2016 Subaru Legacy Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Should You Buy the 2016 Subaru Legacy?
The 2016 Subaru Legacy presents a largely dependable and secure choice in the mid-size sedan segment, distinguished by its standard all-wheel drive and strong safety ratings. While its Lineartronic CVT demands proper attention and its infotainment system can be finicky, its core mechanicals are robust, making it a smart buy for those prioritizing safety and all-weather capability.
Biggest Strengths
- Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system
- Exceptional safety ratings (IIHS Top Safety Pick+)
- Robust 2.5L Boxer engine (when maintained)
Top Risk Areas
The systems that break first on the 2016 Subaru Legacy. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.
NHTSA Recalls
3 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2016 Legacy vehicles manufactured October 24, 2015, to November 16, 2015, and Outback vehicles manufactured October 24, 2015, to November 17, 2015. Due to the improper tightening of the securing nuts, the drive shaft may separate from the rear differential.
STEERING:COLUMN
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Legacy and Outback vehicles manufactured February 29, 2016, to May 6, 2016. The steering column on the affected vehicles may have been improperly machined, and as a result, turning the steering wheel may have no effect on the direction of the wheels.
What breaks on the 2016 Subaru Legacy?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
OwnerKeep Passport · $499 · one-time
Just bought a 2016 Subaru Legacy? Keep it that way.
Snap a receipt — AI logs it. Build an OwnerScore. Sell with a buyer-ready Passport dossier.
Subaru Legacy by Year
Compare reliability scores across nearby years of the Subaru Legacy. Click any year for its full report.
If You're Considering This, Also Look At
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by reliability score.
Relevant Products for Your 2016 Subaru Legacy
Parts and accessories matched to your 2016 Subaru Legacy
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Just bought a 2016 Subaru Legacy? Keep it that way.
OwnerKeep Passport turns your Subaru Legacy's care history into a luxury digital vault — AI-logged receipts, an OwnerScore that pays at resale, and a buyer-ready dossier in one tap.
- AI receipt OCR — snap and log
- Fuel & mileage tracker
- Tri-Score OwnerScore
- One-tap resale dossier PDF
Recommended Reading for the Subaru Legacy
Subaru Outback Common Problems and Repair Costs
Identify common Subaru Outback problems, understand their causes, and see average repair costs to make informed decisions for your vehicle's longevity.
Subaru Outback Years to Avoid (Worst to Best Ranked)
Avoid common pitfalls! Learn the worst Subaru Outback years and discover the most reliable models with our comprehensive worst-to-best rankings.
How Long Does a Subaru Outback Last? (Real Owner Data)
Uncover the real lifespan of a Subaru Outback! We use actual owner data to show exactly how many miles you can realistically expect from your vehicle.