Is it expensive to fix a Subaru Legacy?

Not necessarily. For most owners, routine maintenance and common repairs are affordable, but major failures—especially on older engines or with a CVT—can be costly and vary widely by model year, mileage, and location.

To understand what you might expect in 2025, it helps to look at typical costs by system, how mileage and history affect price, and practical steps to keep repair bills manageable. This article breaks down those factors and offers a budgeting framework for Legacy ownership.

What drives repair costs for a Subaru Legacy

Key cost drivers

Costs vary with the car’s age, engine type, accumulated miles, and how well the vehicle has been maintained. Labor rates by region and the availability of Subaru-specific parts also influence final prices.

• Engine type and age (2.5L vs. 3.6L; EJ vs. FA/FB variants)


• Mileage and wear on major components (engine seals, head gaskets, timing chain tensioners)


• Drivetrain and transmission condition (especially the CVT in older Legacies)


• Shop choice (dealer vs. independent shop with Subaru specialization)


• Scope of repair (minor leaks vs. full drivetrain overhaul)

Understanding these drivers helps explain why two seemingly similar Legacies can have very different repair bills.

Typical repair costs by system

Below are common cost ranges you may encounter, reflecting data from independent shops and published service estimates in North America and Europe. Individual prices vary by region and vehicle history.

• Routine maintenance (oil changes, filters, fluids): typically $300–$700 per year depending on synthetic oil and service frequency.


• Brakes and tires: brake pads/rotors per axle often $150–$600; a new set of tires can run $400–$1,000+ depending on brand and size.


• Cooling system (water pump, radiator, hoses): $300–$1,000 for common fixes; water pump is a frequent wear item.


• Engine leaks and seals (valve cover, oil pan, rear main): repair ranges from $200–$1,200 for minor leaks to $1,000–$2,500+ for more extensive seal work.


• Head gasket issues (older 2.5L EJ-era engines and early FA/FB variants): often $1,500–$3,500 for gasket work; more if additional damage is found.


• Transmission and CVT (repair or replacement): CVT-related work commonly $3,000–$7,000 depending on whether a rebuild or replacement is required.


• Electrical sensors and modules: $100–$900 per component; larger module or ECU issues can be $1,000–$2,000+

These ranges are intended as a budgeting guide; actual quotes depend on your specific Legacy’s year, engine, and local labor rates.

Cost scenarios by age and mileage

As a general rule, older Legacies with higher mileage have a greater chance of needing expensive, high-impact repairs. The following scenarios illustrate typical patterns you might see in the field.

1. Low mileage and well-maintained (under 80,000 miles): mostly routine maintenance and minor fixes; annual maintenance costs often in the $300–$600 range, with occasional small repairs.


2. Mid mileage (80,000–150,000 miles): higher likelihood of water pump, cooling system, seals, or CVT-related work; major items can push a single repair into the $1,000–$4,000 range.


3. High mileage (over 150,000 miles): greater risk of CVT wear, engine seals, head gasket concerns, and multiple component replacements; a single year could see $2,000–$6,000 in repairs if several systems require attention.

In short, you’ll pay more as the car ages and accumulates miles, particularly if a major component begins to fail or if multiple issues appear at the same time.

Ways to manage and reduce repair costs

Smart maintenance and prudent purchasing can keep ownership affordable. The following strategies are commonly recommended by Subaru specialists and experienced independent shops.

1. Stay on a proactive maintenance schedule (oil, filters, cooling system, fluid flushes) to head off expensive failures.


2. Address leaks and warning signs early (oil spots, coolant puddles, unusual noises, or warning lights) before problems escalate.


3. Choose a repair shop with Subaru-specific expertise; get multiple written estimates and ask for a detailed parts-and-labor breakdown.


4. Consider extended warranty or Subaru-certified pre-owned options if you anticipate higher maintenance needs.


5. Keep tires in good condition and maintain alignment and braking systems to prevent ancillary damage and improve overall reliability.

With disciplined maintenance and careful budgeting, you can minimize the financial bite of repairs and keep a Legacy on the road longer.

Summary

For most Subaru Legacy owners, fixing costs are manageable, especially with regular maintenance and timely attention to leaks, wear, and safety components. Major repairs—such as CVT work, head gasket problems on older engines, or engine/transmission overhauls—can be costly and vary widely by model year, mileage, and local labor rates. By understanding the key cost drivers, planning for routine upkeep, and shopping for reputable, Subaru-qualified shops, you can control expenses and make informed decisions about repairs or replacements.

Are subarus expensive for repairs?

Yes, Subarus can be expensive to fix, particularly for major repairs, due to their complex all-wheel-drive (AWD) systems, higher-priced parts, and a smaller number of certified repair specialists compared to some other brands. However, their routine maintenance costs are often in line with other manufacturers, and the vehicles are known for their reliability and fewer repair shop visits on average. 
Factors that can make Subaru repairs expensive

• All-wheel drive: The standard AWD system adds complexity and more parts, which can increase both maintenance and repair costs over time. 
• Specialized parts: The parts used in a Subaru can sometimes be more expensive than those for other brands. 
• Labor costs: There may be fewer Subaru-certified repair specialists available, and finding them can sometimes be more difficult or costly than finding a mechanic for a more common make. 
• Complex engine and transmission: The unique engineering of the Boxer engine and the complexity of certain transmission types can lead to higher repair bills for specific issues. For example, a failing CVT transmission can cost thousands to replace. 
• High-cost major repairs: While less frequent, major repairs like an engine replacement can be costly, potentially ranging from $3,000 to over $5,000. 

Factors that can mitigate costs

• Reliability: Subarus have a strong reputation for reliability and generally require fewer unscheduled repairs than the average car. 
• Routine maintenance: Following the recommended maintenance schedule for things like oil changes, tire rotations, and fluid changes is crucial for preventing major, costly issues down the line. 
• Finding a good mechanic: To save on labor costs, find a trusted independent mechanic who specializes in Subarus rather than a dealership. 
• Vehicle protection plans: Investing in an extended warranty can provide peace of mind and cover unexpected repair costs. 

Is the Subaru Legacy a reliable car?

Yes, the Subaru Legacy is considered a reliable car, with many sources rating it highly for its durability and longevity, often lasting well over 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. Its reliability is supported by factors like its robust engineering, the strong Subaru Global Platform, and its durable Lineartronic CVT transmission. While it has an average annual repair cost, major issues are less frequent than average for its class.
 
Strengths that contribute to its reliability

• Long-term durability: With regular maintenance, many models can last beyond 200,000 miles.
• Strong platform: The Subaru Global Platform provides a rigid and stable chassis, which reduces premature wear and enhances durability.
• Durable engines: The available engines, particularly the naturally aspirated 2.5L and the turbocharged 2.4L in newer models, are known for their solid engineering, especially with direct injection and timing chains.
• Reliable CVT: The Lineartronic CVT is a chain-driven unit with a torque converter, which performs well and has a good lifespan if the fluid is changed at recommended intervals. 

Important considerations for maintenance

• Regular fluid changes: Adhering to the recommended service intervals for oil and CVT fluid is crucial for long-term reliability. 
• Proactive maintenance: Keeping the PCV system clean and addressing any potential issues as they arise will help prevent future problems. 
• Average ownership costs: The annual repair and maintenance cost is average for a midsize car, at around $563 per year. 
• Potential for specific issues: While overall reliability is high, some past models have had specific issues, such as problems with the O2 sensor and head gaskets in earlier engines. Newer models have improved upon some of these issues. 

Is Subaru Legacy expensive to maintain?

Regarding the Subaru Legacy maintenance costs, expect to spend between $2,000 and $6,000 over five years.

Why is insurance so expensive for a Subaru?

The model and age of your Subaru can affect your insurance rates because different models have different safety ratings, repair costs, and theft rates. Newer or more expensive Subaru models will generally have higher insurance rates due to their higher risk of accidents or theft. 2.