Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2011 Subaru Legacy
The 2011 Subaru Legacy has several recalls primarily for airbag issues and some for electrical and mechanical concerns. It has a moderate complaint history, mostly concentrated around the power train, airbags, and engine. Buyers should be attentive to these areas during inspection and test drives, checking that all recall repairs have been completed.
Known issues to inspect
Passenger airbag inflator defect
How to check: Ensure recalls for airbag inflators have been completed.
Ignition switch failure
How to check: Test ignition strength; inspect for a recall fix history.
Possible electronic parking brake failure
How to check: Test parking brake's engagement and inquire about recall repairs.
Windshield wiper motor obstruction
How to check: Operate wipers; listen for unusual noises or malfunction.
Moonroof glass may detach
How to check: Inspect moonroof integrity and inquire about recall repairs.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for any unusual engine noises.
Red flag: Persistent knocking or loud tapping sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check the smoothness of the idle and warning lights.
Red flag: Vibration or check engine light on
- 03
City driving
What to check: Feel for smooth gear shifting in transmission.
Red flag: Rough shifting or slipping gears
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Check power and responsiveness during acceleration.
Red flag: Hesitation or delayed response
- 05
Braking test
What to check: Test brake response and listen for noises.
Red flag: Grinding noise or delayed stop
- 06
Parking brake test
What to check: Engage parking brake on an incline.
Red flag: Brake does not hold the car
- 07
Moonroof operation
What to check: Open and close moonroof, check for secure fit.
Red flag: Loose or rattling glass
- 08
Windshield wipers
What to check: Test wipers for smooth operation without noise.
Red flag: Obstructed movement or squeaking
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the airbag recall been addressed?
- Has the ignition switch been replaced?
- Any issues with the parking brake?
- Has the moonroof adhesive been inspected?
- Were there any engine issues?
- Have you noticed any electrical problems?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair records
- Service and maintenance history
- Vehicle inspection report
- Title and registration
- Previous accident history
Generated by gpt-4o on 6/18/2026. Grounded in the NHTSA recall corpus and owner-complaint patterns for the 2011 Subaru Legacy.