What is the recall on the 2013 Subaru Legacy transmission?
The transmission of a 2013 Subaru Legacy does not have a widely publicized recall in the U.S. that is labeled specifically for that model year alone. Public recall records show CVT-related campaigns affecting Subaru vehicles from the surrounding era, but whether a particular 2013 Legacy is affected depends on its VIN. The most reliable way to know is a VIN-based check with NHTSA or Subaru.
Context on recalls for Subaru CVTs and the Legacy
Subaru has issued several recalls over the years involving continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) across multiple model years. These campaigns are typically VIN-specific and can involve software updates, component replacements, or full transmission work performed at no cost to the owner. Because recall eligibility is tied to the individual vehicle identification number (VIN), a Legacy from 2013 may or may not be affected even if other CVT-equipped Subaru models were recalled around the same time.
Which models and years are typically involved
Recalls related to CVTs have affected a range of Subaru models (including Legacy, Outback, Forester, and Impreza) over the early to mid-2010s. Exact eligibility depends on the specific VIN and the details determined by the safety regulator and Subaru. An affected VIN will appear in official recall listings with the required remedy and timeline.
To empower owners to verify status, use the steps below to check the recall status for your vehicle.
- Check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall database by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls, using your 17-character VIN.
- Visit Subaru's official recall information page and input your VIN or contact a dealer for confirmation and next steps.
- Call your local Subaru dealership or Subaru Customer Service for authoritative confirmation and scheduling of any required service.
Note: If a recall is listed for your VIN, the remedy is provided at no cost to you, and the service is performed by an authorized dealer.
What to do if your 2013 Legacy is recalled
If a recall is found for your vehicle, act promptly to have the remedy completed. Recalls are designed to fix safety or reliability concerns and are performed free of charge at an authorized dealer. Keep records of any recall notices and the service performed.
- Book an appointment with your Subaru dealer as soon as you receive a recall notice or confirm a recall via VIN lookup.
- Ask which specific transmission issue is involved and what the remedy entails (software update, part replacement, or transmission work).
- Ensure the work is documented in your vehicle’s service history and keep copies of all receipts and notices.
If you believe there is a safety risk or a delay in addressing a potential recall, contact NHTSA or Subaru Customer Service for guidance on urgent steps.
Additional context and tips
Because recall status depends on the VIN, some 2013 Legacy owners may never be notified if their VIN does not qualify for a particular campaign. Monitoring the public recall databases and registering your vehicle with the manufacturer can ensure you receive notices if new campaigns emerge that affect your car.
For ongoing updates, see:
Summary
The 2013 Subaru Legacy does not have a widely publicized, stand-alone recall solely for its transmission. Recall eligibility is VIN-specific and may involve CVT-related campaigns that affected various Subaru models in the same era. The definitive way to know whether a particular 2013 Legacy is recalled is to perform a VIN lookup through NHTSA or Subaru and follow the recommended remedy if a recall applies.
