AI-generated · grounded in NHTSA data
Reliability & 5-year cost of ownership — 2021 Subaru Legacy
Overall rating NHTSA-grounded
Average
Estimated 5-year repair + maintenance cost: $4,500–$9,000
The 2021 Subaru Legacy has a few notable recalls affecting the transmission and airbag systems. While these issues are significant, they predominantly relate to vehicle safety rather than operational reliability, keeping overall reliability within an average range.
Most-common failures
| Part | Typical mileage | Cost range | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| occupant sensors | 20,000–40,000 miles | $300–$600 | common |
| inhibitor switch | 30,000–50,000 miles | $400–$800 | common |
| transmission control module | 20,000–40,000 miles | $500–$1 | occasional |
Scheduled maintenance to budget
Routine items every owner should plan for.
- Oil and filter change, every 5,000 miles
- Tire rotation, every 6,000 miles
- Brake inspection, annually
- Cooling system flush, every 30,000 miles
- Transmission fluid change, every 30,000 miles
Warning signs to watch for
Symptoms that signal a major upcoming repair.
- Airbag warning light
- Delayed gear shifting
- Transmission slipping
- Unresponsive gear selector
- Check engine light
Generated by gpt-4o on 6/8/2026. Cost ranges are conservative estimates that account for typical regional variation.