 24V227000Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Outback and Legacy vehicles. A capacitor in the sensors for the Occupant Detection System (ODS) may crack and short circuit, which can prevent the front passenger air bag from deploying in a crash.
What owners say across generations
Mixed sentiment with a strong generational divide.
Owner insights cover all generations of the Legacy. See the full Legacy owner picture and every model year.
Typical used price
Used Legacy listings typically run $11,500–$22,749 across 2003 to 2025 model years.
Other Legacy model years
Compare every Legacy year side by side to see how 2021 ranks against the rest.
Compare the Legacy against its rivals
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