Is the Subaru Legacy 2006 a good car?
Yes — with careful maintenance, the 2006 Legacy can still be a solid, practical choice thanks to all-wheel drive, roomy interior, and a proven platform. The caveat: age and mileage mean higher odds of maintenance needs, so a thorough pre-purchase inspection is essential.
What makes the 2006 Legacy appealing
Engine options and drive feel
The 2006 Legacy offered a choice of two engines in various trims, enabling buyers to select a balance between efficiency and power. Both were paired with Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD system, which provides confident traction in winter weather and on slippery roads.
Prospective owners often highlight the car’s calm, predictable handling and a smooth ride, aided by a well-tuned suspension that favors comfort over sportiness. Inside, the Legacy typically delivers ample space for passengers and cargo, making it a practical family sedan or wagon.
Here are the key advantages you can expect from a 2006 Legacy if you buy one today.
- All-wheel drive (Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD) that delivers solid traction in snow, rain, and poor road conditions.
- Spacious interior and generous cargo space, with comfortable seating for five and flexible rear storage.
- Solid ride quality and steady handling, making it a comfortable daily driver and highway cruiser.
- Strong safety posture for its era, with multiple airbags and stability-related features on most trims.
- Good aftermarket support and parts availability, aided by Subaru’s widespread service network and long-running platform.
These advantages make the Legacy a practical choice for drivers who value all-weather capability and interior practicality, especially in climates with winter conditions or challenging roads.
Potential drawbacks and maintenance considerations
Age and reliability risks
While the 2006 Legacy offers many positives, its age means potential buyers should anticipate certain aging issues and maintenance costs that are common with high-mileage used cars.
- Engine concerns on the 2.5-liter four-cylinder (EJ25) models include head gasket failures and oil consumption as mileage increases; a well-documented risk for higher-mileage examples. The 3.0-liter flat-six option is generally more robust but still requires regular service.
- Automatic transmissions in older Legacy units (4EAT/5EAT) can develop shifting quirks or failure over time if not properly serviced; regular transmission fluid changes at manufacturer intervals help mitigate risk.
- Fuel economy is reasonable for an all-wheel-drive family sedan, but it trails modern, more efficient powertrains; expect mid-to-high 20s MPG depending on drivetrain and driving style.
- Interior materials and electronics age, with potential wear on upholstery, dash surfaces, and aging infotainment systems that may feel dated compared with newer cars.
- Rust, worn suspension components, and degraded rubber bushings can appear with high mileage or in regions with heavy road salt; a thorough inspection is advised.
A careful assessment of maintenance history and a targeted pre-purchase inspection can help you identify a well-preserved example and avoid costly surprises.
What to check before you buy
Before you commit, use this checklist to guide a pre-purchase inspection and test drive.
- Look for signs of head gasket leaks: coolant leaks, white exhaust, or oil-coolant mixing around the engine; inspect the coolant reservoir and oil cap for cross-contamination.
- Check service history for timing belt/chain replacement, water pump, radiator, hoses, and any transmission service if applicable.
- Assess oil consumption by monitoring oil level changes and watching for blue smokiness on startup or heavy exhaust odor.
- Test drive to evaluate transmission responsiveness, steering, braking, and any unusual noises; inspect CV joints for clicks during tight turns.
- Inspect suspension components, wheel bearings, brake wear, and tire condition; look for uneven tire wear that could indicate alignment or worn components.
- Check electrical systems: windows, HVAC, headlights, and infotainment; note any warning lights and consider a fault-code scan if possible.
- Verify recalls have been completed and look for rust or structural damage in areas prone to corrosion, especially in salty climates.
With thorough checks, a well-maintained 2006 Legacy can continue to serve reliably for several more years.
Summary
The Subaru Legacy from 2006 remains a practical, all-wheel-drive option that can serve well in winter and urban settings, thanks to its spacious interior and proven platform. Its main caveats are age-related maintenance needs, potential head gasket or transmission wear on high-mileage examples, and older technology. A diligent buyer will prioritize a complete maintenance history, a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection, and a realistic budget for potential repairs. When cared for properly, a 2006 Legacy can be a solid used-car choice for the right buyer.
