Is the 2011 Subaru Legacy a good car?
An honest AI verdict — reliability, common problems, and real cost to own.
The 2011 Subaru Legacy is a solid mid-size sedan option, especially for those needing all-wheel drive. However, keep an eye on oil consumption and CVT performance.
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Pros
- Excellent all-wheel-drive system
- Solid build quality
- Spacious interior
Cons
- Potential CVT reliability issues
- Average fuel efficiency
- Occasional engine oil consumption
Ownership at a glance
Common problems to watch for
- Oil consumption
- Suspension noise
- CVT transmission issues
- Exhaust system rust
CarsJudge exclusive data
Active recalls (16)
The 2011 Subaru Legacy has 16 NHTSA recalls on record. Most recent: Power Train — Manual Transmission (campaign 10V326000). All recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer.
- Visibility — Sun/Moon Roof Assembly — SUBARU IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 OUTBACK AND LEGACY VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM AUGUST 3, 2010, THROUGH JULY 1, 2011. THE MOONROOF GLASS MAY COME LOOSE OR DETACH. THE AMOUNT AND POSITION OF THE ADHESIVE BETWE…
- Electrical System — Subaru is recalling certain model year 2010-2012 Legacy and Outback vehicles equipped with an automatic or CVT transmission and an Audiovox remote engine starter (RES) accessory, certain model year 2012-2013 Impreza vehi…
- Exterior Lighting — Subaru is recalling certain model year 2010 and 2011 Legacy and Outback vehicles, certain model year 2006 through 2012 Tribeca vehicles sold before January 2012, and certain model year 2009 through 2012 Forester vehicles…
- Power Train — Manual Transmission — SUBARU IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2010 AND 2011 OUTBACK AND LEGACY PASSENGER VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM APRIL 28 THROUGH JUNE 23, 2010. DUE TO A PROGRAMMING ERROR, A LUBRICATION HOLE WITHIN THE 6-SPEED MANUAL TRANS…
Real owner data from the CarsJudge fleet
1 2011 Subaru Legacy owner tracks this exact car in CarsJudge.
Recall data: NHTSA. Owner costs & MPG: anonymized aggregates from CarsJudge users who track this vehicle. Updated 2026-07-05.
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This AI-generated assessment is general guidance only, not a substitute for a professional inspection. Always inspect a used vehicle before purchase.