Subaru Legacy Common Problems and Solutions
Check Engine Light
Problem:
The warning light on the engine is illuminated, but there has been no decline in vehicle performance.
Solution:
Before visiting a garage for a comprehensive diagnostic check, examine the oxygen sensor element. It often cracks, and replacing it is straightforward if that's the problem. Have a new part delivered by BreakerYard. If the element appears to be in good condition, then you'll need a full diagnostic to determine the cause.
Difficulty level
Oxygen Sensor
Vibration When Accelerating
Problem:
The car vibrates excessively when accelerating.
Solution:
There are a few faults that can cause vehicle vibration, but the Legacy is known to have a transmission torque converter that is a bit of a weak spot. There is a revised version of the converter available, which you can easily find on our parts list.
Difficulty level
Overheating Engine
Problem:
The engine is beginning to overheat, and you are consuming more engine oil than before.
Solution:
It's likely that you have an oil leak, usually located at the camshaft seal or the front seal of the crankshaft. If you have more than one leak, you should also consider replacing the timing belt at the same time. We stock the seals and the timing belt, and installation is a straightforward job that can be completed in under 20 minutes.
Difficulty level
Rapid Battery Use
Problem:
Your battery drains from full to empty very quickly.
Solution:
Rapid battery drain indicates something is constantly running when it shouldn't. On the Legacy, the most probable cause is the anti-lock braking system (ABS). Subaru is aware of this issue and has issued an improved ABS relay, which you can order directly from BreakerYard for quick delivery.
Difficulty level
Incorrect Fuel Gauge Reading
Problem:
Your fuel gauge is providing an incorrect reading, making it difficult to determine how much fuel is in the tank.
Solution:
This is simply a software problem. Visit a Subaru dealer, and you should be able to receive a free software update, although some dealers may charge you if you're not covered by warranty.
Difficulty level
Bumpy Driving (All Gen4 Models)
Problem:
You can feel every bump in the road, indicating a issue with your suspension.
Solution:
Check your lower front suspension arm rear bushes, as these are easy to fit and much more affordable than replacing the entire suspension system. If the bushes are worn, then that's the problem, and we can supply replacement bushes when you order from our parts list.
Difficulty level
Lower Suspension Arm
Squeal When Revving
Problem:
When you rev the engine, you can hear a loud squeaking noise. When you accelerate hard, you can hear a deep, resonant rattle.
Solution:
A common fault on the Legacy is caused by a worn-out dual-mass flywheel. A garage will charge you a lot of money to fit a new one, so it's always better to order a new part from our parts list and do the work yourself. There are plenty of guides that will show you how to install the new component.
Difficulty level
Dual Mass Flywheel
Turbo failure
Problem:
There are several signs of a turbo failure: if you've noticed a lack of power, blue or black smoke coming from the exhaust, and a louder than usual whistling noise from the top of the engine. If you experience any of these symptoms, your turbo is likely faulty. Watch the video below to learn more about turbo failures and other preventative measures to avoid this in the future. The video also shows other common problems for the Legacy.
Solution:
You will need to replace the turbo to fix the issue.
Difficulty level
Radiator failure
Problem:
Has your car started overheating? The radiator is known for failing in the Legacy. When the engine has warmed up, open the bonnet and place your hand close to the radiator, but do not touch it! The radiator should be hot all the way along. If there are cold spots on the radiator, it needs to be replaced.
Solution:
As mentioned earlier, you will need to fit a replacement radiator to resolve the issue.
Difficulty level
Radiator
Starter motor failure
Problem:
The starter motor on the Legacy can be unreliable. If you are experiencing difficulties starting the car, there is a known issue with the starter motor. This problem can cause intermittent starting difficulties.
Solution:
You will need to fit a replacement starter motor to resolve the issue.
Difficulty level
Starter Motor
Warm engine starting problems
Problem:
Are you having difficulty starting the car when the engine is warm? Does it seem to start normally when the engine is cold? If so, it is most likely caused by a failure of the camshaft sensor, although there have also been reports of this issue being caused by the crankshaft sensor.
Solution:
It is best to run a diagnostic check to accurately identify which sensor is causing the fault. You will need to replace either the camshaft or crankshaft sensor to resolve this issue. We aim to help you find your replacement engine sensors at very low prices.
Difficulty level
Inconsistent Acceleration
Problem:
The acceleration of your Legacy is unpredictable. The engine might not start or could stall under heavy load. It will also heat up very quickly, and you will be using more fuel than before.
Solution:
Early models of the Legacy experienced fuel pump issues, which is what's happening here. Even if you're not affected by these problems, you should consider replacing the fuel pump anyway. We always stock the improved fuel pumps and deliver promptly.
Difficulty level
Fuel Pump in Tank
Non-Functioning Handbrake
Problem:
The handbrake is beginning to require more travel and may have ceased functioning altogether.
Solution:
The electronic handbrake capacitor on the inner circuit board and the sensor's magnetic ring are susceptible to fractures and breakages. You can resolve this issue by simply replacing the handbrake actuator, which is available on our parts page for the Legacy.
Difficulty level
Shuddering Vehicle
Problem:
The car sometimes judders when you're driving or when you brake suddenly.
Solution:
The CVT gearbox in the Legacy has a well-known issue with early wear. It has affected many vehicles, so Subaru extended the warranty coverage for the CVT gearbox by an additional ten years, although they have strict criteria to meet. If you're not covered by warranty, you can browse our parts list for a new CVT gearbox, but installation is a challenging DIY task.
Difficulty level
Engine Misfire and Ticking
Problem:
The engine has begun to misfire, and a ticking sound can be heard when it is running.
Solution:
Check your engine valve springs, as they might have fractured. If that's the case, order a new set of valve springs from BreakerYard and install them carefully.
Difficulty level