2022 Subaru Legacy Safety Report

The 2022 Subaru Legacy presents a mixed safety picture. While it boasts an excellent crash test performance, achieving a perfect 5-star overall rating from NHTSA, including 5 stars in Frontal, Side, and Rollover tests, there are notable concerns regarding component reliability and potential safety system malfunctions. The vehicle has accumulated 30 total complaints, with 1 reported crash and 1 fire, but no reported injuries or deaths. A significant portion of these complaints, 13 out of 30, are related to 'VISIBILITY/WIPER' issues, primarily concerning easily cracking or spontaneously cracking windshields, which can obstruct driver vision and impact the EyeSight camera system. Recall history for the 2022 Legacy includes two significant safety-related recalls. One recall addresses a potential defect in the Occupant Detection System (ODS) sensors, where a capacitor may crack and short circuit, leading to an air bag that might not deploy in a crash, increasing injury risk. The second recall pertains to an insufficient weld in the inhibitor switch of the automatic transmission, which could allow water intrusion, potentially preventing reverse lights from illuminating and the rearview camera from displaying, thereby increasing collision risk. These recalls highlight manufacturing defects that could compromise critical safety features. Beyond the recalls, several complaints detail concerning incidents such as emergency braking deploying without cause, vehicle safety features disabling and enabling automatically, and sudden vehicle stops. There are also reports of the sunroof exploding outward and issues with the lane assistance feature attempting to steer the vehicle into hazards. The high number of windshield-related complaints (13) suggests a potential manufacturing defect in the glass, which could compromise structural integrity and driver visibility. While the crash test ratings are exemplary, the pattern of complaints and recalls indicates that owners may experience issues with component durability and the reliability of advanced safety systems.

Our recommendation: While the 2022 Subaru Legacy excels in crash safety, potential buyers should be aware of the recurring windshield fragility and documented issues with advanced safety systems and recalls. Thoroughly inspect the windshield and verify all recall repairs have been completed before purchase.