1996 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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Common 1996 Subaru Legacy problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 1996 Subaru Legacy, several common problems have been reported:
- Transmission: Some owners have mentioned that the automatic transmission in the 1996 Legacy does not shift smoothly. This issue can affect the driving experience and may require attention to ensure proper functionality of the transmission system.
- Check Engine Light: Many users have reported that the check engine light remains illuminated in the 1996 Legacy. While some attribute this to an oil leak, the persistent presence of the check engine light can indicate underlying issues that need to be addressed to maintain the car's performance and reliability.
- General Wear and Tear: Over time, owners have experienced wear and tear issues with the 1996 Legacy, such as hard car seats and minor inconveniences like the placement of the cup holder over the CD player. These issues, while not critical to the car's operation, can impact the overall comfort and convenience of the vehicle.
- Reliability: Despite these reported problems, many owners have praised the 1996 Subaru Legacy for its reliability and longevity. The car has been described as fun to drive, reliable in various weather conditions, and capable of enduring high mileage. Owners have shared positive experiences with the car's performance and durability over the years.
These common problems reported by owners of the 1996 Subaru Legacy highlight a mix of mechanical, electrical, and comfort-related issues that can impact the overall ownership experience of this vehicle. Addressing these concerns promptly and ensuring regular maintenance can help mitigate potential issues and prolong the lifespan of the car.
What is the most common problem with the Subaru Legacy?
Top Subaru Legacy Problems
- Cooling System Problems Cause Head Gasket Failure. ...
- Subaru Front O2 Sensor Recall. ...
- Failure in ABS causes pump to run continuously and wear down battery. ...
- Failure in ABS causes pump to run continuously and wear down battery. ...
- Engine Oil May Leak From Camshaft/Crankshaft Front Seals.
Is the Subaru Legacy a reliable car?
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.
How long do Subaru Legacy engines last?
200,000 miles
The Lifespan of Subaru Engines and Safety Technology
Engine Lifespan: Subaru engines are known for their durability and longevity, with many drivers reporting engines that last well beyond 200,000 miles with proper maintenance.
How many miles can a 1997 Subaru Legacy last?
Since most Subaru owners use there cars to the fullest extent possible, Subaru's tend to have a shortened life span, but if treated with care 300,000 miles is 100% possible.
What is the most common problem with the Subaru Legacy?
Top Subaru Legacy Problems
- Cooling System Problems Cause Head Gasket Failure. ...
- Subaru Front O2 Sensor Recall. ...
- Failure in ABS causes pump to run continuously and wear down battery. ...
- Failure in ABS causes pump to run continuously and wear down battery. ...
- Engine Oil May Leak From Camshaft/Crankshaft Front Seals.
Is the Subaru Legacy a reliable car?
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.
Are 1998 Subaru Legacy reliable?
1998 Subaru Legacy GT
The car is a well built, fun, and comfortable car. In the hands of an individual that is willing to put effort into basic maintenance and willing to pay for some regular repairs it is a trustworthy and reliable vehicle.
How many miles can a 1997 Subaru Legacy last?
Since most Subaru owners use there cars to the fullest extent possible, Subaru's tend to have a shortened life span, but if treated with care 300,000 miles is 100% possible.
1996 Subaru Legacy car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Subaru Legacy problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Air bags problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Electrical system problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1996 Subaru Legacy vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1996 Subaru Legacy
The NHTSA has received 141 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1996 Subaru Legacy. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1996 Subaru Legacy vehicles.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-03-02
- Fire: 1
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 SUBARU LEGACY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH, THERE WAS A LOUD NOISE COMING FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT THEN NOTICED THAT THERE WAS SMOKE AND FLAMES COMING FROM THE REAR END OF THE VEHICLE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CONTACTED AND A FIRE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS THEN TOWED TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER WHERE THEY INSPECTED AND ADVISED THAT THE DIFFERENTIAL FAILED DUE TO THE VEHICLE BECOMING OVERHEATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 255,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-10-15
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 4S3BK4358T7
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 SUBARU LEGACY. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING 5 MPH WHEN ANOTHER VEHICLE CRASHED INTO HIS BUMPER AND THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. THERE WERE NO PHYSICAL DAMAGES TO THE VEHICLE AND THERE WERE NO INJURIES REPORTED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED OF THE INCIDENT. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A LOCAL AUTO MECHANIC TO HAVE THE AIR BAGS AND THE WINDSHIELD REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE INCIDENT. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 108,000.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-09-16
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 4S38K4350TF
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: MY DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING HER 96 SUBARU LEGACY THE OTHER DAY TO THE STORE WHEN SHE WAS ALERTED BY ANOTHER DRIVER THAT HER CAR WAS ON FIRE. LUCKILY THEY HAD A FIRE EXTINGUISHER AND WAS ABLE TO PUT IT OUT. BEECHMONT SUBARU SAID THIS WAS THE FIRST TIME THEY EVER SAW A REAR DIFFERENTIAL CATCH ON FIRE. I WANTED TO MAKE SUBARU AWARE AND MAYBE GET SOME HELP ON THIS REPAIR. MAKING SURE IT DONE CORRECTLY. IT WAS A VERY FRIGHTENING PHONE CALL FROM MY DAUGHTER. THIS WEB SITE WILL NOT ALLOW ME TO ENTER THE VIN. [XXX]. I WILL EDIT THE VIN TILL THE SITE ACCEPTS MY COMPLAINT. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-08-05
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: 1996 SUBURU LEGACY SHUTS DOWN ALL ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. PURCHASED IN UTAH DROVE TO DENVER AREA. WENT TO DMV TO REGISTER THEN CAR QUIT. RESTS A WHILE THEN STARTS. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-06-24
- VIN: 4S3BK4250T6
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 SUBARU LEGACY. THE VEHICLE FAILED TO START AND WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER. THE DEALER ATTRIBUTED THE CAUSE OF FAILURE TO THE WIRES INSIDE THE FUEL TANK BEING BURNT BECAUSE THE INTERNAL CONNECTOR HAD LOOSE TERMINALS. THE FUEL PUMP MODULE WAS REPLACED. THE CURRENT MILEAGE IS 85,000 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 84,600.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-05-02
- VIN: 4S3BK4350T6
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 SUBARU LEGACY. WHILE FILLING THE GAS TANK THE CONTACT NOTICED A PUDDLE OF GAS FORMING UNDER THE VEHICLE. THE FILLER PIPE RUSTED THROUGH AND CAUSED THIN HOLES. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 110,000.*AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-08-09
- VIN: 4S3BD4350T6
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED AN ODOR OF FUEL WAS DETECTED AND A PUDDLE BEGAN TO FORM ON THE GROUND WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALERSHIP AND THE FUEL FILLER TUBE WAS REPLACED. UPDATED 9/5/2006 - *NM
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-06-14
- VIN: 4S3BG6852T7
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: MY 1996 SUBARU OUTBACK EXPERIENCED AN AIR BAG MALFUNCTION ON 6/14/2005. WHILE DRIVING DOWN OUR LOCAL HIGHWAY AT 55 MPH THE VEHICLE'S AIR BAG SUDDENLY DEPLOYED. THE SUDDEN DEPLOYMENT CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO STALL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER BUT DUE TO THE MILEAGE ON THE VEHICLE THEY REFUSED TO CONTACT THE MANUFACTURER ABOUT REPAIRS. THE INSURANCE INSPECTOR BELIEVES THAT THE FAILURE WAS DUE TO A MALFUNCTION IN THE SYSTEM BECAUSE THERE WAS NO DAMAGE TO THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE TO INDICATE A 55 MPH CRASH. *NM *NM
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-10-09
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 4S3BK6756T7
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: DT: CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE PULLING INTO THE GARAGE VEHICLE ACCELERATED WITHOUT WARNING AND HIT THE REAR OF THE GARAGE AND DID DAMAGE TO THE BUILDING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOTALED. DEALER SAID THEY NEVER HEARD OF THIS PROBLEM. MANUFACTURER HAS NOT BEEN CONTACTED YET. *AK UPDATED 11/16/2005 - *NM
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-08-15
- VIN: 4S3BK4355T7
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
- Summary: DT: THE CALLER SAYS HIS GAS GAUGE WILL SHOW EMPTY WHEN IT GETS DOWN TO HALF A TANK. HE STATES THAT IT DOES NOT HAPPEN ALL THE TIME. IT HAS BEEN HAPPENING FOR A MONTH. DEALER AND MANUFACTURER HAVE NOT BEEN CONTACTED YET.*AK THE CONSUMER DID CONTACT THE MANUFACTURER AND WAS TOLD TO TAKE THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER, BUT THERE WOULD BE A CHARGE TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE. *JB
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-07-21
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: STONE GAURD PROTECTING FUEL FILLER PIPE CAUSED DIRT TO BE TRAPPED BLOCKING DRAIN AND WATER TO ACCUMULATE AGAINST FILLER PIPE. RUSTED FILLER PIPE CAUSING LEAKING.
SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-06-28
- VIN: 4S3BD4358T6
- Components: SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: REQUEST FOR REIMBURSEMENT REGARDING THE REPAIR OF THE 1996 SUBARU LEGACY DRIVER'S SIDE FRONT SPRING.*MR DURING A ROUTINE INSPECTION, IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT THE SPRING ON THE LEFT FRONT OF THE CONSUMERS VEHICLE HAD FAILED FOR THE SECOND TIME. WHEN THE ORIGINAL SPRING FAILED THE FIRST TIME, IT CAUSED DAMAGED TO THE TIRE AND THE SPARE TIRE. THE IGNITION WIRE WERE WORN, THE HEADLIGHT BULB WAS REPLACED. *JB
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-06-29
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: DT: THE FILLER PIPE ON FUEL TANK ROTTED OUT AND LEAKED FUEL ALL OVER THE PLACE. DEALER SAID IT WAS NOT A SAFETY DEFECT AND NO RECALL WAS NOTED.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-06-17
- VIN: 4S3BD4358T6
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TODAY, 06/17/05, DURING A ROUTINE NYS SAFETY INSPECTION, IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT THE SPRING ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE FRONT OF MY 1996 SUBARU LEGACY FAILED FOR A SECOND TIME. IN 1999 THE ORIGINAL SPRING SNAPPED CAUSING DAMAGE TO BOTH THE TIRE AND THE SPARE. AT THAT TIME THE SPRING WAS REPALCED.I CONTACTED SUBARU ABOUT THIS UNUSUAL FAILURE BUT THEY DID NOTHING. IN 2001 I RECEIVED A RECALL LETTER FROM SUBARU BECAUSE OF SPRING FAILURES. AS INSTRUCTED, I RETURNED THE CAR TO THE DEALERSHIP WERE BOTH FRONT SPRINGS WERE WAS FITTED WITH SAFETY DEVICES TO PREVENT ANOTHER FAILURE. I ASSUMED THAT THE PROBLEM WAS SOLVED AND THE CAR WOULD BE SAFE TO DRIVE. EVENTUALLY I WAS REIMBURSED FOR MY REPAIR EXPENSES. TODAY I CONTACTED SUBARU CONSUMER SERVICE DEPARTMENT WHEN I LEARNED THAT THE REPLACEMENT SPRING FAILED AND NEEDED REPLACEMENT. I WAS TOLD BY A REPRESENTATIVE THAT SUBARU HAD MET ITS RECALL OBLIGATIONS AND WOULD DO NOTHING ABOUT THE FAILURE OF THE FRONT END REPLACEMENT SPRING. SUBARU HAS NOT SOLVED MY PROBLEM AND I WILL BE REQUESTING REIMBURSEMENT FOR A SECOND TIME.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-08-17
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 4S3BD4350T7
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: THE VEHICLE WAS SLOWLY MOVING INTO DRIVEWAY AND THE BRAKES WERE APPLIED AND FAILED TO STOP THE VEHICLE AND HIT THE HOUSE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED. THE CONSUMER WAS INFORMED BY DEALERSHIP THAT THE MASTER CYLINDER FAILED. THE MASTER CYLINDER NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. *AK THE CONSUMER STATED THAT THERE WAS NO WARNING. THE FAILURE OF THE MASTER CYLINDER CAUSED THE FRONT BRAKES ROTORS AND PADS TO BURN UP. *SC
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-08-12
- VIN: 4S3BK455XT7
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING THE BATTERY WARNING LIGHT CAME ON FOLLOWED BY ENGINE STALLING. VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A SERVICE STATION , WHO INDICATED THAT THIS OCCURRED BECAUSE OF ALTERNATOR FAILURE. THE ALTERNATOR AND BATTERY WERE REPLACED. THE FAILURE RECURRED. AN ALTERNATOR RECALL 00I002000 WAS ISSUED, BUT THIS VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED DUE TO VIN. *AK
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-07-28
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 4S3BK435XT7
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: MY DAUGHTER SPUN HER 1996 SUBARU LEGACY WAGON WHILE TRYING TO MISS A DEER AT ABOUT 45 MPH. SHE HIT A TREE GOING BACKWARDS. IN THE COLLISION THE SEAT BACK BROKE ON THE DRIVERS SEAT. THIS CAUSED HER TO HIT HER HEAD AND NECK AND SHE SUFFERED A BROKEN NECK. THE SEAT BACK SHOULD NOT HAVE BROKEN IN A REAR END COLLISION. THE CAR WAS IN GOOD SHAPE AND ONLY HAD 60,000 MILES.*AK
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-02-12
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH THE HOOD FLEW OPEN, SHATTERING THE FRONT WINDSHIELD. DEALERSHIP WAS NOTIFIED, BUT DID NOT RESOLVE THE PROBLEM. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-01-02
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: 1996 SUBARU LEGACY, BRIGHTON MODEL SW 65,000 MILES I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE NEW. I HAVE HAD PLUGS AND WIRES REPLACED SEVERAL TIMES IN THE PAST YEAR. THIS LAST TIME ONE PLUG WIRE AND PLUG WAS BAD. THE PROBLEM I WAS HAVING WAS WHEN ACCELERATING AT HIGH SPEEDS THERE WAS A MISS OR HESITATION IN THE ENGINE AS WELL AS THE A SHAKING. ALSO, THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. THIS ALSO HAPPENS MORE OFTEN WHEN THE VEHICLE IS COLD OR WHEN IT IS COLD OUTSIDE. MY LOCAL DEALER FINALLY BELIEVES IT IS A BAD VALVE GUIDE. HE DROPPED THE EXHAUST MANIFOLD AND COULD SEE ONE OF THE GUIDES HAVING DOWN FROM THERE. I HAVE NOT HAD THIS FIXED YET, I JUST FOUND THIS OUT 1-2-04. I UNDERSTAND THERE HAS BEEN SEVERAL LEGACY'S WHICH WERE MADE IN 1995 AND 1996 THAT HAVE HAD THIS PROBLEM. I HAVE ALSO SEEN A COMPLAINT WHICH WAS FILED AT THIS WEB SITE REGARDING THE SAME PROBLEM IT IS ODI ID NO. 732588. THIS IS A COSTLY PROBLEM AND FEEL SUBARU SHOULD RECALL THESE VEHICLES. I AM HOPING TO GET THE PROBLEM FIXED WITHIN THE NEXT WEEK OR SO. I ALSO FEEL DEALERSHIPS SHOULD BE MADE AWARE TO CHECK THIS PROBLEM WHEN PLUGS BEGIN TO FOWL OUT LIKE MINE HAS DONE SEVERAL TIMES NOW. I WILL LET YOU KNOW HOW THIS GOES. JD *LA
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: NOT AVAILAB
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE TRAVELING AT 35 MPH HEAD GASKET BLEW OUT, DRIVER LOST POWER STEERING, AND ENGINE DIED. VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A MECHANIC, WHO INDICATED THAT ENGINE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED ALONG WITH SOME OTHER COMPONENTS. *AK
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-07-11
- VIN: 4S3BD4352T7
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: CONSUMER MADE AN APPOINTMENT WITH THE DEALER ABOUT TWO WEEKS AGO FOR RECALL 01V216000 REPAIRS REGARDING FRONT COIL SPRINGS. THE CONSUMER HAD TAKEN THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER ON 7/11/2003, AND THE DEALER STATED NO PARTS WERE AVAILABLE, AND THERE WAS NOTHING THEY COULD DO TO FURTHER ASSIST THEM. *AK *SCC *NLM
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-07-07
- VIN: 4S3BD435XT7
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: 1996 SUBARU LEGACY - AUTO TRANS. CAR BINDS ON SLOW TURNS. SUBARU TECH. STATES THAT VEHICLE NEEDS ABOUT $1000 IN REPAIR TO THE AWD SYSTEM, THIS INCLUDES TRANSFER CLUTCHES, HOUSING, ETC. ONLY 44,000 MILES ON VEHICLE! TECH STATED THAT HE HAS NEVER SEEN THIS PROBLEM ON A VEHICLE WITH SUCH LOW MILEAGE. CALLED SUBARU OF AMERICA AND THEY STATED THAT THEY WILL NOT ASSIST IN REPAIRS. I PURCHASD THE VEHICLE TO HAVE AWD AND THIS IS THE SYSTEM THAT IS FAILING! SINCE AWD IS THE BENCHMARK OF SUBARU, I WOULD HAVE THOUGHT THEY WOULD STAND BEHIND THEIR PRODUCT. PLEASE ADVISE.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-09-02
- VIN: 4S3BD4354T7
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I HAVE A 1996 SUBARU LEGACY L WITH AN INTERMITTENT ENGINE MISS WITH A P0304 (MISS IN CYLINDER 4) CODE. MOST OF THE TIME IT RUNS FINE BUT WHEN IT MISSES, IT IS VERY VIOLENT. IT SEEMS TO RESONATE. CHANGING SPEED USUALLY MAKES IT GO AWAY. WHEN IT FIRST STARTED, IT ONLY OCCURRED ONCE A MONTH. OVER THE PAST YEAR, AND AFTER SEVERAL MECHANICS VISITS, IT NOW OCCURS NEARLY EVERY TRIP.I HAVE REPLACED SPARK PLUGS (YES NGK), SPARK PLUG WIRES (SUBARU ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT), GAS FILTER, AIR FILTER, COIL, PCV VALVE, KNOCK SENSOR, CAM AND CRANKSHAFT SENSORS. THE INJECTORS HAVE BEEN SWAPPED BETWEEN CYLINDERS. I HAVE BEEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC TWICE. ON THE SECOND TRIP HE GAVE UP AND ADVISED I GO TO A SUBARU DEALER. AFTER TWO VISITS TO THE SUBARU DEALER, I'VE SPENT SEVERAL HUNDRED ADDITIONAL DOLLARS AND STILL HAVE THE PROBLEM. THEY REPLACED PLUGS, KNOCK, CAM, AND CRANKSHAFT SENSORS.DOESN'T SUBARU HAVE DIAGNOSTICS TO IDENTIFY WHAT THIS PROBLEM IS. I TOOK THE CAR TO THEM WITH THE EXPECTATION THAT THEY COULD IDENTIFY WHAT IS WRONG INSTEAD OF JUST REPLACING HIGHLY SUSPECT PARTS. THEY DON'T SEEM TO BE DOING ANY BETTER THAN I HAVE DONE ON MY OWN.*AK I'VE SEEN OTHERS POST PROBLEMS HERE AND AT EDMUNDS WITH DRIVEABILITY ISSUES. I'VE NEVER SEEN A POSTING THAT INDICATED IT WAS ACTUALLY SOLVED. SURELY SUBARU KNOWS ABOUT THIS PROBLEM AND HAS A FIX. IT HAS GONE FROM AN ANNOYANCE TO A SAFETY ISSUE. DOES ANYONE HAVE ANY SUGGESTIONS? ARE SOME SUBARUS JUST LEMONS?
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 4S3BK435XT6
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHILE TRAVELING AT 10 MPH THROUGH THE SNOW VEHICLE GOT STUCK IN THE SNOW. VEHICLE WAS SUPPOSE TO BE EQUIPPED WITH ALL WHEEL DRIVE, BUT DIDN'T PERFORM LIKE IT.*AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 4S3BK435XT6
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES THAT THE VEHICLE LURCHES FOWARD UNEXPECTEDLY. CAUSE UNKNOWN. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION.**AK
1996 Subaru Legacy recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 1996 Subaru Legacy.
- Manufacturer: SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:SPRINGS:COIL SPRINGS
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH FRONT COIL SPRINGS ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, KENTUCKY, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW YORK, NEW JERSEY, NEW HAMPSHIRE, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, VIRGINIA, WEST VIRGINIA, AND WISCONSIN, AND IN THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. THE FRONT COIL SPRINGS WERE PRODUCED WITH POOR PAINT QUALITY WHICH, AFTER CONTINUED EXPOSURE TO CORROSIVE SALT, CAN RESULT IN BREAKAGE OF THE SPRING.
- Consequence: DEPENDING ON THE LOCATION OF THE FRACTURE, A BROKEN SPRING COULD MOVE PAST THE SPRING SEAT AND CONTACT A FRONT TIRE. SOME TIRES HAVE DEFLATED DUE TO CONTACT WITH A BROKEN SPRING.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL NOTIFIY CUSTOMERS TO BRING THEIR VEHICLE TO AN AUTHORIZE DEALERSHIP TO HAVE A SPRING GUARD INSTALLED ON BOTH FRONT STRUTS TO PREVENT TIRE PUNCTURE AND REPLACE ANY BROKEN SPRINGS FREE OF CHARGE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN SEPTEMBER 18, 2001. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT SUBARU AT 1-800-782-2783.
- Manufacturer: SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR
- Summary: THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SAFETY ACT. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. SOME OF THESE VEHICLES HAVE AN ALTERNATOR PROBLEM THAT CAN RESULT IN A LOSS OF CHARGING CAPABILITY.
- Consequence: IF THE ALTERNATOR FAILS, THE ALTERNATOR WARNING TELLTALE WILL ALERT THE DRIVER TO THE PROBLEM, GIVING AMPLE OPPORTUNITY TO SEEK REPAIR BEFORE A LOSS OF BATTERY POWER, WHICH, IF THE WARNING WERE IGNORED, COULD ULTIMATELY RESULT IN A LOSS OF VEHICLE POWER (ENGINE STALL).
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE ALTERNATOR WITH A MODIFIED ALTERNATOR. OWNERS WILL ALSO BE CAUTIONED THAT, SHOULD THE ALTERNATOR TELLTALE WARNING LAMP ILLUMINATE, THEY MUST SEEK IMMEDIATE REPAIR TO AVOID THE EVENTUAL LOSS OF ELECTRICAL POWER, WHICH COULD RESULT IN AN ENGINE STALL.
- Manufacturer: SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. INADVERTENT AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT CAN OCCUR AFTER UNDERCARRIAGE CONTACT OF THE TOW HOOKS WITH CURBS, DIPS, SPEEDBUMPS, POTHOLES, ETC.
- Consequence: UNEXPECTED AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT COULD RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REMOVE THE FRONT TOW HOOKS.
- Manufacturer: SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:SPRINGS:LEAF SPRING ASSEMBLY:HANGER,BRACKET
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER STATION WAGON, SEDAN AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. DUE TO IMPROPER WELDING, FRACTURES CAN OCCUR ON THE SUPPORT BRACKET OF THE FRONT TRANSVERSE LINK.
- Consequence: SUCH FRACTURES CAN RESULT IN PARTIAL OR COMPLETE SEPARATION OF THE BRACKET CAUSING A FAILURE OF THE LOWER SUSPENSION MOUNTING, LEADING TO A LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND REPLACE IF NECESSARY THE FRONT SUSPENSION SUPPORT BRACKETS.
Negative 1996 Subaru Legacy car reviews
Positive 1996 Subaru Legacy car reviews
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This car has 297,000 miles on it and has been very reliable, still getting close to 26 mpg. While it may not be the best choice for those who prefer to do their own maintenance, it is a great value for the $4K range. The spark plugs can be difficult to change and replacement parts can be expensive. Additionally, it tends to wear out brakes and heater lamps frequently. However, overall it is a good car and has served me well.
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This car has been amazing! It's been my reliable workhorse for 12 years, and it's been great in the mountains and in the snow. It's perfect for transporting kids and hauling stuff. I can honestly say it's the best car I've ever owned. I've had to do a few major repairs over time, including a new clutch at 80K miles, but nothing unexpected. Just keep up with regular servicing and this car will treat you right! However, after 12 years, it's time for a new Outback. I will be sad to say goodbye to my 1996 edition!
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Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with my trusty Subaru. I bought it brand new back in '96 and have driven it for over 133,000 miles! I'm happy to say that I've never had any major issues with it, and it's been a reliable companion through all kinds of weather, including some pretty brutal Northeast snowstorms. The fold-down seats have also been a lifesaver for my weekend trips to Home Depot. Today, I'm trading it in for a Mercedes E320 4Matic, but I'll always remember my Subaru fondly and hope that my new car will be just as great. Thanks for listening!
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I'm so glad to hear that you've been enjoying driving this vehicle since day one! It's great to hear that it handles wonderfully in all types of road conditions. It sounds like you liked your 1996 model so much that you decided to purchase a second one in 2001. That's wonderful to hear! It must be a pleasure to drive.
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Great for dogs, kids, vacations in Lake Tahoe, the beach, or wherever. If you're worried about navigating a steep, dilapidated asphalt driveway with tight turns, don't be! Our product can handle it with ease.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1996 Subaru Legacy problems:
Known issues with 1996 Subaru Outback Legacy... you'll think I'm ...
Jul 23, 2012 ... headgaskets are a huge issue on that motor, they fail all the time. sypmtoms are bubbling in overflow tank and completely random overheating.
1996 Subaru Legacy Problems and Complaints - 2 Issues
Problem with your 1996 Subaru Legacy? Our list of 2 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1996 Subaru Legacy.
1996 Subaru Legacy Randomly Will Not Start - Maintenance ...
Jan 23, 2012 ... The car really seems to run fine, but the main problem is it randomly won't start. We can drive it short or long distances. It will start just ...
Common Problems? - Pre-purchase Questions - LegacyGT.com
Nov 11, 2012 ... Car: 2008 Subaru Legacy. Share · Posted January 5, 2013. My - 2008. Miles - 67K. Trans - manual. Age - 4. I've had alot of problems with this ...
1996 Legacy, bad year, valve problem ??? - 1990 to Present Legacy ...
Jul 7, 2010 ... A few years ago we posted a question on a forum (cant remember which one (old Subaru forum links no longer work) about a 1996 Subaru Legacy ...
Other years of Subaru Legacy
Are you having problems with your 1996 Subaru Legacy?
Luis Jerde 2024-11-24
I bought this car new, mainly because of Subaru's reputation for safety and reliability. However, I made a couple of mistakes. Firstly, I didn't check the cost of repair rating with my insurer, which resulted in a steep insurance cost. Secondly, I didn't purchase this car from a standalone Subaru dealer. I found that multimark dealers do not maintain parts or knowledgeable mechanics on site, which was a bit of a letdown. Although this car performs well in poor conditions, it was cheaply built with low-quality materials. The paint job was also disappointing, and the alloy wheels corroded so badly that the tires wouldn't hold air. The ride has always been poor. Overall, I don't think I'll be buying any more Subarus in the future!
Jamarcus McGlynn 2024-10-20
Bought my Subaru in 2000 with about 68,000 miles. It's got 168K on it now and still drives great! I had to replace the timing belt at about 140K (even though it should have been replaced earlier), but luckily there was no damage to the valvetrain. The alternator died at about 115K, but it was replaced under the Subaru recall program. Overall, I'm very satisfied with my Subaru and would definitely buy another one!
Arvel Roberts 2024-07-20
The oil seals on my wife's Legacy went bad at 75,000 miles, which is about the same mileage when the oil seals went bad on my Forester. After doing some research, I discovered that this is a common and recurring issue. Although I appreciate the AWD, I am considering other options as Honda and Toyota have a reputation for being more reliable.
Alexander Rempel 2024-06-09
The car has good handling, reasonable power, and is a wonderful bad-weather car with plenty of room and good comfort. However, at 22K, the trick 16-valve 2.5L quad-cam boxer engine (only made in '96) started pinging like an old GM diesel, even on 94.5 octane premium gas. Unfortunately, the dealer was not helpful. At 99K, it has some issues such as bad oil seals, a bad wheel bearing, needs a 3rd set of brakes, bad CV joint, engine sensors, and more. Despite the reliability issues, I still love the car. The service and parts can be expensive, and the fuel economy is poor for the power. On the bright side, the car has absolutely incredible deep snow capability. I believe that 100K trouble-free is not a lot to ask from a car nowadays!
Dee Sanford 2024-03-03
Great AWD! However, it's worth noting that it may not be necessary for snowy conditions, which only occur around 5% of the time even in MN. The clutch was replaced at 78,000mi after slipping for the past 20,000, but overall the performance is average. The fuel consumption is below average, and the brakes could be better. There is an air leak from the corroded front rims, which is reminiscent of a FIAT I once owned. Despite these issues, some may question its reliability reputation.