2000 Subaru Legacy

The 2000 Subaru Legacy is a mid-size sedan and wagon known for its reliability, all-wheel drive capability, and practicality. Engine options included a 2.5L SOHC EJ25 flat-4 producing 165 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.2L SOHC EJ22 flat-4 producing 135 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. Owners generally appreciate the Legacy’s sure-footed handling in all weather conditions, its comfortable ride, and its longevity. Common complaints often revolve around maintenance costs, particularly related to the horizontally opposed engine design, and some issues with rust in certain climates.

Engine

2.5L SOHC EJ25

• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, white smoke from exhaust, bubbling in the coolant overflow tank.
  • Solution: Replacement of the head gaskets with updated multi-layer steel gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the car, burning oil smell, low oil level. Oil leaks frequently occur from the valve cover gaskets, camshaft seals, and crankshaft seal.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gaskets and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the location of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found

2.2L SOHC EJ22

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the car, burning oil smell, low oil level. Oil leaks frequently occur from the valve cover gaskets, camshaft seals, and crankshaft seal.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gaskets and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the location of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Slipping or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed engagement, erratic shifting, loud clunking noises during shifts.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement, or complete transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid flush) - $3,000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Sag/Weakness
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sits lower than the front, reduced ride quality, bottoming out over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacement of rear springs and/or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery light on the dashboard, dimming headlights, difficulty starting the car, dead battery.
  • Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows fail to operate or operate intermittently, often due to worn-out window motor or regulator.
  • Solution: Replacement of the window motor or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per window.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation on body panels, particularly around wheel wells, rocker panels, and undercarriage.
  • Solution: Rust repair, body panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+, depending on severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appear in the dashboard plastic, especially in hot climates.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard or installation of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (cover) - $1,000+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2000 Subaru Legacy is a generally reliable vehicle, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues. Head gasket failures on the 2.5L engine can be a significant expense, while oil leaks are more common across both engine options. Suspension wear and electrical problems are also typical for a vehicle of this age. Rust can be a major concern in certain regions. While the individual cost of many repairs might be moderate, the cumulative effect of addressing these potential issues can add up. Pre-purchase inspections are highly recommended.