2007 Subaru Legacy

The 2007 Subaru Legacy is a mid-size sedan and wagon known for its standard all-wheel drive, reliability, and practicality. Engine options include a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine producing 175 horsepower and 169 lb-ft of torque, a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 243 horsepower and 241 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0-liter H6 engine producing 245 horsepower and 215 lb-ft of torque. Transmission choices included a 5-speed manual, a 4-speed automatic, and a 5-speed automatic (depending on the engine). Owners generally appreciate the Legacy’s sure-footed handling in all weather conditions and its comfortable ride. Common complaints include the car’s somewhat bland styling and higher than average repair costs.

Engine

2.5L Naturally Aspirated Engine

• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks (internal or external), white smoke from exhaust, coolant loss, bubbling in the coolant reservoir.
  • Solution: Replace the head gaskets. It is recommended to have the cylinder heads resurfaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light (usually P0420), reduced fuel economy, poor performance.
  • Solution: Replace the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L Turbocharged Engine

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling or whining noise from the turbocharger, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks (Various Locations)
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the car, burning oil smell, low oil level. Common leak points include valve cover gaskets, turbo oil feed/drain lines, and the rear main seal.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ (depending on the leak location and severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L H6 Engine

• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gaskets)
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the car, burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replace valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$600
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Slipping or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slips between gears, delayed engagement, harsh or erratic shifting, check engine light.
  • Solution: Could range from a fluid change/flush, solenoid replacement, or a complete transmission rebuild or replacement, depending on the severity.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid change) - $3,500+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during acceleration, especially at lower speeds.
  • Solution: Torque Converter Replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800-$1500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Wheel Bearings
  • Description/Symptoms: Humming or grinding noise from the rear of the vehicle, noise increases with speed.
  • Solution: Replace the rear wheel bearings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ (per side)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut Mounts/Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension when going over bumps, poor handling.
  • Solution: Replace strut mounts and bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (depending on the extent of the damage)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery dies overnight or after sitting for a short period.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic draw. Possible causes include faulty relays, aftermarket accessories, or a failing alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the cause)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oxygen Sensors
  • Description/Symptoms: Check Engine Light
  • Solution: Replace Oxygen Sensors
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150-$500+ (depending on the sensors to be replaced)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Especially around wheel wells and rocker panels)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust forming on the body panels, particularly in areas prone to moisture and road salt exposure.
  • Solution: Repair and repaint affected areas, or replace body panels if the rust is severe.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+ (depending on the extent of the rust)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking (in hot climates)
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, particularly in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard, install a dashboard cover, or use a repair kit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (cover) - $1,500+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2007 Subaru Legacy, while generally reliable, has a few common problem areas. Head gasket failures on the 2.5L naturally aspirated engine and oil leaks on the 2.5L turbocharged and H6 engines are significant concerns, potentially leading to high repair bills. Suspension issues, particularly with wheel bearings and strut components, can also arise. Electrical problems, such as battery drain, can be frustrating. Rust, especially in regions with harsh winters, is another factor to consider. Overall, while the Legacy offers the benefits of all-wheel drive and a comfortable ride, potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor them into their purchasing decision. Repairs can range from relatively inexpensive fixes to costly engine or transmission overhauls.