2023 Subaru Legacy Safety Report

The 2023 Subaru Legacy demonstrates a strong overall safety profile based on its NHTSA crash test ratings, achieving a perfect 5-star rating in Overall, Frontal, Side, and Rollover categories. This indicates excellent performance in simulated crash scenarios. However, despite its high ratings, the vehicle has accumulated 8 total complaints with NHTSA, including 2 crashes, though no fires, injuries, or deaths have been reported. A notable concern from the complaint data is the failure of airbags to deploy in a broadside collision, as reported in one incident, despite the vehicle being totaled. This directly contradicts the expected performance given the 5-star side impact rating. Common complaint patterns, while based on a small sample size, point to issues with the 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER' category (2 complaints), 'FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE' (2 complaints), and 'AIR BAGS' (2 complaints). Specific examples include the forward collision avoidance system activating without an obstacle and the aforementioned airbag non-deployment. Other issues include infotainment system malfunctions, voice command failures, and windshield cracking from minor impacts. These suggest potential quality control or design flaws in specific components, even if they don't directly impact crashworthiness in all cases. The recall history for the 2023 Legacy includes two significant recalls. One recall addresses an 'insufficient weld' in the inhibitor switch, which could prevent reverse lights and the rearview camera from functioning, increasing crash risk. The second recall concerns 'driveshaft center support bolts' that may loosen, potentially leading to driveshaft disconnection and an increased risk of a crash. These recalls highlight manufacturing defects that could compromise vehicle safety and operational integrity. While the crash test ratings are exemplary, the complaint data and recall history suggest areas where real-world performance and component reliability may fall short of expectations.

Our recommendation: Despite excellent crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of two safety recalls and a small number of complaints regarding airbag deployment, forward collision avoidance system glitches, and infotainment issues. Ensure all recall remedies have been performed before purchase.