2013 Subaru Legacy Won't Start

Common Causes for Your 2013 Subaru Legacy Not Starting and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
38% chance it's the
Battery
0%
27% chance it's the
Alternator
0%
20% chance it's the
Starter
0%
15% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2013 Subaru Legacy won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.
  • Battery: A weak or failing battery can result in difficulty starting the engine and electrical system malfunctions due to insufficient power supply.
  • Alternator: A failing alternator can result in insufficient electrical power to the vehicle, leading to battery drain and electrical system malfunctions.
  • Starter: A faulty starter motor or a weak battery can prevent the engine from cranking properly, leading to starting issues.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

What steps should I take to diagnose the starting issue in my 2013 Subaru Legacy?

To effectively diagnose the starting issue in your 2013 Subaru Legacy, begin with the simplest solutions before progressing to more complex diagnostics. Start by checking the battery, as a weak or dead battery is often the primary culprit behind starting problems. Listen for a clicking sound when attempting to start the vehicle, which can indicate insufficient battery power. Next, inspect the starter motor; if the engine turns over but does not start, the starter may not be receiving adequate power. Use a multimeter to test the voltage at the starter terminals to confirm this. Additionally, examine the battery contacts for dirt or corrosion, as these can impede electrical flow. Utilizing an OBD2 scanner can also be beneficial, as it provides diagnostic trouble codes that may point to specific issues within the vehicle's systems. Be mindful of environmental factors, such as cold weather, which can affect battery performance and exacerbate starting issues. If these initial checks do not resolve the problem, it may be time to consult a professional mechanic for a comprehensive diagnosis. By following this structured approach, you can systematically identify and address the starting issue in your Subaru Legacy.

What are the common problems that could cause a 2013 Subaru Legacy to not start?

When troubleshooting a 2013 Subaru Legacy that won't start, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be at play. A dead or weak 12v battery is often the first suspect, as it can prevent the engine from cranking or cause it to crank slowly. If the battery seems fine, the ignition key itself may be faulty, which can also hinder the starting process. Additionally, a defective alternator can lead to insufficient power being supplied to the battery, resulting in starting issues. Another critical component to check is the starter motor; if it's broken or malfunctioning, it will prevent the engine from cranking altogether. In some cases, the engine may crank but not start, which could indicate issues with air, fuel, or spark delivery. Lastly, a weak battery may produce a clicking noise, signaling that while there is enough power to engage the solenoid, it lacks the strength to turn the starter. By systematically examining these potential issues, you can effectively diagnose and address the starting problems with your Subaru Legacy.

How urgent is it to address the starting issue in a 2013 Subaru Legacy?

Addressing a starting issue in a 2013 Subaru Legacy is crucial and should be treated with urgency. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more severe problems, including complete vehicle failure, which not only poses safety risks but can also result in costly repairs down the line. Starting issues often indicate underlying problems with critical components such as the battery, starter motor, ignition system, or fuel system. If these issues are not resolved promptly, they can escalate, leading to unexpected breakdowns that may leave you stranded or compromise your safety on the road. Therefore, it is essential to diagnose and repair any starting problems as soon as they arise, ensuring the reliability and performance of your vehicle while preventing further damage and inconvenience.

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