What was the problem with the 2009 Legacy?
The 2009 Legacy, Subaru’s mid-size sedan launched as part of its fourth-generation lineup, faced a few reliability concerns that showed up in owner reports and service bulletins. This overview highlights the main issues most commonly cited and what buyers and owners should consider.
The most commonly reported problems were engine oil consumption in some 2.5-liter engines, head gasket or coolant leaks, and automatic transmission shifting quirks, with recalls addressing safety components on some units.
In more detail, the 2009 Legacy offered a range of trims, including 2.5-liter four-cylinder models and higher-end versions with larger engines. While generally dependable, certain wear patterns emerged as cars aged. Oil consumption concerns have appeared in some EJ-series engines, particularly as mileage increases. Head gasket leaks and coolant leaks have been reported in a subset of engines, and automatic transmissions in older 5EAT configurations can exhibit rough or delayed shifts at higher mileage. Additionally, several safety-related recalls—covering airbags, fuel systems, and steering components—affected some vehicles and should be checked during a used-car purchase or routine maintenance.
Common problems reported
These items are the issues most frequently cited by owners and documented in service records for 2009 Legacy models. The list reflects patterns observed across a range of vehicles rather than a guarantee that every car will experience them.
- Engine oil consumption in some 2.5-liter EJ-series engines, which can lead to higher oil use or lower oil levels between changes.
- Head gasket or coolant leaks, including external leaks or signs of coolant/oil mixing in higher-mileage examples.
- Automatic transmission shifting quirks, such as rough or delayed shifts in older 5EAT units, particularly with higher mileage.
- Electrical or sensor-related faults, including intermittent check engine lights or misfires, sometimes tied to ignition components or vacuum leaks.
- Steering or braking concerns, including reports of power steering fluid leaks from hoses or lines and occasional ABS-related faults.
These issues are not universal; many 2009 Legacy owners report reliable service with proper maintenance. The key is to review maintenance history and verify recalls have been completed.
What to check before buying a used 2009 Legacy
If you’re considering a used 2009 Legacy, use this checklist to spot common problems and assess reliability before purchase.
- Inspect for oil leaks around the engine, particularly around valve covers and the front seals, and look for signs of excessive oil consumption during a test drive.
- Check for coolant leaks and signs of head gasket issues, such as white exhaust smoke, milky oil, or puddles underneath after cooling.
- Test the automatic transmission for smooth upshifts and downshifts; note any slipping, hard shifting, or delayed responses, and inspect the transmission fluid (color, odor, level).
- Scan the vehicle for stored fault codes and verify the electrical or sensor systems are functioning properly (airbags, ABS, check engine light history).
- Inspect steering components and look for power steering fluid leaks, plus inspect tires for unusual wear which can indicate alignment or suspension wear.
- Verify that all safety recalls have been addressed for the specific VIN, including airbags, fuel system components, and steering-related items.
Addressing these items helps determine whether a particular used 2009 Legacy has had the common risks addressed and whether any major work remains outstanding.
Summary
Overall, the 2009 Legacy offered solid value with Subaru’s all-wheel-drive and practical design, but potential buyers and owners should be aware of reported issues such as engine oil consumption in some 2.5-liter engines, head gasket and coolant leaks, and automatic transmission behavior as mileage grows. Checking maintenance records and recall status is essential to gauge long-term reliability for a specific vehicle.
What are the worst years for Subaru Legacy?
- 2009 Subaru Legacy. According to the guys at CarComplaints, the 2009 Subaru Legacy is the worst year of the long-running sedan lineup.
- 2010 Subaru Legacy. The following year is a whole lot better for Legacy, but the 2010 model also has its fair share of problems.
- 2011 Subaru Legacy.
- 2015 Subaru Legacy.
- 2018 Subaru Legacy.
Is 2009 a good year for Subaru Legacy?
Edmunds says. The 2009 Subaru Legacy isn't great on gas, but it compensates by offering standard all-wheel drive, excellent crash test scores and above-average performance.
What is the problem with the 2009 Subaru Legacy?
Common problems for the 2009 Subaru Legacy include engine issues like excessive oil consumption, rough idle, and potential head gasket failures, along with dashboard melting in hot weather and electrical problems such as issues with the ABS control module and fuel pumps. Other reported problems include cracked windshields, headlight burnouts, and a vibration or shudder on acceleration.
You can watch this video to learn about the common problems with the 2009 Subaru Legacy: 1mMaxTheCarGuyYouTube · Dec 9, 2022
Engine and powertrain
- Engine oil consumption: Some models may consume excessive oil, sometimes linked to leaky seals.
- Head gasket failure: While less common in this specific model year, cooling system issues can lead to head gasket problems and engine overheating.
- Rough idle and misfires: The 2.5i model can experience rough idling and misfires, often due to ignition coil or spark plug issues, or a dirty throttle body.
- Vibration or shudder: Some owners report a vibration or shudder during acceleration.
- Failed fuel pump: Problems with the fuel pump are a reported issue.
Electrical and interior
- Melting dashboard: A major complaint is the dashboard melting and becoming shiny or sticky in hot, humid conditions, which can obstruct the driver's view.
- ABS control module: A technical service bulletin exists for the ABS control module, which can fail and cause the pump to run continuously.
- Headlights and sensors: Headlights may burn out frequently, and some models have a recall for the front oxygen sensor.
Other potential issues
- Cracked windshields: Some owners have reported cracked windshields.
- Steering problems: Problems with sway bar end links or control arm bushings can affect steering and handling.
- Cooling system issues: Beyond head gaskets, other cooling system problems have been reported.
- Rust: Like many cars, rust can be an issue depending on the vehicle's history and climate.
What is the most common problem with the 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.
