Used 1996 Subaru Legacy Wagon Consumer Reviews
Used Legacy for sale
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
BEAST
krash5, 10/27/2014
1996 Subaru Legacy GT 4dr Wagon AWD
19 of 20 people found this review helpful
It's strange... Looks like a Jeep Cherokee on the outside, feels like Honda on the inside, & drives like a Sherman Tank. The Pros outweigh the Cons, as this is one of the most reliable, safest, & unstoppable vehicles ever made. (Just youtube the words "Outback/Snow/Ice")
1996 Subaru Outback wagon AWD
frank, 04/18/2008
1996 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
This car has 350,000 on it and its' still going. However, I had to replace the engine. Watch out for engines in this car - they eat oil. I put in a used 1996 engine and started have oil eating problems within the first month. Oh, well, its still running! I'd buy another Subaru
1996 Subaru Legacy for sale near you
Showing 1 of 1 listings
- L WagonMSRP: $3,9992,008 mi away
Keeps stalling
Louisa, 05/02/2009
1996 Subaru Legacy LSi 4dr Wagon AWD
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
I have owned this car for only 5 months and it has been a horrible experience. Its check engine light keeps coming on. I changed master air flow, a wire, the differential, and the main computer. The car is still stalling in traffic and other most inopportune places. I bought this car for my daughter's 21 birthday and she has only driven it maybe two weeks out of owning the car. What else could it be!!!!
Love this car!
speedy2015, 07/18/2011
1996 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I live in Maine and needed a car that could withstand our weather. I bought my '96 in December because I had heard good reviews about Subaru's. My dad was unsure about it because he had never worked on a Subaru before, but quickly changed his mind when he drove it in the snow. It doesn't shift very smoothly (for an automatic) anymore and the 2.5 likes the liquids a little more than I prefer. The check engine light has been on since I got the car (the previous owner said it was because of an oil leak) and the gas mileage is comparable to a half ton Dodge pick-up truck, but I still love this car.
No regrets
Chris, 05/18/2009
1996 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
8 of 9 people found this review helpful
My car is getting old now, but is still the best car I've ever owned, beating even a BMW. It's fun to drive (manual trans) gets 26 mpg and keeps going in Chicago winters--through snow, rain, ice and crazy drivers. The engine (2.2l) is the best. My mechanic loves this car! While I've had work on auxiliary systems it's all been expected maintenance (brakes, clutch, water pump etc). The engine itself is still in great shape. The car seats are a little hard, and really, the cup holder over the CD player? Whose idea was that? My next car will be a Subaru, too.
Great car but 2.5L mechanically is terrible
emilyxmay, 11/25/2011
1996 Subaru Legacy LSi 4dr Wagon AWD
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
Purchased 2.5L Legacy Outback 10/09 - 156k - w/o inspection. W/in a week $1400 transfer case repair...had no AWD. Wonderful AWD now, BUT has cost $4500 past 2 yrs incl transfer case, timing belt, radiator + bi-mo. repairs. A/C has never worked. Ck eng light on constantly altho turns off by itself several days later. Recently a long-standing misfire issue became full blown problem. Car barely started making noises like a starter problem, shook horribly, probably only running on 1 cylinder. Today, it does start, runs somewhat smoothly, engine sounds odd. Blown engine? Will miss my beloved Outback. R.I.P. Now allocating my Suby repair budget to buy new car.
Great awd car that thinks it's an SUV
pasublvr, 09/22/2010
1996 Subaru Legacy L 4dr Wagon AWD
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
After years of owning American made SUVs, and still wanting the roominess and 4wd of one, I settled on this. I am single and have no children, so friends and family thought I was crazy at first, but what a great car it has turned out to be! Am trading it in, 80k miles and no major repairs later, for a much newer Outback tomorrow.
220,000+ miles
Montana Wildhack, 09/24/2016
1996 Subaru Legacy L 4dr Wagon AWD
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
She goes and goes and goes. Great in the snow, holds the road, doesn't burn oil. Whenever I suggest at work maybe I should look for a new car someone asks, "Can I buy your Subie?"
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Long Time Owner
Gonk, 11/12/2009
1996 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
I owned this for over 13 years. Absolutely fun to drive. The most memorable drives were shortly after purchasing it in March 1996. We drove up to the mountains to get a good look at Comet Hyakutake. This began about 10:00PM and for the last 12 miles or so (past the road closed sign) we saw nothing but snowmobile tracks. I drove in perfect confidence. It was amazing. There were many other drives like that. I very reluctantly gave up on it after too many engine expenses.
Dead reliable , but clumsy & thirsty
WriConsult, 06/29/2010
1996 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
3 of 5 people found this review helpful
I've had Subarus because I need a reliable wagon. Few choices in the decadent SUV era. Bought our Outback when our beloved '90 Legacy w/205,000 mi got stolen. Glad we got a '96 5speed, the only 2.2 L Outback ever. Great for camping/biking/ski trips but not so fun in town: too long for many urban parking spots, HUGE turning radius made tight spots even harder, big blind spots in the rear view. Would drive the smaller, nimbler Forester or Impreza if got better mpg (they don't!) and didn't have the troublesome 2.5 L. I'm a skilled winter driver & use winter tires, so I'd even do without AWD for the extra 2 mpg. Subaru's fuel economy will be unacceptable in the future era of $5 gas.
Super 'Ru
Lil Joe Rice, 09/22/2005
1996 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
There are few words to accurately describe how much I love my 'Ru. It's absolutely amazing! I ford rivers/creeks in it, I've driven through 2 feet of snow in it, climbed rocks in it. Plus, I put about 60 miles on it a day going to and from work. All in all, it's the best all around car I've owned in my driving career and it has effectively sold me on the brand. I own my dream car. It will never win a drag race, it will never place high in a mud bog, but it gets me to work everyday, regardless of weather, temperature, terrain or obstacles. I've even been known to drive over a parking lot barrier or two just to prove the car's mettle. How do I feel about my 'Ru? In a word or two: It's amazing.
Future cult car?
aimee, 03/21/2008
1996 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Great car. I live in New Zealand a country with all types of terrain, this grand wagon badged SUV tackles mud, snow, shallow rivers with an ability riviaing the best. Of course on road dynamics excel too. I'm unsure if many owners/admirers are aware of their off-road ability. Reliable, no motor troubles and smooth auto. 87,000km going strong. Brilliant 4WD layout. Added all-terrain tyres, plan to lift suspension 1.5"(37mm)
Skip the 2.5...go for a stick 2.2 outbac
amc62, 05/09/2003
1996 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Many of the problems associated with the outback are due to the 2.5 liter engine option...1996 was the only year you could get a 2.2 with a manual in the outback. on the other hand, the car has a poor clutch (still grabs fine, just shudders and squeaks and chirps). Also, be aware that a used outback that has had mismatched tires is hard to determine until you get the characteristic transfer case binding. i have heard of miracle cures for the automatic transmission-equipped cars, but good luck with the manuals. seems you have to buy an entirely new viscous coupler to solve the problem (subaru didn't design the coupler to be serviced).
Don't buy a Subaru
vawest, 02/02/2003
1996 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
A real disappointment! Transmission Problem just 6 months into ownership.It routinely rev's the RPM's > 4000 when on hills. We paid extra for the bigger engine (2.5L), yet the engine's performance is absymal No p/u whatsoever. The gas mileage is poor at best.And Lately the engine light is on continuously. Four times we have had the dealer look at it. They know that the trouble is the EGR Valve, yet haven't been able to fix it. Along the way, we have put out hundreds of dollars trying to get it repaired.Twice the car has stalled & wouldn't start up due to this issue. What a piece of junk! I will never, ever buy a Subaru again!
No Toyota or Honda
T. Rush, 11/23/2003
1996 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
Subaru has had alternator replaced, light bulbs in dash burned out and extremely expensive to replace. No thought given by Subaru to maintainability. Paint job thin and not durable. Second set of tires, still losing air pressure (since day one, up to 3 lbs per week per tire).I assume issues are with the factory rims. Oil leaks here and there requiring seal/gasket replacement. Not up to par with Toyota or Honda in my 30 years of car ownership experience. Still driving my 89 Camry All-Trac with 186K miles and aside from routine maintenence, have spent less in repairs than I have on the 96 Outback.
I love this car - the best I ever had
Myra, 08/27/2008
1996 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
I live up a rock based road of 3 miles off a 2 lane black topped road. This car has had very few repairs in the 12 years I have owned it and used it. It is a comfortable ride despite rough roads; I love to turn corners in it - it is so easy to steer and turns on a dime (well, never really tried that, but you know what I mean). Just took it for its annual check up, all it needed was oil changed and tires inflated. It's supportive like a good man, without the hassle of inviting it into the house!
Hard to Beat!
mtnsnows, 05/09/2003
1996 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
2 of 7 people found this review helpful
Bought with 60K, now 170. Have the 2.5 - NEVER buy the 2.2! I drive in snowy mountains and fast, hard highway driving. Can't imagine a better car. Comfy and full featured. Just noticed the seats could be better (I'm 6'4", 230 lbs.), but has adj. lumber support and seat heater makes popcorn! Fantastic reliability. NO unsched. maint. until 10K mi. ago. Overheated, led to head gaskets. Re: other reviews. The oil seal is designed to be replaced with timing belts (at 60-80K), any GOOD, TRUSTY dealer/mech will do this. Awesome AWD, goes thru snow that leaves Jeeps, Explorers and Rodeos stuck. Love it! Hard to replace.
Love my Subaru
Karen, 08/28/2005
1996 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great car all around. No major complaints over the 9 years I've had it. I get 21-24 miles per gallon with mixed city and highway driving on a daily basis. Travels long distances well and can pack a lot of stuff inside and on top.
Great Car
DonSS3, 07/17/2002
1996 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought my Subaru in 2000 with about 68,000 miles. It's got 168K on it now and still drives great. Had to replace timing belt at about 140K (even tho it should have been replaced earlier). The belt broke, but luckily no damage to the valvetrain. Alternator died at about 115K, replaced under Subaru recall program. Yes, I would buy another!
GREAT Car
VoxDrive, 02/03/2004
1996 Subaru Legacy GT 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Purchased this vehicle as a lease turn- in. What a GREAT car!!! Fit and finish are excellent. The leather interior is quite comfortable and shows little wear after 8 years and 140,000 miles of ownership. While I have been fairly attentive to "normal" service intervals, I would be remiss to say that this car owes me nothing!! I have replaced the brake pads all arond twice and the front rotors once (at Subaru). Other than that (also changed the timing belt at 90G as precaution), the only other service the car needed was a Thermostat (stuck open) at 136,000 miles. This is my 5th Subaru. I will drive it until it is dead, and then I'm going to buy another one.
Very good car.
enriquemm73, 02/17/2004
1996 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Very reliable and safe car. Good stability, even in unfaborable weather conditions. Manteinance in not quite expensive and Subaru dealers are usually fast and reliable. Integrity is not greatly affected by weather but for a few pieces like the gas stay of the rear gate which may become rusty. Nice traction in snowy and/or icy roads.
'96 Subaru Wagon --My "Work Horse"
tracyd123, 02/19/2004
1996 Subaru Legacy L 4dr Wagon
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I just love my Subaru Wagon. It has 58000 original miles (i'm original owner). The AWD is great on ice, snow, slick wet desert roads, and gravel/sandy roads. It's big enough to travel 2000 miles/yr with my two big dogs in back seat and my fish, and all my belongings--for my animals and me for an extended summer vacation. I've driven it thru blizzards and gumbo (mud) in SD, flash floods in Las Vegas, ice and snow in UT, and on hot/dry and slick/wet roads throughout America. It is virtually problem free (only tires, battery, and brake shoes needed) and totally reliable.
Dependable Car
Zach and Maggie, 11/26/2002
1996 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Have enjoyed driving this vehicle since day one. Handles wonderfully in all types of road conditions. Liked our 1996 so well that we purchased a second one in 2001. A pleasure to drive.
Great in deep snow & Perfectly Reliable
beenhappy, 02/24/2004
1996 Subaru Legacy LS 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car is very dependable and has been very comforting to drive in very bad weather. We've gone on numerous road trips, skiing, boating, camping etc., with the car completly packed with gear. I've never hesitated going off the beaten path into remote areas. AWD and ABS are amazing. It feels really good on the highways, nice and smooth.
1996 Subaru L AWD Station Wagon
mustang, 03/07/2003
1996 Subaru Legacy L 4dr Wagon
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Terrific car. AWD works amazingly well in all weather conditions. Power is somewhat lacking, but enough. Car has 98000 miles and has had no major problems. We had two sensors go out with a total cost of $216.00. Get about 31 mpg on the road and about 26 on stop and go driving. Cupholder unhandy. Plenty of cargo room with more available with rear seats down. Good styling that does not diminish with age. Wife's car and will not have anything else.
My Subaru
DaveSubaruOwner, 12/31/2002
1996 Subaru Legacy L 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Has been a totally reliable car. 64,000 miles with no costs beyond maintenance. Daughter was t-boned by a Toyota Corolla, damage amounted to unopenable rear passenger door, bent wheel and broken strut. I am 6'5" and the car is not comfortable to me on trips of over three hours drive time.
Thousands in repairs
Glenford, 07/19/2004
1996 Subaru Legacy LSi 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We purchased this car new, and have always maintained it at the dealer. Over the years, we have not only had too many unexpected repairs (antenna, alternator, compressor, engine seals, engine seals, engine seals), but we repeatedly get it fixed only to have to return the next day for "final fixes". Compared to our 95 Honda Accord, this was so much less reliable we will not consider another Subaru.
Wish it was a '97!
Usergonemad, 11/03/2002
1996 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Good handling, reasonable power, wonderful bad-weather car with plenty of room and good comfort. But at 22K the trick 16-valve 2.5L quad-cam boxer engine (only made in '96) started pinging like an old GM diesel, even on 94.5 octane premium gas. Dealer no help. Now at 99K it has bad oil seals, a bad wheel bearing, needs a 3rd set of brakes, bad CV joint, engine sensors, more. Love the car, hate the reliability. Service expensive, parts expensive, fuel economy is poor for the power. Absolutely incredible deep snow capability makes up in part for the rickety nature. 100K trouble-free is not a lot to ask from a car nowadays!
Way better than a gas-guzzling SUV
targent, 01/17/2004
1996 Subaru Legacy Brighton 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I purchased this car used six years ago at 30,000 miles. It now has 90,000. Until this week, I had virtually no problems with it, driving it on many long trips (including coast-to-coast several times) and through sand, snow, and other less-than-ideal road conditions. Depsite the $900 repair bill for a new water pump, various oil seals/gaskets, a tensioner bearing, and a timing belt, I've been very, very pleased with the car, especially mechanically.
I love this car!
shey69, 11/08/2004
1996 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my third Subaru wagon and they just keep getting better. I'm not easy on cars, but these Subarus take the beating and keep on running in style. Not to mention I can drive past most cars stuck in the mud and snow. I take alot of long trips and this model is sooo comfy. I always reccommend Subaru AWD to my friends.
Reliable
snailster, 01/22/2006
1996 Subaru Legacy L 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought my '96 used with 48k miles on it. Now has 102k and had no repairs except regular maintenance (timing belt at 70k, oil/filter changes, one set of brake pads). The alternator was replaced as a part of a recall. Extremely reliable and ages well! The brake pads last forever, I tend to downshift when braking. Only glitch so far: the light on the climate control is out so a bit hard to adjust at night.
Used car buyers... this is the one!
Travis, 10/01/2002
1996 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Ok, so I've only had the car for about a month now. But even at 102,000 when I bought it, I feel like I am driving a new car! I have put about a thousand miles on it already and find the comfort level of the car to be very good. I am a recent college grad who didn't want the massive gas bills of an SUV, but still liked the idea of being able to move stuff around. I feel like I really am driving a luxury vehicle that I purchased for only $7500. For you recent college grads who's parents can't afford to give you a car graduation gift, try a used Subaru, it has the flexibility and luxury that I think you will really enjoy.
1996 Outback
dblanchj89, 09/27/2008
1996 Subaru Legacy LSi 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is hands down one of the best cars on the road. I purchased one of these after I spent thousands on repairing the constant flaws of my explorer and Jimmy. I could not be happier with this car. I was so please with it that I bought another 96 LSi. My only warning is to make sure you watch your oil! My outback uses a little on freeway trips but the LSi uses it quite a bit. Also, do not be upset if you have to replace head gaskets. The Lsi had them done and the outback has been lucky so far with almost 200,000 miles (knock on wood). The AWD is great and fuel economy is pretty decent. These cars will last over 300,000 miles. Timing belts made need to be done as well. Still a great car!
White 1996 Subaru
L.Lewis, 10/12/2006
1996 Subaru Legacy L 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've always loved the Subaru's. The Outback was a change from the Legacy sedan but I was not disappointed in the performance and reliability of the 96 Legacy Outback. I've owned 4 Subarus now and would recommend the cars to anyone.
Subaru in the mountains
TR, 04/28/2002
1996 Subaru Legacy LS 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a second car in the mountains and is driven in the mountains. It is a great around town car, but the seats are less than comfortable on long trips
Subaru Outback
Buckwheat, 11/24/2004
1996 Subaru Legacy L 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car is the most reliable vehicle that I've ever owned. I'm an auto tech and I really don't like working on my own cars and this one really fits the bill. It is also one of the most sure footed vehicles that I've EVER owned for ice and snow.
Warning Against This Vehicle
Alicia HB, 01/04/2005
1996 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Engine problems. I have experience to prove it. Had it for 1.5 years and sunk over $3k into it. The previous owners, I later learned, put $6k into it in 4 months (ended up having the same mechanic...)Fun car, handles well and carries a lot, but ends up costing too much. Had it in the shop for regular $200 to $600 repairs. Always losing air in tires. Poor rims. Firestone tried to sand rims down since they were so poor so that I would not lose air continually.C urrently shopping for Toyota. Good advice from reliable mechanic--if you want a Subaru Outback wagon, get a 2000/2001 or newer to avoid the known engine problems.
96 Outback Wagon
mikesreed, 08/04/2006
1996 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought used and LOVE it. Car is most reliable vehicle I have ever owned in my 37 years. Outstanding in all weather and especially in snow. Subaru value is unmatched in all aspects.
Love this Car!
rusbkee, 12/27/2002
1996 Subaru Legacy LSi 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Have thoroughly enjoyed owning this automobile. Fun to own and drive. Minor repair items along the way. Super reliable!
ANOTHER Overrated Japanese Brand
Whitebeard, 07/12/2004
1996 Subaru Legacy L 4dr Wagon
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car was bought used with 30,000 miles already racked up. Could not understand why someone would trade this car with such low milage, however I soon found out why! The car is terrible! A never ending source of annoying repairs from instrument cluster lights to alternators to whell bearings, axles, tie-rod ends, and Catalytic converters!. I also own a ford crown victoria and the Ford is MUCH MORE reliable. Gas milage for a 2.2 4 cylinder is around 19 mpg currently. Car is GARBAGE and will shortly be sold.
After 275k miles, still a great car!
Jim, 03/06/2005
1996 Subaru Legacy Brighton 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My Legacy Brighton was purchased new in 1996 and has remained in my family since then. It has been subjected to hard driving and New England winters and still looks and runs great! After 275,000 miles, I have had minimal repairs except for the transmission, which has been rebuilt each 125k miles (approx.). Can't beat the all-wheel drive for the snow and body integrity is excellent - just one spot of rust after 8 years. I will definitely buy one again! Too bad they've become pricey in recent years - I guess the secret is out.
Profound Disappointment
Budster, 02/26/2003
1996 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Purchased this car new, largely on the strength of Subaru's reputation for safety and reliability. Mistake One: did not check cost of repair rating with insurer-- insurance cost STEEP. Mistake Two: did not buy this car from a standalone Subaru dealer. Multimark dealers do not maintain parts or knowledgable mechanics on site. (Found this to be true with several dealers.) This car is fine in poor conditions-- but so are many others. It was cheaply built of cheap materials. The absolute WORST paint job I've ever experienced. Alloy wheels corrode so badly that tires won't hold air! The ride is absurdly poor, and always has been. No more Subies for me!
Proves Reliable Year After Year
Russ, 04/05/2005
1996 Subaru Legacy LSi 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I could not be more satisfied with acar. I bought it used with 76k miles on it, and 4 years later I have 149k and going strong. Routine maintenance issues, a gasket here and there, and an alternator, and it is still going strong! No tranny issues. Just a great car!
Poor Suby! It got totaled.
Gregsly, 02/18/2005
1996 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car as a lease return. During warranty coverage an engine seal went out (about $700). Had one alternator, and a sensor go out. The car has 3 oil leaks which would cost $2,000 to fix, but use only 1 qt/3000 miles, so I opted not to fix them at my mechanic's suggestion. He said that these leaks are endemic in this car and will just return if fixed. Dash lights have failed bit by bit. That said, I loved this car. Great to drive in snow/ice, reasonable power, reasonable economy. It was totaled a couple weeks ago so I'm in the market for another one.
subaru great highway car
danielcotton1, 08/21/2003
1996 Subaru Legacy L 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
i bought this car because my previous subaru was struck by a deer. this car has been completely reliable. i have put over 80,000 miles on it and besides regular normal maintence....i had to replace the water pump and the cam sensor. my '86 subaru had 286,000 miles on it before the deer took it out and this car still has good power and should be around to munch up more miles. my mother in law has a subaru that had almost 300 thousand miles on it(1983) and just bought another as well. get the regular scheduled maintence done along with changing the oil every 3,000 miles....you won't be dissapointed.
Best Car I've ever owned!
Carl Thormeyer, 10/31/2008
1996 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car has been a very reliable workhorse. It's great in the mountains and in snow. Great for transporting kids and hauling stuff. Best car I've ever owned. New clutch at 80K miles plus a few other major repairs over time, but nothing unexpected. Keep up the regular servicing and this car will treat you right! But, after 12 years, it's time for a new Outback. I will hate to give up my 1996 edition!
absolutely rock solid vehicle
estokes-tucson, 07/14/2002
1996 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We bought this vehicle for the fuel economy and AWD. We felt a SUV and minivan were over kill. We are so glad we made the choice. Our Outback has served very faithfully. We have kept up with the maintenence and the car has not let us down. The only repair so far has been a broken spark plug wire. How easy is that. We would gladly buy another Subaru and will recommend this model to anyone.
Buy a Toyota
seattle, 02/10/2005
1996 Subaru Legacy L 4dr Wagon
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I agree with the other reviewers who tell you not to buy this car with more than 60,000 miles. I've had numerous, expensive repairs done which I NEVER had to do on Toyotas I've owned. I LOVE the looks, size and idea of the legacy, but I'm really going to have to think twice before I buy another Subaru.
Read me....
danklug, 03/25/2005
1996 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car has 297,000 miles on it. It has been very reliable and still gets close to 26 mpg. This is not a car to buy if you are a do it yourself person. The spark plugs are impossible to change without dislocating your wrist. The replacement parts are high. It eats brakes. Heater lamps burn out constantly. The 2.5 engine leaves a lot to be desired. Overall a good car and a great value for the $4K range.
The all weather wonder
Donalds, 03/08/2002
1996 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
With a 125,000 after six years the only major trouble I've had has been two oil leaks (front engine seal & the oil pump) I've also replaced the front cat coverter. This car continues to serve me well, from towing a sea doo jet boat to trips thru many winter wonderlands. You can't beat the beauty of all wheel drive :-)