How many miles can a 2012 Subaru Legacy last?

A well-maintained 2012 Subaru Legacy can reasonably reach about 200,000 miles, with many examples flirting with 250,000 miles or more; a smaller number of cars push past 300,000 miles with meticulous care and careful maintenance.

What determines a Legacy's lifespan

The longevity of a 2012 Legacy depends on several interrelated factors. The following list highlights the main drivers of high-mileage reliability.

• Regular, timely maintenance and prompt repairs when issues arise


• Driving conditions and habits, including how often the car is on the highway versus in stop-and-go city traffic


• Quality of parts used in repairs and the consistency of preventive care


• Environmental factors such as climate, road salt exposure, and humidity


• History of accidents, corrosion, and prior mechanical problems

In short, how the car is cared for over the years often matters more than the mileage itself.

Common issues to expect at high mileage

As mileage climbs, some components tend to wear and may require attention. The following items are commonly discussed by owners and repair shops in high-mileage Subarus.

• Engine cooling system wear, including hoses, the radiator, and water pump\n


• Head gasket concerns on older Subaru inline engines, which may show up as coolant leaks or milky oil signs


• Powertrain and transmission components, especially in CVT-equipped models, where fluid service and wear can affect performance


• Suspension, steering, and alignment wear, leading to less precise handling and noisier rides


• Brake, tire, and minor wear items that accumulate with miles

Proactive maintenance and early addressing of any leaks or unusual noises can mitigate many of these common high-mileage issues.

Maintenance habits that extend longevity

The following practices are widely recommended to maximize the lifespan of a 2012 Legacy.

• Adhere to the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule and keep comprehensive service records


• Use quality oils and filters, and perform timely oil changes (at intervals advised by the owner's manual)


• Monitor and service the cooling system and transmission as required by the model (including any CVT-specific recommendations)


• Inspect for leaks, corrosion, and worn rubber components; replace as needed to prevent collateral damage


• Keep the braking and suspension systems in good condition to avoid compounding wear


• Address unusual noises, rough shifts, or warning lights promptly rather than waiting for the next service

Maintaining a thorough service history and avoiding deferred repairs are among the strongest predictors of long-term reliability.

Real-world mileage benchmarks

Owner experiences vary by engine choice and maintenance history, but there are broadly observed patterns for the 2012 Legacy. The section below compares the two primary engine configurations found in that year.

Engine variants and longevity

• 2.5i (FB25) models: Commonly reach 200,000–250,000 miles with diligent maintenance; many examples surpass 300,000 miles when well cared for, though they may require attention to cooling system and gasket-related items over time


• 3.6R (EZ36) models: Often exhibit solid long-term reliability with similar mileage ranges (200,000–250,000 miles) and occasional higher-mileage stories; maintenance costs can be higher due to the larger engine

In practice, the most durable Legacys are those with documented service histories, minimal prior damage, and consistent preventive upkeep, regardless of engine choice.

Summary

The 2012 Subaru Legacy can reasonably deliver two long lifespans: a typical target around 200,000 miles, and a strong possibility of reaching 250,000 miles or more with disciplined maintenance. Some owners report crossing 300,000 miles, but that outcome depends on consistent oil changes, cooling system care, transmission servicing, and timely repairs. When evaluating a high-mileage Legacy, prioritize complete service records, a thorough inspection for head gasket and cooling system health, and evidence of regular maintenance across its life.

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.

How many miles can you get out of a 2012 Subaru Legacy?

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.

How reliable is a 2012 Subaru Legacy?

The 2012 Subaru Legacy has a generally good reliability reputation, with many owners praising its all-wheel drive, handling, and comfortable ride. However, it has some known issues, particularly with the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) (requiring regular fluid changes to prevent failure) and potential problems with solenoids, torque converters, and suspension/steering components.
 
Common issues

• CVT problems: The CVT can have issues if the fluid isn't changed regularly, with failure potentially occurring around 120,000 miles. 
• Torque converter: Some models may experience issues with the torque converter lockup clutch, causing stalling at a stop. 
• Valve body solenoids: A potential issue is a solenoid failure within the transmission's valve body, which can be an expensive repair. 
• Suspension and steering: Some owners have reported problems with parts like ball joints, tie rods, and wheel bearings. 

Positive aspects

• All-wheel drive: The standard all-wheel drive system is highly regarded for its performance in bad weather. 
• Comfort and space: The interior is often described as spacious and comfortable. 
• Safety ratings: The Legacy has a reputation for safety, with features like a ring-shaped steel reinforcement frame and multiple airbags. 

You can watch this video to learn more about the 2012 Subaru Legacy 2.5i Limited: 59sINFINITI of Tacoma at FifeYouTube · Feb 7, 2021
Recommendations

• If considering a CVT model, check the maintenance records to ensure the CVT fluid has been changed regularly (ideally every 30,000-60,000 miles). 
• Have a pre-purchase inspection performed, focusing on the transmission, torque converter, and suspension components. 

Is it worth buying a Subaru with over 200k miles?

You should only consider buying a Subaru with 200k miles if it has a complete maintenance history, has had major components replaced, and passes a thorough pre-purchase inspection. While Subarus can last beyond 200k miles, a vehicle at this mileage will have significant wear and tear and is likely to need costly repairs soon.
 
What to look for

• Maintenance records: A well-maintained Subaru is crucial for longevity. Look for consistent service, especially for the timing belt (if applicable), head gaskets, and other engine components. 
• History: An inspection of the vehicle history report is important to understand the car's past. Look for signs of accidents or a history of consistent use. A vehicle with one or two owners is often a better bet. 
• Pre-purchase inspection: Have a trusted mechanic thoroughly inspect the car, focusing on the engine, transmission, suspension, and any other potential failure points at this mileage. 
• Past repairs: Ideally, major repairs like the head gasket, water pump, and transmission should have already been completed. 

Potential issues at 200k miles

• Engine and transmission: These are the most expensive components to replace. Be prepared for potential failures or significant maintenance costs. 
• Suspension and brakes: Components like the suspension, brakes, and exhaust can rust out or wear out, requiring replacement. 
• Other components: Expect a higher likelihood of smaller issues like worn-out seals, bushings, and other small parts that can lead to costly repairs if not addressed. 

When to avoid

• No service history: Without records, it's a high-risk purchase. You won't know how well the car was maintained. 
• Major issues found in inspection: If a pre-purchase inspection reveals any major problems with the engine, transmission, or other core systems, walk away. 
• High number of owners: A car with many owners is more likely to have been poorly maintained or neglected.