2014 Subaru Legacy Engine Is Stalling

Common Causes of Engine Stalling in Your 2014 Subaru Legacy and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
30% chance it's the
Fuel System
0%
15% chance it's the
Air Intake System
0%
55% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2014 Subaru Legacy engine is stalling are the fuel system, the air intake system, or the ignition system.
  • Fuel System: A clogged fuel filter or failing fuel pump can restrict fuel flow, resulting in poor engine performance and starting issues.
  • Air Intake System: A dirty or damaged air filter or a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can restrict airflow, leading to reduced engine performance and efficiency.
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.

How much does it cost to fix a 2014 Subaru Legacy engine is stalling?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take when a 2014 Subaru Legacy engine is stalling?

When faced with a stalling engine in a 2014 Subaru Legacy, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Begin by utilizing an OBD-II scanner to check for any trouble codes stored in the vehicle's ECM, as these codes can provide critical insights even if the check engine light is not illuminated. Next, review the vehicle's maintenance history to identify any recent work that might correlate with the stalling issue, ensuring that all services were performed correctly. Inspect basic systems, starting with the fuel level and quality, as low fuel or contamination can lead to stalling, particularly in warmer conditions. Additionally, check the fuel filter and mass airflow sensor, as these components can significantly impact engine performance. Moving on, assess the engine and transmission components, paying special attention to the CVT, which is known to have issues in this model range, and inspect the spark plugs and ignition system for any signs of wear or malfunction. Finally, consider environmental factors such as temperature and specific driving conditions that may trigger the stalling. If these initial steps do not resolve the issue, seeking a professional diagnosis may be necessary to conduct more in-depth testing of the fuel injection system and other critical components. By following this structured approach, you can effectively narrow down the potential causes of the stalling problem in your Subaru Legacy.

What are the common problems that could cause the engine to stall in a 2014 Subaru Legacy?

When dealing with engine stalling in a 2014 Subaru Legacy, several common problems may be at play. One of the primary culprits is a faulty fuel pump, which can lead to stalling while the vehicle is in operation. Although a recall specifically affected 2019 models, similar issues can arise in earlier years. Another significant factor is the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), known for causing stalling, particularly during braking or stopping, without always triggering error codes. Additionally, a dirty or malfunctioning Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF) can disrupt engine performance, and while cleaning may not suffice, replacement often resolves the issue. Other potential causes include problems with the fuel pump relay, which can overheat, and vapor lock in the fuel rail, both of which can lead to intermittent stalling. Cold weather can exacerbate these issues, affecting various components and making diagnosis challenging. Transmission overheating is another concern, as it can cause the vehicle to shut down to prevent damage. Lastly, while less common, engine computer issues affecting ignition coil power may also contribute to sudden power loss. Given the complexity of these potential problems, a thorough diagnostic check by a qualified mechanic is advisable for accurate identification and resolution.

How urgent is it to address the engine stalling issue in a 2014 Subaru Legacy?

Addressing the engine stalling issue in a 2014 Subaru Legacy is of utmost urgency due to the significant safety risks it poses. When an engine stalls, particularly while driving, it can lead to a sudden loss of control, increasing the likelihood of accidents. The potential causes of this stalling, such as a faulty fuel pump or transmission overheating, require immediate attention to avoid further complications. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to severe engine damage, especially if the problem stems from low fuel pressure or malfunctioning components. Therefore, it is crucial for DIY enthusiasts to act swiftly by inspecting the vehicle or consulting a mechanic to diagnose and resolve the issue. This proactive approach not only ensures the safety of the driver and passengers but also protects the vehicle from costly repairs down the line.

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2014 Subaru Legacy Engine Stalling: Causes & Repairs