Top 5 Problems With the 2022 Subaru Legacy

The advanced EyeSight driver-assist system, a cornerstone of Subaru's safety features, can sometimes exhibit unexpected behavior in the 2022 Legacy. Owners may experience false alarms for pre-collision braking, adaptive cruise control issues, or the system temporarily disabling itself, which can be startling and disruptive during driving.

Symptoms drivers notice

• Automatic emergency braking engages unnecessarily at low speeds
• "EyeSight Disabled" warning message appears on the dashboard
• Adaptive cruise control disengages without warning or fails to activate
• Lane Keep Assist or Lane Departure Warning provides incorrect alerts
• Forward Collision Warning activates without an apparent obstacle
• System performance degrades in certain weather conditions (rain, fog)

Typical repair cost and time

DIY parts: $0 (software/cleaning) | Shop labor: $150-$400 (diagnosis and recalibration if not covered by warranty)

How to diagnose and fix

1. Check for any obstructions on the windshield in front of the EyeSight cameras (dirt, ice, stickers).
2. Ensure the windshield is clean and free of chips or cracks that could impede camera vision.
3. Perform a soft reset of the vehicle's electrical system by disconnecting the 12V battery for 15 minutes.
4. Visit a Subaru dealership for diagnostic scanning to check for specific fault codes related to EyeSight.
5. Request any available software updates for the EyeSight system, as these often resolve known glitches.
6. If necessary, have the EyeSight cameras professionally recalibrated by a Subaru technician, especially after a windshield replacement.

The large touchscreen infotainment system in the 2022 Subaru Legacy, while feature-rich, has been a source of frustration for some owners due to freezing, unresponsiveness, or various software glitches. These issues can impact navigation, audio, and smartphone integration, diminishing the overall user experience.

Symptoms drivers notice

• Touchscreen becomes unresponsive to input
• System freezes completely, requiring a restart
• Apple CarPlay or Android Auto frequently disconnects or fails to connect
• Bluetooth pairing issues or dropped connections
• Screen goes blank or displays distorted graphics
• Audio system functions intermittently or controls are unresponsive

Typical repair cost and time

DIY parts: $0 (software) | Shop labor: $0-$200 (diagnosis, software update if not warranty) | Head unit replacement: $500-$1500+

How to diagnose and fix

1. Perform a soft reset of the infotainment system by holding down the power button until it reboots (refer to owner's manual for exact procedure).
2. Check for any available software updates for the infotainment system, which can often be installed by the dealer.
3. Try a factory reset of the infotainment system through the settings menu (note: this will erase personal settings).
4. Ensure your smartphone's operating system and apps (CarPlay/Android Auto) are up to date.
5. Visit a Subaru dealership for a diagnostic check to identify any underlying hardware or persistent software issues.
6. If diagnosed as a hardware failure, the head unit may need replacement, typically covered under warranty for a 2022 model.

A recurring complaint for many Subaru models, including the 2022 Legacy, is the apparent fragility of the windshield. Owners frequently report that small chips from minor impacts can rapidly spread into large cracks, sometimes seemingly without significant cause, leading to costly replacements and potential EyeSight recalibration.

Symptoms drivers notice

• Small rock chips quickly develop into long cracks
• Cracks appear on the windshield without a clear impact point
• Multiple windshield replacements needed within a short ownership period
• Cracks originating from the edges or near the EyeSight camera housing
• Visibility issues due to spreading cracks
• EyeSight system warnings or malfunctions after a crack develops

Typical repair cost and time

DIY parts: $0 (professional only) | Shop labor: $500-$1000+ (for OEM windshield with EyeSight recalibration)

How to diagnose and fix

1. Inspect the windshield regularly for any new chips or cracks, especially after highway driving.
2. Address small chips promptly with a professional repair kit or service before they can spread.
3. When replacing the windshield, insist on an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) glass to ensure proper fit and compatibility with EyeSight.
4. Always ensure that the EyeSight system is professionally recalibrated by a Subaru dealership after any windshield replacement.
5. Check with your insurance provider regarding coverage for windshield replacement, as many policies offer low or no-deductible options for glass.
6. Avoid extreme temperature changes inside the vehicle (e.g., blasting hot air on a cold windshield) which can stress compromised glass.

Some 2022 Legacy owners have experienced issues with the 12V battery draining prematurely, leading to a dead battery, especially after the vehicle has been parked for a few days. This can be caused by various factors, including parasitic draws from electronic modules or a faulty battery itself, leading to inconvenient no-start situations.

Symptoms drivers notice

• Vehicle won't start after being parked for a few days
• Requires frequent jump starts
• Battery warning light illuminates on the dashboard
• Electronic accessories (radio, lights) flicker or fail to operate
• Slow cranking when attempting to start the engine
• Key fob range decreases or remote functions fail

Typical repair cost and time

DIY parts: $150-$300 (new battery) | Shop labor: $100-$300 (diagnosis for parasitic draw) + $200-$400 (battery replacement)

How to diagnose and fix

1. Test the 12V battery's voltage and cold cranking amps (CCA) to determine its health; replace if it fails the test.
2. Ensure all interior and exterior lights are off when the vehicle is parked, and accessories are unplugged.
3. Check for any aftermarket accessories (dash cams, chargers) that might be drawing power when the car is off.
4. Perform a parasitic draw test using a multimeter to identify any modules or components that are drawing excessive current while the vehicle is off.
5. Inspect battery terminals for corrosion and ensure they are clean and tightly secured.
6. If a parasitic draw is identified, a professional technician may need to diagnose which specific module is staying awake or faulty.

While not as widespread as some other issues, a subset of 2022 Subaru Legacy owners has reported the air conditioning system not cooling as effectively as expected, or exhibiting unusual noises. These problems can range from a simple refrigerant leak to more complex component failures within the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system.

Symptoms drivers notice

• AC blows warm or only slightly cool air
• Weak airflow from the vents, even on high settings
• Unusual noises from the AC system (hissing, clicking, rattling)
• Inconsistent cooling across different vents or passenger areas
• Musty or unpleasant odors from the vents when AC is on
• AC compressor cycles on and off too frequently

Typical repair cost and time

DIY parts: $50-$100 (refrigerant kit) | Shop labor: $100-$250 (recharge/diagnosis) | Component replacement (compressor, condenser, blend door): $400-$1500+

How to diagnose and fix

1. Check the cabin air filter and replace it if it's dirty or clogged, as this can restrict airflow.
2. Verify that the AC compressor clutch is engaging when the AC is turned on.
3. Use an AC pressure gauge to check the refrigerant levels in the system; low levels often indicate a leak.
4. Visually inspect AC lines, condenser, and compressor for any signs of leaks (oily residue) or damage.
5. Listen for unusual noises from the engine bay when the AC is running, which could indicate a failing compressor or pulley.
6. If refrigerant is low, have a professional perform a leak detection test and repair, followed by a proper evacuation and recharge of the system.

Which problem to fix first

For safety-critical issues like EyeSight malfunctions, addressing them immediately is paramount. If the system is causing false braking or disengaging, it directly impacts driving safety. Infotainment issues, while annoying, are less urgent. Windshield cracks should be repaired promptly to prevent spreading and maintain structural integrity, especially as they can affect EyeSight camera visibility. Battery drain and HVAC problems should be investigated to restore full vehicle functionality and comfort.

When to see a professional

While some basic troubleshooting like infotainment resets or battery checks can be done by owners, any issue involving the EyeSight system, significant electrical diagnostics, or complex HVAC repairs should be handled by a certified Subaru technician. These systems require specialized diagnostic tools, software updates, and precise calibration that are beyond typical DIY capabilities, especially to maintain warranty coverage.

Frequently asked questions

### Are 2022 Subaru Legacy models reliable?

The 2022 Subaru Legacy generally receives good reliability ratings. However, like many modern vehicles, it can experience issues with its advanced electronic systems, such as the EyeSight driver-assist suite and the infotainment system, along with some physical vulnerabilities like windshield cracking.

### Does the 2022 Legacy have EyeSight problems?

Some 2022 Subaru Legacy owners have reported instances of the EyeSight system malfunctioning, including false pre-collision braking alerts, unnecessary warnings, or the system temporarily disabling itself. These issues often require dealer diagnosis, software updates, or sensor recalibration.

### Why does my 2022 Legacy windshield crack easily?

A common complaint across several Subaru models, including the 2022 Legacy, is the perceived fragility of the windshield. Owners report that chips and cracks can develop from minor impacts, potentially due to the glass composition or structural design, especially around the EyeSight camera housing.

Sources and further reading

Owner forums, NHTSA complaints, and OEM TSB summaries informed this guide.

This guide is not a substitute for OEM service procedures; use a qualified technician for safety-critical work.