Is a Subaru Legacy a reliable car?

Yes. The Subaru Legacy is generally regarded as a reliable midsize sedan, especially for buyers who value all-wheel drive and solid safety performance.

Reliability varies by model year, engine choice, and how well the vehicle has been maintained, so this article outlines the factors that contribute to dependability, common pitfalls to watch for, and pragmatic advice for buyers and owners.

What makes the Legacy reliable

Several core strengths contribute to its long-term dependability. Here are the factors owners and reviewers consistently point to:

• Standard all-wheel drive across most trims, which enhances traction and stability in diverse conditions


• Strong safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA, supporting predictable maintenance and ownership peace of mind


• Engine and drivetrain designs that, with proper maintenance, tend to endure many miles


• Resale value that often holds up well in the used-car market, reflecting general reliability and practicality

Taken together, these elements help explain why the Legacy is a popular choice for families and commuters seeking a dependable, capable sedan.

Model-year and engine caveats

To understand where reliability may vary, it's important to consider year-to-year changes and engine configurations.

• Oil consumption and engine wear have been cited for some older 2.5-liter engines, though the issue is not universal and has been addressed in later revisions


• CVT reliability and Subaru’s updates over time can influence drive smoothness and longevity


• Recalls and service campaigns may affect individual vehicles; verifying a clean recall history is prudent


• Maintenance costs and common repair items can vary by year and trim, particularly regarding drivetrain components and routine wear items

When evaluating a Legacy, review the service history, confirm any open recalls have been addressed, and consider a professional pre-purchase inspection to gauge condition and remaining reliability.

What to look for when buying a Legacy

Inspection checklist

Before you commit, use this practical checklist to assess condition and reliability. The goal is to identify signs of wear that could translate into future maintenance costs.

• Check for oil leaks, unusual consumption, and verify maintenance records for oil changes and filter service


• Test the transmission (especially if equipped with a CVT) for smooth acceleration, idle behavior, and any audible noises or slipping


• Inspect brakes, suspension, and tires for even wear and signs of AWD-related stress


• Review the timing belt/chain history (engine dependent) and ensure belts, chains, water pump, and related components have been serviced as recommended

A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a qualified technician can significantly reduce the risk of costly surprises and help validate reliability claims.

Bottom line and recommendations

For buyers, prioritize newer model years with documented maintenance and a clean recall history. For current owners, keep up with regular maintenance, pay attention to drivetrain behavior, and address issues promptly to maintain reliability over time.

Summary

The Subaru Legacy offers a reliable, all-wheel-drive-centric option in the midsize sedan segment, with solid safety performance and strong resale prospects. Reliability is generally good, but model-year differences and maintenance history matter. If you’re shopping for a Legacy, focus on newer examples with complete service records and a fresh recall status, and lean on professional inspections to confirm long-term dependability.

What is the most common problem with 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.

What are the cons of a Subaru Legacy?

6) CVT Transmission can be a bit jerky at times. 7) Quality issues in the engine, it had a rattle from day-1 when started cold after sitting for a day or more. 8) Subaru constantly sends driving data from the car and there's no options to participate. Was this review helpful?

How many miles will a Subaru Legacy last?

A Subaru Legacy can last over 200,000 miles with proper maintenance, and many owners report their vehicles exceeding 300,000 miles. Factors like regular oil changes, fluid flushes, and addressing other component replacements (like timing belts, brakes, and suspension parts) are crucial for longevity. While some turbocharged models might see engine failures around 150,000 miles, non-turbocharged engines are known to last much longer, according to Subaru technicians on Quora. 
Factors that influence lifespan

• Proper Maintenance: Following the recommended maintenance schedule is key to a long-lasting vehicle. This includes regular oil changes, tire rotations, and replacing fluids at recommended intervals. 
• Component Replacement: Be prepared for potential replacement of parts like the timing belt (on older models), suspension bushings, wheel bearings, and brakes over the vehicle's life. 
• Turbocharged vs. Non-Turbocharged Engines: Some turbo models have been reported to experience catastrophic engine failure around 150,000 miles, while naturally aspirated (non-turbo) engines often last much longer. 
• Maintenance History: A vehicle with a documented history of consistent servicing is a better indicator of future longevity than one with a spotty record. 

What to expect at high mileage

• Around 150,000 miles: Some components like suspension, exhaust, and brakes may begin to show wear or rust. 
• Beyond 200,000 miles: It's common for non-turbo Subarus to reach this mileage, and it's a good sign if the vehicle has received consistent maintenance throughout its life. 
• Beyond 300,000 miles: This is achievable for many Subaru models, but it requires consistent, diligent maintenance and repair work. 

Is a Subaru Legacy a dependable car?

The Subaru Legacy is considered a reliable midsize sedan with a strong track record of durability, though specific model years have reported common issues like infotainment system glitches and some electronic problems. With proper maintenance, most models can last well over 200,000 miles, but owners should be aware of potential quirks related to its unique engineering, like the CVT or Boxer engine, and common issues like problems with the in-car electronics.
 
This video discusses the reliability and performance of the 2025 Subaru Legacy: 58sAutomotive Anonymous YouTube · Mar 15, 2025
Overall reliability

• High reliability scores: Reliability scores from organizations like RepairPal and Edmunds are generally strong, placing the Legacy around the top of its class. U.S. News & World Report gives the 2025 model a predicted reliability score of 84 out of 100, which is categorized as "Great". 
• Longevity: With consistent maintenance, many Legacy sedans can easily surpass 200,000 miles, making them a dependable and long-lasting vehicle. 

Common issues

• Infotainment system: Some older models have reported problems with the infotainment system, such as freezing or going blank, though some of these were rectified by software updates. 
• Electronics: Other reported electronic issues include in-car electronics and satellite radio failures. 
• Other potential problems: Some owners have reported issues like exhaust leaks, and problems with the passenger seatbelt or suspension/steering in certain model years. 

What to consider

• Maintenance is key: To ensure longevity and avoid potential problems, it's crucial to stick to the recommended maintenance schedule. 
• Unique engineering: The Subaru Legacy features a Boxer engine, which can make some repair jobs take longer and increase labor costs. However, this design also offers benefits like a lower center of gravity for improved handling. 
• CVT transmission: Newer models have a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that may feel different from a traditional automatic. It provides smooth acceleration and good fuel economy, and drivers tend to get used to it over time.