2012 Subaru Legacy power train problems
34 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the power train on the 2012 Subaru Legacy — 38% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“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
“CVT transmission issues persist beyond the limited warranty extension that has now expired from Subaru. Vehicle RPMs regularly drop from 1000 to 500 when coming to a stop, causing engine to knock as it tries to stall. Vehicle then occasionally hesitates when attempting to move under power. Knocking…”
filed Jun 20, 2023
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Related service bulletins
This announcement provides information on the remanufactured CVT transmission program.
SubaruNet Announcement (R · Other · issued May 4, 2026This bulletin announces the service manual correction regarding clutch master cylinder reservoir service procedures.
03-97-26 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued Apr 24, 2026
Power Train problems in other Legacy years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 Legacy | 2 | 6% |
| 2020 Legacy | 7 | 6% |
| 2019 Legacy | 1 | 1% |
| 2018 Legacy | 1 | 1% |
| 2017 Legacy | 4 | 3% |
| 2016 Legacy | 13 | 9% |
| 2015 Legacy | 15 | 9% |
| 2014 Legacy | 6 | 11% |
| 2013 Legacy | 12 | 18% |
| 2011 Legacy | 47 | 28% |
| 2010 Legacy | 50 | 33% |
| 2009 Legacy | 2 | 3% |
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.