The 2015 Legacy is generally solid, but the 2.5L FB25 engine suffers from catastrophic oil consumption issues leading to spun bearings and engine failure, while CVT cooler line leaks and transmission mount failures are routine maintenance headaches.
FB25 Excessive Oil Consumption and Bearing Failure
Common · high severityTypical onset: 60,000-120,000 mi
Symptoms: Low oil warning light with oil level 2+ quarts low between changes, Knocking or ticking from engine block, Blue smoke on startup, Catastrophic engine failure without warning if oil runs dry
Fix: Piston ring design flaw causes oil burning; Subaru extended warranty to 10yr/100k but many engines fail just outside coverage. Requires short block replacement (12-16 hours labor) or used engine swap (8-12 hours). Some attempt piston/ring replacement (18-22 hours) but success rate is poor.
Estimated cost: $4,500-7,500
CVT Transmission Oil Cooler Line Leak
Common · medium severityTypical onset: 70,000-130,000 mi
Symptoms: Red fluid puddle under engine bay driver side, Transmission fluid level drops, Burning smell from leaked fluid on exhaust, Eventual CVT overheat and failure if ignored
Fix: Rubber cooler lines crack where they connect to steel hardlines at the radiator. Requires cooler line replacement and fluid flush (2.5-3.5 hours). Must use genuine Subaru CVT fluid or risk transmission damage.
Estimated cost: $450-750
Transmission Mount Collapse
Common · low severityTypical onset: 80,000-140,000 mi
Symptoms: Clunk when shifting from reverse to drive, Excessive engine movement visible when accelerating, Vibration at idle in gear, Metallic clunk over bumps
Fix: Rear transmission mount (pitch stopper) fails from normal wear. Replacement requires supporting powertrain and removing crossmember (2-3 hours). OEM mount strongly recommended over aftermarket.
Estimated cost: $350-550
EyeSight Cruise Control System False Activation
Occasional · medium severitySymptoms: Pre-collision braking activates with no obstacle present, Cruise control disengages randomly, EyeSight error messages on dash, System disabled message in rain or snow
Fix: Covered under NHTSA recall 15V-701 for false brake activation. Dealer software update required. If out of recall window, windshield-mounted stereo cameras may need recalibration (1.5 hours) or replacement if moisture intrusion occurred ($800-1,200 per camera). Always use OEM windshield with proper camera mounting points.
Estimated cost: $0-2,500
Driveshaft Center Support Bearing Failure
Occasional · medium severityTypical onset: 90,000-150,000 mi
Symptoms: Vibration at highway speeds (60-70 mph), Clunking from undercarriage during acceleration, Rumbling sound that changes with speed, Worse when cold
Fix: Center carrier bearing wears out, occasionally covered under NHTSA recall 18V-385 for 2015 models. Requires driveshaft removal and bearing replacement or full driveshaft assembly (2.5-3.5 hours). Check if your VIN qualifies for free recall repair first.
Estimated cost: $0-850
Fuel Filter/Pump Assembly Clog
Occasional · medium severityTypical onset: 100,000-160,000 mi
Symptoms: Hard starting after sitting, Hesitation or stumble during acceleration, P0087 fuel pressure code, Stalling at idle when fuel level below 1/4 tank
Fix: In-tank fuel pump strainer clogs with sediment. Subaru doesn't sell strainer separately; requires entire pump assembly replacement. Tank must be dropped (3-4 hours). Use top-tier fuel and keep tank above 1/4 to prolong life.
Estimated cost: $650-1,100
Buy the 3.6L six-cylinder if you can find one; avoid high-mileage 2.5L models unless engine replacement is documented or you budget for it.
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.