Car Problem Reports

Subaru Legacy Engine Oil May Leak From Camshaft/Crankshaft Front Seals

Subaru Legacy Problem

9 Reports

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Model Years Affected: 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2006

Engine Affected: 2.5L 4 Cylinder

Average Mileage: 180,000 mi (80,000 mi - 250,000 mi)

Front engine oil leaks can develop from the camshaft seal and the crankshaft front seal. If one or more seals require replacement, it may be wise to consider replacing the timing belt as well. These seals are commonly inspected and replaced as needed as part of a timing belt service.

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Tijeras-NM, 1999 Subaru Legacy, 2.5L 4 Cylinder

Rookie
I had a 1998 that started leaking oil onto exhaust pipes at 140,000 miles. At 150K it was crunched while parked, so I bought a 1999 model, which also started leaking oil onto exhaust pipes at about 150,000 miles.

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Visitor, 2003 Subaru Legacy, 2.5L 4 Cylinder, 250,000 mi

Mine has leaked since day one and the dealer said it was my fault because I change my own oil.

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Visitor, 2000 Subaru Legacy, 2.5L 4 Cylinder, 210,000 mi

Burning oil smell at times. Needed a timing belt anyway so belt and seals were replaced. Unfortunately the head gaskets are now leaking 216,000.

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Visitor, 2006 Subaru Legacy, 2.5L 4 Cylinder, 80,000 mi

Was told I have cam shaft seal leak by Subaru dealer or main seal leak - cost $750 including timing belt.

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Tijeras-NM, 1999 Subaru Legacy, 2.5L 4 Cylinder

Rookie
I had a 1998 that started leaking oil onto exhaust pipes at 140,000 miles. At 150K it was crunched while parked, so I bought a 1999 model, which also started leaking oil onto exhaust pipes at about 150,000 miles.

Flag This

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Visitor, 2003 Subaru Legacy, 2.5L 4 Cylinder, 250,000 mi

Mine has leaked since day one and the dealer said it was my fault because I change my own oil.

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Visitor, 2000 Subaru Legacy, 2.5L 4 Cylinder, 210,000 mi

Burning oil smell at times. Needed a timing belt anyway so belt and seals were replaced. Unfortunately the head gaskets are now leaking 216,000.

Flag This

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Visitor, 2006 Subaru Legacy, 2.5L 4 Cylinder, 80,000 mi

Was told I have cam shaft seal leak by Subaru dealer or main seal leak - cost $750 including timing belt.

Flag This

Like0