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Subaru · Mid-Size · 2020–2025

Subaru Legacy BT

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
4.0 / 5.0 · Based on 2 engine variants

Generations

Engine Overview

The Subaru Legacy BT is available with 2 engine variants — from 167 to 272 hp.

2.5L NA · Benziner· 182 PS
2020 2025
Be Careful 4 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →
Legacy XT · Benziner· 260 PS
2020 2025
Good Choice 5 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →

The Subaru 2.5L NA (Benziner, 182 PS) has the FB25 (2.5L NA) — rated: "Be Careful", 4 known weaknesses.

The Subaru Legacy XT (Benziner, 260 PS) has the FA24F (2.4L Turbo DI) — rated: "Good Choice", 5 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
✖Recall: CVT Chain Slip (WRK-21)

Recall WRK-21/WRK-22: TCU software error allows CVT chain to slip before clutch fully engages. Chain guide can break — loss of motive power while driving. Affects turbo model years 2020–2021.

Symptoms: Jerking on takeoff, sudden loss of power, transmission warning light
from 40,000 km
Ad CVT Subaru Legacy BT turboLineartronic TR695 Legacy BT
 Low
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Below Average
207 complaints · 2020–2025
Wipers & Visibility
83
Other
48
Electrical
26
Collision Avoidance
16 ⚠ 1
Airbags
13 ⚠ 1

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Wipers & Visibility (83 complaints)
⚠ Other (48 complaints)
⚠ Electrical (26 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-03

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 12 weaknesses have been documented for the Subaru Legacy BT (2020–2025) — 9 engine-related and 3 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Gearbox, Electronics. Considered reliable: FA24F (2.4L Turbo DI).

Legacy (FB25, 2020–2025) — Be Careful: Oil Consumption — Piston Rings (2011-2014), Cam Carrier Seal Leak, Thermo Control Valve Failure (2019-2022). Power: 182 PS.

What to watch out for with the Subaru Legacy? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Subaru Legacy BT have? +
The Subaru Legacy BT has 9 known engine weaknesses and 3 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Subaru Legacy BT? +
faq.watch_a_solid
Which engine is recommended? +
Good choice: FA24F (2.4L Turbo DI). The most reliable engine is the FA24F (2.4L Turbo DI) with the lowest risk score. The most fun to drive is the FA24F (2.4L Turbo DI).
Which Subaru Legacy BT engine is the most reliable? +
The {code} ({displacement}) is the most reliable engine in the Subaru Legacy BT. It has the lowest risk score of all available engines and is rated "Good Choice". However, there are 5 known weaknesses to be aware of.
Which Subaru Legacy BT engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Subaru Legacy BT — rated: "Fun to Drive!". {description} FA24 turbo in the Legacy: 260 hp, CVT, AWD. Highway-comfortable and fast enough. Not a sports car, but a very competent touring machine.
Is the Subaru Legacy BT worth buying used? +
The Subaru Legacy BT is a good choice as a used car — 1 of 2 engine variants are rated 'Good Choice'.
What horsepower variants are available for the Subaru Legacy BT? +
The Subaru Legacy BT is available with engine variants from 167 to 272 hp. Petrol: FA24F (2.4L Turbo DI), FB25 (2.5L NA).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee