2017 Subaru Legacy Safety Report

The 2017 Subaru Legacy presents a mixed safety picture. While it boasts excellent crash test performance with 5-star ratings across all NHTSA categories (Overall, Frontal, Side, Rollover), indicating strong occupant protection in a collision, its complaint data reveals several concerning patterns. With 118 total complaints, including 10 crashes, 1 fire, and 6 injuries, there are notable issues that impact daily drivability and potentially safety. The most frequent complaints revolve around VISIBILITY/WIPER (30 complaints) and ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (25 complaints), with specific mentions of windshield cracking and persistent battery drain issues. Two recalls related to the STEERING COLUMN, affecting the knee guard bracket and potential loss of steering, highlight manufacturing defects that could increase crash risk, although these were for specific production batches. Common complaint patterns include repeated windshield cracking without impact, which could impair visibility, and a widespread issue with premature battery drainage, often leading to multiple battery replacements. Several complaints also detail instances of unintended acceleration or sudden lurching forward, even with the foot on the brake, which directly contributed to crashes and injuries. Other significant issues include hood latch failures at highway speeds, leading to sudden loss of forward visibility and extensive damage, and persistent problems with the key getting stuck in the ignition, which, while not directly a crash risk, is a significant operational inconvenience. The recall history for the 2017 Legacy specifically addresses steering column issues. One recall (NHTSA ID: 16V702000) concerned the knee guard bracket, which if not properly attached, could fail to restrain the driver in a crash if not wearing a seatbelt. The second recall (NHTSA ID: 16V394000) involved the steering column itself, where a manufacturing defect could lead to a loss of steering ability, significantly increasing the risk of a crash. These recalls, while important, do not address the more prevalent electrical, visibility, or unintended acceleration complaints seen in the general complaint data. The high crash test ratings provide reassurance for impact protection, but the recurring operational and component failures suggest potential safety compromises in non-collision scenarios.

Our recommendation: While the 2017 Subaru Legacy offers excellent crash protection, be aware of potential recurring electrical issues (battery drain) and windshield cracking; a pre-purchase inspection focusing on these areas and checking recall completion is advisable.