2006 Subaru Legacy

The 2006 Subaru Legacy is a mid-size sedan and wagon known for its standard all-wheel drive, comfortable ride, and practical nature. Engine options included a 2.5L SOHC naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine producing 175 horsepower and 169 lb-ft of torque, a 2.5L SOHC turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0L DOHC six-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower and 219 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual transmission and a 4-speed automatic transmission (for the non-turbo 2.5L) and a 5-speed automatic transmission (for the turbo 2.5L and the 3.0L). Owners generally appreciate the Legacy’s all-weather capability and reliability. Some dislike the somewhat bland styling and fuel economy compared to some competitors.

Engine

2.5L SOHC Naturally Aspirated (EJ253)

• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss (sometimes external, sometimes internal resulting in white smoke from the exhaust), bubbling in the coolant overflow tank.
  • Solution: Replacement of head gaskets with updated multi-layer steel gaskets. Machining of the cylinder head surfaces may also be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light with codes P0420 (Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold), reduced fuel economy, and/or a rattling sound from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replacement of the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L SOHC Turbocharged (EJ255)

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from the exhaust, and/or whining sound from the turbocharger.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss (sometimes external, sometimes internal resulting in white smoke from the exhaust), bubbling in the coolant overflow tank.
  • Solution: Replacement of head gaskets with updated multi-layer steel gaskets. Machining of the cylinder head surfaces may also be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L DOHC (EZ30D)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks, especially around the valve covers and timing chain cover.
  • Solution: Replacement of valve cover gaskets and/or resealing the timing chain cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (4EAT)

• No Issues Found

5-Speed Automatic (5EAT)

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, especially at low speeds, and potential stalling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Rear Wheel Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding or humming noise from the rear of the vehicle, especially when turning.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear wheel bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Front Lower Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise from the front suspension, especially over bumps. Poor handling and steering.
  • Solution: Replacement of the front lower control arm bushings, or the entire control arm.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Oxygen Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, poor fuel economy, rough idling, and/or hesitation during acceleration.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty oxygen sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found
• Windshield Wiper Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windshield wipers stop working, work intermittently, or only work on certain speeds.
  • Solution: Replacement of the windshield wiper motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Primarily in areas with road salt)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation on the wheel wells, rocker panels, and undercarriage.
  • Solution: Rust repair, panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on severity.

Interior

• Automatic Climate Control Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The automatic climate control system not maintaining the set temperature, blowing hot air when cold is selected, or vice versa.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair/replacement of the climate control module, sensors, or actuators.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2006 Subaru Legacy, while generally reliable, has some common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. Head gasket issues are prevalent across the 2.5L engines, while the turbo models can suffer from turbocharger failure. Suspension components such as wheel bearings and control arm bushings are prone to wear. Electrical issues such as oxygen sensor failures can also occur. Rust can be a significant problem in regions with road salt. Repair costs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor electrical repairs to several thousand dollars for engine or transmission overhauls. Overall, carefully inspect the vehicle and address any known issues to ensure reliable operation.