1990 Subaru Legacy

Introduction:

The 1990 Subaru Legacy is a compact sedan that was available with various engine and transmission options. It boasts a spacious interior, all-wheel drive, and reliable performance. Praised for its practicality and off-road capabilities, the Legacy has a few known issues that potential owners should be aware of.

Engine

2.2L SOHC Flat-4 (130 hp, 153 ft-lbs)

• Head Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive coolant consumption, white smoke from exhaust, overheating
  • Solution: Replace head gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Belt Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalls or misfires, loud noises from engine
  • Solution: Replace timing belt, tensioners, and pulleys
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L SOHC Flat-4 (165 hp, 162 ft-lbs)

• No Issues Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (Optional)

• Transmission Slipping:
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to engage gears, loss of power
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual (Standard)

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or knocking noises from front suspension, reduced handling
  • Solution: Replace strut mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, electrical system failure
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Motor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting, grinding noises
  • Solution: Replace starter motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Fog Light Condensation:
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture inside fog lights
  • Solution: Seal fog lights or replace with aftermarket units
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Heater Core Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: No heat from heater, sweet smell in cabin
  • Solution: Replace heater core
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Window Regulator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty operating windows
  • Solution: Replace window regulator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 1990 Subaru Legacy is a reliable car but has some known issues. Engine and transmission problems can be expensive to fix, but suspension, electrical, and interior issues are generally less costly. It is recommended to have a pre-purchase inspection to assess any potential issues before buying.