Subaru Legacy problems
The Subaru Legacy (Japanese: スバル・レガシィ, Hepburn: Subaru Regashi) is a mid-size car built by Japanese automobile manufacturer Subaru since 1989. The maker's flagship car, it is unique in its class for offering all-wheel drive as a standard feature, and Subaru's traditional boxer engine. The Legacy was sold as the Liberty in Australia out of deference to Legacy Australia, an organisation dedicated to caring for the families of military service veterans.
In 1996, a variant of the Legacy with heightened suspension called the Legacy Outback was introduced to compete in the burgeoning sport-utility vehicle class and proved to be a sales success for Subaru. The Outback line was split into its own model in 2008, known as the Subaru Outback.
As of 2008, 3.6 million Legacy models have been built since its 1989 introduction.
Production of the Legacy ended in Japan in June 2020, with the sixth-generation Legacy being the last model produced and marketed in Japan. Subaru of America announced in an internal email that 2025 will be the last model year for the Subaru Legacy. The Subaru Outback will remain in production, after being the company's top selling model in 2023.
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Subaru Legacy model years
Common Subaru Legacy problems
The Subaru Legacy is a popular mid-sized sedan known for its dependability and excellent safety features. However, like any vehicle, it can experience certain issues. Here are some common problems reported by Subaru Legacy owners:
- CVT Transmission Problems: Older models of the Subaru Legacy, particularly those with Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), have been reported to experience rumbling, stalling, and sudden stopping. A growling noise from the engine upon acceleration can also be a warning sign of a Subaru Legacy transmission problem. Fluid seepage, a pause after pressing on the gas, and the engine revving without accelerating are other notable red flags.
- Torque Converter Problems: The torque converter, which converts energy produced by the engine and sends it to the transmission, can cause slipping transmission at low speed, poor fuel economy, and various noises from the engine. These problems can be traced back to low or dirty transmission fluid, loose torque converter bolts, and worn clutches.
- Hood Latch Problems: Many Subaru Legacy owners have reported issues with the hood latch, which can become loose while driving at highway speeds. This can cause the hood to bob up and down, obstructing the driver's view of the road and potentially cracking or breaking the windshield.
- Excessive Oil Consumption: Some Subaru Legacy models, particularly those from 2010 to 2014, have been reported to consume excessive oil. Drivers have noted that the engine uses about a quart of oil every 1200 miles, which can increase maintenance costs and potentially harm the engine.
- Faulty Airbags: Some Subaru Legacy owners have reported issues with the airbags, which can fail to deploy in the event of a collision. This can pose a significant safety risk to the vehicle's occupants.
- Eyesight Faults: The Subaru Legacy's Eyesight system, which uses cameras and sensors to monitor the road and assist with braking and steering, can experience faults and fail to function properly. This can reduce the vehicle's safety features and make it more difficult to drive.
- Unintended Acceleration: Some Subaru Legacy owners have reported issues with unintended acceleration, where the vehicle suddenly speeds up without the driver's input. This can pose a significant safety risk and make it difficult to control the vehicle.
- Glitchy Infotainment System: The Subaru Legacy's infotainment system, which includes the radio, navigation, and climate control, can experience glitches and malfunctions. This can make it difficult to use the system and reduce the vehicle's functionality.
- Melting Dashboard: Some Subaru Legacy owners have reported issues with the dashboard melting, particularly in models from 2010 to 2012. This can create an offensive chemical smell and obstruct the driver's view of the road.
- Transmission Problems: Transmission issues have been reported in various Subaru Legacy models, including shuddering, vibrating, and stalling. These problems can be expensive to repair and pose a significant safety risk.
It is important to note that while these issues have been reported by some Subaru Legacy owners, they do not necessarily affect all vehicles of this make and model. Prospective buyers should do their own research and consider factors such as the vehicle's age, mileage, and maintenance history when making a purchasing decision.
Do Subaru Legacys have problems?
Subaru Legacy Reliability Problems. Legacy owners have made 266 complaints over 32 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 10th in overall reliability out of 17 Subaru models , with real engine and lights concerns.
Is a Subaru Legacy a reliable vehicle?
The Subaru Legacy Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 16th out of 24 for midsize cars. The average annual repair cost is $563 which means it has average ownership costs. The severity of repairs is average, and major issues are less frequent than average, so major repairs are not common for the Legacy.
What is the average life of a Subaru Legacy?
200,000 miles
Legacy: The Subaru Legacy is a midsize sedan known for its reliability and durability. With proper maintenance, Legacy models can easily last well beyond 200,000 miles, providing years of dependable service.
What are the best years for Subaru Legacy?
For the most reliable Subaru Legacy year in this lineup, we recommend picking up the 2006 and 2007 model years due to their excellent reliability ratings and fuel economy. Both 2006 and 2007 Subaru Legacy models received the “Seal of Awesome” award from CarComplaints.com.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Subaru Legacy years
We have researched Subaru problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Subaru Legacy cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Subaru Legacy model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Subaru Legacy model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Subaru Legacy years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Subaru Legacy car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Subaru Legacy , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Air bags problems
- Electrical system problems
- Power train problems
- Service brakes problems
- Visibility/wiper problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Subaru Legacy vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Legacy model years
A total of 285 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Legacy model years
There were a total of 48 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Legacy model years
There were a total of 194 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Legacy model years
There were a total of 4 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 3211 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Subaru Legacy . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Subaru Legacy vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Subaru Legacy 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-12
- VIN: 4S3BWGP61M3
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Subaru has failed to remedy recall on airbags.
Subaru Legacy 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-03
- VIN: 4S3BWAB60M3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: ODS sensor recall still not fixed/remedy available, used heat for first time since i purchased the car, minor cracks in the windshield, car radio/monitors randomly go black, reverse camera won’t work, restarts on there own after a while
Subaru Legacy 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-30
- VIN: 4S3BNAF68J3
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: My car stereo has gone crazy causing major distractions while driving. Hands free calling doesn’t work, in fact it calls random people on my call list. The screen dances and changes screens all by itself causing major distraction and it has almost caused an accident by the distraction. I’ve read that this issue is a known manufacturing issue and a class action lawsuit was brought against Subaru. I called Subaru and they have refused to give me a warranty radio even thou my dealer confirmed my radio is suffering from the De-lamination issue that’s well known problem with my car.
Subaru Legacy 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: 4S3BMCA68E3
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: My Subaru ran perfectly fine until the water pump and cooler lines got replaced after these were replaced it was tried to be driven and the car then had no idea what gear it was in drive is drive neautral is drive and reverse does not work at all paddle shifters won’t work AT oil temp light check engine light brake light flashing cruise control light all came on and the car will only go forward and it’s making some crazy shutter noises when you start it and sometimes it shuts off after it was started.
Subaru Legacy 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-17
- VIN: 4S3BNAC69H3
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: The mirror drivers side mirror wiggles. I. The even of a battery failure the electrical brake may fail
Subaru Legacy 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-11
- VIN: 4S3BWAD65R3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: Warning light on infotainment screen for Eyesight and Transmission Oil issues. Warning from MySubaru System via website. Warning on Infotainment screen while using CarPlay "There was a problem loading this content." Contacted Subaru of America Britt Senior Customer Service Advocate telling them dealer is not making appointment to fix car and no response. Car is clearly having electrical issues. On previous trip to dealerships service was told some cars seem to have issue near train lines and have sporadic electronic issues. Car has had hazard lights flash upon start up on several times. Subaru of America is not taking this seriously. In my honest opinion someone is going to be seriously hurt or killed because of SOA refusal to fix this issue with 2024 Legacy.
Subaru Legacy 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2021-04-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-06
- VIN: 4S3BNAC65H3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The key frequently gets stuck in the ignition. It takes several attempts to release the key. Turning the wheel to ensure the wheel isn’t locked and turning the ignition/car on does not help release the key from ignition.
Subaru Legacy 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-04
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Subaru Legacy. The contact stated that while driving 35 MPH and driving over a speed bump, there was an abnormal sound coming from underneath the vehicle. The vehicle was driven to an independent mechanic and the contact was informed that the subframe was damaged and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 14,000. The VIN was not available.
Subaru Legacy 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-03
- VIN: 4S3BL686456
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2005 Subaru Legacy. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V311000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the dealer refused to perform the recall. The contact stated that the dealer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact stated that while driving 35 MPH, while braking for a traffic light, the brake pedal was depressed and went to the floorboard. The contact was able to stop the vehicle and had the vehicle towed to a dealer. The dealer diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the rear passenger side brake line had corroded and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired by the dealer since the dealer stated the vehicle was not registered in the listed states on the recall notification. The failure mileage was 229,126. Parts distribution disconnect.
Subaru Legacy 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-26
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-26
- VIN: 4S3BWAC65L3
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Subaru Legacy. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V227000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Subaru Legacy 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-23
- VIN: 4S3BNBL67F3
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owned a 2015 Subaru Legacy. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the contact opened and closed the trunk, triggering the alarm system. The alarm system failed to deactivate immediately. The vehicle then failed to restart as needed, and the "Shift to Park" message was displayed while the transmission was in park(P). The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where the brake fuse was replaced; however, the failure persisted. The contact replaced the brake fuse for a second time, but the failure recurred. The vehicle was towed back to the dealer, where an unknown repair was performed. The contact later sold the vehicle. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 175,000.
Subaru Legacy 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-18
- VIN: 4S3BWAD65R3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: CarPlay Infotainment system built into vehicle and advertised on Subaru.Com as works "perfectly" is showing this message "There was a problem loading this content". Subaru website: The centerpiece of the updated Legacy interior is the available 11.6-inch STARLINK multimedia touchscreen. The stunning big-screen interface makes it easy and intuitive to customize options and delivers SEAMLESS CONTROL of the wireless Apple CarPlay". This is FALSE ADVERTISING. This is EXTREMELY DANGEROUS SAFETY ISSUE. The entire infotainment screen which controls things like HVAC is freezing up for no reason.
Subaru Legacy 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-13
- VIN: 4S3BNAS62K3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Radio is delaminating and causing random calls and radio changes while driving. Serious safety issue. Subaru covered a portion of the replacement but entire cost should be covered due to it being an obvious manufacturer defect.
Subaru Legacy 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-10
- VIN: 4S3BNAH64F3
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: 2015 Subaru Legacy 2.5 engine. Fuel gauge is inaccurate. My daughter was on the highway when it ran out of fuel. Had car towed to a independent shop. They said that the fuel gauges is a problem for Subaru 's and that they had seen it before on other Subaru's.
Subaru Legacy 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-31
- VIN: 4S3BL676196
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES,VISIBILITY/WIPER,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: Under Subaru campaign WQK47, which supersedes an earlier campaign, 05-09 Legacy/Outback and other models are known to undergo accelerated brake line corrosion due to sub-par materials and design. Subaru of America's "fix" for this issue is to inspect the lines: if the lines are compromised, they replace them. If the lines are corroded but not yet compromised, the lines are coated with an anti-corrosion wax. This wax washes off the car and is ineffective. Subaru performed this recall work insufficiently on my vehicle, failing to identify the severity of the corrosion. They coated the lines, called it "fixed", and the brake lines later ruptured under normal driving conditions. This caused a highway near-miss at speed that could have impacted everyone on the road. Multiple Subaru dealerships in Connecticut have refused to re-inspect and repair the vehicle under the recall campaign, despite it being a known critical safety concern, and despite knowledge that the original parts and anti-corrosion application are sub-par. They insist that because the ineffective recall campaign was already "completed", they bear no further responsibility for the design compromises and sub-par materials that are the root cause of this issue. Additionally: Under Subaru bulletin 12-197-16R the dashboard of 05-09 Subaru Legacy/Outback models is known to become sticky and melt. While this might initially be considered a cosmetic issue, the melted surface is DRAMATICALLY reflective. The hump over the gauge cluster melts first, causing a huge, intense sun glare reflection in the windscreen directly ahead of the driver. I own two 05-09 Subaru Legacies; this issue is present in both. Subaru of America has rejected my replacement claims on both cars because the cutoff date for their open recall has expired. This is a major and constantly worsening safety issue that severely limits driver visibility. Because it developed slowly, it was not a safety concern until after closure of the recall.
Latest 5 recalls Subaru Legacy
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 219 recalls for different components of the Subaru Legacy.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Subaru Legacy 2021
- Report Received Date: 2024-03-22
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Outback and Legacy vehicles. A capacitor in the sensors for the Occupant Detection System (ODS) may crack and short circuit, which can prevent the front passenger air bag from deploying in a crash.
- Consequence: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the ODS sensors on the front passenger seat, free of charge. Interim letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed May 17, 2024. Owners will receive a second letter once the remedy is available. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRA-24.
- Model: Subaru Legacy 2020
- Report Received Date: 2024-03-22
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Outback and Legacy vehicles. A capacitor in the sensors for the Occupant Detection System (ODS) may crack and short circuit, which can prevent the front passenger air bag from deploying in a crash.
- Consequence: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the ODS sensors on the front passenger seat, free of charge. Interim letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed May 17, 2024. Owners will receive a second letter once the remedy is available. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRA-24.
- Model: Subaru Legacy 2022
- Report Received Date: 2024-03-22
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Outback and Legacy vehicles. A capacitor in the sensors for the Occupant Detection System (ODS) may crack and short circuit, which can prevent the front passenger air bag from deploying in a crash.
- Consequence: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the ODS sensors on the front passenger seat, free of charge. Interim letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed May 17, 2024. Owners will receive a second letter once the remedy is available. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRA-24.
- Model: Subaru Legacy 2022
- Report Received Date: 2023-11-09
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:PARK/NEUTRAL START INTERLOCK SWITCH
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. is recalling certain model year 2021 Crosstrek, 2022 Forester, 2021-2023 Legacy, and Outback vehicles. An insufficient weld may allow water to enter the inhibitor switch, causing it to fail.
- Consequence: An inoperative inhibitor switch may prevent the reverse lights from illuminating and the rearview camera image from displaying, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the inhibitor switch, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 8, 2024. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WRQ-23.
- Model: Subaru Legacy 2021
- Report Received Date: 2023-11-09
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:PARK/NEUTRAL START INTERLOCK SWITCH
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. is recalling certain model year 2021 Crosstrek, 2022 Forester, 2021-2023 Legacy, and Outback vehicles. An insufficient weld may allow water to enter the inhibitor switch, causing it to fail.
- Consequence: An inoperative inhibitor switch may prevent the reverse lights from illuminating and the rearview camera image from displaying, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the inhibitor switch, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 8, 2024. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WRQ-23.
Latest negative Subaru Legacy car reviews
Latest positive Subaru Legacy car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2018
I recently traded in my 2015 Subaru Outback Limited when the lease ended. However, I spotted a 50th Anniversary Legacy and it immediately changed my mind about getting another Outback. I must say, this is the best vehicle I have ever owned, and my wife's 2018 Legacy is just as great. On our first trip from metro Detroit to Traverse City and back, we got an impressive 29.9 mpg, even though the Legacy wasn't even broken in yet! The car is comfortable, easy to drive, and has improved navigation and eyesight systems. I actually WANT to drive this car. This is our 5th Subaru, and it certainly won't be our last!
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Vehicle year: 1994
You've owned this car for over five years and it has been excellent! In slick road conditions, it is a true champion with AWD. It is as reliable as any car you've had (which includes several Toyotas). It handles better than any other wagon you've owned (Volvo, Toyota). There are many of these vehicles still on the road, and this one has only 130,000 miles on it, which is low. There are many with over 200,000 miles! If you can find and buy one in good shape that has been well taken care of, you will have a versatile and reliable vehicle that will not be flashy, but will get you everywhere you wish to go at any time for a very long time.
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Vehicle year: 1999
Great car! I'm glad to hear that you only had to replace the valve cover gasket. It sounds like it's peppy and great on fuel economy, which is fantastic!
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Vehicle year: 2015
I'm glad to hear that you're overall very satisfied with your car. While it may not feel as sporty as your 2006 Accord EX V6, it does provide a quiet and comfortable ride, which is a great feature. I agree that the wind noise is normal and not a cause for concern. Your fuel economy seems to be quite good, with 22 mpg in town and up to 30.5 mpg on the highway with cruise control activated. Thanks for sharing your experience with us!
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Vehicle year: 2007
I had a Camry and an Accord and was looking for a new vehicle. I test drove the new Camry and the Accord, but they didn't quite meet my expectations. I wanted something different that would provide a more engaging and connected driving experience. That's when I discovered the Legacy. Driving this car is an absolute dream. It's incredibly responsive and precise, almost like it's on rails. The quality and fit & finish are truly impressive, and the acceleration is very responsive. The instrumentation is well-organized, and there are plenty of safety features to give you peace of mind. Plus, it runs on regular gas! I'm confident that you'll love this car as much as I do.
Are you having problems with your Subaru Legacy?
Scottie Kris 2025-11-24
Vehicle year: 1999
This car's engine had a burnt valve, which required a complete engine replacement. Despite being purchased as an SUV/Minivan alternative and a good all-around utility vehicle, it proved to be too small for our family of four. The car's underpowered performance was disappointing, as we always had to push the accelerator to the floor. Although my wife and I have owned three Subarus in the past, we are now looking for a more reliable option. It is unfortunate that we only got half the expected mileage of 150,000, and after a costly $3,000 repair, we have decided to sell the car. It is worth noting that after some research, we discovered that this engine had known issues and the manufacturer reverted back to the SOHC design the following year.
Barney Braun 2025-11-23
Vehicle year: 2002
I purchased my 2002 Subaru Legacy GT Sedan Automatic with 36k miles on it. Since then, I have diligently maintained it with regular oil changes every 3500 miles and all recommended services. Unfortunately, at 92k miles, I had to replace both head gaskets for $1800. Additionally, at 120k miles, the moon roof computer failed, which cost $500 to repair. Most recently, at 126k miles, the #3 Rod Bearing spun and damaged the Crankshaft, resulting in a $4300 repair cost. While it is concerning that the dealer stocks the short block, I am confident that my car's issues are not indicative of the entire model. Despite these setbacks, I remain committed to maintaining my car with factory parts and ensuring its longevity. Currently, my car is at the repair shop, but I am actively working on a solution to get it back on the road.
Jovan Hoeger 2025-11-20
Vehicle year: 1998
Hey there! It's important to keep an eye on your brakes as they can wear out quickly. You might want to consider upgrading to larger rotors for your car. Also, the 2.5 Ltr engine is actually a bored out 2.0 engine, which can sometimes cause issues with head gaskets. To keep your car running smoothly, make sure to regularly check the compression and change the oil. With proper maintenance, you can definitely get up to 250,000 miles on these cars. Subaru has definitely made a name for themselves with their reliable engines!
Aric Glover 2025-11-20
Vehicle year: 1997
Your '97 Subaru Legacy Outback wagon was your first brand-new car (after two used Honda Accords), and it sounds like you loved it! You loved all the room, loved the AWD, and thought (still think) it was cute. It's understandable that you ignored the minor inconveniences, like the gas light that stopped working after it was 2 years old. However, at about 5-1/2 years old, the burning oil smell started, and you had to get the front engine seal replaced ($500). Now, at 6 years and 105,000 miles, the dealer says the gaskets need replacing along with the cam seal (about $700), and maybe some other seal at the back of the engine needs replacing too ($800 or so). So, what do you think? Should you fix it or trade it in? Your Subaru has been a great car, and it's understandable that you're feeling a bit heartbroken about the situation.
Giovanny Purdy 2025-11-19
Vehicle year: 1997
I bought this car from my grandma when she was no longer able to drive. It has been a wonderful car. The only issue I have had is with the brakes. Sometimes, when I come to a stop from a high rate of speed, like coming off the interstate, the whole car seems to shimmy. My previous car was a SAAB, so going from driving that to my little Subaru feels like I am driving a tin foil car, and it seems so low to the ground. However, I know that the safety ratings are very high, so it's just a personal issue. If I hadn't gotten such a great deal on this car from my grandma, I probably wouldn't have bought it. But it has been a great car for me, and it always starts when I need it to.