1990-1994 Subaru Legacy: Reliability
Updated: 11/23/08
Reviews & Ratings
Pricing
Explore
Specifications & Safety
Related to Subaru Outback and Legacy
Related Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our reliability study for this generation Subaru Outback and Legacy includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Subaru Outback and Legacy .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Automatic transmission:
If the transmission is slow to engage after being parked, the torque converter is draining down and a new cooler line with a check valve must be installed. (1990-91)
Automatic transmission:
The automatic transmission dipstick may break requiring the broken bits to be removed. (1990+)
Automatic transmission:
If it is difficult to shift out of park, the transmission's parking pawl must be replaced. (1990-91)
Brakes:
Some of the ABS (antilock brake system) hydraulic motors were faulty, causing them to run intermittently even after the key is turned off. (1990-94)
Hard starting:
Hard starting can be caused by silicone contaminating the ignition relay. (All)
Heater core:
A clicking noise caused by the heater mode door actuator can be fixed by installing a new resistor in the wiring harness. (1992-94)
Poor transmission shift:
Erratic shifting of the automatic transmission accompanied by a check-engine light is often due to a corroded battery ground connection at the engine. (1990-94)
Seat:
Misaligned side rails prevent the seat from locking in place. Shims must be added to the outer rail to remedy the problem. (1990-94)
Vehicle noise:
Popping noises from the front end are usually due to loose stabilizer-bar bushing clamps that must be rebent and reinstalled. (1990-92)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $430 |
| Alternator | $400 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $975 |
| Brakes | $245 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $480 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $460 |
| Exhaust System | $340 |
| Radiator | $360 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $645 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $195 |
Advertisement
Car Buying Resources
Search
Local Listings
Vehicle
History Report
FREE CARFAX Record Check
Looking at a used car, check for costly hidden problems before
you buy.
