Is the Subaru Legacy engine reliable?

Yes. Overall, the Legacy’s engines are reliable when properly maintained, with the modern FB/FA designs earning especially strong longevity; older EJ-series engines had well-known issues that affected certain years more than others.

Beyond that, this article surveys the Legacy’s engine history across generations, highlights common reliability concerns, and offers practical guidance for buyers and owners aiming to keep their engines performing well over time.

Engine families through the Legacy’s history

The following list highlights the main engine families that powered the Legacy over the years and what drivers typically experience in terms of reliability.

• EJ-series (2.2L and 2.5L): Widely used in early and mid-2000s Legacies, including the 2.5i. Reliability is solid overall, but the 2.5L EJ25 earned a reputation for head-gasket issues and oil consumption in certain years. Improvements and recalls reduced exposure in later revisions.


• EZ30 (3.0L H6): A larger, smooth-running option used in mid-2000s models. Generally regarded as durable, with fewer gasket-related failures than some EJ configurations, though older EZ-series units still require standard maintenance like any flat-six.


• FB/FA-series (modern 2.5L and related variants): Introduced in the 2010s, these engines are the backbone of most non-turbo Legacies. They’re typically reliable when serviced on schedule, with a focus on routine oil changes and thermostat/ cooling system upkeep. The CVT remains a separate reliability consideration.


• Legacy GT turbo (turbocharged EJ variant): The performance-focused Legacy GT used a turbocharged EJ engine (EJ25D). It delivers strong power but demands meticulous maintenance and higher ongoing costs; turbo systems can be a reliability hotspot if not cared for properly.

In short, reliability improves with newer designs and disciplined maintenance, while legacy issues in older engines have largely diminished in later revisions.

Reliability by engine family

EJ-series (2.2L/2.5L) and Legacy GT

For much of the Legacy’s early production, the EJ engine family powered mass-market models. The 2.5L EJ25 offered solid performance, but several model years earned a reputation for head-gasket failures and oil consumption problems. These issues prompted maintenance-focused campaigns and replacements in many cases. The turbocharged Legacy GT (EJ25D) provided extra power but required more attentive maintenance, particularly around the turbo and intercooler systems, which can elevate repair costs if neglected.

EZ30/H6

The EZ30 flat-six provided a different balance—smooth power and typically robust long-term reliability. While not as common in newer Legacies, these engines are generally durable when well-maintained. Common concerns center on typical gasket wear and cooling-system upkeep for an older, larger engine family, rather than widespread, chronic failures.

FB/FA-series (modern engines)

The FB25 engine (the primary 2.5L in many post-2010 Legacies) is widely regarded as reliable, especially with consistent maintenance. Modern design improvements reduce some of the turbo-era drawbacks, and routine service—oil changes, coolant checks, and filter changes—supports strong longevity. Some owners report higher-than-average oil consumption in a subset of early FB25 units; most cases are resolved with dealer updates or standard maintenance.

CVT and transmission reliability

The Legacy’s Lineartronic CVT is central to long-term reliability. When maintained with the recommended CVT fluid and intervals, many transmissions perform smoothly for a long time. However, certain model years have shown issues such as shuddering, sluggish engagement, or premature wear, particularly in high-mileage cars or with neglected fluids. Software updates and fluid-service advisories have helped mitigate many of these concerns in later years.

What to look for when buying a used Legacy

If you’re shopping for a used Legacy, here are reliability-focused checks that reflect the engine history across generations.

• Evidence of head-gasket issues on older EJ25 models: look for coolant leaks, milky oil on the dipstick, white exhaust smoke, or overheating signs. Verify service history for gasket-related repairs if the vehicle is from the late 1990s to early 2000s.


• Oil consumption history: especially in older EJ-series engines and some early FB25s. Ask about any documented oil-loss symptoms and whether the owner performed frequent top-offs between oil changes.


• CVT condition and service history: check for shudder, delayed acceleration, whining, or sudden transmission failures. Confirm CVT fluid changes were performed at or near the recommended intervals.


• Turbo considerations (Legacy GT): if viewing a turbocharged EJ25D model, inspect for turbo wear, intercooler residue, and proper oil maintenance, since turbo systems amplify wear patterns.


• Recall and service campaigns: verify from the VIN whether any engine or transmission recalls or updates were completed, particularly for critical engine cooling, gasket, or CVT-related items.


• Overall maintenance discipline: a well-documented service history with regular flushes, timing/chain checks (where applicable), spark plugs, filters, and cooling-system maintenance strongly correlates with long-term reliability.

Use caution with exceptionally low-mileage vehicles that show little maintenance history, and prefer units with complete maintenance records and a clear signal that known issues were proactively addressed.

Maintenance tips to maximize reliability

Practical steps make a big difference in how long a Legacy engine lasts and how reliably it runs between visits to the shop.

• Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule: regular oil and filter changes, coolant service, and air/fuel filter replacements at the recommended intervals.


• Use the correct oil grade and viscosity for your climate and engine type, and avoid extending oil-change intervals beyond the factory guidance.


• For CVT models, use Subaru-approved CVT fluid and adhere to the specified change intervals; avoid mixing fluids from different manufacturers.


• Keep the cooling system in good shape: coolant condition, hoses, radiator, and the water pump should be inspected routinely to prevent overheating, which can hasten gasket and head issues.


• Address turbo and high-performance variants with extra care: allow proper warm-up and cool-down, monitor oil levels, and schedule timely turbo-related maintenance if you own a Legacy GT.


• When in doubt, consult a dealership or a trusted independent shop with Subaru-specific experience for diagnosis and service reminders.

By staying on top of maintenance and addressing issues early, you can maximize the Legacy engine’s reliability across generations.

Bottom line

The Subaru Legacy offers generally solid engine reliability, especially with modern FB/FA designs and disciplined maintenance. Older EJ-series engines carried well-documented flaws, notably head-gasket failures and oil consumption in certain years, but those issues have diminished with newer revisions and ongoing servicing. Transmission reliability hinges largely on proper CVT maintenance and software updates. For buyers and owners, the key to long-term reliability is a complete service history, attention to recalls, and proactive maintenance tailored to the specific engine family in the vehicle.

Summary

In summary, the Subaru Legacy’s reliability is largely a function of generation and upkeep. Modern engines tend to be dependable with routine care, while early EJ-powered Legacies require vigilance for gasket and oil-related concerns. A used Legacy with documented maintenance, timely repairs, and a history of CVT servicing stands as a pragmatic choice for long-term reliability.

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. 

How long do Subaru Legacy engines last?

A well-maintained Subaru Legacy engine can last well over 200,000 miles, with many owners reporting reaching 250,000 miles or more. The engine's longevity depends heavily on regular maintenance, such as consistent oil changes and timely repairs for leaks, which are crucial for extending the life of both non-turbo and turbo models. 
Factors that influence engine lifespan

• Maintenance: Consistent and timely maintenance is the most critical factor. This includes regular oil changes and addressing small leaks before they become major problems. 
• Engine type: Non-turbo 2.5-liter engines often have a longer lifespan, with many owners reaching 250,000+ miles. Turbocharged engines can also last a long time with proper care, but they may have a slightly lower lifespan, with some owners reporting failures around the 150,000-mile mark, though others have exceeded 200,000 miles. 
• Driving conditions: Both city and highway driving can affect engine life. Extreme climate conditions also play a role. 
• Wear and tear: As with any car, wear-and-tear components will eventually need replacement. Be prepared for potential issues with parts like head gaskets, wheel bearings, and clutches, especially at higher mileages. 

What year was bad for Subaru Legacy?

Years to avoid for the Subaru Legacy include 2010–2014, primarily due to transmission issues and headlight problems, and 2005–2009, which are known for head gasket and other engine-related issues. Other problematic years include 2011 for its headlights and 2018 for infotainment problems. 
Subaru Legacy years to avoid

• 2010–2014: These years can have issues with the continuously variable transmission (CVT), which can cause hesitation, shuddering, or stalling. The 2011 model year is also notorious for headlights burning out very quickly. 
• 2005–2009: These models can be prone to head gasket failure, especially on the 2.5L engine, leading to coolant and oil leaks. Other problems can include catalytic converter and rear hub failures. 
• 2018: This model year has been associated with infotainment system glitches, such as the display freezing or refusing to shut down. 
• Other years:
  • 2000–2006: Reported issues with faulty oxygen sensors. 
  • 2011–2012: Have been cited for frequent headlight burnout. 
  • 2021–2023: Recall issued for a transmission parking rod issue. 
  • 2023: Recalled for display screen issues and other electronic problems. 

Is the Subaru 2.4 Turbo engine reliable?

The Subaru 2.4 turbo engine is generally considered reliable with proper maintenance, but it can have issues like oil leaks from the valve cover gasket and potential oil starvation in some circumstances, especially on older models or if not well-maintained. Regular maintenance, particularly oil changes and keeping up with the PCV system, is crucial to prevent problems and achieve its expected lifespan of over 150,000 miles.
 
This video discusses common problems and reliability of the Subaru 2.4 Turbo engine: 58sNexologyYouTube · Oct 29, 2025
Reliability and common issues

• Good overall reliability: Many owners report the engine is reliable, especially with regular maintenance, and can last over 150,000 miles. 
• Oil leaks: Some owners have reported oil leaks from the valve cover or camshaft carriers, which can be caused by a neglected PCV system. This issue is often covered under warranty for newer vehicles and is fixable if maintained properly, say Reddit users and YouTube videos. 
• Oil starvation: Critics suspect some engine failures or issues might be linked to the RTV sealant breaking down and clogging oil passages, leading to oil starvation, especially in performance-oriented models or those with hard use, according to Hagerty Media. 
• Other issues: Potential problems with older turbocharged engines include cracked exhaust manifolds, turbo housing, and head gaskets, though the newer 2.4L engines are considered more reliable than older models, notes Quora. 

Key to long-term reliability

• Routine maintenance: Sticking to a strict maintenance schedule is crucial for turbo engines, as they are more sensitive to neglect than naturally aspirated engines. 
• Regular oil checks: Frequently checking and topping off oil levels is vital because turbos can fail from oil starvation. 
• Maintain the PCV system: Keeping the positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) system clean and functional prevents pressure buildup that could lead to oil leaks. 
• Check service records: If buying used, ensure maintenance was done on time, as it is a good indicator of the engine's current condition.