How Reliable Is a Subaru Legacy?

I. Introduction

The Subaru Legacy is a reliable and popular midsize sedan that has been in production since 1990. It offers a comfortable ride, spacious interior, and excellent handling capabilities. The importance of reliability in car ownership cannot be overstated as it directly impacts the cost of ownership, resale value, and overall satisfaction with the vehicle. In this article, we will explore the reliability of the Subaru Legacy and compare it to its competitors. We will examine key components, common issues, and real-world reliability data to provide a comprehensive understanding of the Legacy’s dependability. Additionally, we will discuss scheduled maintenance tasks, aftermarket support, and repair costs to give readers a complete picture of owning a Subaru Legacy. By the end of this article, readers will have a better understanding of the Legacy’s reliability and whether it is a good choice for their needs.

II. History of Subaru

Subaru was founded in 1953 as a subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries (FHI) in Japan. The company began as a manufacturer of aircraft and automobile parts before transitioning to full vehicle production in the 1960s. In the early years, Subaru focused on producing small, utilitarian vehicles designed for Japanese consumers. However, the company quickly expanded its offerings to include larger sedans and sports cars, and in the 1980s, it introduced the first generation of the Legacy. This model was designed to compete with established brands like Toyota and Honda, and it featured a unique all-wheel-drive system that set it apart from most other vehicles on the market. Throughout its history, Subaru has continued to innovate and expand its product line, while maintaining a focus on reliability and durability. Today, the company is one of the largest automakers in Japan and a major player in the global automotive industry.

III. Subaru Legacy Model Overview

The Subaru Legacy is a line of midsize cars that have been produced since 1990. It comes in various trims and configurations, including sedan, wagon, and crossover models. The Legacy has a reputation for being reliable and durable, thanks to its robust build quality and advanced engineering. However, like any car, it can experience issues over time. In this section, we will explore the different variants of the Subaru Legacy, common problems, and how they compare to other cars in its class.

IV. Durability and Reliability

A. The Subaru Legacy has a reputation for being a reliable vehicle, thanks in part to its robust construction and use of high-quality materials.

B. One of the key components that contributes to the Legacy’s durability is its all-wheel-drive system, which provides excellent traction and control on a variety of terrain types.

C. In terms of real-world reliability data, the Subaru Legacy has consistently performed well in various reliability surveys and studies, including those conducted by Consumer Reports and J.D. Power.

D. However, like any vehicle, the Legacy may experience some common issues and concerns, such as electrical problems or transmission issues. It’s important to stay on top of regular maintenance tasks to prevent these issues from becoming more serious.

E. Overall, the Subaru Legacy is known for its dependability and long-lasting performance, making it a solid choice for those looking for a reliable vehicle.

V. Maintenance and Repairs

The Subaru Legacy is known for its durability and reliability, but like any vehicle, it will need regular maintenance and occasional repairs. In this section, we will explore the maintenance requirements of the Subaru Legacy and common repairs that may be needed.

Regular maintenance for the Subaru Legacy includes oil changes, air filter replacements, and tire rotations. It is also important to check the brakes, suspension, and exhaust system regularly to ensure they are functioning properly. Additionally, the transmission fluid should be checked and changed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Common repairs for the Subaru Legacy include issues with the engine, transmission, and electrical system. The engine may require replacement if it develops problems such as a blown head gasket or a damaged piston. The transmission may also need repair or replacement if it experiences problems shifting gears or slipping. Electrical issues can range from simple fixes like replacing a blown fuse to more complex repairs like rewiring the entire system.

Overall, the Subaru Legacy is a reliable vehicle that requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly. By following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule and addressing any issues promptly, owners can expect their Legacy to provide many years of dependable service.

VI. Safety Ratings and Features

Subaru has always been known for its commitment to safety, and the Subaru Legacy is no exception. In this section, we will examine the safety ratings and features of the Subaru Legacy.

The Subaru Legacy has consistently performed well in crash tests, with many models receiving top marks from organizations such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The 2021 Subaru Legacy received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, with perfect scores in all categories except for the front passenger small overlap crash test.

In addition to its strong crash test results, the Subaru Legacy also offers several advanced safety features to help protect occupants. These include adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, and blind spot monitoring. Some higher trim levels even come equipped with features like rear cross traffic alert and a driver attention monitor.

When compared to its competitors, the Subaru Legacy holds its own in terms of safety. While some rival models may offer additional features or better crash test ratings, the Legacy’s strong performance and comprehensive safety suite make it a solid choice for those prioritizing safety.

Overall, the Subaru Legacy’s strong safety ratings and extensive list of advanced safety features make it a reliable choice for those looking for a safe and secure vehicle.

VII. Fuel Economy and Performance

Subaru Legacy is known for its efficient engines and impressive fuel economy. The base model Legacy comes equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 182 horsepower and offers an estimated fuel economy of 27 miles per gallon in the city and 35 miles per gallon on the highway. For those looking for better performance, the Legacy Sport and Touring trims come with a 3.6-liter six-cylinder engine that delivers 256 horsepower and an estimated fuel economy of 24 miles per gallon in the city and 32 miles per gallon on the highway.

In comparison to its competitors, the Legacy holds its own in terms of performance and fuel economy. The Mazda6, for example, offers a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 187 horsepower and an estimated fuel economy of 26 miles per gallon in the city and 35 miles per gallon on the highway. The Toyota Camry, on the other hand, offers a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine that produces 203 horsepower and an estimated fuel economy of 53 miles per gallon in the city and 51 miles per gallon on the highway.

Overall, the Subaru Legacy provides a balance of performance and efficiency that makes it a great choice for those who value both. Its powerful engines offer impressive acceleration, while still managing to maintain decent fuel economy. With proper maintenance and driving habits, the Legacy can provide reliable and cost-effective transportation for many years to come.

VIII. Interior Comfort and Technology

The interior of the Subaru Legacy offers a comfortable and functional cabin, with a focus on technology and connectivity. The infotainment system is user-friendly and provides access to a range of features, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a rearview camera, and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system. The driver’s seat is adjustable, offering eight ways of adjustment, ensuring a comfortable driving position. The Legacy also boasts generous cargo space, with up to 75 cubic feet of storage with the rear seats folded down. In terms of technology, the Legacy offers advanced safety features such as adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, lane departure warning, and lane keep assist. Overall, the interior of the Subaru Legacy is designed to provide a comfortable and connected driving experience.

IX. Exterior Design and Aesthetics

The Subaru Legacy has always been known for its bold and rugged design, which sets it apart from many other sedans on the market. The exterior of the Legacy is designed to be both functional and stylish, with a focus on providing a commanding presence on the road.

One of the standout features of the Legacy’s exterior is its distinctive grille, which is flanked by sleek headlights that provide excellent visibility at night. The hood is sculpted to give the Legacy a muscular look, while the roofline slopes gently toward the rear, giving the car a sporty feel.

At the rear, the Legacy’s tail lights are another highlight, with a unique design that adds to the car’s visual appeal. The trunk is generously sized, providing ample space for luggage or cargo, while the rear bumper is designed to protect the car’s underbody from scratches and scrapes.

Overall, the Subaru Legacy’s exterior design is sure to turn heads, with a bold and rugged aesthetic that appeals to drivers who value both function and style. Whether you’re looking for a car that can handle rough terrain or simply want a sedan that looks great on the road, the Subaru Legacy is definitely worth considering.

X. Conclusion

In conclusion, the Subaru Legacy has been known for its reliability and durability. The car has undergone numerous improvements throughout its history, resulting in a range of high-quality variants. While there may be some common issues and concerns, the real-world reliability data suggests that the Legacy is generally a reliable car. Proper maintenance and regular servicing can help extend the lifespan of the vehicle. It is important to note that the Subaru Legacy offers excellent safety ratings, advanced safety features, and impressive fuel economy. Overall, the Subaru Legacy is a great choice for those looking for a reliable and comfortable car that can handle various weather conditions.