How long does a 2017 Subaru Legacy last?

The typical answer is that a well-maintained 2017 Subaru Legacy can reach around 200,000 miles or more, with many examples lasting 250,000 miles or higher. Longevity hinges on maintenance, climate, driving habits, and timely repairs. This article examines realistic lifespans, the factors that influence durability, and practical steps to maximize the car’s life.

Expected lifespan and what owners experience

Typical lifetime milestones reported by owners and reliability reviews provide a practical sense of what to expect from a 2017 Legacy.

• 200,000 miles is a common benchmark for a solidly maintained 2017 Legacy, with many cars continuing to perform well beyond that mark.


• 250,000 miles or more is not unusual for well-kept examples, especially on highway-heavy use or where routine maintenance is rigorously followed.


• Reliability and longevity have generally been favorable for Subarus in this class, though longevity varies by engine choice, maintenance quality, and climate; regular service is essential.


• Transmission health matters: the Lineartronic CVT in these models requires attentive maintenance (fluid changes, leak checks) to avoid early wear; neglect can shorten life.


• Corrosion and wear: in snowy or coastal climates, rust prevention and undercarriage care matter, as salt exposure and road debris can affect body and suspension components over time.

In short, a 2017 Legacy can be a long-lived vehicle if owners stay on top of maintenance, address issues early, and drive it with care. Individual results will vary based on how the car was cared for and where it’s driven.

Maintenance and drivetrain considerations that affect longevity

These are the key maintenance practices and risk factors that influence whether a 2017 Legacy hits higher mileage and stays reliable over time.

Engine and powertrain durability

Most 2017 Legacy models rely on a turbocharged-free, boxer-four design that emphasizes durability when properly maintained. Understanding the engine’s design helps set expectations for long life.

• Timing components: The engine typically uses a timing chain rather than a belt, which can last a long time if oil quality and cooling are maintained. Chain wear is gradual and often repairs are tied to other failures rather than chain failure alone.


• Head gasket considerations: Modern Subaru flat-four engines have improved head-gasket reliability compared with older generations, but overheating, coolant leaks, or oil leaks should be addressed promptly to protect long-term durability.


• CVT interactions: The Legacy’s CVT (Lineartronic) is central to performance; its longevity depends on regular maintenance and fluid condition. Early CVT issues are often mitigated with timely service and proper fluid specifications.


• All-wheel-drive platform: The symmetrical AWD system adds resilience but also complexity; differential and transfer case components benefit from periodic fluid checks and service.


• Cooling and auxiliary systems: Keeping the cooling system in good shape helps prevent heat-related wear on the engine and gaskets, contributing to a longer life.

Overall, engine and powertrain durability hinges on routine maintenance, monitoring for leaks or overheating, and addressing any unusual noises or performance changes early.

Maintenance habits to maximize life

Adhering to a disciplined maintenance routine is the most reliable way to extend the Legacy’s life, especially for high-mileage ambitions.

• Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule for oil changes, fluid replacements, and inspections. The exact intervals vary with driving conditions and oil type, but synthetic oil and timely changes are common recommendations.


• Keep the CVT fluid in good condition: replace at the intervals specified by Subaru and monitor for signs of wear such as slipping, shuddering, or overheating.


• Maintain the cooling system: regular coolant checks and timely radiator, hose, and water-pump inspections help prevent overheating and gasket issues.


• Address spark plugs and ignition components on schedule to maintain efficiency and avoid misfires that can stress the engine.


• Inspect belts, hoses, brakes, and suspension components routinely; replace worn parts to prevent secondary damage and ensure consistent performance.


• Protect against rust and corrosion: wash the underbody in winter, address road-salt exposure, and treat vulnerable areas to extend body life.

Following these practices doesn’t guarantee a fixed mileage, but it strongly improves the odds of surpassing 200,000 miles with a Legacy in reliable condition.

Real-world ownership considerations

Owners repeatedly cite a combination of routine maintenance, driving environment, and prompt repairs as the deciding factors in longevity. Highway-dominant commutes often yield different wear patterns than city or mixed-use driving, and climates with extreme cold or heat can influence component lifespans. Budgeting for regular maintenance and potential repairs after the 100,000–150,000-mile mark helps owners plan ahead for long-term ownership.

Summary

With conscientious maintenance, a 2017 Subaru Legacy can comfortably reach 200,000 miles or more, and many cars push toward 250,000 miles or higher. The key levers are routine oil changes and CVT servicing, keeping the cooling and ignition systems healthy, and staying ahead of wear in brakes, tires, and the AWD drivetrain. Real-world results vary, but disciplined upkeep and mindful driving remain the best predictors of lasting reliability.

How long does a Subaru Legacy engine last?

With proper maintenance, Legacy models can easily last well beyond 200,000 miles, providing years of dependable service.

Is the 2017 Subaru Legacy a reliable car?

The 2017 Subaru Legacy is generally considered a reliable car with good fuel economy, a comfortable and quiet ride, and excellent safety scores. Common issues include occasional radio malfunctions and premature factory battery failure, while some owners have reported problems with wheel bearings. 
Reliability overview

• Overall rating: Most owner reviews are positive, with high marks for reliability, comfort, and performance. 
• Long-term durability: Many Subaru owners report their vehicles lasting well over 200,000 miles with minimal major repairs. 

Potential problems

• Radio issues: Some owners have experienced intermittent audio and other radio-related malfunctions. 
• Battery problems: There are reports of early factory battery failure, sometimes at low mileage. 
• Wheel bearings: Some owners have reported that wheel bearings have worn out prematurely, sometimes more than once. 

Things to consider

• Maintenance history: A vehicle with a consistent maintenance history, especially at a Subaru dealer, is a good sign. 
• Safety features: The 2017 Legacy received top safety ratings. The optional EyeSight driver assistance suite includes features like forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking, which can add to safety. 
• Tire wear: Tires are a regular maintenance item, and you may want to check their condition, along with brakes and spark plugs, during an inspection. 

Can a Subaru Legacy last 300,000 miles?

Subaru engines are renowned for their reliability and longevity, often lasting between 200,000 and 300,000 miles with proper maintenance.

Are subarus reliable after 100k miles?

Yes, Subarus can be reliable after 100,000 miles, but it is heavily dependent on consistent maintenance and addressing potential issues like head gaskets. With proper care, many Subarus can last for 200,000 to 300,000 miles or more. 
Factors for reliability after 100k miles

• Maintenance is crucial: This is the single most important factor. Regularly following the manufacturer's service schedule for things like oil changes, fluid flushes, and timing belt/chain replacements is essential for longevity. 
• Common issues to check for:
  • Head Gaskets: This is a well-known potential issue in older EJ engines, often occurring between 100,000 and 130,000 miles. 
  • Engine reseals: Newer FB engines might require a more involved reseal around 150,000 miles. 
  • CVT transmission: Early models of the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) had some documented problems, so it's worth researching the specific model year. 
• Model and engine differences: Older EJ engines are known for head gasket issues, while newer FB engines have a timing chain instead of a belt but may need a different type of service later on. 
• Inspection and service history: If buying a used Subaru, a clean vehicle history report and documented service records are vital. 

How to ensure long life

• Follow the 100k-mile service: At the 100,000-mile mark, be prepared for a service that combines previous intervals and includes replacing spark plugs, transmission fluid, and differential fluid. 
• Preventive maintenance: Continue with all standard maintenance items like oil changes, tire pressure checks, and air filter replacements to prevent other components from failing prematurely. 
• Be prepared for other repairs: Once a car hits 100,000 miles, various other parts like suspension components, wheel bearings, and the alternator may start to need replacement, even if the major mechanical parts are still sound.