2002 Subaru Legacy

The 2002 Subaru Legacy is a mid-size sedan or wagon known for its standard all-wheel drive and reliability. Available engines included a 2.5L SOHC naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine producing 165 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0L DOHC naturally aspirated six-cylinder engine producing 212 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options were a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. Owners generally appreciated the Legacy’s all-weather capability and longevity, but disliked its somewhat bland styling and occasional maintenance issues.

Engine

2.5L SOHC Naturally Aspirated 4-Cylinder

• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, white smoke from exhaust, bubbling in the coolant overflow tank.
  • Solution: Replacement of the head gaskets, resurfacing of cylinder heads.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illuminated (typically codes P0420), decreased fuel economy, poor engine performance, rattling sound from underneath the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replacement of the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oxygen Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illuminated (typically codes P0130-P0161), decreased fuel economy, poor engine performance, rough idle.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty oxygen sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L DOHC Naturally Aspirated 6-Cylinder

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks, burning oil smell, low oil level. Common areas include valve cover gaskets and front crankshaft seal.
  • Solution: Replacement of leaking gaskets and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ (depending on the location)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible coolant leaks, overheating, low coolant level, sweet smell. Common areas include radiator hoses and water pump.
  • Solution: Replacement of leaking hoses or water pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the location)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Slipping or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed gear engagement, erratic shifting, harsh shifts between gears.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement. If the problem persists, transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $3,000+ (depending on severity and solution)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Stalling, shuddering at low speeds, especially when accelerating from a stop.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Struts/Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of struts/shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,000+ (for all four)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Ball Joints/Tie Rod Ends
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose steering, clunking noises from the front end, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of ball joints and/or tie rod ends.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ (per side)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Identify the source of the drain (e.g., faulty alternator, parasitic draw) and repair/replace the component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery light illuminated, difficulty starting the vehicle, stalling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust on body panels, especially around wheel wells and undercarriage.
  • Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on the extent of the rust.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not operating or operating intermittently.
  • Solution: Replacement of the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ (per window)
  • Recalls: None Found
• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: No air blowing from vents, weak airflow, noisy blower motor.
  • Solution: Replacement of the blower motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Subaru Legacy, while generally reliable, has its share of common issues. Engine-related problems, such as head gasket failures (especially on the 2.5L engine) and oil leaks (especially on the 3.0L), can be costly to repair. Transmission issues are less frequent but can also be expensive. Rust is another concern, particularly in regions with harsh winters. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic before purchase.