2017 Subaru Legacy Reliability ReportKeepScore 85/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid
Quick Facts · 2017 Subaru Legacy
- Scores 3 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2019 Subaru Legacy earns a 88.
- The system most likely to surface first: lineartronic cvt transmission (major severity).
- Has 2 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the steering:column.
2017 Subaru Legacy: Buy or Avoid?
The 2017 Subaru Legacy stands as a remarkably safe and practical sedan, especially for those navigating adverse weather. While its Lineartronic CVT requires diligent maintenance, its symmetrical all-wheel drive, strong safety features, and robust engine options make it a compelling and generally reliable choice for the pragmatic buyer.
The 2017 Subaru Legacy is an outstanding choice for those prioritizing safety, all-weather capability, and sensible transportation. With a diligent approach to its CVT maintenance and awareness of common wear items, this sedan offers a robust and comfortable ownership experience that truly delivers value.
Best Model Years
2017-2019 (Refined infotainment, strong safety features, generally stable)
Years to Avoid
2010-2014 (Higher prevalence of oil consumption issues in earlier FB25 engines, older CVT iterations)
Biggest Strengths
- Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
- Excellent crash test ratings and available EyeSight driver assist technology
- Robust engine options (especially the 3.6L H6)
2017 Subaru Legacy — Known Trouble Spots
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2017 Subaru Legacy, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
While improved, the Lineartronic CVT can develop shuddering, noise, or outright failure if the fluid isn't changed proactively every 60,000 miles, rather than just 'inspected' as per official Subaru guidelines. Torque converter issues ar…
A common Subaru Achilles' heel across many models, the front wheel bearings tend to wear prematurely, often manifesting as a humming or grinding noise that worsens with speed.
Owners frequently report the HVAC blower motor failing or making excessive noise, often accompanied by issues with the resistor, leading to inconsistent fan speeds or complete failure of the climate control fan.
2017 Subaru Legacy Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2017 Subaru Legacy most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
This period typically involves routine maintenance like oil changes, tire rotations, and cabin/engine air filter replacements. It's too early for significant mechanical issues, but brake wear might begin.
Maintenance Zone
This mileage marks a more significant service interval. Spark plugs, brake fluid, and critically, the CVT fluid should be changed. This is also when some wear items like wheel bearings might start to show signs.
Elevated Risk Zone
Beyond 90k, the risk of more substantial wear-and-tear items increases. Suspension components like ball joints, tie rod ends, and more widespread wheel bearing issues become more probable. Electrical nuisances like the HVAC blower motor…
High Risk Zone
At this mileage, the potential for major component failures, especially the CVT, significantly increases if maintenance has been neglected. Engine gaskets, accessory components, and more pervasive rust can also become concerns.
2017 Subaru Legacy Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2017 Subaru Legacy on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$400-600
Moderate Repairs
$500-1,500 occasionally (e.g., wheel bearings, A/C compressor, major service)
How Long Does the 2017 Subaru Legacy Last?
For optimal reliability, prioritize all factory-recommended maintenance intervals, paying particular attention to proactive CVT fluid changes every 60,000 miles, and address any wheel bearing noises promptly.
What 2017 Subaru Legacy Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Unmatched confidence and traction in snow and rain with standard AWD
- High safety ratings and effective EyeSight driver assist system
- Comfortable ride quality, excellent for daily commuting and long trips
- Spacious and practical interior with good visibility
Common Frustrations
- CVT can be noisy or 'drone' under acceleration, detracting from driving engagement
- Infotainment system (Starlink) is prone to glitches and can be slow
- Fuel economy is average for the class, not segment-leading
- Less engaging driving dynamics compared to some rivals like the Mazda 6
Who Should Buy the 2017 Subaru Legacy?
Best For
- Families seeking a safe and dependable sedan
- Commuters in snowy or rainy climates
- Value-conscious buyers looking for low long-term depreciation
Not Ideal For
- Performance enthusiasts seeking a sporty driving experience
- Buyers who neglect routine maintenance, especially CVT fluid changes
How the 2017 Subaru Legacy Compares to Rivals
The Legacy's standard Symmetrical AWD sets it apart from most competitors in its segment, offering a distinct advantage in adverse weather conditions, though its CVT isn't quite on par with the bulletproof transmissions found in Honda or Toyota.
More Reliable Than
- Nissan Altima (earlier CVT generations)
- Ford Fusion (certain engine/transmission combos)
- Chevrolet Malibu
Comparable To
- Honda Accord
- Toyota Camry (in terms of overall durability, but not ultimate longevity)
- Hyundai Sonata
Safety Recalls on the 2017 Subaru Legacy
2 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
STEERING:COLUMN
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2017 Legacy and Outback vehicles manufactured September 21, 2016, to September 23, 2016. In the affected vehicles, the knee guard bracket may not be properly attached to the steering beam assembly.
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 2017 Subaru Legacy?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Subaru Legacy — Year-by-Year Comparison
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Subaru Legacy. Click any year for its full report.
Competing 2017s Worth a Look
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2017 Subaru Legacy
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Frequently Asked Questions
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