Used 1997 Subaru Legacy Wagon Consumer Reviews
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Watch those head gaskets
joeysalazar1976, 08/20/2009
1997 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
13 of 13 people found this review helpful
The Subaru brand, much like Saab come from airplane companies. The build quality and performance are amazing for the price. But repairs are expensive. The Subaru 2.5 is god awful for blowing head gaskets if you don't baby your car. But if you treat your car right, you will get to experience all wheel drive like no other car company can build for some reason. I have had a wrx and an outback, and both have been whips.
The Adventure Wagon
Andrew, 09/26/2015
1997 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
21 of 22 people found this review helpful
Understand this isn't a Mercedes, although this car doesn't offer much in respect to the interior the reliability is outstanding for a four cylinder car. When I purchased my 2.5L wagon it had 190,000 miles on it. It now has 280,000 miles on it and is running no different then when I bought it. From the coast of California to the coast of north Carolina, this car has only needed an oil change here and there! Weather you be a first time car buyer or someone who wants a reliable car to keep miles off there nice car, you can not go wrong with this car. I will say the acceleration is terrible, I know some people have complaints about the head gasket blowing but I have the feeling its because they tried to drive the car to hard. But as long as you keep the timing belt changed and drive sensibly this car will take great care of you. Other notes: I have a 130lb dog she fits fine in there, the seats lay down giving me plenty of storage room; in fact because I travel so much I usually get a memory foam mattress topper and it makes a perfect bed for me and her (im 6'1). This car also eats oil so just be sure you check the oil every 3000 miles or so. Another thing I noticed when I was in the desert it was sitting stationary for about 5 minutes and started to over heat... I turned it off to let it cool and it was all good. Far as the steering goes its defiantly a longer car; ever since ive owned the car if I make a sharp turn at low speeds it shakes and vibrates a lot... im not sure why but its never hurt anything. The seats padding somewhat wears out on the outside and you can feel the wire frame after a while of getting in and out of the car (im not over weight at all im in great shape... its not because im fat) but the fabric is good material and wont rip easily. also the car has a feature where it notifies you if a specific door is open... they tend to fail over time and it may be telling you a door is open when its not.. that's kind of annoying. The tailgate light also miss reads if the rear door is open or not over time, again nothing major but it can by irritating. Far as clean up goes I have a long hair dog and the carpet doesn't trap hair, its actually really easy to clean up. Also if you change elevation quickly such as going through the rocky mnts the oxygen sensor will go off causing the check engine light to come on, just have it cleared after you get back to a more steady elevation. Remember to keep the tire pressure even! this is what caused the rear end to wine when I bought the vehicle; I guess the previous owner neglected to keep the tire pressure in check which resulted in a wine in the rear end. Something else Im not fond of is the cup holders... there to small.
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1997 Subaru Legacy for sale near you
Showing 3 of 3 listings
- GT SedanMSRP: $3,9881,175 mi away
- Outback WagonMSRP: $3,9952,028 mi away
- L WagonMSRP: N/A1,171 mi away
Awesome Car!!!
Sherry , 04/03/2009
1997 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
8 of 9 people found this review helpful
I bought this car with 98,000 miles as of today I have 252,000. It still runs like a top. I drive over a 100 miles a day to work and I have never felt so safe. Never fails to start. I have only had to do the usual maintenance for it. I make sure it has an oil change ever 3000 and regular maintenance. But I love this car. I live where there are a lot of dirt roads and the roads are not always plowed when I leave for work. This car, with a set of snow tires will walk through anything. I have a driveway that goes down hill along ways, and snow gets pretty deep in my driveway. But this car walk up that driveway like it was summer. I just cant say enough about the car.
Solid car but expensive to maintain
Dave Marshall, 07/10/2009
1997 Subaru Legacy Brighton 4dr Wagon AWD
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Bought at 68K in 2004, we've driven this car everywhere many times over and are now at 199K. Engine still good, never got stuck thanks to AWD, and not a single breakdown. Car has been an unusually expensive one specifically in axle and brake repairs (both rotors and pads). Cat converter began failing long ago but only intermittently. Knock sensor also keeps setting off engine light. Luckily we never had the problems reported for some subies in the head gasket (we have the 2.2L) Original tranny is now close to death (slow to shift, clunks, drivetrain whines). May have pushed it over the edge last year with temporarily mismatched tires. ALWAYS match all 4 tires.
Bought it for $500
grand_dan_97, 08/16/2011
1997 Subaru Legacy Outback Limited 4dr Wagon AWD
8 of 11 people found this review helpful
I just bought this car in early august with 339,500 miles on it, now its got over 400k and i have little complaints. The hatch wont open...idk; the gas gauge does not work, however the gas dumby light does; The seat heaters, 12v outlets, heated power mirrors, all work, but by some manufcturers ****, they all are on the one 20 amp fuse, which means they all work but dont try and use the 12v...once again im confused of how to fix it. But everything else works, minus a fog light which had a rock put through at 60mph a couple weeks ago. Great on gas almost 400mile on one tank. Satisfying perfomance and handling. Stereo is weak, and finding a wiring converting kit for it is impossible.
typical head gasket problems
Dr. Kupras, 07/18/2006
1997 Subaru Legacy Outback Limited 4dr Wagon AWD
5 of 7 people found this review helpful
Haven't had this car for 3 years yet and have been very dedicated to maintaining it; new tires, struts, water pump, starter, 2 timing belts, front wheel bearing, etc, etc. Bought it with 85k on it, now has 123k and the head gasket is blown, which I found out is very common on these Subarus. Damn thing keeps over heating and will cost about 2 gs to fix it now, which I won't do. I will never buy another Subaru again. I paid extra for it since I was under the illusion it was a quality car. However, I know now that they are junk like most other cars out there. It doesn't matter if you take great care of them or not, they'll only bleed you dry.
Reliability?
hb, 03/21/2002
1997 Subaru Legacy Outback Limited 4dr Wagon AWD
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
At first I was very pleased with this vechicle. I still like its roomy interior, but I have had too many costly repairs done. Early into my ownership the alternator broke, which was later reimbursed due to a recall. Now the dashboard light that luminates the heating and air controls doesn't work. And the most recent repair will cost me over $1250 to fix. The head caskets need replacing with no explaination to what caused it. I'm on top of all the regular maintenance tasks and my car is only 5 years old-what happened to reliability?
My Bubaru made me like race.
R. Keith Connor JR, 09/11/2018
1997 Subaru Legacy Outback Limited 4dr Wagon AWD
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This car 97 legacy wagon limited is a rockstar with a bit of a punk rock edge however she sold out a bit earlier in her career when she decided on some rather basic styling and comfort element but when she hits those high notes she sings like any of the more modern cars she zooms past. She has at 190k the time when she joined my band of broke down Audis and BMW has made me forget why I ever thought a German could hold a candle to her siren song she has never failed me in less than a year I have put 45k of punishment to her after a quick and dirty overhaul of belts alternator water pump flushing cooling system replacing alternator plugs with NGKs and wires giving her stomach a pump and pouring in some mobile one full synthetic she has responded by becoming what she was born to be a rocking lead diva who beats the breaks off all comers She was neglected and discarded when u received her but after a little shine detail and tune boy chowder this broad can wail. Takes all my bad habits heavy foot off roading off roads and she just keeps pushing me here's a thing that has me and her a little annoyed this 20+ year old car wants some top end seems she is governed out at about 110 gets there and just sticks like in cruise controls lots of room left on rpm gauge for her to keep climbing but no love tried uphill down hill flat but stops same speed as if someone were pulling on a leash. Please advise if there is a way to recode or bypass this stupid restraint on my punk rock girl. She is everything I always needed nothing I woulhave ever dreamed of wanting but know can't live with out.
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Very reliable car
MJessup, 04/14/2009
1997 Subaru Legacy L 4dr Wagon AWD
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
I bought this car from my grandma when she was no longer able to drive. It has been a wonderful car. The only problem I have had with the breaks, the whole car seems to shimmy when I come to a stop from a high rate of speed, like coming off the interstate. My previous car was a SAAB, and going from driving that to my little Subaru feels like I am driving a tin foil car, and it seems so low to the ground. I don't feel very safe driving it. I have checked the safety ratings and it came out very high, so it's a personal issue. If I didn't get such a great deal on this car from my grandma I would have never bought it, but it has been a great car for me, and it always starts when I need it too.
Running Great for 12 years
Marshall, 10/21/2008
1997 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
This is my 2nd Subaru and handles the Washington winters-I've pulled many larger cars and 4X4's up our hill with this car. The 5 sp manual is fun, gets better acceleration/mileage than an automatic. It has been very reliable, though it has a slow oil leak and have had to replace the struts. It goes very well off road, hauls a trailer easily, and has a very versatile interior for hauling people or cargo. The exterior paint has been very durable. It could use higher headrests, exterior mirror pivots, better drink holders in a better position, and better sound insulation. Three kids have learned to drive on this car and I plan to keep it until "Sabastian" is abducted to college.
Bought it for $500 pt2
grand_dan_97, 10/05/2011
1997 Subaru Legacy Outback Limited 4dr Wagon AWD
5 of 11 people found this review helpful
I bought this car in august used for $500. The clutch is slowly going, so i have to start it off slow, until i can find one for cheap. Good handling, great gas mileage for an AWD. Minor problems, rear hatch latch must be repaired, rear wiper motor is seized,gas guage dose not read(dummy light works),and 12v outlets dont work, rusty body, solid frame. bought it with 396,000 miles, and have 341000 miles on it now, having had replaced brake rotors and pads, and needing a ball joint replaced, reliable, solid car. Good off road, great traction.
Breaking my heart
dosperros, 05/06/2003
1997 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
My '97 Subaru Legacy Outback wagon was my first brand-new car (after two used Honda Accords), and I loved it. Loved all the room, loved the AWD, thought (still think) it was cute. I ignored the minor inconveniences, like the gas light that stopped working after it was 2 years old. But then, at about 5-1/2 years old the burning oil smell started. Got the front engine seal replaced($500). Now, at 6 years and 105,000 miles, dealer says the gaskets need replacing along with the cam seal (about $700), and maybe some other seal at the back of the engine needs replacing, too ($800 or so). So, fix or trade it in? My Subaru has broken my heart!
Good Car So Far
Subaru Driver...., 01/11/2010
1997 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought this car six months ago and I have put 10,000 miles on it since then. The dealership that sold it to me had replaced most of the engine, but the only problem I have had with it is the water pump, which was incorrectly installed. It excels on the winter roads in slush, ice, and deep snow. It's good for showing my small dogs and going on long drives. So far, it has been a great car!
Read the reviews, don't buy a boxer
Outwayback, 12/30/2005
1997 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Car was OK for a few years, then lights in some of the dash went out, and on the heated seat switches (but only on high?). Brakes go often and cost $1000 for rotors and pads. Struts feel like they are bad but have not confirmed. Water pump, cam seals, head gaskets etc. have been replaced. Now, like MANY other reviewers, the head gaskets blew out and I am looking at $2,000 to fix them. The front end bushings are also shot - $400. What gives? This car is driven lightly for under 100K miles and is garaged!
Satisfied in Maine
Joe from Maine, 06/27/2010
1997 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Excellent in the snow. Solid feel. Corners well. Great traction. Comfortable drivers seats for long haul.
I paid too much...
sugarpopp, 04/12/2002
1997 Subaru Legacy GT 4dr Wagon AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I love my GT wagon. It is spunky and fun to drive. I traded in my Mazda MPV and felt like I had a hot sports car for a while... I kept forgetting I was driving a station wagon. My son kept saying, "Your car is fast, do you know how fast your car is, mom?" Yes, I do.
Head Gasket
captain_cargo, 03/10/2003
1997 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Learned the hard way that head gasket problems are not uncommon w/2.5l engine. Mine went out at 87,000 mi, engine seals at 85,000. The car is fun to drive, but reliability has been a big dissapointment. I won't buy another Subaru.
97SubLegWagon
mjames, 03/20/2006
1997 Subaru Legacy GT 4dr Wagon AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Runs very well in all conditions. May need to use premium fuel to gain speed quickly. This vehicle hauls a great amount of items, and a fair amount of weight with no problems. Though it has a low wheel base, it still manages to ride well over heavy snow.
Fantastic vehicle "LOVE"
Joe Stock, 01/22/2017
1997 Subaru Legacy Outback Limited 4dr Wagon AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The cars are great......3rd one I've owned. These WILL be the only brand I'll ever buy again. Cheap to maintain, only have to do oil changes regularly of course. But yah i live the subaru community, everyone is so nice!!!
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Overall OK but room for improvement
JTB, 10/17/2003
1997 Subaru Legacy GT 4dr Wagon AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Early troubles particularly with the windshield having some kind of film on it.Alternator went at 37000 miles and was stranded. Had it replaced in New Hampshire in middle of winter. Car eventually had recall with alt.nator replaced again during regular service. Dealers not so helpful.Had front right wheel problem at 60000. It took two dealerships to fix some kind of bearing problem. Was told by dealer it was good to have replaced otherwise wheel could FALL OFF. Oil seals went at 65000. Overall I love the car.Unstoppable in winter's worst. Who needs a shovel. Has lots of dings but who cares about looks with a Subie!
Reliable all-season transportation
Gotenks243, 07/01/2003
1997 Subaru Legacy Outback Limited 4dr Wagon AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Automatic bought new. Going on 7 years and 70,000 miles later, it's successfully braved a number of snowy winters with excellent AWD grip. The AWD makes for nice handling in the dry (and wet) too, though body roll is pronounced. Considering the car makes no sporting pretentions, it handles quite well, and it has enough pep to keep up with traffic, helped by good mid-range torque. The sole reliability issue was a seal right after it went out of powertrain warranty. I had no problems before the recalls were carried out. Fuel economy is an acceptable 23-26mpg depending on the city/highway mix and 29 is not out of reach on long trips.
Bad engineering on 2.5L engine
Troy, 05/31/2005
1997 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This car is shiny and nice looking at first, and there is a lot to be said about the AWD and room inside, but overall since I bought it, I have not felt really confident in it. in the 5 months I have owned it, I have had a bad water pump, (then another bad water pump Subaru sent to replace that one), blown head gaskets (like most other 2.5L engines), bad thermostat, and a bad knock sensor. In that time, the car has been in the shop for a total of over 2 weeks, and a total of over fifteen hundred dollars. The engine cylinders are not welded to the block very well, which is the reason for the gaskets going out all the time, and I have lost a lot of faith in Subaru.
Best Of The Best
Sharon, 08/06/2010
1997 Subaru Legacy Outback Limited 4dr Wagon AWD
3 of 12 people found this review helpful
Bought this vehicle used with 200,000 miles. It now has almost 230,000. Was told the transmission was going out. Was able to drive it for 6 months before having to replace. Put in a used transmission and have no problems since. Ive owned Chevys, dodges, fords, and toyotas. This is one the most reliable vehicles Ive had so far.
Horrible!!!
Benjamin Solensky, 01/22/2016
1997 Subaru Legacy LSi 4dr Wagon AWD
1 of 5 people found this review helpful
You would think after decades of making cars Subaru would figure some things out! I had my car for a little over a year seemed to be in good condition, I drove it safe, and babied it and the head gasket goes on it! This is a problem with Subaru's and my car only had 80,000 miles on it!! Unbelievable. Anyway buyer beware, if the head gasket goes on it, its gona be an expensive fix and wow just wow. Anyway I guess there is not just one great car out there.. well if there is I haven't found it yet.. STEER CLEAR of this one though.
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Overall Quite Good!
FIXBKS, 12/23/2005
1997 Subaru Legacy Outback Limited 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought this car with 82,000 on it and was already 6 years old! I haven't had one single problem with it yet. First thing I did with it was drive from Wash. DC to San Diego, up the Cali. coast with two bikes and a cartop box on the roof (and back)! Now I've got 110k miles on it and aside from a loose heat shield (annoying rattle) and some weird noise coming from the rear axle area that I'm ignoring because I'm in denial that there's something wrong. Stupid, I know. Will have it checked out soon. Otherwise I've had only oil changes. My car goes on all the ski/snowboard/mtn bike trips because it's the roomiest and most versatile, including my buds with the Cherokees and Explorers.
Subarus are Great Cars
Rhody, 05/12/2002
1997 Subaru Legacy L 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is the third Subaru wagon I've owned and I've had no trouble with any of them. I find the ride very comfortable and the car reliable. I find the new Legacy a bit pricy.
A fine car for the Northeast
Rich, 01/11/2006
1997 Subaru Legacy L 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Our '97 Legacy wagon has been a joy to own - reliable and fun to drive. The all-wheel drive gives confidence during the crappy Northeast winters. Plus the car is pretty roomy. Our only complaint has been with the gas mileage, 22-23 around town and 27 on the highway. But lots of cars have bad mileage.
'97 Legacy Outback
brian k, 03/23/2004
1997 Subaru Legacy Outback Limited 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I always wanted an outback. I live in Cleveland and found one two hours away in Toledo. It was a 97 limited, with 78,000 mile on, and I saved over three grand on it. On the way home I blew a head gasket!! The car was bought as is, so no money from the dealer. Cost me $2,500, changed clutch, wires, and radiator while I was at it! Since then no problems and I'm planning a cross country trip. I hope they sealed it tight.
4 Door Legacy Outback Limited
buffbillsboy, 04/01/2004
1997 Subaru Legacy Outback Limited 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought my stick shift Subaru in 1997. I had problems with the brakes, the alternator (changed it once), and the paint on the bottom of the car (it falls off easily). While those problems existed, I have enjoyed the interior space and the way it performs in snow.
A 'Go anywhere, do everything' vehicle
Mr Fussy!, 08/22/2002
1997 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Owned my 97 Outback for 6 years now. A wonderful vehicle for doing just about everything (except racing). It's comfortable, loves to cruise (happiest at 75-80), handling predicatable and the quality remains. Great for hauling big stuff, groceries, building supplies, kids, pets and even towing a small trailer. I'd give up ALL my other cars before this one. Only big problem was an alternator that suddenly died. Out of warrantee, I got it fixed, but 1 month later Subaru writes about a voluntary recall for this problem. Sent Subaru of America my bill and received reimbursement 4 months later! I'll never be without a Subaru as long as I can still drive.
Solid car
csandvig, 04/30/2004
1997 Subaru Legacy Brighton 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car new and it now has 75,000 miles on it. It has required no repairs and requires minimal maintenance. All I've done is change the oil and bought a set of new tires and it still runs like new.
about that dashboard light...
mgh, 04/29/2002
1997 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great car in the rain/snow. Like the two previous reviewers, I had to have the alternator replaced when the car was less than three years old. I was reimbursed a year later after being informed of the recall. But now I too have the same strange non-functioning dashboard light for my heater. Another factory flaw? Also, takes a lot of airconditioning to keep it cool in summer, and the moment I turn the a/c off, the interior heats up again fairly quickly. Not thrilled with the gas mileage. It is worse than listed, though, oddly seems to have improved a bit over the last two years. Overall,though, pretty happy with the car. The alternator has been the only repair in almost 5 years.
Love My Subee
ChrisD, 06/03/2006
1997 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I loved my Subaru. After 200,200 miles I am putting it down. It was an incredibly reliable car. I bought it with 145,000 and added 55,000 more. At 195,000 the head gasket blew. I repaired it and many other things. Then last week the tranny blew and I decided to get a new car. MPG could have been better. All she required was basic maintenance (other than the 2 big issues). I'll get another. Excellent durable vehicle if you maintain it. Perfect for the outdoorsy person. It went to hundreds of bike races happily! Tons of space.
97 outback wagon
doc2, 06/10/2004
1997 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
great all wheel drive, needs more pep. at 105,000 miles developed minor noise. took it in and were told a rod or bearing is lose or broken. $4000 for new engine. what happened to japanese reliability? test drove an '05 and it seems they have addressed the pep issue! wonder if it will last? seems like hondas go on forever, hoped the subaru would too.
Outback after 5 years
TMW, 12/12/2002
1997 Subaru Legacy Outback Limited 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have had more problems with this car than I've had with other cars. I'm on my 4th alternator. The car blew a head gasket at 85,000 costing $1,200 to repair. Before that engine seals went out costing about the same to fix. It has had several fit & finish things that aren't that big of a deal, just anouying.
'97 Outback AWD LTD
LW911, 12/29/2002
1997 Subaru Legacy Outback Limited 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car works good as a utility vehicle, but I'm very disapointed in the reliability. I've had alternator problems, 3 times, with no dealer assistance (a recall eventaully came out, but still no $ for those who already repaired it). Engine seals went out at ~65k miles. Just had the head gasket go. This is the worst car I've ever owned. I'll go back to Honda.
Excellent Car
JustinP, 09/29/2004
1997 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car for my mother in 2000 with 30K on it. In the last 4 years, she has used it as a delivery car and it has 300K all city miles on it. We have replaced brakes a dozen times because of stop and go traffic, but other than that we have only done an alternator, a fuel pump, and some suspension. The car has 300k all city miles and does not rattle or shake. I only change the oil every 5k and it ru ns great. We could easily put another 300 k on it. This is a rugged car that can handle constant city driving and get good gas mileage. This is easily the best car in its class.
Live saver
Epacific, 08/12/2004
1997 Subaru Legacy L 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My '97 Subaru served me well right up till last week when, while taking a left on a green light, I got hit head on by a van going 55mph. Despite being flung across 3 lanes and having the car totaled, I was able to walk away with little more than a bruise on the knee. At 82000 miles, the car never had any maintenance issues: very reliable and useful with the rear of the wagon being used from everything from a diaper changing table to hauling cargo from Home Depot. Moreover, the designers at Subaru did an excellent job in safety: between the forward crumple zones, rigid safety cage, and airbags, I can quite literally say that the Subaru saved my life. We'
1997 outback
hlos, 02/11/2003
1997 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Best car I ever owned.
Love this fun, safe car
AdeleA, 10/07/2004
1997 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have owned it for four years, and drive it everywhere (across country, vacations, work everyday). I feel safe in it, and trust putting my family in it everyday. Was in a car accident (not my fault!) that pushed me across the road and up on the sidewalk. Even though caused alot of damage, I walked out of the car with no injuries. Thank god for a well built car.
1997 Outback
Craig Martinson, 02/25/2005
1997 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Main disappointment with the vehicle is a blown head gasket at 135,000 miles, but my 2002 F150 blew the head gasket at 57,000 miles, go figure. Car is the greatest in snow, is our vehicle of choice in the winter over the four wheel drive F150.
Outback - similar experiences
pja11, 04/02/2002
1997 Subaru Legacy Outback Limited 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We also had the alternator brake early on, with no explanation or recall notice yet. We got it fixed and much later, found out about the recall. They did, however, after I called them, pay for the work which was done to replace the alternator. Strangely enough, our dashboard light that luminates the heating and air controls doesn't work either. And I just noticed after changing the oil the last time, that there was a small "condensation" or leak of oil right around the seal of the engine (looked like the rubber seal was not quite right). I don't know if this is called the head gasket like the other reviewer too, but it would be a third huge coincidence!
Great in the snow but...
outbackschmoop, 06/04/2005
1997 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bottom line, this just isn't a reliable car. Bought the car with 100K thinking that Subarus run forever. I was wrong. Brakes wear down quickly and it seems to always be leaking oil. At 130K the head gasket blew and the cylinder heads cracked. Repair bill ran over $2,500K. Next time I go Japanese it'll be Toyota or Honda.
funky wagon; I love it!
dkay, 05/25/2002
1997 Subaru Legacy GT 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Flawless reliability. Except for the battery dying once, the car has given me no problems, despite being involved in one major crash in its first year. Interesting styling too, with the opening in the hood and aggressive- looking wheels. Definately not going to be mistaken for an old Buick wagon. In 1997 there was no other wagon with a manual shift that looked this good for a reasonable price. The manual shift is very pleasant, making this car fun to drive despite the not-earth- shattering power.
Best Car Ever!
RevDusty, 07/26/2003
1997 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
145000 miles with only the oft- experienced alterntor problem for which I was promptly reimbursed. Only other complaints are the need for new brakes and/or resurfaced rotors every 30000 miles or so (but maybe that's my fault?), and the dashboard lights going out one by one. The AWD inspires deserved confidence. Handles great! Plenty of room. Comfortable enough!
I love my Sube
Lauraine, 09/01/2005
1997 Subaru Legacy Outback Limited 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is the 3rd Subaru for me. I bought it when it was two years old. My next car will also be a Subaru Outback. It's peppy, handles like a sports car, and is extremely reliable. The car has cost me no money other than general maintenance. I love the heated seats in our climate. I also like the styling. It doesn't look like a stodgy station wagon. The AWD is wonderful in snow. I can go when others can't. Unplowed roads are no problem for my Sube. Get one, you'll love it!
Hard to say
lmac, 09/15/2003
1997 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Initially we were in the honeymoon stage...Then constantly needing brakes or making brake sounds..replace the AT clutch cylinder ($1200) various smoking dripping oils even after replacing different seals, gaskets, etc. Now strange suspension sounds and like many where is the heater light?? I Never even knew there was one!! It has been handy in the snow & I love not having to stop & chain up though it is not infallible. Never buy dark blue if you live on a dirt road. Noisey inside, sounds cheap & always head an engine ticking sound.
It is no Toyota
fistik, 10/13/2005
1997 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
It is not a bad car to drive. comfortable for a 4wd. Decent pickup with auto trans. OK gas mileage. I have owned it for only 4 months so I can't comment on reliability. My guess is not as good as Honda or Toyota. Shortcomings: for a $27,000 car skimpy parts and options (no light for ignition key, windows). Poor design (open a window switch and you'll see). Other parts are similarly designed. I would never buy it new. Definitely overpriced. Honda or Toyota should design a similar car.
Unreliable car
fishlab, 05/26/2002
1997 Subaru Legacy LSi 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have to get a valve job when the car was just our of warranty. Subaru did nothing to assist with the astromonmical cost. Many other things have broken also. This has been a very disapointing car.
engine failure
Wilsons, 09/23/2003
1997 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought a used 97 outback only 5 months ago. The car was great at 1st & I was such an advocat of Subaru that I bought another one for my wife. I opted for this car & thought (wrongly) that it was reputed for reliability. I drive many Hwy miles & expect more from Subaru. I had problems around 100k: crankshaft seals, burning oil smell, alternator recall & faulty dash lights! Also had the mass air flow & TPS sensors replaced at $600. At last oil change was informed cam & rear engine seals need replaced for $700. Motor failed 108K. Subaru advised on a new engine at $5700. This car should last longer than this & problems are more than coincidence!