2001 Subaru Legacy

The 2001 Subaru Legacy is a reliable and practical vehicle, available in sedan and wagon body styles. It offers a comfortable ride and all-wheel-drive capability, making it a popular choice for various driving conditions. The 2001 Legacy had a few engine options available, these included a 2.5L SOHC naturally aspirated engine producing around 165 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque. It also had a 2.5L DOHC turbocharged engine that produced around 165 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options consisted of either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. What people like about the 2001 Legacy is its longevity, reliability, and practicality. What people dislike about it is its age and the potential for rust and aging components.

Engine

2.5L SOHC Naturally Aspirated

• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, white smoke from the exhaust, milky oil.
  • Solution: Replacing the head gaskets with updated multi-layer steel (MLS) gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, or rear main seal. Oil spots under the car.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L DOHC Turbocharged

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whining noise from the turbo, excessive smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replacing the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from valve cover gaskets, turbo oil lines, or rear main seal. Oil spots under the car.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Shifting Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, failure to shift.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the transmission. Fluid flush is recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Struts and Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll.
  • Solution: Replacing the struts and shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, loose steering.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn bushings (control arm bushings, sway bar bushings).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Car battery draining overnight, difficulty starting.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the source of the parasitic draw (e.g., faulty alternator, aftermarket accessories).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the undercarriage, wheel wells, and body panels.
  • Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Air Conditioning Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Air conditioning not blowing cold air.
  • Solution: Recharge the AC system, replace the compressor, or fix a leak.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2001 Subaru Legacy, while a reliable vehicle, is prone to certain issues due to its age. The most significant concern is head gasket failure in the 2.5L SOHC engine, which can be costly to repair. Oil leaks, suspension wear, and electrical issues are also common. Rust can be a major problem, depending on the vehicle’s location and maintenance history. Overall, potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle for these issues and budget for potential repairs. The severity and cost of repairs can vary widely depending on the specific problem and the extent of the damage.