2017 Subaru Legacy and Outback Repair Manual

The 2017 Subaru Legacy and Outback represent the midsize sedan and crossover wagon variants, respectively, with a reputation for safety, standard all-wheel drive (AWD), and excellent resale value. These models are part of the sixth-generation (Legacy BN/BS and Outback BS) and offer a balance between comfort, reliability, and all-weather capability.

Specifications

Powertrain & Performance

Acceleration:

• Legacy 2.5L: 0–60 mph in ~8.4 seconds
• Outback 2.5L: 0–60 mph in ~8.7 seconds
• Legacy/Outback 3.6L: 0–60 mph in ~6.9 seconds

Towing Capacity:

• Outback 2.5L: 2,700 lbs
• Outback 3.6L: 3,000 lbs

Trims & Features

Subaru Legacy Trims

Subaru Outback Trims

Common Issues Reported By Owners

Subaru’s 2017 Legacy and Outback models have proven reliable, but some common issues persist, primarily related to the CVT transmission and oil consumption.

1. CVT Transmission Problems

• • Problem: Hesitation, jerking, and occasional failure in the CVT.
  • Symptoms: Loss of power, delayed response, high RPMs during acceleration.
  • Fix: Software update, CVT fluid flush, or full transmission replacement.
  • Cost: $300 for software update; $2,500–$4,000 for transmission replacement.

2. Excessive Oil Consumption (FB25 Engine)

• • Problem: Higher-than-normal oil consumption, particularly in 2.5L engines.
  • Symptoms: Low oil levels, engine knocking, premature engine wear.
  • Fix: Frequent oil level checks or piston ring replacement.
  • Cost: $1,200–$1,800 if piston rings need replacement.

3. Brake Wear and Warped Rotors

• • Problem: Premature wear of brake pads and rotors, especially in Outback models.
  • Symptoms: Vibration during braking, squealing noises.
  • Fix: Replace pads and rotors.
  • Cost: $400–$800 for a complete brake job.

4. Windshield Cracking Issue (Outback)

• • Problem: Weak windshield prone to cracking from small impacts.
  • Fix: Windshield replacement.
  • Cost: $500–$1,000 depending on ADAS calibration.

5. Battery Drain & Electrical Issues

• • Problem: Rapid battery discharge caused by parasitic drain from infotainment or Starlink system.
  • Fix: Software update or replacing the battery with a higher-quality unit.
  • Cost: $200–$300.

Common Mechanical Issues

1. Engine Concerns
   • Oil Consumption: Some 2.5L FB25 engines may burn oil excessively due to piston ring design flaws, particularly in high-mileage examples.
   • CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission):
     • Shuddering/Jerking: Reports of rough acceleration or hesitation, especially in cold weather.
     • Failure Risk: Rare but costly transmission replacements (Subaru extended CVT warranties to 10 years/100,000 miles for 2017 models).
2. Suspension and Steering
   • Strut/Shock Mount Wear: Clunking noises over bumps, particularly in Outback models used for off-road or heavy hauling.
   • Wheel Bearings: Premature failure causing humming or grinding noises.
3. Brake System
   • Premature Brake Pad/Rotor Wear: Aggressive braking or city driving accelerates wear.
   • Brake Lamp Switch Failure: Faulty switches trigger warning lights (recall issued).
4. Cooling System
   • Thermostat Housing Leaks: Plastic components may crack, leading to coolant leaks.

Common Electrical Issues

1. Infotainment System
   • Starlink Glitches: Freezing screens, unresponsive touch controls, or Bluetooth/Apple CarPlay disconnections.
   • Navigation Errors: Outdated maps or software bugs.
2. Eyesight Safety System
   • Camera/Sensor Malfunctions: Dirty or obstructed cameras disable adaptive cruise control or lane-keep assist.
3. Battery Drain
   • Parasitic Draw: Faulty modules (e.g., infotainment, security) drain the battery if the vehicle sits unused.
4. Power Liftgate (Outback):
   • Motor/Sensor Failures: Erratic operation or failure to open/close.

Maintenance Schedule

Recalls & Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)

Major Recalls

1. Brake Light Switch Failure (NHTSA #19V149000)
   • Brake lights may not illuminate properly.
   • Fix:Replace brake light switch.
2. Windshield Cracking (Outback Models Only)
   • Fragile windshields prone to spontaneous cracking.
   • Fix:Windshield replacement with stronger glass.
3. CVT Transmission Chain Slip (NHTSA #18V012000)
   • Possible chain slip leading to loss of acceleration.
   • Fix:Reprogram CVT control module or replace CVT.
4. Takata Airbag Inflators: NHTSA 16V-356 (driver’s side airbag; risk of rupture).
5. Brake Lamp Switch: NHTSA 17V-676 (switch may cause brake lights to stay on or fail).
6. PCV Valve: NHTSA 18V-885 (2017 Outback; faulty valve could lead to engine stall).

Competitors & Alternatives

Recommendations

1. CVT Maintenance:
   • Change CVT fluid every 60k–80k miles (despite Subaru’s “lifetime fluid” claim).
   • Avoid aggressive towing or hauling beyond the rated capacity.
2. Monitor Oil Levels: Check oil monthly and top off as needed to prevent engine damage.
3. Address Recalls: Verify unresolved recalls via Subaru’s recall portal or NHTSA VIN lookup.
4. Pre-Purchase Inspection:
   • Test-drive for CVT behavior, suspension noise, and Eyesight functionality.
   • Scan for stored codes (e.g., transmission, engine, or brake system errors).
5. Battery Care: Replace the battery every 3–4 years and test for parasitic drain.

✅ Pros

• ✅ Standard AWD: Available in both Legacy and Outback, giving superior traction in all conditions.
• ✅ Top Safety Ratings: 5-star NHTSA rating and IIHS Top Safety Pick+.
• ✅ Spacious Interior and Cargo Room: Outback offers SUV-level practicality.
• ✅ Good Resale Value: Subaru models hold their value well over time.

❌ Cons

• ❌ CVT Reliability Concerns: Some models experience premature CVT issues.
• ❌ Oil Consumption (2.5L Engine): May require regular monitoring and top-offs.
• ❌ Windshield Fragility (Outback): Prone to cracking, leading to costly replacements.
• ❌ No Turbo Engine Options: Non-turbo engines may feel underpowered compared to competitors.

Our Final Verdict

The 2017 Subaru Legacy and Outback remain solid choices for families seeking a reliable, safe, and AWD-equipped vehicle with ample cargo space and a strong resale value. While some mechanical and CVT concerns may arise, routine maintenance and timely software updates can significantly improve long-term reliability.