Resources for the Repair and Maintenance of your Subaru Legacy
Subaru Legacy Models:
Subaru Legacy Problems
Failure in ABS causes pump to run continuously and wear down battery
A failure in the anti-lock brake system (ABS) causes the ABS pump to continuously run, which will eventually wear down the battery. An improved ABS relay is available to solve the problem.
Cooling System Problems Cause Head Gasket Failure
The head gasket has a high failure rate due to cooling system problems. Subaru is aware of the problem and has extended the warranty to 8 years/100k miles on many vehicles.
Engine Oil May Leak From Camshaft/Crankshaft Front Seals
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.
Engine Oil Leak Form Pump Seal
The leak may develop from the oil pump seal. Our technicians prefer to use thread locker when replacing the seal to prevent the bolts from becoming loose again.
Check Engine Light Due to Failed Front O2 Sensor
The front oxygen (air fuel ratio) sensor element may develop a crack, causing the Check Engine Light to illuminate. Subaru has recalled certain models to replace sensors that may fail. The Subaru service program number is WXW-80, this is not a government mandated recall.
Subaru Legacy Recalls (Recent)
Moonroof Glass May Detach from Vehicle
RepairPal Expert Overview:
Due to the amount and position of the adhesive between the glass and its retainer, the moonroof glass may come loose or completely off. If the moonroof were to detach from the vehicle while driving, it would become a potential road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash. Dealers will inspect the condition of the glass adhesion and apply additional adhesive or replace the moonroof glass as necessary. The Subaru recall number is WVW-33.
Learn more »Transmission Cooler Hose May Leak Transmission Fluid
RepairPal Expert Overview:
The hose to the continuously variable transmission oil cooler may split, which will cause a fluid leak. Loss of transmission fluid may result in loss of vehicle power and operation. Subaru dealers will replace affected oil cooler hoses. This recall began on June 8, 2010. The Subaru recall number is WVQ-27.
Learn more »Manual Transmission May Fail Due to Lack of Lubrication
RepairPal Expert Overview:
Some six speed manual transmissions may have been manufactured with a certain lubrication hole not drilled. Lack of lubrication can result in an abnormal noise from the transmission. If this noise were to be ignored, the transmission could fail completely. Engine power available to the drive wheels would be reduced, increasing the risk of a crash. Dealers will inspect the affected transmissions, drill the lubrication hole as necessary, and replace any internal parts damaged do to lack of lubrication. This recall is scheduled to begin by July 28, 2010. The Subaru recall number is WVS-29.
Learn more »Front Windshield Wipers May Stop Working
RepairPal Expert Overview:
Components inside the front wiper motor bottom cover may overheat. If the bottom cover overheats, the wipers may stop working, which can reduce visibility and increase the risk of a crash or fire. Dealers will replace the front wiper motor bottom cover assembly to correct this concern. The Subaru recall number is WVV-32.
Learn more »Steering Column Electrical Connector May Break
RepairPal Expert Overview:
The electrical wiring in the steering column that provides power and communication to the steering wheel components may break at the roll connector. This may cause steering wheel components, such as the driver's side air bag, cruise control, and horn to malfunction. Loss of these components may result in an accident and possible personal injury. Dealers will inspect the steering roll connector and replace it as necessary. This recall began on July 7, 2010. The Subaru recall number is WVR-28.
Learn more »Subaru Legacy Questions and Answers
When I pulled the hood release latch under my dash in my '90 legacy i heard a snap and a piece of plastic fell down now I'm getting no redidtance when I pull on the release and the hood is not ope...
Head gasket blew, and water mixed with the oil.I am told that I should have all gaskets & seals replaced, and the heads milled. I have a 2.2 engine. Est received Labor & Materials -$1,175.00. Thank...
will it damage the motor if i continue to drive with only 3 cylinders working?
all the coolant is in the overflow reservoir. is the problem the thermostat?
my 1990 subaru legacy wagon wouldnt start when leaving to go to work the other morning,checked fuel line its pumping gas,checked all belts they are fine its even getting spark,when trying to start ...
Subaru Legacy Stories
This is the second Subaru I have owned, It will be the last. It's great when everything is working properly. So far outside of routine maintenance, let's see where to start. At the radio was recalled, the one in my car would actually spit the cd's out when it felt like it and shot them into the back seat, the heater control panel went bad had to be replaced under warranty. The rear wheel bearings went bad, and not at the same time, at about 40K. There was a recall but the garage wouldn't fix both at the same time, had to return about 2 months apart to have the other one replaced. Less than a year later there was another recall for the main computer, it took only a few minutes once the garage got it in. At about 100K the driver side muffler went bad, this is a FACTORY item to the tune of $400. ( Side note, outside of brakes, filters, fluids,wipers, small things, its ALL Factory items ) At 120K kept hearing this high pitch squeal inside the car, only when the car was moving at least at 20mph, bearing in the main drive shaft leading to the rear, $640 just for part. Check engine light on at the 120K also. Catalytic converters not functioning properly, there are 3 on this model. One is $1,400, the other two are $820 a piece. With the check engine light on the cruise flashes and does not work. Bought it with hopes of having a car that would last 300K, but it will bankrupt me before I can get to that point. All wheel drive means replacing all 4 tires at one time. Definitely not a car that I would recommend to anyone, and for craps sake Subaru, I am not the only one that has had the exact same issues, its called a RECALL, if the other car manufactures can back theirs, I don't see why you can't! Regardless last Subaru this family will own.
my 2004 lagecy engine light is on and cruise control is blinking
My 06 Legacy GT Limited just broke down due to the bearings in the turbo. With only 77K miles and well maintained I found it a bit discouraging when my mechanic told me the news. I have owned 3 Subaru's and while I love them when they're running great I have had my share of problems; head gaskets, lots of bearings, driveshafts and front suspension problems. And none of it has been cheap.
I am the original owner of an 03 Legacy SE wagon that currently has 131,000 miles. The car has been reliable, but has cost a small fortune in repairs. Head gaskets, rear wheel bearing, 2 exhaust systems, the rear light cluster leaked and needed replacement, rear stabilizer bar broke, front control arm replaced, and today, one of the glass sunroofs shattered. Tires last around 30,000, and must be replaced in sets of 4, fuel economy is around 25mpg in suburban driving. Engine is noisy with a bad case of piston slap (normal according to Subaru), and it leaks oil. The head gaskets are leaking again, but using Subaru cooling syatem conditioner has slowed the leak to where I add coolant about once every two months.
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od in snow engine noise exhaust rattles from heat shield lose