How Long Do Subaru Legacys Last?

The Subaru Legacy is a dependable and cost-effective mid-size family vehicle.

It has enough room for all of your passengers, and it is equipped with several safety systems to protect you and your loved ones carefully at all times.

It is worth mentioning that the Subaru Legacy has been on the market since 1989, but don’t let its age deceive you: it’s still one of the greatest values on the market.

Now, if you are wondering how long do Subaru Legacys last?

On average, the Subaru Legacy will travel 200,000 miles up to 300,000 miles. If you drive 15,000 miles per year and maintain it properly, this translates to 15 to 20 years of service.

So with that being said, it will be best for you to read this article in its entirety to get all the important information related to the Subaru Legacy.

I also included a frequently asked questions section, so be sure to check that out!

What Is The Average Life Expectancy Of A Subaru Legacy?

A Subaru Legacy is expected to endure between 200,000 miles and 300,000 miles on average.

Keep in mind that the Subaru Legacy must visit the garage for unscheduled improvements or replacements 0.28 times every year, with a 12% possibility of significant issues.

Additionally, Legacy holders spend $563 each year on maintenance.

However, you should also know that your car’s mileage can be reduced by poor maintenance, accidents, and irresponsible driving.

Always make sure that you are driving in good road conditions and driving responsibly.

Does Subaru Legacy Last Longer Than Other Similar Vehicles?

It’s possible to use relative marking in this context.

To better comprehend how responsible a Subaru Legacy is and where it sits, it’s crucial to learn how the competitors are accomplishing in terms of reliability.

Some cars will exhibit higher percentages than others. Which competitors performed better would become obvious.

You must know that the Subaru Legacy has strong competitors, so it is worth comparing to find out which one is better and which one you should consider buying.

So with that being said, let’s get right into it!

1. Subaru Legacy Vs. Honda Accord

Coming over to the Subaru Legacy and Honda Accord, you must know that two of these are extremely family-friendly vehicles with a lot to offer their consumers.

They both have unique styling and spacious cabins. However, to know which is sufficient, let’s distinguish the two.

• The Subaru Legacy has a lengthier lifespan than the Honda Accord.
• This is because Honda Accord can only survive up to 200,000 miles, whereas the Subaru Legacy can last up to 300,000 miles.
• The Honda Accord has more reliability scores of 4.5 out of 5 than the Subaru Legacy, 4.0 out of 5. However, there is not a huge difference.
• The Honda Accord has had around 12,261 complaints in more than 31 model years, whereas the Subaru Legacy has around 266 complaints in more than 32 model years.

Overall, it seems like the Subaru Legacy is a better choice in longevity times.

Even though the Honda Accord has more reliable scores but given the grievances on around 31 model years is quite concerning.

There might be a lot of problems linked with it, so it is best to avoid them.

Related: Honda Accord Life Expectancy

2. Subaru Legacy Vs. Toyota Camry

The Subaru Legacy and the Toyota Camry are both outstanding performing cars.

Both have excellent fuel efficiency. But let’s distinguish the two to see which is sufficient based on different factors.

The Subaru Legacy is best to drive on the highway, whereas the Toyota Camry offers outstanding cruising miles.

• Both the Toyota Camry and Subaru Legacy have longevity of 200,000 miles and 300,000 miles.
• The Subaru Legacy and the Toyota Camry have a reliability score of 4.0 out of 5.0 on the Repair Pal website.
• The Toyota Camry has over 3306 complaints in around 31 model years.
• This is more complaints than the Subaru Legacy, with only 266 complaints in 33 model years.

Well, both the Subaru Legacy and the Toyota Camry are amazing vehicles to drive, plus they have equal longevity and reliability.

But you cannot ignore the objections about the Toyota Camry model years. It is best to avoid models with the most complaints, but the Subaru Legacy is better.

Related: How Many Miles Will A Toyota Camry Last?

3. Subaru Legacy Vs. Volkswagen Passat

Coming over to the Legacy and the Volkswagen Passat.

Both of these vehicles are equipped with powerful engine systems. They are both efficient in fuel economy and offer high performance, whether on the road or the highway.

But it’s best to compare the two to see which one is better.

• The Subaru Legacy has a longer lifespan than the Volkswagen Passat. This is because it only lasts between 200,000 miles and 250,000 miles, whereas the Legacy can last up to 300,000 miles.
• Both the Subaru Legacy and the Volkswagen Passat have an overall reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5.
• The Volkswagen Passat has 926 complaints over 31 model years, whereas the Subaru Legacy only has 266 complaints on around 32 model years.

It seems like both the Subaru Legacy and the Volkswagen Passat are high-performing cars but with different longevity.

Even though they have the same reliability scores, the VW Passat has more complaints. This can affect its reliability negatively.

Related: How Many Miles Will A Volkswagen Passat Last?

Life Expectancy Of Subaru Legacy Car Parts

If you have made it this far, it will also be beneficial for you to read this section.

Learning about the life expectancy of the Subaru Legacy car parts will give you a clear understanding of them and assist you in educating yourself if something goes wrong with those car parts.

I will be listing down the most important car carts of the Subaru Legacy that needs your full attention and care. So be certain to read until the very end.

Average Lifespan Of Subaru Legacy Brake Pads

Beginning with the Subaru Legacy frame pads, you must know that the Subaru Legacy’s brakes will typically need to be replaced every 25,000 miles up to 70,000 miles, or once every three years, mainly if you ride the car for 15,000 miles driven each year.

You need to note that the brake pads can quickly wear out due to the force as well as the weight of the Subaru legacy or any other vehicle, so it is best for you to have them examined as soon as possible if you notice they aren’t performing as well as they once did.

Average Lifespan Of Subaru Legacy Battery

The Subaru Legacy’s batteries will last between 3 to 5 years.

However, do keep in mind that this depends on a variety of parameters, including driving behavior, environment, battery type, and so on.

If you want to prolong the life of the battery of your Subaru Legacy, then make sure the battery is fastened in place tightly.

It is also best to clean it regularly, so corrosion does not start to build upon it. Lastly, maintain the automobile in the shade or off from severe weather circumstances, particularly the sun.

Average Lifespan Of Subaru Legacy Tires

The factory Subaru Legacy tires can survive more than 60,000 miles which also equates to four years, with typical use and proper maintenance.

However, this can only be achieved by driving the Subaru Legacy for 15,000 miles per year.

To your knowledge, you must know that the road conditions and the topography are the most critical elements that determine the life of your tires.

If you are someone who usually drives your Subaru Legacy through tough terrain, you may need to upgrade or maybe have to replace the tires sooner than usual.

This is why you should drive on smooth roads. Another thing you should keep in mind is that rotating the tires after 5000 miles or 7000 miles can also prolong the life.

You should also examine the tire tension and make sure to check the car carefully before and after driving.

Average Lifespan Of Subaru Legacy Transmission

When it comes to the transmission system of the Subaru Legacy, you must know that under typical driving conditions, your Subaru Legacy’s transmission should last between 200,000 miles up to 300,000 miles.

Nonetheless, if you want to maintain the transmission system functioning smoothly, ensure that the fluid levels are always filled up and that any problems are addressed immediately.

This is because the transmission system is one of the most important components of the vehicle, and if it starts malfunctioning, it can gradually affect other components as well, especially the engine system, steering wheel, and so on.

Average Lifespan Of Subaru Legacy Spark Plugs

The spark plugs in Subaru Legacy vehicles endure between 30,000 miles up to 100,000 miles before they need to be replaced.

It is said that spark plugs would only require replacements if they wear out because repairing them would not fix the issue completely.

You must know that the spark plugs are in charge of igniting the air as well as fuel mixture and triggering the explosion that induces the engine to generate power.

When you head in for a tune-up, they’re normally inspected and, if necessary, replaced.

Average Lifespan Of Subaru Legacy Key Fob

A battery is inserted in the key fob of the Subaru Legacy or any other car, which decides how long it can survive. The battery is expected to last four to six years in most circumstances.

When it reaches the end of its useful life, it will begin to exhibit signs that suggest it is time to replace the batteries.

However, depending on the brand, the key fob can survive for up to 10 to 15 years.

When the automobile doesn’t start or open, as well as isn’t connected to the vehicle, you’ll discover the key fob isn’t working properly, and it is time to get it replaced immediately.

What Is Good Mileage For A Used Subaru Legacy?

The Subaru Legacy, as you may know, can easily travel between 200,000 and 300,000 kilometers.

However, things will be different if you buy a used Subaru Legacy.

So, if you’re looking to buy a used car, it should have a minimum of 150,000 miles on it and a maximum of 200,000 miles on it.

This ensures that you get good and consistent results.

It’s also worth noting that at this mileage, the car is less prone to develop major problems and will require less maintenance and repair.

It is also less likely to require any replacements at that time, allowing you to have the best driving experience possible.

Keep in mind that the Subaru Forester is famed for its long service life. In used Legacy, this is also feasible.

All you have to do is maintain the car regularly and adapt your driving habits to match the vehicle’s capabilities so that it can always offer the finest outcomes.

How To Increase How Long Your Subaru Legacy Last

There are a variety of techniques to extend the life of your Subaru Legacy.

Keep in mind that to observe a difference, you’ll need to adjust your driving habits, offer regular maintenance, and keep a closer eye on the vehicle’s performance.

But you must stay consistent with these tips to see a change.

• Always make sure to provide the vehicle with proper services.
• Create a maintenance program after observing as well as identifying your driving behaviors.
• Always purchase genuine Subaru components and high-quality engine fluids.
• To protect the finish on your car, use ceramic paint protection.
• Take your car to a competent and trustworthy repair at all times.
• Make sure you drive your car with caution at all times.

So, these are some daily recommendations to help your Subaru Legacy last longer.

Problems That Limit The Life Of Your Subaru Legacy

Every car is likely to run into problems that prevent it from lasting as long as it should.

The Subaru Legacy is one of those vehicles that are prone to a variety of issues that may be rather inconvenient to deal with.

It’s also worth noting that most of these issues can be extremely expensive to fix. So, before things get out of hand, make sure you keep an eye on them.

With that in mind, below are some of the Subaru Legacy’s flaws:

1. Head Gasket Failure

Due to cooling system problems, the head gaskets were replaced.

Because the problem was so serious, the head gasket warranty was extended to eight years or 100,000 miles, whichever came first.

2. Inadequate Fuel Pump

During manufacture, the impellers and the pieces that regulate the gas progression inside the pump were overused with a drying solvent. They crack as a result and must be replaced.

3. Battery Dying

The controller area network of the vehicle is too much for the battery to deal with.

This section of the car is in charge of ensuring that all sensors and modules interact with one another.

4. Windshield Cracking Randomly

Subaru began using acoustic sound glass in 2015, which helps to block out noise.

Due to several production flaws, however, the windshields were further prone to cracking and, argue, cost-cutting.

5. Headlights Dying

The headlight bulbs in Subaru Legacy models from 2010 to 2012 wear out much faster than those in other model years.

Although the exact reason for this is uncertain, two possibilities exist.

The first is that the auto-mode, which identifies when headlights are required, is excessively aggressive, causing the lights to burn out much more frequently during the day.

What To Look For When Buying A Subaru Legacy

When it comes to buying a Subaru Legacy, you should keep in mind that it has been on the market for quite some time, so there are a few things you should consider before making a purchase.

To get a better understanding, read the following sections:

• The best and worst model years.
• Inquire about prior Subaru Legacy repairs with the dealers or with the prior holder.
• Safety features and ratings.
• Compared with other sedans.
• Gas mileage, acceleration, steering and handling, and so on.
• Interior design and comfort.

These are some of the considerations you should make when purchasing a Subaru Legacy.

It is strongly advised to stay away from the 2010-2014 model years, as they have the most serious issues.

Related: Best And Worst Years For Subaru Legacy

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Is The Subaru Legacy A Reliable Car?

Yes, the Subaru Legacy is a reliable automobile. It has an all-around reliable score of 4.0 out of 5, which is pretty good for a midsize sedan.

It also has excellent safety features and ratings, so it is a safe car to drive.

Q2. Does Subaru Legacy Have A Lot Of Problems?

The Subaru Legacy model years from 2010 through 2015 are the worst years and have the most problems, mainly with the CVT Transmission system, so it is best to avoid those years.

Q3. Is It A Good Idea To Buy A Used Subaru Legacy?

Yes, it is a good idea to purchase a used Subaru Legacy because Subaru is known for producing reliable cars that are long-lasting, so be sure to find a car with a mileage of 100,000 or above for a better experience.

Q4. Does Subaru Legacy Rust Easily?

Early Subaru Legacy vehicles were known to develop extra rust than usual, although more modern versions have been reported to be resistant to rust if simple rust prevention techniques are followed.

Q5. Is Subaru Legacy Expensive To Maintain?

During the first ten years of ownership, a Subaru Legacy will amount to roughly $6,073 in maintenance and repairs.

This is $766 less than the industry standard for famous sedan models.

Conclusion

You will undoubtedly benefit from learning how long do Subaru Legacys last.

If you were planning on acquiring it, the information offered in this article would assist you in making an informed decision.

However, keep in your senses that the life expectancy of any car is mostly determined by how adequately you care for it and whether or not you perform regular maintenance.

So, if you do decide to buy a Subaru Legacy, make sure you follow the suggestions I’ve provided in this post to extend the life of your Subaru Legacy.