Home FAQ

Is the Subaru Legacy 2010 a reliable car?

Yes. Overall, the 2010 Subaru Legacy is considered a solid, reliable used choice when it has a complete service history and receives regular maintenance. Its all-wheel-drive system and durable chassis contribute to dependable performance, but reliability varies by engine option and how well the car has been cared for.

Reliability profile of the 2010 Legacy

Factors that influence long-term dependability

A mix of powertrain design, maintenance discipline, and ownership history shapes how reliably a 2010 Legacy will perform over time. The following factors are commonly linked to dependable operation.

Maintenance history: Regular oil changes, fluid services, and timely component replacements matter more than mileage alone.

Mileage and wear: Older cars with higher miles naturally accumulate more potential failure points.

Engine and trim variation: The Legacy offered multiple engines; some configurations tend to have different maintenance costs and wear patterns.

Recalls and service campaigns: Addressing recalls and service bulletins can improve long-term reliability.

Climate and corrosion risk: Exposure to salt, moisture, and extreme temperatures can affect undercarriage and body integrity.

Ownership history: Fewer previous owners with a documented maintenance routine generally correlates with better reliability prospects.

In practice, a well-documented maintenance history and careful ownership can translate to reliable performance from the 2010 Legacy across many miles.

Buying a used 2010 Legacy: what to check

To assess reliability before buying, focus on these checks and records that reveal how well the car has been cared for.

Complete maintenance records: Look for regular oil changes, cooling system work, and any timing belt/chain service that may apply to the engine in the vehicle you’re considering.

Recall status: Run a VIN-based recall check to confirm all campaigns have been addressed and to understand any open safety notices.

Leaks and overheating signs: Inspect for oil, coolant, or transmission fluid leaks; check for overheating episodes or white smoke on startup, which can signal issues.

Drivetrain condition: If the car has an automatic or CVT, listen for unusual noises, slipping, or shuddering during acceleration; review the transmission’s service history if available.

Brakes and suspension wear: Check pads, rotors, shocks/struts, and bushings for wear, as worn components can affect reliability and safety.

Rust and corrosion: Inspect common trouble spots (rockers, underbody, wheel wells) for rust and address any corrosion promptly.

A vehicle with a clean service history, no unresolved recalls, and solid mechanical condition offers the best reliability outlook.

Maintenance to maximize reliability

Keeping a 2010 Legacy reliable requires proactive maintenance and timely repairs. Focus on these priorities to extend life and reduce surprises.

Adhere to the owner’s manual maintenance schedule: stay current with oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid services through a trusted shop.

Keep the cooling system in good shape: regular checks of hoses, radiator, thermostat, and coolant are important to prevent overheating.

Address wear items promptly: replace spark plugs, ignition coils, seals, and other components as they reach the end of their service life.

Drivetrain care: follow recommended service intervals for automatic transmissions or CVTs and use the appropriate fluid if applicable.

Brake, tire, and suspension upkeep: routine brake work, tire replacement, and suspension inspections help maintain safety and reliability.

Rust prevention and underbody care: wash and treat the undercarriage in salted conditions and address rust spots early.

With consistent maintenance, the 2010 Legacy can deliver dependable service well into higher mileages and years of ownership.

Summary

The 2010 Subaru Legacy remains a practical and generally reliable option for buyers who value all-wheel drive and a comfortable ride. Reliability depends heavily on maintenance history, engine choice, and how diligently issues are addressed. A thorough pre-purchase inspection and a complete service history are the best predictors of long-term reliability.

What is the most reliable year for the Subaru Legacy?

The most reliable Subaru Legacy years include the 2018 model, and the redesign years like 2020 and newer, which have improved reliability. Older generations, like the first and second (pre-2010), are also considered reliable, but potential issues like head gasket problems need to be checked for, particularly on models with the older EJ25 engines. The 2014 model is also noted as a reliable option, while some models from 2016-2020 may have more complaints.
This video discusses the reliability of Subaru Legacy models from 2020 to 2021: 1mCarLandTVYouTube · Apr 16, 2025
Recommended model years

2020 and newer: These are considered more reliable due to a significant redesign and updated technology. The 2020 model year is frequently cited as a good option, notes CoPilot for Car Shopping.
2018: This is another standout year, with a high reliability rating from J.D. Power.
Pre-2010: Older models from the first and second generations are known for their strong reliability, especially those with the EJ22E engine.
2014: This is another year that receives high marks for reliability from sources like J.D. Power and Consumer Reports.

Years to be cautious about

2016-2020: Some models in this range may have a higher number of complaints, according to Jalopnik.
2012-2013: Be cautious with these models, especially if the head gaskets have not been documented as changed.
2010-2012: Some models from these years had head gasket issues, though the design was improved in later years.

You can watch this video to learn about the pros and cons of buying a used Subaru Outback or Legacy: 55sMrSubaru1387YouTube · Feb 14, 2022
Important considerations

Maintenance: How well a car has been maintained is the most significant factor in its reliability, regardless of the model year.
Engine: The EJ25 engine in some older models is more prone to head gasket failure than other engines. The newer FB25 and FA24 engines in more recent models are generally more reliable.
Transmission: If looking at a car with over 100,000 miles, check the clutch and slave cylinder on a manual transmission.

How many miles does a 2010 Subaru Legacy last?

A 2010 Subaru Legacy's life expectancy is often over 200,000 miles with proper maintenance, which is supported by owner reports and industry studies. While average estimates are lower, many owners consistently report reaching or exceeding 250,000 miles by following the manufacturer's recommended service schedule, especially regarding regular oil changes and timing belt/chain maintenance. Key factors that affect its longevity include consistent upkeep, driving conditions, and how it's been driven.

Factors affecting life expectancy

Maintenance: Following the recommended maintenance schedule is the most crucial factor. This includes regular oil changes and replacing the timing belt or chain as recommended by the manufacturer.
Driving conditions: Stop-and-go city driving and extreme weather can increase wear and tear. However, Subaru's all-wheel-drive system helps with reliability in various conditions.
Engine type: Some 2010 models use the EJ engine, which requires timing belt replacement, while others use the FB engine, which has a timing chain. Checking which engine your specific car has is important for understanding its maintenance needs.

What to expect with a high-mileage 2010 Legacy

High mileage is achievable: With good care, the engine can last for 200,000 to 300,000 miles, and many owners report surpassing 200,000 miles on their vehicles.
Potential for wear: At over 200,000 miles, expect some general wear and tear and budget for potential repairs or replacements of various components.
Individual experiences vary: While the average lifespan is lower, individual results depend heavily on the care the car has received throughout its life.

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.

Is the 2010 Subaru Legacy reliable?

The 2010 Subaru Legacy has a generally positive reliability reputation, with many owners praising its durability and standard all-wheel drive. However, potential buyers should be aware of specific issues, such as problems with the head gaskets, torque converter stalling, and various components in the powertrain, suspension, and electronics that are cited as potential trouble spots.

Common issues to be aware of:

Head gaskets: While this generation had updated head gaskets, they are still an area of concern, especially on higher-mileage engines.
Torque converter: Some models can experience torque converter issues that cause stalling, though they can often be repaired.
Powertrain, suspension, and electronics: Consumer Reports lists the powertrain, suspension/steering, and in-car electronics as potential trouble spots.
Brakes: Brakes are also mentioned as a potential area for concern.

Positive aspects:

Durability: Many owners report the car to be reliable and durable, with some high-mileage examples still performing well.
All-wheel drive: The standard all-wheel drive is a major plus for many, especially in areas with inclement weather.
Resale value: Due to its durability and all-wheel drive, the Legacy tends to hold its resale value well.

Recommendations for potential buyers:

Get a pre-purchase inspection: Given the potential issues, it is highly recommended to have a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection, notes Edmunds.
Check for recall history: The car has been recalled, so check its history to ensure any outstanding recalls have been addressed.
Listen for noises: During a test drive, listen for any strange noises from the engine or transmission, as this could indicate a problem.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.