2021 Subaru Legacy Safety Report

The 2021 Subaru Legacy presents a generally strong safety profile, evidenced by its top-tier NHTSA 5-star overall safety rating, including 5 stars in frontal, side, and rollover crash tests. This indicates excellent performance in protecting occupants during various collision scenarios. However, a review of NHTSA complaint data and recall history reveals several areas of concern that potential buyers should be aware of. With 30 total complaints, the vehicle has experienced 1 reported injury, but no crashes, fires, or deaths, suggesting that while issues exist, they haven't frequently led to severe outcomes. Common complaint patterns highlight significant issues with the 'VISIBILITY/WIPER' category, primarily related to spontaneous windshield cracking, with multiple reports detailing cracks appearing without impact. The 'AIR BAGS' component also shows a notable number of complaints, largely driven by a critical recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V227000) concerning a faulty Occupant Detection System (ODS) sensor that could prevent airbag deployment. Owners have reported delays in obtaining remedies for this recall. Furthermore, 'POWER TRAIN' issues, specifically related to the CVT transmission, are a recurring theme, with complaints describing stuttering, loss of power, and violent shifts, sometimes at higher mileages. The vehicle has been subject to three recalls. The most critical is the airbag ODS sensor recall (24V227000), which directly impacts occupant protection. The other two recalls address 'POWER TRAIN' issues: one for an insufficient weld in the inhibitor switch (preventing reverse lights/camera) and another for a programming error in the Transmission Control Unit (TCU) that could lead to a loss of drive power. While the 2021 Legacy excels in crash test performance, the ongoing issues with windshield durability, airbag recall remedy availability, and transmission performance warrant careful consideration.

Our recommendation: While the 2021 Subaru Legacy boasts excellent crash test ratings, be aware of potential issues with spontaneous windshield cracking, the critical airbag recall (24V227000) and its remedy availability, and reported CVT transmission problems. Thoroughly check recall completion status and consider an extended warranty for powertrain components.