2008 Subaru Legacy

The 2008 Subaru Legacy is a mid-size sedan known for its standard all-wheel drive and comfortable ride. Engine options include a 2.5L naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine producing 170 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 243 horsepower and 241 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic (for the non-turbo) or a 5-speed automatic (for the turbo). Owners often appreciate the car’s all-weather capability and reliability, while some dislike the relatively bland styling and fuel economy compared to some competitors.

Engine

2.5L Naturally Aspirated (EJ253)

• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, white smoke from the exhaust, and external coolant leaks.
  • Solution: Replacing the head gaskets with an updated, multi-layer steel gasket design.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gaskets, Camshaft Seals)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks on the engine, burning oil smell, low oil level.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L Turbocharged (EJ255)

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling or whining noise from the turbocharger, excessive oil consumption, smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replacing the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks (Turbo Oil Supply Line, AVCS Line)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks around the turbocharger or AVCS (Active Valve Control System) components, burning oil smell, low oil level.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking lines and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cracked Ringlands
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive oil consumption, poor compression, blue smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Engine rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3000 - $6000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (4EAT)

• Shifting Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, failure to shift into certain gears.
  • Solution: Replacing the transmission or a full rebuild
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Automatic (5EAT)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears
  • Solution: Replacing the valve body or full transmission rebuild
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Strut Mounts
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the rear suspension, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Front Lower Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when braking or turning. Worn bushings can also affect alignment.
  • Solution: Replacing the front lower control arm bushings or the entire control arm.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Oxygen Sensors
  • Description/Symptoms: Check Engine Light, poor fuel economy, rough idling.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty oxygen sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Bulbs
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature headlight bulb failure.
  • Solution: Replacing the headlight bulbs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $100+ (depending on bulb type and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Wheel Arches, Underbody)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust on the wheel arches, rocker panels, or underbody components, particularly in areas with road salt exposure.
  • Solution: Rust repair, panel replacement, or rust prevention treatments.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+ (depending on the severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof failing to open or close properly, leaking water, or making excessive noise.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Subaru Legacy can be a reliable vehicle, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues. Engine-related problems, particularly head gasket failures in the naturally aspirated engine and turbocharger issues in the turbocharged engine, can be costly to repair. Transmission issues, while less common, also represent a significant expense. Suspension and electrical problems are generally less expensive to address. Rust, especially in areas with road salt, can also be a concern. Overall, pre-purchase inspection focusing on these areas is highly recommended.