2003 Subaru Legacy

The 2003 Subaru Legacy is a mid-size sedan and wagon known for its standard all-wheel drive and reliability. Engine options included a 2.5L SOHC naturally aspirated four-cylinder producing 165 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder producing 280 horsepower and 253 lb-ft of torque (primarily in the GT models, not available in all markets). Transmission options were a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. Owners generally appreciate the Legacy’s all-weather capability and durability, but some dislike its somewhat bland styling and fuel economy.

Engine

2.5L SOHC Naturally Aspirated Four-Cylinder

• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, white smoke from exhaust, external coolant leaks.
  • Solution: Replace head gaskets, resurface cylinder heads.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light (typically P0420), reduced fuel economy, failed emissions test.
  • Solution: Replace catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oxygen Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, poor fuel economy, rough idling.
  • Solution: Replace oxygen sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling or grinding noises from the turbocharger, excessive oil consumption.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Boost Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, hissing sound under acceleration, poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: Inspect and replace hoses and connections in the intake system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light (typically P0420), reduced fuel economy, failed emissions test.
  • Solution: Replace catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $700 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Shift Flare
  • Description/Symptoms: Delay or hesitation during shifting, especially between gears.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush, valve body repair/replacement, or transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $3,000+ (depending on the severity and chosen solution)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at low speeds, stalling, poor acceleration.
  • Solution: Replace torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting, unusual noises.
  • Solution: Replace clutch disc, pressure plate, and throwout bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Synchro Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding or difficulty shifting into certain gears, especially when cold.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Wheel Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding or humming noise from the rear of the vehicle, particularly noticeable at higher speeds.
  • Solution: Replace rear wheel bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, especially over bumps, reduced handling.
  • Solution: Replace strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 per pair
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not moving, slow or erratic movement, clicking noises.
  • Solution: Replace window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery warning light, difficulty starting, stalling.
  • Solution: Replace alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Especially in areas with road salt)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on body panels, undercarriage components.
  • Solution: Repair rust, replace rusted panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Center Console Latch/Hinge Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Center console lid broken.
  • Solution: Replace center console.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2003 Subaru Legacy can be a reliable vehicle but is subject to common issues associated with age and mileage. Head gasket failures on the 2.5L engine are a significant concern. Turbocharger issues and boost leaks are the main problems with the 2.0L turbo engine. Suspension wear and electrical problems like window regulator failure are also common. Rust can be a major problem. Repair costs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor issues to several thousand for major engine or transmission work.