4S3BH6658176642242001 SUBARU LegacyOUTBACK
2001 SUBARU Legacy was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. There are 8 open recalls on record — these are safety-critical and should be addressed immediately. 81 owner complaints include 6 reported injuries, indicating real-world safety incidents beyond normal wear.
Executive Summary
2001 SUBARU Legacy
2001 SUBARU Legacy was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. There are 8 open recalls on record — these are safety-critical and should be addressed immediately. 81 owner complaints include 6 reported injuries, indicating real-world safety incidents beyond normal wear.
- 8 open recalls including safety-critical systems (Steering system recall; Fuel system recall)
- 6 injuries reported across 81 owner complaints
- 12 complaints involved a crash — unusually high incident rate
- Common owner-reported issues: fire
- Fuel System is flagged in both recalls and owner complaints — double-confirmed failure pattern
- High lemon law risk indicators — multiple safety-critical recall and complaint patterns present
- Component failure cascade detected — a known defect pattern that typically leads to more severe downstream damage
81 owner complaints filed — top areas: Suspension/Wheels (22%), Fuel System (21%), Engine/Powertrain (16%). Common issues: fire. 12 crashes reported.
Title Brand Check
Mined from auction damage fields and listing titles — not a DMV title history pull
No auction records available. Title brand status could not be verified — request title history from seller or state DMV.
Vehicle Specifications
Decoded from NHTSA vPIC database
- Make
- SUBARU
- Model
- Legacy
- Year
- 2001
- Trim / Series
- OUTBACK
- Body Style
- Wagon
- Vehicle Type
- PASSENGER CAR
- Drive Type
- AWD/All-Wheel Drive
- Engine
- 2.5L
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Doors
- 4
- Manufacturer
- SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC
- Assembly
- LAFAYETTE, INDIANA, UNITED STATES (USA)
- GVWR
- Class 1: 6,000 lb or less (2,722 kg or less)
Assembly Plant Quality
Subaru of Indiana Automotive (Lafayette)
Builds Subaru Outback and Legacy. Consistently ranked among the top US assembly plants.
- ✓JD Power Platinum Plant Award
- ✓JD Power IQS top-ranked non-premium midsize car
Safety Intelligence
Composite analysis from NHTSA recall, complaint, and crash data
- ▸Steering system recall
- ▸Fuel system recall
- ▸2 complaint(s) involved a fire
- ⚠2 recalls on same component: Fuel System
- ⚠2 recalls on same component: Exterior/Other
- ⚠6 injuries reported in complaints
- ⚠Safety system appears in both official recalls and owner complaints
Lemon law eligibility depends on state law, number of repair attempts, and days out of service. Consult an attorney for actual eligibility.
The same components appear in both official NHTSA recalls and owner-filed complaints — a double-confirmed failure signal.
Deferred Failure Risk
Vehicle-specific risks from this model-year's complaint record, known defects, and service milestones
One failed component has created stress on connected systems. Repair costs compound quickly — a $500 fix can become $3,000+ if cascade damage is ignored.
Owners of the 2001 SUBARU Legacy report suspension/wheels issues more than most other systems. Complaints concentrated in one area often signal a systemic weakness worth a targeted pre-purchase inspection.
Owners of the 2001 SUBARU Legacy report fuel system issues more than most other systems. Complaints concentrated in one area often signal a systemic weakness worth a targeted pre-purchase inspection.
Owners of the 2001 SUBARU Legacy report engine/powertrain issues more than most other systems. Complaints concentrated in one area often signal a systemic weakness worth a targeted pre-purchase inspection.
A snapped timing belt causes immediate, catastrophic engine damage — bent valves, destroyed pistons. No warning. Replace before the interval, not after.
Water pump failure causes rapid overheating. If the engine overheats even once, head gasket damage is likely — turning a $400 part into a $3,000+ repair.
Degraded transmission fluid destroys clutch packs and solenoids. CVT transmissions are especially sensitive — neglected fluid can result in a $4,000–$8,000 replacement.
On 4WD/AWD vehicles, neglected differential or transfer case fluid causes metal-on-metal wear. Replacement costs $1,500–$4,000.
Degraded coolant loses corrosion inhibitors and attacks aluminum engine components. Can cause head gasket failure and water pump corrosion.
Worn spark plugs cause misfires that can foul and crack catalytic converters. A $150 tune-up can prevent a $1,200 catalytic converter replacement.
Dirty or failing injectors cause rough idle, reduced fuel economy, and increased emissions. Cleaning costs $100–$200; replacement $800–$1,600.
NHTSA Safety Recalls
8 RECALLSNHTSA VIN-specific recall lookup returned no data for this VIN. The 8 recalls below are model-wide and may or may not apply to this exact vehicle depending on production date. Verify at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Average repair completion across 8 recalls is ~64%. Always ask the seller for dealer service records confirming each repair.
Statistical model based on recall age, component type, and manufacturer. Not a repair confirmation. Demand dealer service records.
SUBARU has an excellent recall completion rate (93%) — owners typically receive a remedy within 15 months.
Avg time to remedy open recall: ~15 months · Source: NHTSA Recall Completion Rate Reports
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
SummaryAirtex Products LP (Airtex) is recalling certain model E8598M, E8518M, E8600M, E8596M, and E8597M fuel pumps manufactured July 26, 2013, and July 29, 2013 and used as aftermarket replacements on Subaru Baja's, Outback's and Legacy's. The affected fuel pumps were sold or installed into the aftermarket applications on or after July 26, 2013, and may may leak fuel from the base of a fuel line connection when the gas tank is full.Read full details...
~31% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
SEATS
SummaryVEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH MANUALLY-ADJUSTABLE (NON-POWERED) SEATS. CERTAIN INNER FRONT SLIDE RAIL LATCH MECHANISMS MAY HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY WELDED.Read full details...
~42% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
SummaryVEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. POSSIBLE FUEL LEAKAGE OF UNDER-HOOD FUEL HOSES AT LOW AMBIENT TEMPERATURES (-40 DEGREES C) ONCE THE FUEL HOSES AGE AND BECOME LESS FLEXIBLE.Read full details...
~31% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER
SummaryVEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. INCORRECT BEIGE REAR CENTER SEAT BELT WEBBING WAS INSTALLED. THE BELT LENGTH IS TOO SHORT.Read full details...
~42% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
STEERING:LINKAGES
SummaryVEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. A CASTING FLAW IN THE RIGHT FRONT BEARING HOUSING COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF STEERING IF THE CASTING FLAW SHOULD EXIST IN THE TIE-ROD ARM.Read full details...
~32% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:CABLES
SummaryON CERTAIN PASSENGER SEDANS, WAGONS, AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE CRUISE CONTROL CABLE COULD COME OUT OF ITS TRACK ON THE CRUISE CONTROL LEVER AND LODGE ON THE CONTROL LEVER TAB WHEN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL IS RELEASED. IF THIS CONDITION OCCURS, THE THROTTLE WILL NOT RETURN TO THE IDLE POSITION AND WILL REMAIN IN AN OPEN POSITION.Read full details...
~36% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
SUSPENSION:REAR
SummaryTHIS RECALL APPLIES TO CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, KENTUCKY, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, VIRGINIA, WEST VIRGINIA, WISCONSIN, AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. CERTAIN REAR SUSPENSION SUBFRAME COMPONENTS WERE PRODUCED WITH POOR PAINT QUALITY WHICH, AFTER CONTINUED EXPOSURE TO CORROSIVE ROAD SALTS FOR A PERIOD OF SEVERAL YEARS, COULD RESULT IN RUST-OUT OF THE COMPONENT AND POSSIBLE BREAKAGE OF THE SUBFRAME.Read full details...
~36% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
SummaryCERTAIN SPORT UTILITY AND PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS WERE PRODUCED WITH AN IMPROPERLY MANUFACTURED TRANSMISSION PARKING ROD. WHEN THE TRANSMISSION SELECTOR LEVER IS PLACED IN THE "P" (PARK) POSITION, THE TRANSMISSION PARK MECHANISM, THAT IS INTENDED TO HOLD YOUR VEHICLE, MAY NOT ENGAGE.Read full details...
~36% chance this recall was never fixed
Moderate RiskSource: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type
Recall Intelligence
Detailed analysis of recall history and severity
⚠ One or more recalls have been open for over 5 years — may never have been repaired on this vehicle.
Manufacturer Recall Response Time
Time between first owner complaint and recall issuance
Recall was issued within 8 months of first complaints — relatively prompt response.
6 injuries reported across 81 complaints — elevated injury rate for this class of vehicle.
Complaint Intelligence
81 complaints analyzed across 10 system categories
Fuel System leads owner complaints (21%), most reported when the vehicle was 5–7 yrs old. Also common: Gasoline (21%), Engine And Engine Cooling (14%). Of the 13 owners who cited mileage, problems clustered around ~18k mi (most ~6k mi–~35k mi).
Based on 72 complaints with a reported incident date. Of the 13 owners who cited mileage, most reported issues at ~6k mi–~35k mi.
Owner Complaints
HIGH VOLUME81 safety complaints filed with NHTSA
Headed home from a vet appointment in mountain home. Was driving on the freeway at 80mph when the tire blew at the Wendell exit. Checked the tire to find that the inside wall had failed and had a blowout. The tire was installed June 8th 2025 and had less than 1,000 miles on it. I have never in 26 years of being around vehicles had a brand new tire fail in less than 1,000 miles. Tire was a good year reliant all season 195/65/R15. That tire blowout could have killed me and my family. I stopped at the Walmart that I bought the tire from with the receipt and was told "oh that sucks. We can replace it for you if you want to buy a new one a full price." How can a company sell a tire from a brand like good year that isn't even covered for a 1,000 miles? That's absolutely mind blowing. Had anyone gotten injured from the accident I would filling charges against Walmart for selling me a faulty tire
The contact owns a 2001 Subaru Outback. The contact stated that while his son was driving at highway speeds, the vehicle would wobble without warning. After the contact test drove the vehicle and experienced the failure himself, he took the vehicle to an independent mechanic and discovered that the rear control arm had rotted out due to severe corrosion. Upon investigation, the contact discovered that the vehicle had been placed under NHTSA Campaign Number: 03V153000 (Suspension). The manufacturer was then notified of the failure and confirmed the prior recall on the vehicle; however, they could not offer any further assistance. The contact also took the vehicle to the dealer where they informed him that the entire subframe had rotted out due to corrosion. The vehicle was not repaired and remained in their possession. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.
ALWAYS, WHEN THE CIRCULATION FRESH AIR BUTTON IS PRESSED TO ALLOW OUTSIDE AIR TO ENTER THE CABIN, THERE IS THE NOXIOUS ODOR OF GASOLINE. I REPLACED THE ENGINE BECAUSE OF A TIMING BELT RELATED PROBLEM AT 160,000 MILES AND THE PROBLEM OF GAS ODOR STOPPED FOR A FEW MONTHS BUT IT IS BACK, BAD AS EVER. WHEN DID THIS HAPPEN? YEARS AND YEARS
I WAS PULLING OUT OF THE PARKING LOT ONTO A MAIN STREET AND WHEN I STARTED TO STEP ON THE GAS THE CAR DIDN'T WANT TO GO SO WELL AND THE RPMS WHAT ARE GETTING PRETTY HIGH AND THE CLUTCH WAS SLIPPING THE FLUID WAS A LITTLE BIT LOW SO WE ADDED THE RECOMMENDED FLUID THE DEXTRON 111.. WE WERE ABLE TO DRIVE ABOUT 5 MILES ON THE FREEWAY ABOUT 60 MILES AN HOUR BACK TO OUR HOUSE THE NEXT MORNING WE GOT UP TO LEAVE THE CAR WOULD BARELY MOVE FORWARD THE CLUTCH SLIPPING REALLY BAD AND ALSO IS DOING THE SAME IN REVERSE.. I HAVE OWNED BY SUBARUS AND I WAS ALSO THE SALES AND FINANCE MANAGER FOR NADER SUBARU IN EUREKA CALIFORNIA IN 2005 TO 2010
SUDDEN ACCELERATION CAUSING AN ACCIDENT. THE SUBARU WAS AT REST IN DRIVE.
IN COLDER WEATHER I HAVE FUEL LEAKING FROM FUEL LINES UNDER THE HOOD WHICH CREATES A STRONG GAS SMELL INSIDE THE VEHICLE. I WENT ONLINE AND FOUND NHSTA RECALL # 00V393000 . I AM NOT SURE IF THIS IS FOR MY VEHICLE OR NOT. SINCE THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE, COULD IT BE REPAIRED AT AT SUBARU DEALER NEAR ME ?
GAS FUEL LINES IN ENGINE COMPARTMENT LEAKING IN COLD WEATHER. GAS POOLING ON ENGINE CREATING FIRE HAZARD. SAME ISSUE AS OTHER SUBARU. STRONG FUEL SMELL INSIDE CABIN AND OUT. *TR
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS 2001 SUBARU LEGACY OUTBACK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER 03V153000 (SUSPENSION). HOWEVER, THE REMEDY FAILED TO CORRECT THE FAILURE. THE SUB FRAME WAS FOUND CORRODED AND FRACTURED. THE CONTACT WAS ADVISED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS UNSAFE TO DRIVE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 108,131.
WHEN STARTING CAR IN COLD WEATHER THERE IS A VERY STRONG GAS ODOR IN CABIN. SUBSEQUENT RESEARCH HAS INDICATED THAT OTHER 2001 LEGACY WAGONS HAVE BEEN RECALLED DUE TO EXACT SAME PROBLEM. MY CAR WAS NOT RECALLED, WHICH IS CONFUSING GIVEN THAT THE EXACT SAME RISKS ARE ASSOCIATED. *TR
COLD WEATHER BELOW 32 DEGREES NO BRAKE PEDAL ON COLD START- DIFFICULT TO STOP CAR MOVING UNDER 5MPH. AFTER WARM UP FOR 5-10 MINUTES- DEPENDING ON HOW COLD THE TEMP. PEDAL COMES BACK AND BRAKES SEEM TO OPERATE NORMALLY. *TR
PURCHASED VEHICLE IN SOUTH CAROLINA AND DROVE IT BACK TO NORTHERN KENTUCKY. IT PRODUCED APPROXIMATELY 380 MILES ON ONE TANK OF FUEL. NOTE: IT WAS WELL INTO THE 50-60 F RANGE OUTSIDE WHILE DRIVING DURING THAT TIME. SUBSEQUENT FILL-UPS IN NORTHERN KENTUCKY (WITH OUTSIDE TEMPERATURES RANGING FROM 10-30 F) PRODUCED 160-225 MILES IN-TOWN. I EXPERIENCED A VERY STRONG, RAW FUEL ODOR IN THE PASSENGER CABIN. IT WAS TAKEN TO A MECHANIC AND THEY FOUND "NOTHING WRONG." THIS OF COURSE, DOES NOT MEAN THERE IS NOTHING WRONG. THE FUEL LINES WERE CHECKED AND TIGHTENED EVEN THOUGH THEY WERE NEITHER LOOSE NOR WORN. AFTER READING THE NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS ABOUT THIS PROBLEM FROM OTHER OWNERS, IT SEEMS THAT SUBARU OWES ME AND MANY OTHERS A RECALL. TODAY IS ABOUT 14 F OUTSIDE AND I DROVE THE SUBARU 16 MILES. THE FUMES WERE SO UNBEARABLE I HAD TO PULL OVER AND WAIT FOR THEM TO SUBSIDE. THIS SEEMS LIKE NOT ONLY AN EMISSIONS VIOLATION, BUT ALSO A FIRE AND HEALTH HAZARD. *TR
FAILED FRONT WHEEL BEARINGS. *TR
THIS CAR WAS "INSPECTED" ON JULY 25, 2011 AT AFFORDABLE AUTO GLASS, 806 ELM STREET, WEST SPRINGFIELD, MA (MASSACHUSETTS INSPECTION STATION PB 024377). UPON PURCHASING THIS CAR IN OCTOBER, 2011, I ATTEMPTED TO GET A RI INSPECTION STICKER FOR IT WHEN REGISTERING IT IN RI. IT FAILED ON SEVERAL COUNTS (BALD TIRES, BAD REAR BRAKES, 2 BAD FRONT AXLES). I WOULD LIKE THIS STATION INVESTIGATED TO FIND OUT HOW THIS CAR COULD HAVE PASSED A MASS INSPECTION ONLY 3 MONTHS BEFORE I BOUGHT IT. IN ADDITION TO THE FAILED ITEMS, ONE FRONT BRAKE CALIPER WAS FROZEN AND THE BRACKET HOLDING THE OTHER FRONT BRAKE CALIPER WAS BROKEN.
WHEN I PUT ON THE BRAKES TO STOP THE CAR THE ENGINE STALLS OUT.. *TR
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 SUBARU LEGACY GT. THE CONTACT STARTED THE IGNITION AND SMELLED A STRONG ODOR OF FUEL INSIDE OF THE CABIN. THE FAILURE OCCURRED ONLY IN FREEZING WEATHER TEMPERATURES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSIS AND REMAINED THERE FOR SEVEN DAYS TO FURTHER INVESTIGATE THE PROBLEM. THERE WAS A RECALL ASSOCIATED WITH NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 00V393000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS). THE CONTACT EXPERIENCED THE IDENTICAL FAILURE AS MENTIONED IN THE RECALL. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000. UPDATED 03/29/11*LJ THE CONSUMER STATED THE DEALER REPLACED THE HOSES UNDER RECALL 00V393000, ALTHOUGH HIS VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE CONSUMER STATED SHE WILL HAVE TO WAIT UNTIL THE WINTER TO SEE IF THE PROBLEM HAS BEEN RECTIFIED. UPDATED 08/19/11
TOOK MY 2001 BH5 GTB E-TUNE FOR SERVICE AT SUBARU KENYA. DEALER BLED THE OIL WITHOUT REPLACING IT(AS I FOUND OUT LATER). CRUISING AT 80KPH, CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON, CAR LOST ALL POWER, WAS TOWED BACK TO DEALER. DEALER SAID ENGINE HAD CEASED, SO THEY OVERHAULED IT. SAME THING HAPPENED AFTER 234KM. DEALER SAYS THEY DO NOT UNDERSTAND WHAT PROBLEM WAS AND ARE UNABLE TO FIX IT, SO I HAD TO PURCHASE A NEW ENGINE. FHI JAPAN SAYS MY INITIAL ENGINE WAS NOT BUILT FOR AFRICAN MARKET. SURELY, THEY SHOULD HAVE KNOWN BETTER. I AM SO MAD AT SUBARU KENYA( THE MOST INEXPERIENCED SUBARU DEALERS IN THE WORLD) AND FHI JAPAN!! *TR
DURING THE WINTER MONTHS, WHEN THE TEMPERATURE IS IN THE 20'S OR BELOW, THERE IS A STRONG SMELL OF GASOLINE IN THE CABIN WHEN THE CAR IS IDLING AND WHEN I TURN ON THE HEATER FAN. THE SMELL REMAINS IN MY GARAGE AFTER I STOP THE CAR. MY SON, WHO IS A MECHANIC TIGHTENED THE FUEL LINES WHICH SEEMED TO HELP A BIT BUT THIS PROBLEM HAS PERSISTED EVERY WINTER. THERE WAS A RECALL IN 2001 BUT SUBARU MAINTAINS THAT THE RECALL DOES NOT APPLY TO MY VIN NUMBER AND SAYS THAT I NEED TO BRING THE CAR IN AND PAY FOR THE DIAGNOSIS. THERE ARE MANY COMPLAINTS DETAILING EXACTLY THE SYMPTOMS OF MY PROBLEM ON THE WEBSITE, ARFE WHICH LEADS ME TO THINK THAT THE PROBLEM SHOULD BE ADDRESSED BY A BROADER RECALL BY SUBARU.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 SUBARU LEGACY OUTBACK. THE CONTACT NOTICED A FUEL SMELL AND WHEN SHE WOULD TURN THE HEATING SYSTEM ON, THE SMELL BECAME UNBEARABLE, FORCING THE CONTACT TO ROLL THE WINDOWS DOWN. THE FAILURE BEGAN OCTOBER 2010. NEITHER THE DEALER OR MANUFACTURER HAD NOT BEEN NOTIFIED NOR WAS THE VEHICLE DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 130,000. UPDATED 09/28/11*LJ THE CONSUMER STATED THE GAS SMELL ONLY OCCURRED WHEN THE TEMPERATURE WAS BELOW 30 DEGREES. UPDATED 10/05/11
RAW GAS LEAK IN COLD WEATHER HAS BEEN A PERSISTENT PROBLEM, OVERWHELMING ODOR IN PASSENGER COMPARTMENT AND AFTER PARKING IN BASEMENT GARAGE. THIS WAS BROUGHT TO DEALERS ATTENTION AT FIRST SERVICE WHEN CAR WAS NEW AND DEALER COULD NOT IDENTIFY ANY PROBLEM. I UNDERSTAND THIS IS STILL A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THIS YEAR AND MODEL VEHICLE FOR WHICH THERE HAS BEEN NO RECALL.
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 SUBARU LEGACY. UPON ENTERING THE VEHICLE THE CONTACT COULD SMELL A STRONG ODOR OF GASOLINE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER WHERE THE CONTACT WAS TOLD THIS WAS A KNOWN FAILURE DUE TO THE FUEL LINES SHRINKING IN COLD WEATHER. AN UNKNOWN REPAIR WAS PERFORMED ON THE VEHICLE. A FEW WEEKS LATER THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 128,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 130,000. THE CONSUMER STATED THE SMELL WAS MOST PROMINENT DURING THE DAY. ALTHOUGH THE SMELL WOULD SOMETIMES OCCUR WHEN THE HEAT WAS ON AND IT INTENSIFIED WHEN THE FAN WAS TURNED ON. THE PROBLEM BEGAN AT THE END OF NOVEMBER. THE SMELL WAS MOST PRONOUNCED WHEN THE TEMPERATURE DROPPED INTO THE TWENTIES. THE CONSUMER STATED SHE LOOKED FOR EVIDENCE OF A GAS LEAK, BUT WAS UNABLE TO FIND ANYTHING. THE CONSUMER BELIEVED THERE AS DESIGN/DEFECT IN MATERIALS. THE CONSUMER WAS INFORMED THERE WAS NO RECALL ON HER VEHICLE AND SUBARU DENIED ANY RESPONSIBILITY BECAUSE OF THE AGE AND MILEAGE OF THE VEHICLE. UPDATED EVOQ 01/31/11. UPDATED 2/23/11 *CN UPDATED 12/06/2011 *LN
BLOW OUT WITH COMPLETE DETACHMENT OF TIRE TREAD FROM WHEEL AT 50 MPH; CAR CRASHED INTO STONE WALL; AIR BAGS DEPLOYED; FIRE IN FORWARD PART OF ENGINE COMPARTMENT PUT OUT BY FIRE COMPANY; FIRE COMPANY COMMENT THAT LOOKED LIKE TIRE FAILURE; TIRES HAD ONLY ~2000 MILES ON THEM; NO INJURIES; ONLY ONE CAR INVOLVED; POLICE FILED A REPORT; CAR IS A TOTAL LOSS; I HAVE THE TIRE TREAD WHICH DETACHED FROM THE WHEEL AND IS A COMPLETE, SINGLE CIRCULAR PIECE; ABOUT 1 INCH OF TIRE RUBBER REMAINED ATTACHED TO EACH RIM OF THE WHEEL. *TR
ON A COLD START, WITH THE AMBIENT TEMPERATURE AT OR BELOW FREEZING (32F), THE 3RD TIME I PRESS THE BRAKE PEDAL, IT WILL NOT GO DOWN. THERE IS A HARD STOP AND THE BRAKES DO NOT ENGAGE. THE VEHICLE, IF IN MOTION, WILL NOT STOP. REPEATED PUMPING OF THE BRAKE PEDAL EVENTUALLY FREES UP THE BRAKE PEDAL AND BRAKING FUNCTION IS RESTORED. NOTICE A DISTINCT REVVING OF THE ENGINE WHEN THE PROBLEM IS REMEDIED. THIS IS A REPEATABLE PROBLEM. *TR
WE STARTED TO EXPERIENCE GASOLINE FUMES IN THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT OF THE CAR. OUR DEALERS SERVICE DEPARTMENT DETERMINED THAT THE FUEL LINE WAS LEAKING AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. WHILE NO DAMAGE OF WHICH WE ARE AWARE HAS OCCURRED TO THE CAR, IT WOULD APPEAR THAT A HIGH RISK OF FIRE WAS PRESENT (OR WOULD BECOME PRESENT) WITHOUT REPLACEMENT OF THIS PART (WHICH TYPICALLY WOULD LAST THE "LIFETIME" OF THE CAR). COST OF REPAIR: $355.15. *TR
1. DRIVING CAR OVER SPEED BUMP AT POSTED SPEED LIMIT 2. FAILURE: FRONT SWAY BAR BROKE AT BOTH THE RIGHT AND LEFT SIDE OF CAR AT THE FRAME BUSHINGS BETWEEN WHEEL AND BODY FRAME. 3. NEW SWAY BAR, LINKERS AND BUSHINGS ARE REQUIRED - REPAIR HAS YET TO BE DONE AS IT BROKE YESTERDAY. *TR
2001 SUBARU LEGACY WAGON EMITS GAS SMELL INTO CABIN ON START UP IN COLD WEATHER MONTHS. ALTHOUGH NUMEROUS OWNERS COMPLAIN WITH REGARD TO THIS ISSUE VIA INTERNET, SUBARU HAS YET TO ISSUE A TSB. THIS IS A DANGEROUS CONDITION THAT SUBARU SHOULD BE REQUIRED TO FIX FREE OF CHARGE. *TR
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 SUBARU LEGACY. WHEN THE VEHICLE IS IDLING WITH THE FAN BLOWER/VENT ACTIVATED, THE CONTACT SMELLS A STRONG ODOR OF GASOLINE. HE IS IN THE PROCESS OF HAVING THE VEHICLE DIAGNOSED TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT HIS VIN WAS EXCLUDED FROM NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 00V393000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS). THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 54,000.
ON A 2001 SUBARU LEGACY, THE SEALED FRONT WHEEL BEARINGS AND HUBS HAD TO BE REPLACED AT 68,000 MILES. SEALED WHEEL BEARINGS SHOULD LAST MUCH LONGER. I HAVE READ THAT OTHERS HAVE ALSO RUN IN PROBLEMS WITH SEALED WHEEL BEARINGS ON OTHER YEARS AND MODELS OF SUBARU. I SUSPECT A MANUFACTURER DEFECT. *TR
I HAVE A SUBARU LEGACY GT. EVERY TIME THE TEMPERATE GETS TO ABOUT 20 DEGREES OR COLDER, THE ENGINE EMITS A STRONG RAW FUEL SMELL INTO THE CABIN. THE CAR HAS DONE SO ALMOST CONSTANTLY SINCE PURCHASE, HAS BEEN REPAIRED TWICE FOR THE PROBLEM (ATTRIBUTED TO A PROBLEM WITH THE FUEL LINES) AND HAS BEEN THE SUBJECT OF A PRIOR NHTSA COMPLAINT. CARS MANUFACTURER AROUND THE DATE OF MINE HAVE BEEN RECALLED FOR THIS PROBLEM, BUT MY CAR WAS NOT INCLUDED. TODAY WAS THE FIRST DAY BELOW 20 DEGREES IN SEVERAL MONTHS AND THE FUEL SMELL REAPPEARED. CAR NOW NEEDS TO BE REPAIRED AGAIN FOR THIS PROBLEM. THE VEHICLE SIMPLY CANNOT BE DRIVEN IN EXTREMELY COLD WEATHER AS IT IS A HEALTH HAZARD TO BREATHE THESE FUMES, AS WELL AS A FIRE DANGER. A SEARCH OF THE INTERNET REVEALS A NUMBER OF OTHER OWNERS WITH THE EXACT SAME COMPLAINT. *TR
WHEEL BEARING FAILURE AT 59,000 MILES
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 SUBARU LEGACY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUAL CLUTCH ASSEMBLY FAILED WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH IN HIGH TEMPERATURE CLIMATE. THERE HAVE BEEN THREE FAILURES, ONE OF WHICH THE CONTACT WAS ALMOST INVOLVED IN A CRASH. AT THE OWNER'S EXPENSE, TWO PARTS HAVE BEEN REPLACED. SUBARU SUGGESTED THAT THE CONTACT REPLACE A THIRD PART TO AVOID ANOTHER FAILURE. THE CURRENT MILEAGE IS 42,000 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 34,000.
OUR 2001 SUBARU LEGACY WAS HAVING THE SMELL OF GAS INSIDE THE CAR LATELY WHEN WE FIRST STARTED IT AND WHEN WE WOULD STOP FOR A TRAFFIC LIGHT OR STOP SIGN. I CHECKED THE RECALL NOTICES ON THE GOV'T SITE AND FOUND THE PROBLEM LISTED , COMPLETE WITH A ENGINE AREA DIAGRAM SHOWING WHERE THE POSSIBLE GASOLINE LINE LEAK COULD BE. I CHECKED UNDER THE HOOD AND SURE ENOUGH THERE IT WAS. THE FUNNY THING WAS THAT OUR VIN # WAS NOT IN THE RANGE THEY SAID WAS EFFECTED. I THINK SUBARU AND THE GOV'T SHOULD TAKE ANOTHER LOOK AT THE VEHICLES EFFECTED. I BELIEVE THERE ARE MORE THEN YOU ORIGINALLY THOUGHT. I WAS ABLE TO TIGHTEN THE HOSES CLAMPS AND SO FAR IT LOOKS LIKE IT ISN'T LEAKING ANYMORE. *JB
2001 SUBARU LEGACY BOTH FRONT WHEELS ARE RUSTED AND THE COMPONETS BEHIND THEM. *KB *JB
FOR THE SECOND TIME IN BELOW ZERO OUTSIDE TEMPERATURES, WE ARE EXPERIENCING A FUEL LEAK IN OUR VEHICLE. A CALL TO OUR DEALERSHIP INDICATES THEY ARE FIELDING NUMEROUS CALLS OF THIS TYPE TODAY. OUR FIRST EXPERIENCE OF THE PROBLEM WAS DECEMBER 24, 2004. *NM
MY 2001 LEGACY LEAKED ANTIFREEZE...WAS RECALLED...THE "ADDITIVE" THEY REQUIRED TO BE ADDED WAS DONE...THE HEAD GASKET WAS REPLACED AT ABOUT 25,000 MILES BEFORE WARRANTY EXPIRED...NOW, ABOUT 1 YR AND 10,000 MILES LATER, I AM HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM AND THEY ARE SAYING I HAVE TO HAVE THE SAME HEAD GASKET REPLACED!!! THIS DOES NOT SOUND RIGHT TO ME...DO I POSSIBLY HAVE A WARPED BLOCK OR HEAD??? I THINK ALL THE DEALER IS DOING IS JUST PUTTING A "BAND-AID" ON MY PROBLEM *NM
TSB NUMBERS 115899 & 115398 I HAVE A 2001 SUBARU LEGACY OUTBACK. IT STARTED GIVING ME TROUBLE AND, I FOUND OUT THAT THERE ARE LOT OF OTHER PEOPLE LIKE ME WHO ARE FACING THIS PROBLEM. THE VEHICLE HESITATES WHILE DRIVING. IT DOESN'T PICK-UP SPEED EVEN IF YOU GIVE IT GAS. DOESN'T CROSS 35 MPH FOR SOMETIME IRRESPECTIVE OF IF YOU GIVE MORE GAS. BUT SUDDENLY PICKS UP THE SPEED. I ONCE TOOK IT TO THE DEALER AND HE CHANGED THE OXYGEN SENSOR OR KNOCK SENSOR. IT WORKED ALRIGHT FOR A MONTH AFTER THAT. AGAIN IT STARTED DOING IT. I NEED HELP WITH THIS. I AM TOLD THAT THIS SITE HELPS ME IN FILING THIS COMPLAINT. *JB
REAR PASSENGER SIDE BRIDGESTONE POTENZA RE950 205/55R16 91 H BLEW OUT FOR NO APPARENT REASON. MILEAGE ON TIRE WAS 25000. NO CRASH OR INJURY. MUST REPLACE TIRE PREMATURELY SINCE TREAD WEAR WAS GOOD.
(EVENT)MY WIFE WAS DRIVING OUR 2001 SUBARU FORESTER AT 55MPH WHEN SHE WAS HIT FROM BEHIND, CAUSING OUR CAR TO SWERVE. SHE HIT A LAMPOST WITH THE FRONT OF THE FORESTER HARD ENOUGH TO KNOCK THE POST DOWN, STOPPING OUR CAR. NOBODY WAS CRITICALLY INJURED. (FAILURE) THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. (FOLLOWUP) THE CAR HAS BEEN DECLARED A TOTAL LOSS. WE ARE WORKING OUT COMPENSATION WITH THE INSURANCE COMPANY OF THE CAR THAT HIT OURS. I AM CALLING SUBARU TO TELL THEM ABOUT THE AIR BAG FAILURE.
EXCESSIVE BRAKE REPAIRS. I HAVE HAD TO REPLACE MY BRAKES EVERY 30,000 MILES. I HAVE NEVER HAD A CAR OR TRUCK THAT HAS NEEDED TO HAVE ALL THE COMPONENTS OF THE BRAKING SYSTEM REPLACED WITH SUCH FREQUENCY. WHILE AT THE DEALER ANOTHER OWNER WAS COMPLAINING TO SERVICE ABOUT THE SAME ISSUE
WHNE THE CAR IS COLD, IT HESITATES AND STALLS WHEN TAKING OFF FROM A STOP SIGN OR OTHER STOP. DEALER DOES NOT KNOW HOW TO FIX. FAILS EVERY TIME THE CAR IS OPERATED COLD. *AK
INCONSISTANTLY, BUT FREQUENTLY MY 2001 SUBARU LEGACY 2.5L WAGON SURGES AND/OR HESITATES. THE RESULT IS THAT I HAVE LITTLE RELIABILITY FOR ACCELERATION, ETC. WHEN DRIVING. THIS HAS RESULTED A NEAR COLLSIONS WHEN THE CAR HESITATED IN THE MIDDLE OF INTERSECTIONS. I NO LONGER FEEL SAFE DRIVING IT--ESPECIALLY WHEN MY 2 YOUNG CHILDREN ARE IN THE CAR. MY CAR HAS BEEN EXAMINED BY MY MECHANIC (WHO SPECALIZES IN SUBARUS AND OTHER JAPANESE CARS) AND DESPITE EXPERIENCING THE SAME PROBLEMS WHILE DRIVING AND SEVERAL DAYS IN THE SHOP, NO PROBLEM HAS BEEN DIAGNOSED. MY MECHANIC HAS CONSULTED SUBARU AND THEY HAVE PROVIDED NO USEFUL ADVISE EITHER.*AK
VEHICLE'S HEAD GASKET BLEW OUT. *MR THE VEHICLE OVERHEATED AND THE WINDSHIELD DID NOT DEFROST PROPERLY. THE FOUND THAT THE HEATER CORE WAS BAD. THE CONSUMER REQUESTED REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE HEAD GASKET. *SC THE RADIATOR WAS REPLACED. *JB
ALL FOUR TIRES WERE REPLACED 3 TIMES WITHIN 35,000 MILES DUE TO PREMATURE WEAR. THE TIRES WERE REPLACED WITH DIFFERENT MODEL TIRES, BUT FAILURE RECURRED. *AK
COMPLAINT REGARDING SAFETY RECALL PROBLEM RESULTING IN TWO ACCIDENTS. *MR *SC *JB
DRIVING ON SECONDARY ROAD - WELL KNOW TO ME - AT DUSK @ 45 MPH APPROACHING AN INTERSECTION WITH A MAJOR ROAD. BEGAN TO TAP GENTLY ON BRAKE TO EASE TO MY "YIELD" OR STOP IN CASE DRIVER ON OTHER ROAD DID NOT DO SO. EACH TIME I HIT BRAKES, THE ENGINE WOULD REV UP & PULL FORWARD @ INCREASED SPEED. AFTER SEVERAL ATTEMPTS TO BRAKE, I ATTEMTED TO DOWNSHIFT, PUT IN PARK AND PULL UP PARKING BRAKE -- ALL TO NO AVAIL, EXCEPT ENGINE AND FRONT END MADE LOUD GRINDING NOISES. THE CAR WOULD STILL NOT STOP AND WHEN I WAS ABOUT 25' FROM THE INTERSECTION, I HAD NO CHOICE BUT TO DRIVE INTO A "SNOW BANK" WHICH TURNED OUT TO BE SEVERAL INCHES OF SNOW OVER A PILE OF GRAVEL. THERE WAS DAMAGE TO THE FRONT OF THE CAR & IT WAS TOWED. THE TOW TRUCK DRIVER HAD A DIFFICULT TIME STARTING THE CAR SO HE COULD WINCH IT ONTO HIS FLATBED TRUCK. THE CAR WAS TOWED TO THE SUBARU DEALER FROM WHOM I PURCHASED THE CAR. THE SERVICE MANAGER MAINTAINS THAT THE PROBLEM WAS CAUSED BY "BIRDSEED IN THE FILTER" IN THE AIR BOX GOING TO THE THROTTLE. (HE ALSO SAID THE SEED INDICATED THAT THERE MAY HAVE BEEN A MOUSE NEST, BUT HE FOUND NO EVIDENCE OF A NEST AT THAT TIME.) I TOLD HIM THAT I FOUND THAT HARD TO BELIEVE SINCE MY CAR IS IN A HEATED AREA OF THE GARAGE AND ANY MICE HAVE MUCH WARMER PLACES TO STAY. MY OWN MECHANIC SAID THE BIRDSEED EXPLANATION WAS IMPLAUSIBLE AND, IF ANYTHING, THE BIRDSEED WOULD HAVE LED THE CAR TO STALL OUT - NOT INCREASE ACCELERATION. I CHECKED YOUR WEB SITE AND FOUND OTHER 2001 LEGACIES WITH "FUEL: THROTTLE LINKAGES & CONTROL PROBLEMS. I PRINTED THESE OUT AND TOOK THEM TO THE DEALER. HE SAID HE CHECKED THE THROTTLE LINKAGES AND CONTROLS ELECTRONICALLY AND FOUND THEM TO BE FINE BUT WOULD NOT PUT THIS IN WRITING. HE STANDS FAST ON HIS BIRDSEED EXPLANATION. AM AN EXPERIENCED & SAFE DRIVER - HAVE "PLATINUM" LEVEL OF SAFE DRIVER DISCOUNT. THIS CAR IS MY 6TH NEW SUBARU IN UNDER 20 YEARS. HAVE ALWAYS FOUND THEM RELIABLE IN THE PAST. AM AFRAID TO DRIVE THIS CAR.*AK
2001 SUBARU LEGACY GT LIMITED. THIRD INSTANCE OF FUEL LEAK IN ENGINE. THIS TIME, VISIBLE FUEL LEAK FROM FUEL LINES UPON STARTING CAR IN 15 DEGREE WEATHER. SUBARU OF AMERICA AND RYE SUBARU HAD BEEN INFORMED OF PROBLEM ON PRIOR OCCASION AND RYE SUBARU WAS EXPECTING CAR TO COME IN FOR SERVICE FOR THIS PROBLEM. DROVE CAR TO RYE SUBARU. DURING DRIVING GAS FUMES ENTERED PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. UPON ARRIVAL AT RYE SUBARU, DEALERSHIP WAS NOT PREPARED TO IMMEDIATELY DEAL WITH PROBLEM AS SERVICE MANAGER WORKING ON CASE HAD LEFT TOWN AND HAD NOT LEFT INFORMATION BEHIND RELATING TO PROBLEM. *LA
CAR AT ISSUE IS A 2001 SUBARU LEGACY GT LIMITED. ON TWO OCCASIONS IN THE PAST MONTH, A STRONG RAW GAS SMELL FILLED THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT AND PASSENGER COMPARTMENT OF THE CAR. ON BOTH OCCASIONS, THE TEMPERATURE OUTSIDE WAS BELOW 10 DEGREES. AFTER THE FIRST OCCURRENCE, CAR WAS LEFT AT DEALER WHO FOUND NOTHING WRONG. THE CAR WAS FINE FOR NEXT 5 DAYS (WEATHER WAS 10 TO 30 DEGREES). ON DAY 6, WEATHER DROPPED TO ABOUT 8 DEGREES AND GAS SMELL RETURNED. CAR WAS LEFT IN GARAGE AFTER DRIVING AND GARAGE FILLED WITH VERY STRONG GAS SMELL. THERE IS AN OBVIOUS CORRELATION BETWEEN EXTREME COLD (10 DEGREES OR LESS) AND THIS PROBLEM. WILL RETURN CAR TO DEALER FOR SECOND ATTEMPT AT REPAIR BUT SINCE WEATHER IS EXPECTED TO BE OVER 10 DEGREES FOR NEXT 2 WEEKS AM NOT SURE WILL BE ABLE TO REPLICATE PROBLEM. SEEMS LIKELY THAT THE PROBLEM IS A GAS LEAK AT COLD TEMPERATURES, WHICH MAY WELL BE A SAFETY HAZARD AND FIRE/EXPLOSION DANGER. *CB
THE PAINT IS CHIPPING OFF OF MY REAR BUMPER NEAR THE DRIVER'S SIDE UNDER THE TAIL LIGHTS. I TOOK THE CAR TO THE DEALER WHEN I WAS HAVING ANOTHER ISSUE LOOKED AT (MY ROUTERS KEEP WARPING). THE DEALER CALLED AND SAID THE PAINT GUY WOULD TAKE A LOOK AND LET ME KNOW. I PICKED UP THE CAR AFTER HOURS AND THERE WAS NO INFO ABOUT THE PAINT. WHEN I CALLED THEY TOLD ME IT WAS NEVER LOOKED AT. I HAD TO TAKE THE CAR BACK TO THE DEALER. THE PAINT GUY LOOKED AT AND SAID THAT HE CAN'T MAKE A DECISION ON PAINT, IT HAS TO BE MADE BY THE SUBARU REP. IT HAS BEEN PROBABLY 2 MONTHS AND NO ONE HAS CONTACTED TO TELL ME WHEN THE REP WOULD BE AT THE DEALER TO LOOK AT MY CAR. I ATTEMPTED TO CALL AND WAS TOLD THEY HAVE NEVER RECEIVED HIS SCHEDULE.*AK
WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35MPH POWER STEERING FAILED WITHOUT WARNING.*AK
AIR CONDITIONER COMPRESSOR FAILED ON 06/01/03. DEALER ADVISED CONSUMER TO REPLACE IT WITH A BRAND NEW COMPRESSOR. REPLACEMENT COMPRESSOR FAILED ON 07/01/03. DEALER REPLACED COMPRESSOR AND "RECEPTACLE". ON 07/26/03 WHILE DRIVING, CONSUMER TURNED ON AIR CONDITIONING AND VEHICLE STALLED. VEHICLE IS CURRENTLY BEING CHECKED BY DEALER. 2001, SUZUKI XL7 UNLIMITED.*AK
THE VEHICLE WAS EQUIPPED WITH DUAL SUN ROOFS WHICH LEAKED THROUGH THE MAP LIGHT ONTO THE DRIVER. THE VEHICLE HAD BEEN TO THE DEALERSHIP AT LEAST 4 TIMES TO HAVE THE PROBLEM REPAIRED. THE MECHANIC WOULD CHECK FOR WATER TIGHTNESS OR LEAKAGE AFTER REPAIRING SUN ROOF. THE PROBLEM WOULD RECUR REGARDLESS OF THE TYPE OF REPAIR THAT WAS DONE. THE CONSUMER HAD CHECKED INTO THE LEMON LAW. *NLM PH *JB
FUEL SYSTEM ISSUE. I HAVE OWNED MY VEHICLE FOR APPROXIMATELY 9 MONTHS. I BOUGHT IT AS A USED CAR FROM SLOANE IN PHILADELPHIA. IT HAS APPROXIMATELY 17000 MILES ON IT AND IS CONSIDERED STILL UNDER WARRANTY. I HAVE HAD TO TAKE IT IN FOR SERVICE 4 TIMES FOR THE VEHICLE HESITATING UPON ACCELERATION. THE SERVICE CENTER FIRST SAID THE HESITATION CAME FROM A BAD BATTERY, SECOND INCIDENT THEY STATED THEY COULD NOT FIND ANYTHING WRONG, THIRD INCIDENT, WHEN I ALMOST GOT IN AN ACCIDENT BECAUSE THE VEHICLE STARTED TO STALL UP ENTERING THE FREEWAY TRAFFIC, I BROUGHT IT BACK IN FOR SERVICE. THEY DID A THOROUGH CHECK AND SAID IT WAS THE OXYGEN SENSOR. THEY REPLACED IT. APPROXIMATELY 2 WEEKS LATER, THE VEHICLE BEGAN HESITATING ONCE AGAIN! AGAIN, AT A CRUCIAL POINT IN A TRAFFIC SITUATION. I RETURNED THE VEHICLE AGAIN FOR SERVICE, THEY STATED IT WAS THE CODES, THEY JUST NEEDED TO BE CLEARED. THE VEHICLE IS STILL HESITATING AND IS CAUSING A POTENTIAL FOR SERIOUS INJURY UPON DRIVING UNDER CRUCIAL SITUATIONS. I HAVE NOW RESORTED TO PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION. AUDIO SYSTEM ISSUE: VEHICLE'S RADIO WILL DISPLAY ALL IT'S FEATURES, BUT WILL NOT PLAY ANY SOUND THROUGH SPEAKERS. THIS HAS BEEN ADDRESSED WITH THE SERVICE TEAM ON 3 PAST OCCASIONS, BUT IT HAS NOT BEEN REMEDIED. LAST KNOW PROBLEM WAS THE SPEAKER AMPS AND GROUNDING MECHANISM FOR SPEAKER, ALSO THE RADIO, WHEN IT DOES WORK GETS INTERFERENCE WHEN THE REAR DEFROST IS ON. *NLM
MY SUBARU LEGACY, 2001, 25,000 MILES, CAUGHT ON FIRE IN THE FRONT RIGHT PART UNDER THE HOOD SUDDENLY ON MY WAY HOME 2/5/03, I WAS LOCKED IN THE CAR AND UNABLE TO GET OUT TILL THE CAR FILLED WITH SMOKE, I WAS PANICKING, AS I WAS UNABLE TO BREATH. AT THAT POINT I THOUGHT I WOULD PASS OUT, OR DIE SOON, THE PEOPLE OUTSIDE COULD NOT GET ME OUT. MY CAR WAS TOTALED, AND STILL UNDER WARRANTY. SUBARU HAS NOT RESPONDED, I AM WITHOUT A CAR. THIS HAS BEEN VERY STRESSFUL FOR ME AND MY FAMILY. WE TRUSTED THE NAME OF SUBARU AND WHAT IT STANDS FOR TILL NOW. AFTER OUR INSURANCE COMPANY SENT A FORENSIC MECHANIC TO INVESTIGATE, IT WAS DETERMINED NOT TO BE ARSON, AND TO BE THE FAULT OF THE MANUFACTURER. WE ALWAYS TOOK VERY GOOD CARE OF THIS CAR SO THIS HAPPENING WAS QUITE A SHOCK TO US AND OUR OTHER FRIENDS THAT OWN SUBARU'S. WE ALL ARE NOT SO PATIENTLY WAITING TO HEAR FROM SUBARU. I WOULD LIKE A NEW CAR AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. *JB
WATER LEAKED INSIDE THE VEHICLE THROUGH THE SUNROOF, THE DEALER INSPECTED THE VEHICLE ON 5 OCCASIONS, HOWEVER THEY WERE UNABLE TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM. *JB
MY 7 YR OLD SON, SEATED AND SHOULDER-STRAPPED INTO HIS BOOSTER SEAT IN THE BACK SEAT NEXT TO THE WINDOW, PULLED THE MIDDLE REAR SHOULDER STRAP OUT TO WHERE THE LOCKING MECHANISM BECAME ENGAGED, THEN WRAPPED THE STRAP AROUND HIS NECK. AS THE STRAP WENT BACK IN IT TIGHTENED AROUND HIS NECK TO THE POINT WHERE HE COULD NOT GET IT OFF OVER HIS HEAD OR PULL IT BACK OUT AGAIN, SINCE IT WAS IN LOCKING MODE. WE WERE DRIVING IN THE DARK, AND HE DID NOT TELL US HE WAS STUCK. WE WERE ON A LONG ROAD TRIP TO RELATIVES AND HAD BEEN DRIVING FOR ABOUT 16 HOURS, AND THOUGHT HE WAS ASLEEP IN THE BACK SEAT. EVEN TURNING AROUND TO LOOK AT HIM WE DIDN'T KNOW HE WAS TRAPPED BECAUSE HE HAD A BLANKET OVER HIM. WHEN HE FINALLY STARTED TO WHIMPER A LITTLE WE REALIZED WHAT HAD HAPPENED, PULLED OVER, TRIED TO REMOVE THE STRAP FROM THE LAP SECTION OF THE BELT BUT COULDN'T FIGURE OUT HOW, AND ENDED UP CUTTING THE STRAP TO GET HIM OUT. HE WAS SHAKEN AND HAD SOME RED MARKS ON HIS NECK, BUT OTHERWISE WAS UNHURT. AFTER OUR TRIP WE HAD THE SHOULDER STRAP REPLACED.*JB
BRIDGESTONE POTENZA 205/60R15----THE TIRE WENT FLAT WHILE TURNING A CORNER WITH NO PRIOR WARNING--THIS TIRE WAS NOT REPAIRABLE & WAS REPLACED----SECOND INCIDENT OCCURED WITH 17944 MILES ON THE CAR HOWEVER IT WAS THE NEW TIRE ON THE SAME WHEEL-RIGHT REAR--IT BLEWOUT WITH ONLY 2058 MILES ON THE TIRE--THERE WAS NO WARNING--IT BLEWOUT, SHREDDED & MADE BLACK SMOKE WHILE DRIVING 70MPH
TRAVELLING ON A CLEAR DAY ON A WELL-MAINTAINED SECONDARY ROAD. HIT A SOFTBALL-SIZED ROCK WITH THE RIGHT FRONT WHEEL. IMMEDIATELY UNABLE TO STEER VEHICLE; STOPPING DIFFICULT AS CAR PULLED STRONGLY TO THE RIGHT. TIRE INTACT. RIM CIRCUMFERENTIALLY SHEARED. OUTER THIRD OF THE RIM REMAINED ATTACHED TO THE AXLE; INNER TWO THIRDS PLUS TIRE DISCONNECTED AND FREELY FLOATING ON THE AXLE. NO INFORMATION HAS BEEN SUPPLIED BY THE COMPANY REGARDING WHETHER THE RIM FUNCTIONED AS EXPECTED OR WAS DEFECTIVE.*AK
I NOTICED THAT THE OUTER LAYER OF RUBBER HAS BEGUN TO COME OFF ON THE SIDEWALL, SHOWING A WHITE UNDERLAYER, NEAR THE LETTERING BUT NOT EXCLUSIVELY AT THE LETTERING. I LOOKED AT A SIMILAR MODEL OF SUBARU AND SAW THE SAME THING HAD HAPPENED TO ITS TIRE. SINCE I HAVE NOT HAD AN ACCIDENT, I AM ASSUMING THAT THIS IS A TIRE FAILURE. PLEASE ADVISE.*AK
FRONT PASSENGER WINDOW GLASS EXPLODED WHEN DOOR WAS OPENED. THERE WERE NO OTHER FACTORS INVOLVED; THE DOOR WAS SIMPLY OPENED. NOTHING STRUCK THE GLASS AND THE GLASS HAD NOT BEEN PREVIOUSLY COMPROMISED. PERSON INJURED WAS 16 YEAR OLD GIRL. INJURIES CONSISTED OF CUTS TO FACE, SCRATCHED CORNEA AND CUT UNDERNEATH EYELID FROM EMBEDDED GLASS FRAGMENTS. DEALER SERVICE MANAGER AND MANUFACTURER REPRESENTATIVE REJECTED ANY NOTION THAT THERE WERE DEFECTS IN EITHER THE GLASS ITSELF OR THE WINDOW MECHANISM.*AK
WHILE DRIVING AND COMING TO A COMPLETE STOP, VEHICLE LUNGES FORWARD, AN ACCIDENT OCCURRED. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. WHEN IN REVERSE VEHICLE WILL JUST TAKE OFF ON ITS OWN GOING BACKWARD. THERE IS A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN REGARDING THIS ISSUE. *AK DEALER NOTIFIED. *TT
WE ARE GOING DOWN A STEEP DIRT ROAD USING 1ST GEAR. TO SLOW THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE AUTOMATICALLY SPEEDS UP, AND WE HAVE TO JAM ON THE BRAKES HARD TO SLOW DOWN. HAPPENS INTERMITTENTLY. RPMS CHANGE FROM NORMAL 2200-3200 TO 4500-5000.*AK
CONSUMER STATES THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT BELT INCLUDING THE ARM THAT IS BOLTED TO THE FLOOR DISCONNECTED FROM THE FLOOR. THE ARM THAT CAME LOOSE CAME OFF WITH THE HEAVY MACHINE BOLT AND ALL THE WASHERS ATTACHED. MANUFACTURER NOTIFIED. *TT
WHILE DRIVING, THROTTLE STUCK AT 53 MPH, CONSUMER WAS ABLE TO STOP BY BRAKING AT A STOP LIGHT, THE VEHICLE IDLED AT 4500 RPM, CONSUMER SHIFTED TO PARK AND BACK TO DRIVE AND THE RPM DROPPED TO 3000 RPMS, CONSUMER PULLED OVER TO THE SHOULDER AND PARKED VEHICLE FOR 25 MINUTES, AFTER RESTARTING, EVERYTHING WAS WORKING OKAY, CONSUMER IS TAKING VEHICLE TO THE DEALER. *SLC
WHILE DRIVING, THROTTLE STUCK AT 53 MPH, CONSUMER WAS ABLE TO STOP BY BRAKING AT A STOP LIGHT, THE VEHICLE IDLED AT 4500 RPM, CONSUMER SHIFTED TO PARK AND BACK TO DRIVE AND THE RPM DROPPED TO 3000 RPMS, CONSUMER PULLED OVER TO THE SHOULDER AND PARKED VEHICLE FOR 25 MINUTES, AFTER RESTARTING, EVERYTHING WAS WORKING OKAY, CONSUMER IS TAKING VEHICLE TO THE DEALER. *SLC
I HAVE BROUGHT MY VEHICLE BACK TO THE DEALER IN DELRAY BEACH FL AND IT STILLS PULLS TO THE RIGHT AND I HAD THE CUDTOMER SERVICE REP DRIVE IT WITH ME IN THE CAR AND HE AGREED THAT IT HAS A PULL TO THE RIGHT . I HAVE SPOKEN TO SUBARU AND THEY HAVE DONE NOTHING TO TAKE CARE OF THIS PROBLEM. IT IS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE.*AK
CONSUMER PARKED VEHICLE IN FRONT OF MOBILE HOME AND TURNED OFF IGNITION. VEHICLE WENT FORWARD INTO CLUB HOUSE BUILDING, AND HIT A POOL TABLE WITH THE IGNITION OFF. POOL TABLE STOPPED VEHICLE, HOWEVER AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. CONTACT DEALER AND THEY WERE INVESTIGATING.*AK *JB
REPEATED COLD ENGINE HESITATION TO THE POINT OF STALLING WHEN GAINING SPEED FROM A STOP. MANUFACTURER REPEATEDLY STATED THAT THERE IS NO FIX AND THE PROBLEM WAS A "CONDITION OF OPERATION"CHARACTERISTIC OF ALL 2001 AND 2002 ENGINES, THAT OWNER WOULD HAVE TO WARM THE ENGINE PRIOR TO USE AND BURN A HIGHER GRADE OF GASOLINE. ENGINE LIGHT ON AT TIME OF FIRST SERVICE WITH CODE P0133. REPLACED A/F SENSOR DID NOT FIX PROBLEM. CONDITION WAS NOT DISCLOSED TO ME AT THE TIME OF PURCHASE. DEALER WARMS ENGINE PRIOR TO CUSTOMER TEST DRIVE. AFTER BEING REFUSED A REFUND, I TRADED IN THE CAR 11/14/01 AT OCONNER VW, AUGUSTA ME. INFORMING OWNER OF DEALERSHIP ABOUT PROBLEM.
CONSUMER WAS ATTEMTING TO PULL INTO A PARKING SPACE WHILE LIGHTLY TOUCHING BRAKE PEDAL WHEN VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED, RUNNING OVER AN ENBANKMENT AND HITTING THE SIDE OF A BUILDING. BRAKE PEDAL WAS TO THE FLOOR, BUT THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT STOP. CONSUMER SUSTAINED INJURIES TO NECK AND BACK AREAS OF THE BODY, AND DAMAGE TO VEHICLE WAS ESTIMATED OVER THREE THOUSAND DOLLARS. DEALER HAS YET TO BE CONTACTED. *AK THE CONSUMER STATED THAT THE DEALER HAS THE VEHICLE TO TRY TO DETERMINE CAUSE OF PROBLEM. *YH
CONSUMER WAS INVOLVED IN 30 MPH FRONT END COLLISION WITH A BUILDING IN WHICH FRONT PASSENGER'S SIDE AND DRIVER SIDE AIRBAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. INJURIES WERE SUSTAINED TO CONSUMERS BACK AND NECK. DAMAGE TO VEHICLE WAS ESTIMATED OVER FOUR THOUSAND DOLLARS. DEALER HAS YET TO BE CONTACTED. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER DETAILS.*AK
WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE AT LOW SPEED AND UPON USING BRAKES HAAD TO PRESS COMPLETELY TO FLOOR BEFORE VEHICLE WILL COME TO COMPLETE STOP. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION.*AK
P225/60R16, ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT, 6000 MILES, MOUNTED ON A 2001, SUBARU, LEGACY OUTBACK. AFTER TRAVELING AT 30MPH TIRE HAD A BLOWOUT ON OUTERWALL OF TIRE. CONTACTED DEALER, AND DEALER WAAS NOT WILLING TO DO ANYTHING.*AK *SLC
VEHICLE WAS GOING 65MPH, AND ENGINE CEASED. NO WARNING BEFORE ALL POWER WAS LOST, TIMING BELT WAS NOT ORIGINALLY DIAGNOSED. DEALER STATED INTERIOR PART OF THE ENGINE CREATED THE PROBLEM. DEALER SPOKE TO REGIONAL OFFICE, AND ENTIRE ENGINE WAS REPLACED AT MANUFACTURERS COST. SUBARU WAS AWARE OF A PROBLEM*AK CONSUMER STATED THE DEALER REPLACED THE TIMING BELT BECAUSE IT HAD BROKEN.*SLC
ALL FOUR FIRESTONE, WILDERNESS TIRES, SIZE: P225/60R15, DOT: BM19359-1 HAVE RUBBER ON SIDEWALL THAT WAS PEELING OFF. THESE TIRES HAVE APPROXIMATELY 17,000 MILES ON THEM, AND WERE ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT ON A 2001, SUBARU, LEGACY. *AK CONSUMER WAS CHARGED FOR THE REPLACEMENT TIRES. *SLC
WHEN ENGINE IS COLD,VEHICLE HESITATES AND NEARLY STALLS WHEN ACCELERATING FROM IDLE SPEED OR TAKING OFF.*AK
I AM AFRAID TO DRIVE THIS CAR NOW. IT HESITATES, THEN LUNGES FORWARD VERY QUICKLY. THE DEALER ACKNOWLEDGES THE PROBLEM, WHICH HE SAYS IS A PROBLEM IN ALOT OF LEGACY SEDANS, BUT SUBARU CAN'T FIGURE OUT HOW TO FIX IT. I AM ASKING THEM TO FIX IT OR REPLACE THE CAR WITH A SAFE VEHICLE. *AK
VEHICLE PULLS SEVERALLY TO RIGHT UPON ACCELERATION, AND HAS HAD THIS PROBLEM SINCE DELIVERY. I HAVE HAD CAR BACK TO DEALER FOUR SEPARATE TIMES AND STILL NOT FIXED. UNEXPLAINED BY SUBARU CORPORATION. *AK
CONSUMERWAS TRAVELING ABOUT 50MPH ON HIGHWAY AND ANOTHER VEHICLE SUDDENLY STOPPED IN FRONT OF CONSUMER'S VEHICLE. CONSUMER APPLIED BRAKES, AND VEHICLE STARTED TO FISHTAIL. VEHICLE SLID AND HIT THE MERIDIAN STAND. CONSUMER WAS ABLE TO PULL VEHICLE OVER TO THE SHOULDER, AND FRONT REAR TIRE TREAD SEPARATED FROM WHEEL. UPON IMPACT, AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. DEALERSHIP WAS AWARE OF PROBLEM.*AK
DEFECTIVE ENGINE LOSING FLUIDS. SMOKE AND FUMES COMING INTO CAR. DRIVER FELT NAUSEA AT TIMES WINDOWS WERE CLOSED. DEALERSHIP WANTS TO REPLACE WITH REFURBISHED ENGINE BLOCK WHICH IS UNACCEPTABLE. THERE IS NO CONFIDENCE IN THE SAFETY AND RELIABILITY IN THIS CAR FOR LONG TERM PURCHASE. WHAT DANGER COULD HAVE BEEN CAUSED FROM ENGINE FAILURE AND FROM THE FUMES INSIDE THE CAR? DID DEALERSHIP KNOW ABOUT PROBLEM AFTER THEIR INSPECTION WHEN THE CAR ARRIVED ON THEIR LOT?*AK
VEHICLE WAS IN PARK AND ENGINE WAS OFF. CONSUMER STARTED VEHICLE AND SHIFTED INTO REVERSE, AND VEHICLE OVERACCELERATED AND "LANDED ON TOP" OF CAR BEHIND HER. DEALERSHIP HAS VEHICLE AND REPAIRING DEFECT. DEALERSHIP HAS NOT INFORMED CONSUMER AS TO WHY DEFECT OCCURRED. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION/ATTACHMENTS.*AK
CONSUMER HAD FOOT ON BRAKES WHILE PULLING INTO A PARKING SPACE, AND VEHCLE TOOK OFF. IT WENT THROUGH A FENCE AND DOWN INTO A DITCH. DEALER COULDN'T FIND ANYTHING WRONG. THROTTLE MUST HAVE GOTTEN STUCK, BUT NO PROOF IN INSPECTION. CONSUMER HAS ONLY HAD VEHICLE 3 WEEKS LEASED.*AK
WHEN SNOWING SNOW GET INSIDE OF WHEEL WELL, CAUSING PROBLEM TO TURN VEHICLE. DEALERSHIP IS AWARE OF PROBLEM. VEHICLE SHAKES AND TREMBLES WHEN PASS 50MPH. VEHICLE IS OFF BALANCE BECAUSE OF TIRES INFLATED WITH THE SNOW INSIDE OF WHEEL WELLS. *AK
THE REAR WINDOW HAS WHAT APPEARS TO BE A PATTERN OF FOG SPOTS THAT CANNOT BE REMOVED, WHICH CAUSES POOR VISIBILITY. *ET
Component Failure Cascade Risk
Known patterns where one defect leads to more severe downstream failures
▸ Head gasket failure and engine overheating — EGR cooler failure is the leading cause of catastrophic engine failure on diesel engines
▸ Engine stalling at speed — fuel delivery failure can cause sudden loss of power in traffic or on highways
▸ Loss of power steering assist — vehicle becomes difficult to control especially at low speeds and during parking
▸ Complete transmission failure — repair costs $3,000–$8,000+; vehicle may become undriveable
Complaint & Reliability Timeline
Annual complaints (blue) vs. composite reliability score (amber) — recall years marked in red
The blue line shows 81 total NHTSA complaints filed over 19 years, with the worst year being 2002 (15 complaints, including 4 crash reports).
The amber reliability line averaged 97/100 across the vehicle's life — relatively stable, with the lowest point of 88/100 in 2002.
The recall (red dashed line) followed the first complaints by 1 year — a typical response window; neither unusually fast nor a pattern of denial.
Red dots on the amber line flag 6 years (2001, 2002, 2004, 2005, 2010, 2019) where complaints included crash events — these are the highest-severity incidents in the dataset.
Legal & Regulatory Actions
Known class action lawsuits, settlements, and manufacturer extended warranty programs
5-Year Total Cost of Ownership
Estimated based on EPA fuel data, risk-adjusted maintenance, and depreciation
Estimated 5-year cost of ownership: $34,614 (~$577/mo). Repair risk buffer is standard due to vehicle risk profile.
Negotiation Ammunition
Use these data-backed findings to negotiate the price down
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
Tailored for the 2001 SUBARU Legacy — specific failure modes your mechanic must check, not a generic list
Recall Probability Forecast
Estimated likelihood of a new recall in the next 18 months based on NHTSA signals
15% baseline recall probability — no strong indicators of an imminent recall.
- ▸Multiple prior recalls — pattern of safety issues on this model
Maintenance Schedule
OEM-specified service intervals for this vehicle
Maintenance intervals vary significantly by make, model, year, engine, and driving conditions. Always follow the manufacturer's official schedule — not generic industry estimates.
Tip: Request the seller's service records and compare against the manufacturer schedule. Missing intervals are a negotiation point.
Insurance Cost Estimate
Estimated annual premiums based on vehicle profile, theft data, and NHTSA safety ratings
Based on 2024 national avg ($2,011/yr full coverage). Individual rates vary by driver, location & insurer. Always compare 3+ quotes.
State-Specific Legal Protections
What consumer laws apply to this vehicle purchase in your state
Select your state to see what consumer protection laws, lemon law coverage, and title disclosure requirements apply to this vehicle purchase.
Complete Data Table
All decoded fields in a single flattened view
Vehicle Identity
| VIN | 4S3BH665817664224 |
| Model Year | 2001 |
| Make | SUBARU |
| Model | Legacy |
| Trim | OUTBACK |
| Vehicle Type | PASSENGER CAR |
Body & Configuration
| Body Style | Wagon |
| Doors | 4 |
| Drive Type | AWD/All-Wheel Drive |
| Transmission | Automatic |
Engine
| Displacement (L) | 2.5 |
Manufacturer
| Manufacturer | SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC |
| Assembly City | LAFAYETTE |
| Assembly Country | UNITED STATES (USA) |
VIN Structure
| WMI (Chars 1–3) | 4S3 |
| Check Digit (Char 9) | 8 |
| Model Year Code (Char 10) | 1 |
| Plant Code (Char 11) | 7 |
| Sequence (Chars 12–17) | 664224 |
Safety Data
| NHTSA Recall Count | 8 |
| NHTSA Complaint Count | 81 |
VIN Structure Decode
ISO 3779 character-by-character breakdown of this Vehicle Identification Number
Disclaimer: Data sourced from NHTSA public APIs and scraped auction listings. For informational purposes only. Not a substitute for a paid vehicle history report. Retrieved: 11/2/2026, 9:00:51 PM.