Is the Subaru Legacy a dependable car?
The Subaru Legacy is generally considered a dependable choice in the midsize sedan segment, offering standard all-wheel drive, strong safety ratings, and a track record of longevity when properly maintained.
This article examines how reliability is measured for the Legacy, what independent guides say about it, and what buyers should consider—from transmission concerns to maintenance costs—when evaluating a new or used model.
What makes the Legacy dependable
The following elements have contributed to its reliability reputation:
- Standard all-wheel drive across most trims, which can improve traction and stability in varied weather and road conditions.
- Solid crash-test performance and a reputation for durable construction that supports long-term ownership.
- Maintenance needs that align with typical sedan ownership, with routine service intervals widely available through Subaru networks and independent shops.
- Strong resale value in the midsize sedan segment, supported by brand reliability perceptions and broad dealer support.
In summary, the Legacy’s dependability appeal often rests on its AWD capability, safety profile, and a track record of durability when properly cared for.
Known concerns and caveats
Every model has trade-offs. For the Legacy, the main reliability caveats to consider are:
- CVT-related wear or failure in older generations; Subaru’s Lineartronic CVT has improved over time, but some owners report noise or hesitation and should verify maintenance history.
- Oil consumption reports on certain 2.5-liter engines across some model years; verify oil-change history and monitor oil level as part of a pre-purchase inspection.
- Recall campaigns and service campaigns that may affect specific years; always check the vehicle’s VIN for open recalls and verify completion.
- Electrical/infotainment glitches reported by a minority of owners; ensure software updates and sensor checks are up to date.
These concerns are not universal, and many owners experience dependable operation with proactive maintenance and careful model-year selection.
What to check when buying a used Legacy
To reduce risk, here are important checks and verifications before purchase:
- CVT condition and maintenance history; prefer a vehicle with documented CVT service or a recent transmission service.
- History of oil consumption and recent oil-level checks; request service records related to engine oil and any related recalls or bulletins.
- Recall status for the exact vehicle; confirm all open recalls have been completed.
- All-wheel-drive system health, differential service history, and any related inspections or repairs.
- Operation of safety features and the infotainment system, including any noted software updates.
By focusing on these checks, buyers can improve their chances of a dependable long-term purchase.
Maintenance and ownership costs
Dependability is closely tied to ongoing maintenance and ownership costs. Here’s what buyers typically consider:
- Regular maintenance such as oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections, which align with common sedan maintenance schedules.
- Potential CVT-related service or replacement costs, depending on model year and wear; many owners address issues with periodic maintenance and software updates rather than immediate replacement.
- Fuel economy typically in the mid-20s to mid-30s MPG range, with AWD possibly reducing highway efficiency slightly compared to front-wheel-drive peers.
With diligent maintenance, ownership costs remain predictable and the Legacy can deliver dependable performance over the long term.
Summary
Overall, the Subaru Legacy remains a dependable option in the midsize sedan market, balancing standard all-wheel drive, a strong safety profile, and a credible reliability track record. The main caveats to watch are CVT-related issues in some older models and occasional oil-consumption reports for certain engines; these are manageable with careful model-year selection, thorough maintenance history checks, and compliance with recalls and service campaigns. For buyers prioritizing all-wheel-drive capability, safety, and long-term durability, the Legacy offers solid reliability credentials when purchased with due diligence.
