IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2016 Subaru Levorg (VM)

We've identified 3 known issues that can affect the 2016 Subaru Levorg (VM). 1 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

3
Known Issues
1
Serious
1
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

Lineartronic CVT Transmission Valve Body and Solenoid Failure

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

The Lineartronic high-torque CVT relies on electro-hydraulic solenoids inside the valve body assembly to modulate hydraulic line pressure and torque converter lockup. Between 60,000 and 100,000 miles, internal solenoid coils (most commonly the lockup duty solenoid) can suffer open circuits or out-of-range electrical resistance. This causes the transmission to enter limp mode, illuminating the AT Oil Temp, Check Engine, and Vehicle Dynamics Control warning lamps. Specialist repairers can replace individual solenoids or fit a refurbished valve body without replacing the entire gearbox.

Est. Repair Cost: £600–£1,600
Warning Signs:

Flashing AT Oil Temp light accompanied by Check Engine and hill start assist warnings, Transmission restricted to limp-home mode with sluggish acceleration, Jerking or shudder when slowing to a standstill as torque converter fails to disengage

What to Inspect:
  • Scan for transmission fault codes P2764, P0700, or P2763 in the transmission control module
  • Confirm the transmission shifts smoothly through simulated stepped ratios using the steering paddles
  • Check service history for documented Lineartronic CVT fluid flushes at 40,000 to 50,000-mile intervals
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

FB16 DIT Intake Valve Carbon Build-up

ModerateEngine

The 1.6-litre turbocharged FB16 engine features direct petrol injection without intake runner port wash. As crankcase blow-by gases from the PCV system cycle through the intake manifold, carbon deposits bake onto the backs of the intake valves and ports, typically becoming restrictive around 50,000 to 80,000 miles. The restricted airflow causes cold-start rough idling, stuttering under boost around 2,500 to 3,500 rpm, and reduced fuel efficiency. Walnut shell blasting restores factory performance.

Est. Repair Cost: £350–£650
Warning Signs:

Rough, lumpy idle on cold morning engine starts that smooths out once warm, Hesitation or stuttering under boost when accelerating between 2,500 and 3,500 rpm, Gradual reduction in throttle response and fuel economy

What to Inspect:
  • Start the engine from dead cold and listen for uneven idle speed or stumbling
  • Accelerate briskly under load in third gear to check for hesitation or boost flat spots
  • Inquire whether walnut blasting or intake valve decoking has been performed in the vehicle history
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Air-Conditioning Condenser Corrosion and Refrigerant Leak

MinorCooling System

The aluminium air-conditioning condenser sits prominently behind the lower front bumper aperture, directly exposed to high-velocity road grit, small stones, and corrosive UK winter road salt. Over five to seven years, corrosion creates microscopic pinhole leaks along the bottom tube welds, releasing the R1234yf refrigerant. The climate control system will then only blow ambient or warm air into the cabin.

Est. Repair Cost: £280–£550
Warning Signs:

Air conditioning fails to blow cold air even when set to minimum temperature, Audible hissing sound behind the centre console vents when AC button is pressed, Oily residue, road grime, or ultraviolet dye staining visible on the lower condenser fins

What to Inspect:
  • Set climate control to minimum temperature and verify icy cold air emerges from vents within 60 seconds
  • Inspect lower condenser core through the front bumper grille with a flashlight for corrosion or wet oily spots
  • Verify that the AC compressor clutch clicks and spins without loud rumbling or squealing
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Buying Tips for 2016 Subaru Levorg (VM)

  • On 1.6 DIT models, insist on inspecting the intake valves for carbon fouling, as direct injection without port cleaning causes cold-start rough idling.
  • Test drive the Lineartronic transmission thoroughly at operating temperature; any transmission dashboard warning or shift shudder indicates failing valve body solenoids.
  • Check the air-conditioning blows freezing cold within 60 seconds, as the front condenser is vulnerable to stone punctures and road-salt corrosion.
  • Inspect all four tyres for identical tread wear and matched brand; mismatched tyre diameters will overheat the center differential clutch pack.
  • Verify the car has a comprehensive service record documenting 12-month or 12,000-mile engine oil changes and CVT fluid renewals every 40,000 miles.
Check a 2016 Subaru Levorg (VM) by Registration