Is the 2017 Subaru Legacy reliable?

Overall reliability is generally solid when maintained, with many owners reporting dependable transportation past 100,000 miles, though electronics (infotainment) and occasional battery/CVT concerns are the most talked-about weak spots.

What are the most common 2017 Subaru Legacy problems?

Commonly reported issues include infotainment freezing or Bluetooth problems, repeated battery drain or early battery failure, and CVT driveability complaints like shuddering or hesitation, especially at higher mileage.

Are maintenance costs high for a 2017 Subaru Legacy?

Costs are typically moderate for the class; routine items like oil changes, brakes, tires, and fluids are straightforward, but AWD tire requirements (matching tires) and potential infotainment/CVT diagnostics can raise costs if problems occur.

What are the best years of Subaru Legacy to buy?

Many shoppers prefer later years within a generation after updates and bug fixes; within the sixth generation (2015–2019), well-maintained examples with service records and any applicable software updates tend to be the best bets.

What should I check before buying a used 2017 Subaru Legacy?

Verify service records, test all infotainment functions (Bluetooth, backup camera, touchscreen response), check for smooth CVT operation on a long test drive, confirm the battery/charging system condition, and ensure all four tires match and have similar tread depth. For the full picture, get a complete owner’s guide with detailed specs, trim features, fluid capacities, and maintenance schedules to keep a 2017 Subaru Legacy running its best.

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Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

2017 Subaru Legacy Reliability ReportKeepScore 85/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid

85/ 100

KeepScore

LOW RISK

Grade: B+

A secure and sensible choice for year-round driving, provided you commit to its specific maintenance needs.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

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.

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 break first on the 2017 Subaru Legacy. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Lineartronic CVT Transmissionmajor

Front Wheel Bearingsmoderate

HVAC Blower Motor & Resistorminor

Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

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.

All Subaru Legacy years ranked →Subaru Legacy years to avoid →Subaru Legacy common problems →

Competing 2017s Worth a Look

Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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