1996 Subaru Legacy

Introduction: The 1996 Subaru Legacy is a mid-size sedan that was available with a variety of engine and transmission options. The standard engine was a 2.2-liter flat-four that produced 135 horsepower and 153 lb-ft of torque. A 2.5-liter flat-four was also available, producing 155 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. The Legacy was praised for its spacious interior, all-wheel drive capability, and decent fuel economy, but it was criticized for its lackluster performance and outdated design.

Engine 2.2-liter Flat-Four Head Gasket Failure Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking from the engine, overheating, white smoke from the exhaust Solution: Replace head gaskets, machine heads (if necessary) Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ Recalls: None Found

2.5-liter Flat-Four Intake Valve Sticking Description/Symptoms: Engine misfiring, rough idling, loss of power Solution: Clean or replace intake valves Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+ Recalls: None Found

Transmission 5-Speed Manual No Issues Found

4-Speed Automatic Transmission Slippage Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping out of gear, especially under load Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ Recalls: None Found

Suspension Front Struts Description/Symptoms: Excessive noise and vibration over bumps, uneven tire wear Solution: Replace front struts Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+ Recalls: None Found

Electrical Alternator Failure Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, battery warning light, electrical issues Solution: Replace alternator Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $700+ Recalls: None Found

Exterior Sunroof Drain Plugs Description/Symptoms: Water leaking into the interior, headliner stains Solution: Clean or replace sunroof drain plugs Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ Recalls: None Found

Interior Dashboard Cracking Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface Solution: Replace dashboard Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ Recalls: None Found

Summary: The 1996 Subaru Legacy is a reliable vehicle overall, but it is not without its issues. The most severe and expensive problem is head gasket failure, which can occur in both the 2.2-liter and 2.5-liter engines. Other common issues include intake valve sticking, transmission slippage, and alternator failure. While some of these issues can be costly to repair, many of them are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix.