2012 Subaru Legacy engine problems
23 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the engine on the 2012 Subaru Legacy — 26% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“Engine failed 3 cyclinders blew, car would not start, was able to drive car into parking lot (Einstein Bagels)before failure, otherwise could have been reared ended, as was in heavy traffic on westbound Dundee Road, in Palatine IL. Parking lot was near Dundee and Rand Road intersection”
filed Apr 17, 2026
“My 2012 Subaru Legacy experiences involuntary engine stalling when coming to a quick stop, such as in stop-and-go traffic or during sudden braking at intersections. When the engine shuts off without warning, power steering and braking assist are lost, creating a serious risk of collision. This is a…”
filed Dec 23, 2025
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Engine problems in other Legacy years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 Legacy | 1 | 3% |
| 2021 Legacy | 2 | 6% |
| 2020 Legacy | 4 | 3% |
| 2019 Legacy | 6 | 5% |
| 2018 Legacy | 10 | 9% |
| 2017 Legacy | 5 | 4% |
| 2016 Legacy | 7 | 5% |
| 2015 Legacy | 23 | 14% |
| 2014 Legacy | 5 | 9% |
| 2013 Legacy | 18 | 27% |
| 2011 Legacy | 22 | 13% |
| 2010 Legacy | 31 | 21% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2012 Subaru Legacy
Counts are unique NHTSA complaints naming this component group. Complaints are unverified owner reports; mileage is computed only from complaints that included a usable odometer reading.