1991 Subaru Legacy

Introduction: The 1991 Subaru Legacy is a compact sedan available with several engine and transmission options. It is known for its safety features, reliability, and affordability. However, like any car, it has its share of common issues.

Engine

• 1.8L Carbureted Engine
  • Cylinder Head Gasket Failure: Blown head gasket causes coolant and oil to mix, leading to overheating and white smoke from the exhaust. Requires replacement of the head gasket and possibly resurfacing the cylinder head. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Timing Belt Failure: If the timing belt snaps, it can cause catastrophic engine damage. Regular replacement of the timing belt and tensioner is crucial. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Coolant Temperature Sensor Failure: Malfunctioning sensor can lead to overheating or undercooling, affecting the engine’s performance. Replacement of the sensor is required. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
• 2.2L Carbureted Engine
  • Similar issues as the 1.8L Carbureted Engine
• 2.2L Fuel Injected Engine
  • Injector Failure: Clogged or faulty injectors can cause rough idling, poor acceleration, and increased fuel consumption. Replacement of the faulty injectors is necessary. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Ignition Coil Failure: Failure of the ignition coil can result in engine misfires, rough idling, and power loss. Replacement of the ignition coil is required. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Transmission

• 4-Speed Manual Transmission
  • Clutch Wear: Symptoms include slipping gears, difficulty shifting, and noises from the clutch assembly. Replacement of worn clutch components is necessary. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• 3-Speed Automatic Transmission
  • Solenoid Failure: Faulty solenoids can cause shifting problems, slipping gears, or even complete loss of transmission function. Replacement of the failed solenoid is required. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Torque Converter Failure: Can lead to shuddering, slipping, or overheating of the transmission. Replacement of the torque converter is necessary. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+

Suspension

• Struts/Shocks Wear: Worn struts or shocks can cause poor handling, excessive body roll, and a bumpy ride. Replacement of the struts or shocks is required. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
• Ball Joint Failure: Worn or damaged ball joints can lead to decreased handling and stability, and a “knocking” sound while driving. Replacement of the ball joints is necessary. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Sway Bar Links: Can become worn or damaged, causing clunking noises when cornering or driving over bumps. Replacement of the sway bar links is required. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Electrical

• Alternator Failure: Can lead to dim headlights, flickering interior lights, or starting problems. Replacement of the alternator is necessary. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+

• Starter Solenoid Failure: Symptoms include a “clicking” sound when trying to start the car, or no response at all. Replacement of the starter solenoid is required. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

• Battery Drain: Parasitic battery drain can cause the battery to discharge and prevent the car from starting. Finding and fixing the source of the drain is necessary. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+

Exterior

• Door Handles: Can become loose or broken, making it difficult to open or close the doors. Replacement of the door handles is required. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
• Windshield Washer Pump Failure: Failure of the pump can prevent the windshield from being cleaned effectively. Replacement of the pump is required. Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $100+

Interior

• Seat Controls: Can become loose or broken, making it difficult to adjust the seats. Replacement or repair of the seat controls is required. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Dashboard Lights Dimmer: Failure of the dimmer switch can make it difficult to read the dashboard instruments at night. Replacement of the switch is required. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Summary: The 1991 Subaru Legacy is a reliable and affordable car, but it has its fair share of common issues. The most severe and expensive repairs tend to be related to the engine, such as head gasket failure or timing belt failure. However, with proper maintenance and timely repairs, most of these issues can be avoided, and the Legacy can provide years of dependable service.