2015 Subaru Legacy

Vehicle Specs & Maintenance Data

Engine Size
Engine
2.5L I4
Oil Type & Capacity
0W-20 Full Synthetic (4.4 qts)
Transmission
Automatic (AV-S6)
Wheel Torque
89
ft-lbs

The 2015 Subaru Legacy maintenance specs on this page cover the key fluids, torque values, and wear items you need for routine service. Use these numbers as a quick reference when performing oil changes, tire rotations, brake jobs, and other scheduled maintenance on your Subaru Legacy.

For oil changes, the 2015 Subaru Legacy takes 0W-20 Full Synthetic motor oil with a capacity of 4.4 quarts. Brake fluid type is DOT 3, the recommended coolant is Super Long Life Coolant (Blue), and transmission fluid is Subaru ATF. Always use the manufacturer-recommended fluids to maintain warranty coverage and engine longevity.

When mounting wheels on the Subaru Legacy, torque the lug nuts to 89 ft-lbs using a calibrated torque wrench. Over- or under-torquing can lead to warped brake rotors or loose wheels. Re-torque after 50 to 100 miles on newly installed wheels.

Owners of the 2015 Subaru Legacy have reported 5 common issues including "Excessive Oil Consumption (FB25 Engine)", "CVT (Lineartronic) Shudder and Hesitation" and "Windshield Cracking Without Impact". Scroll down to the Diagnostics tab for detailed descriptions, solutions, and estimated repair costs.

There are 3 NHTSA safety recalls on file for the 2015 Subaru Legacy. Check the Recalls tab below for full details.

Specifications on this page are compiled from multiple publicly available sources including manufacturer documentation, NHTSA data, and automotive databases. Always cross-reference with your owner's manual or official factory documentation before purchasing parts or performing any service.

The 2015 Subaru Legacy uses 0W-20 Full Synthetic motor oil (4.4 qt capacity), requires lug nuts torqued to 89 ft-lbs, takes DOT 3 brake fluid.

2015 Subaru Legacy Specifications
Motor Oil0W-20 Full Synthetic
Oil Capacity4.4 qt
Lug Nut Torque89 ft-lbs
Brake FluidDOT 3
CoolantSuper Long Life Coolant (Blue)
Transmission FluidSubaru ATF
Transmission Fluid
Fluid Type
Subaru ATF
Shop
Coolant
Fluid Type
Super Long Life Coolant (Blue)
Shop
Brake Fluid
Fluid Type
DOT 3
Shop
Washer Fluid
Windshield
Shop

Manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedule for the 2015 Subaru Legacy. Always verify intervals against your owner's manual.

Service Item
Interval
Engine Oil & Filter
6,000 mi / 6 mo
0W-20 synthetic, 5.1 qt (2.5L boxer) or 5.0 qt (2.4L turbo)
Tire Rotation
6,000 mi / 6 mo
Rotate every 6,000 mi; AWD requires matching tread depth
Cabin Air Filter
15,000 mi / 18 mo
Replace more often in dusty conditions
Engine Air Filter
30,000 mi / 36 mo
Inspect at 15,000 mi
Brake Fluid
30,000 mi / 30 mo
DOT 3 or 4
Transmission Fluid
60,000 mi
Lineartronic CVT; Subaru CVT fluid
Differential Fluid
30,000 mi
Front and rear differentials; 75W-90 gear oil
Coolant
110,000 mi
Subaru Super Coolant; then every 60,000 mi
Spark Plugs
60,000 mi
Replace at 60,000 mi
Serpentine Belt
75,000 mi
Inspect at 60,000 mi
Battery
60 mo
Inspect annually
DTC Code Lookup

Enter a diagnostic trouble code to see causes, symptoms, and fixes for the 2015 Subaru Legacy.

Common problems reported by 2015 Subaru Legacy owners, with recommended fixes and estimated repair costs.

1

Excessive Oil Consumption (FB25 Engine)

The 2.5L FB25 engine is prone to excessive oil consumption, with some owners using a quart or more every 1,000-2,000 miles. Subaru faced a class-action lawsuit over this issue. The root cause is piston ring design that allows oil to pass into the combustion chamber, and the issue tends to worsen with mileage.

Solution

Subaru extended the powertrain warranty to 8 years/100,000 miles for oil consumption issues on certain FB-series engines. The dealer will perform an oil consumption test, and if the vehicle consumes more than one quart per 1,200 miles, Subaru will authorize piston ring replacement or short block replacement at no cost under the warranty extension.

Est. Cost: $0 (warranty extension) / $3,000 - $5,000 if not covered
2

CVT (Lineartronic) Shudder and Hesitation

The Lineartronic CVT can develop a shuddering sensation during light acceleration, delayed response from a stop, and a general lack of refinement. The transmission may exhibit a hunting behavior where the engine RPM rises and falls as the CVT searches for the correct ratio. Fluid degradation contributes to the issue over time.

Solution

Perform a CVT fluid replacement using genuine Subaru CVT fluid at 60,000-mile intervals. A valve body replacement or TCM software update may address shuddering issues. Subaru extended the CVT warranty to 10 years/100,000 miles on certain model years. If complete failure occurs, a new or remanufactured CVT is required.

Est. Cost: $300 - $5,000
3

Windshield Cracking Without Impact

Subaru Legacy and Outback windshields are prone to spontaneous cracking without any visible impact point. Cracks often originate from the edge of the windshield near the base or A-pillar area and spread rapidly. Owners suspect that the windshield mounting or body flex contributes to stress cracking. EyeSight-equipped vehicles require a Subaru dealer to recalibrate the cameras after replacement.

Solution

Replace the windshield and have EyeSight cameras recalibrated at a Subaru dealer. Use an OEM or equivalent windshield to ensure proper EyeSight function. Some owners have had success getting Subaru corporate to cover replacement through goodwill claims. Glass insurance coverage that includes calibration costs is recommended.

Est. Cost: $500 - $1,200 (including EyeSight recalibration)
4

Battery Drain and Electrical Issues

The Legacy can experience parasitic battery drain, causing a dead battery after sitting for several days. The issue is often attributed to the infotainment system not fully shutting down, the trunk latch actuator remaining powered, or the security system. Bluetooth and Starlink connected services may also prevent proper sleep mode.

Solution

Have the dealer check for applicable software updates for the infotainment system and BCM. Perform a parasitic draw test to identify the offending circuit. TSB 11-192-17R addresses certain battery drain issues with an updated head unit software. A trickle charger or battery maintainer is recommended if the vehicle sits for extended periods.

Est. Cost: $0 - $300
5

Rear Suspension Clunk Over Bumps

A clunking or knocking noise from the rear suspension over bumps and uneven road surfaces is commonly reported. The noise is typically caused by worn rear stabilizer bar end links or rear lateral link bushings. The symmetrical AWD system's rear differential mount can also contribute to rear-end noise.

Solution

Inspect and replace worn rear stabilizer bar end links, which are the most common source of rear clunking. Check the rear lateral link bushings and trailing arm bushings for cracking or play. Inspect the rear subframe mounting bushings and differential mount. Replace worn components and torque all fasteners to specification.

Est. Cost: $200 - $600

3 NHTSA safety recalls for the 2015 Subaru Legacy. Check your VIN at NHTSA.gov

1

ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)

Campaign: 16V251000 Date: 27/04/2016

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2015 Legacy and Outback vehicles manufactured on July 20, 2015. The brake fluid used in these vehicles may contain excess moisture which may adversely affect the performance of the electronic stability control system. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 126, "Electronic Stability Control Systems."

Consequence

Poor performance of the electronic stability control system when it is activated may result in a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will perform an ABS activation, then flush and replace the brake fluid, free of charge. The recall began on May 20, 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WTC-64.

2

POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT

Campaign: 15V502000 Date: 10/08/2015

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2015 and 2016 model year Subaru Legacy 4-Door and Outback vehicles manufactured July 3, 2015, to July 27, 2015. Transmission oil may leak from a deformed seal cap on the propeller shaft yoke.

Consequence

If the transmission oil leaks onto the exhaust pipe, there is a possible risk of fire.

Remedy

Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the propeller shaft, free of charge. The recall began on August 28, 2015. Owners may contact 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WQU-56.

3

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: CRASH IMMINENT BRAKING

Campaign: 15V366000 Date: 12/06/2015

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2015 Legacy vehicles manufactured March 10, 2014, to April 16, 2015, Outback vehicles manufactured February 24, 2014, to April 16, 2015, Impreza vehicles manufactured September 9, 2014, to April 14, 2015, XV Crosstrek vehicles manufactured October 16, 2014, to April 15, 2015, and 2016 WRX vehicles manufactured March 23, 2015, and equipped with the Eyesight Driver Assist System. If the switch that activates the brake lights fails, the automatic pre-collision braking component of the driver assist system will not function.

Consequence

If the automatic pre-collision braking system does not function as intended, the vehicle will not react to an obstacle in its path, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the driver assist system, free of charge. The recall began on July 20, 2015. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WQS-54.

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See Also
2015 Subaru Legacy Lug Nut TorqueBest Oil for 2015 Subaru LegacyAll Vehicles Using 0W-20 Full Synthetic OilAll Vehicles Using DOT 3Oil Change Guide: 2015 Subaru LegacyWiper Replacement: 2015 Subaru Legacy