AI-generated · grounded in NHTSA data
Reliability & 5-year cost of ownership — 2012 Subaru Legacy
Overall rating NHTSA-grounded
Average
Estimated 5-year repair + maintenance cost: $5,500–$8,500
The 2012 Subaru Legacy receives an average rating due to multiple airbag recalls and a concerning number of powertrain and engine complaints. Regular maintenance is crucial to manage potential issues and control ownership costs.
Most-common failures
| Part | Typical mileage | Cost range | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| powertrain | 70,000-100,000 miles | $600–$1,500 | common |
| engine | 80,000-120,000 miles | $500–$2,500 | occasional |
| ignition switch | 90,000-110,000 miles | $150–$350 | occasional |
| brake master cylinder | 60,000-90,000 miles | $300–$600 | rare |
Scheduled maintenance to budget
Routine items every owner should plan for.
- Oil changes every 5,000 miles
- Brake fluid flush every 30,000 miles
- Replace timing belt every 100,000 miles
- Transmission fluid change every 60,000 miles
- Replace engine coolant every 60,000 miles
- Inspect spark plugs every 30,000 miles
Warning signs to watch for
Symptoms that signal a major upcoming repair.
- Unusual noises from engine
- Delayed transmission response
- Illuminated airbag warning light
- Decreased braking performance
- Frequent ignition issues
Generated by gpt-4o on 6/17/2026. Cost ranges are conservative estimates that account for typical regional variation.