2010 Subaru Legacy

The 2010 Subaru Legacy marked the beginning of the fifth generation of this mid-size sedan. It was available with three engine options: a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder (170 hp, 170 lb-ft of torque), a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (265 hp, 258 lb-ft of torque), and a 3.6-liter six-cylinder (256 hp, 247 lb-ft of torque). Transmission options included a 6-speed manual (2.5L only), a 5-speed automatic (2.5L and 3.6L), and a CVT (2.5L only). Owners generally appreciate the Legacy’s standard all-wheel drive, spacious interior, and comfortable ride. Common dislikes include the base engine’s perceived lack of power and some reliability concerns.

Engine

2.5L Naturally Aspirated Four-Cylinder

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine burns excessive amounts of oil, sometimes requiring owners to add oil frequently between changes. This can be indicated by the low oil light or visible smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: In some cases, replacing the piston rings can reduce oil consumption.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling or whining noises from the engine, check engine light illuminated.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.6L Six-Cylinder

• No Issues Found

Transmission

CVT (2.5L Only)

• CVT Valve Body Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation upon acceleration, jerky shifting, or complete failure to engage. Check engine light may be illuminated.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve body or complete CVT replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $4,000+ depending on repair vs. replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Automatic (2.5L and 3.6L)

• No Issues Found

6-Speed Manual (2.5L Only)

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Rear Wheel Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding, humming, or roaring noises coming from the rear of the vehicle, especially at higher speeds. Can also cause wheel play or vibration.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty rear wheel bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$600+ per side, depending on labor rates and if the hub needs to be replaced as well.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Oxygen Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, poor fuel economy, rough idling, or failed emissions test.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty oxygen sensor (either upstream or downstream).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ depending on which sensor needs replacing and labor costs.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Wheel Wells and Quarter Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust forming on the wheel wells and lower quarter panels. More prevalent in areas with road salt use.
  • Solution: Rust repair, panel replacement, and repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ per panel depending on the severity of the rust and repair method.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Blower motor does not blow air, blows intermittently, or only works on certain settings.
  • Solution: Replace the blower motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2010 Subaru Legacy has some notable problem areas. The 2.5L engine can suffer from excessive oil consumption, and the CVT transmission has been known to have valve body failures. Turbocharger issues can affect the 2.5L turbo engine. Other issues, such as oxygen sensor failures and wheel bearing problems, can occur across the models. Rust is also a potential concern, especially in regions with heavy road salt usage. The cost of repairs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor fixes to several thousand for major engine or transmission work. The severity of these issues varies, but addressing them promptly is crucial for maintaining the vehicle’s reliability and longevity.