2001 Subaru Legacy Review
Fuel Economy
21 mpg
Summary
What Edmunds.com says
A capable all-weather sedan or wagon for an agreeable price.
Pros
All-wheel drive all the time, sharp styling, a host of standard features.
Cons
Side airbags available only on Limited models, lethargic automatic transmission.
What's New for 2001
The Brighton model is stricken from the Legacy lineup. All 2001 Legacys comply with low-emission vehicle (LEV) standards and come with standard 24-hour roadside assistance. Legacy L models now include an ambient temperature gauge, a dual-mode digital trip odometer and a fixed intermittent rear wiper with washer on the wagons. GT models feature a power moonroof, six-way power driver seat, limited-slip rear differential and multireflector halogen foglights.
Consumer Ratings & Reviews
Engine Failure at 106K miles
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 9 | Fun-to-Drive: | 9 | Build Quality: | 4 |
| Comfort: | 7 | Interior Design: | 8 | Reliability: | 2 |
| Fuel Economy: | 4 | Exterior Design: | 8 | ||
Vehicle
2001 Subaru Legacy GT Limited AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
Review
We bought our Legacy GT Ltd with 48K miles on it. At about 60K miles the engine started making a noise that we were told was piston slap. Oil was changed frequently as directed, plus I started adding Lucas engine treatment which helped quiet the noise. At about 95K miles we had to replace the head gaskets which had started leaking. At 106K miles something major "let go" inside the motor and it is no longer driveable. I loved everything about the car...except the motor which, apparently is not put together well. We are going put in a different engine, sell the car, and buy a Honda.
Favorite Features
The car handled very well in all weather conditions. Even during Maine winter weather, the car handled great, exceeding our expectations. In addition it had a sporty feel to it which made it fun to drive all the time.
Suggested Improvements
The motor should be redesigned for improved reliability and increased gas mileage.
On Subaru 10...and FINAL
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 3 | Fun-to-Drive: | 4 | Build Quality: | 2 |
| Comfort: | 6 | Interior Design: | 6 | Reliability: | 2 |
| Fuel Economy: | 7 | Exterior Design: | 8 | ||
Vehicle
2001 Subaru Legacy GT Limited AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
Review
I've owned 9 other Subaru's. Each Subaru had over 200000 miles on them and ran incredibly well. I now own a 2001 Legacy GT Limited and have had nothing but problems since day one. The first month I had the vehicle, I had lost my brakes. The pedal wouldn't even move at all. This happened twice. Dealer "fixed" the problem each time. Since then I've blown my engine because the head gaskets. There are SO MANY other issues I've had since purchasing this vehicle. I hope this helps anyone looking at one. I WILL NEVER OWN ANOTHER SUBARU AS LONG AS I LIVE!!!
Favorite Features
Easy resale now that I have a new engine.
Suggested Improvements
Go back to the older engines, tranny's and transfer cases. These cars used to last 200,000 miles, but couldn't keep the body in tact. Now, you're lucky if you get 75,000 miles without serious mechanical issues. Hey, at least the body finally stays in tact. Want to put a Toyota drive train in now.
Used to love it, now I hate it.
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 10 | Fun-to-Drive: | 9 | Build Quality: | 9 |
| Comfort: | 9 | Interior Design: | 9 | Reliability: | 1 |
| Fuel Economy: | 6 | Exterior Design: | 9 | ||
Vehicle
2001 Subaru Legacy GT Limited AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
Review
My husband and I both purchased our Subaru Legacy GTs brand new. My husband had consistent overheating problems, took the car to a number of Subaru dealers who could never diagnose the problem. Finally, in year 7, after nearly 60,000 miles, the engine block cracked. We replaced the engine. Now, my Subaru, after reaching just over 60,000 miles, my engine block cracked. My car NEVER had problems. We have spoken with Subaru who stated that because we took it to a mechanic other than Subaru (who never could diagnose the problem), they would not replace our engines. I will NEVER purchase another Subaru. We were consistent with oil changes, and other maintenance.
Favorite Features
AWD, overall design of car.
Suggested Improvements
After owning FOUR Subarus, better customer relations.
Don't buy a Subaru
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 1 | Fun-to-Drive: | 3 | Build Quality: | 1 |
| Comfort: | 6 | Interior Design: | 6 | Reliability: | 1 |
| Fuel Economy: | 3 | Exterior Design: | 6 | ||
Vehicle
2001 Subaru Legacy L AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
Review
I bought the car new in 2000, performed all dealer service as scheduled, have had numerous problems with head gasket, transfer seal, and cam seal oil leaks. I bought the car expecting to get 200,000+ miles out of it, and started having oil leaks at 45,000 miles. Dealer has tried to repair numerous times, with no success. Every Subaru owner with whom I speak says the head gaskets are a known issue. I would never buy a Subaru again, and am looking to ditch this one as soon as possible, taking a huge loss in depreciation.
Favorite Features
None.
Suggested Improvements
Reliability, Head gaskets, Transfer seals, Cruise control bushings, etc.
2 out 5 people found this review helpful
Waited too Long
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 7 | Fun-to-Drive: | 9 | Build Quality: | 10 |
| Comfort: | 8 | Interior Design: | 9 | Reliability: | 10 |
| Fuel Economy: | 7 | Exterior Design: | 9 | ||
Vehicle
2001 Subaru Legacy L AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
Review
My Outback is the first ever Japanese car I've ever owned. Unbelievable quality and style. I always said that if you buy a minivan that your life is over. My son was the one who researched the car and he wound up buying a mini van. I bought the Outback. I can't wait till next year to get the Turbo.
Favorite Features
Leather interior, dashboard, engine compartment, sound system. Two CD players, one single and one 6 player. Handling perfect. The only thing I found wrong that the armrest in the center isn't long enough.
Suggested Improvements
Some all black, red or other misc. solid colors.
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