EngineHigh
2.5L oil consumption (piston-ring related on some years).
- Typically appears
- 60,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Check oil level and any ring-related campaign/warranty history.
- Typical repair
- Oil leak trace & seal / gasket · £180–£700
Is the 2010–2019 Subaru Legacy reliable?
Scored from 8 documented faults · reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team
Quick answer
4.6/ 10
Buy with cautionOn our documented-fault scoring the Subaru Legacy rates 4.6 out of 10 · buy with caution. We hold 8 known faults for it and 3 are rated high severity, so the risk is real but contained. The weak points cluster around engine, transmission and suspension. A well-serviced example with evidence for the big-ticket items is usually a safe buy; the score describes the model, not the specific car in front of you.
Verdict · Walk unless the history is spotless
What the score is built from
- Critical
- 0
- High
- 3
- Medium
- 3
- Low
- 2
Weak points cluster around engine, transmission, suspension, electrical.
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Check this carThe faults that decide it
BrakesHigh
Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) actuator failure causing stuck rear brakes or flashing dash lights.
- Typically appears
- 70,000-100,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Operate the EPB switch on the centre console several times. Listen for a strained motor noise and ensure the brake fully releases without triggering dashboard warning lights.
- Typical repair
- Brakes (discs, pads, caliper) · £200–£800
EmissionsHigh
DPF blockage and EGR valve sticking on 2.0D boxer diesel models, causing limp mode.
- Typically appears
- 60,000-80,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Check the dashboard for a flashing DPF warning light. Rev the engine to 3,000 rpm to check for hesitation, uneven idling, or excessive exhaust smoke.
- Typical repair
- DPF forced regen or replacement · £250–£1,600
TransmissionMedium
CVT judder on later cars.
- Typically appears
- 70,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Feel for shudder on light throttle.
- Typical repair
- Routine repair · £180–£700
SuspensionMedium
Front wheel bearing wear.
- Typically appears
- 80,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Listen for a hum that varies with steering.
- Typical repair
- Suspension refresh (per axle) · £250–£1,100
Costs are indicative UK independent-garage bands for budgeting and negotiation · never a quote.
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