The 2024 Legacy is too new for widespread pattern failures, but earlier 7th-gen models (2020-2023) with the CVT and FA24 turbo show emerging issues that will likely carry forward. The naturally-aspirated 2.5L FB25 is generally solid, but the CVT remains the weak link across the lineup.
CVT Transmission Judder and Premature Failure
Occasional · high severityTypical onset: 40,000-80,000 mi
Symptoms: Shuddering or hesitation during acceleration from stop, Whining or grinding noises, Transmission slipping between gear ratios, Check engine light with CVT-related codes
Fix: Subaru CVTs have been problematic since the early 2010s. Fluid changes every 30k can help but won't prevent inherent design issues. When they fail, it's typically a full CVT replacement requiring 8-12 hours labor. Transmission oil cooler lines can leak and cause overheating, accelerating wear.
Estimated cost: $5,500-8,500
FA24 Turbo Engine Oil Consumption and Piston Ring Failure
Occasional · high severityTypical onset: 60,000-100,000 mi
Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption (1 quart per 1,000 miles or worse), Blue smoke from exhaust on startup, Loss of power under boost, Knocking or rattling from engine bay
Fix: The FA24 turbo has shown early oil consumption issues similar to older FB engines. Piston rings fail to seal properly, leading to oil burning. Repair requires engine removal, full teardown, piston and ring replacement, and cylinder honing. Figure 20-25 hours labor for a proper rebuild. Some cases need short block replacement.
Estimated cost: $6,000-10,000
Head Gasket Seepage on FB25 Engine
Occasional · medium severityTypical onset: 80,000-120,000 mi
Symptoms: Oil seepage visible around cylinder head mating surface, Coolant smell without visible leaks, Slight overheating under load, White residue on oil cap
Fix: While improved over EJ engines, FB25 head gaskets can still weep externally. Internal failures are rare but external seepage happens. Requires engine removal in most cases for proper access. Figure 12-16 hours labor for both head gaskets with machine shop work for resurfacing.
Estimated cost: $2,800-4,200
Transmission Mount Failure
Common · medium severityTypical onset: 50,000-90,000 mi
Symptoms: Clunking when shifting from Park to Drive, Excessive engine movement felt through cabin, Vibration at idle, Transmission appears to 'drop' when stopping
Fix: The rear transmission mount wears prematurely, especially with the CVT's weight. It's a rubber component that deteriorates from heat and stress. Replacement is straightforward but requires transmission support. 2-3 hours labor.
Estimated cost: $350-600
EyeSight Camera Calibration Issues and Failures
Occasional · medium severitySymptoms: EyeSight disabled warning on dash, Pre-collision braking activates randomly, Lane keep assist not functioning, System requires recalibration after windshield replacement
Fix: Stereo camera system behind windshield is sensitive to any glass work or even minor front-end impacts. Calibration requires dealer-level equipment and often reveals camera module failure. Windshield replacements require OEM glass and recalibration. Module replacement is 2-3 hours, calibration adds 1-2 hours.
Estimated cost: $1,200-2,500
Fuel System Carbon Buildup on Direct Injection Engines
Common · low severityTypical onset: 60,000-100,000 mi
Symptoms: Rough idle when cold, Hesitation on acceleration, Reduced fuel economy, Misfires under load
Fix: Direct injection engines skip fuel spray over intake valves, allowing carbon deposits to form. Requires walnut blasting of intake valves with engine disassembly. Not catastrophic but degrades performance. 4-6 hours labor for proper cleaning.
Estimated cost: $600-1,000
Skip the 2024 turbo and buy a well-maintained naturally-aspirated Legacy if you need the sedan, but the Outback on the same platform offers better resale and practicality with identical mechanicals.
AI-assisted summary drawn from NHTSA recall data, our labor-times database, and platform knowledge. Not a substitute for a pre-purchase inspection on a specific vehicle.