Used 1998 Subaru Legacy Consumer Reviews
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Awesome car
crunk hunter, 11/24/2009
1998 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car runs really well. The only big problem is the head gaskets, they go out too much. Great gas mileage.
A reliable MULE of a car
Drive!, 10/24/2002
1998 Subaru Legacy Outback Limited 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
As far as reliable cars suited for inclimate conditions go, the Subaru proves to be the mule in its respective class. Interior design and comfort prove above average although not up to Audi Avant standards. Exterior design is a little above average, but you can see for yourself that she's no Porsche. The major drawback to this car resides under the hood. The car simply does not have any pep what-so- ever. Fun to drive? No. This car is not for those who enjoy a sporty ride. Overall this car is good solid transportation suited for any and all drivers who don't mind sluggish performance.
1998 Subaru Legacy for sale near you
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Never a problem
Quinn, 11/04/2002
1998 Subaru Legacy GT 4dr Sedan AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought the Suburu Legacy GT used from a meticulous car owner over two years ago and have driven it without any hitches. The car now has over 90,000 miles and I've had no problems. I keep it well maintained but otherwise drive it hard. The car handles a little heavy with a bit of a tailspin if you push it hard enough. The car isn't as nimble as my previous lightweight coupe Eagle Tolon, but it's five times more reliable. The all-wheel drive reduces its fuel efficiency and I probably average 20 mpg. Also, the engine noise can be higher than most sedans especially over 4000 RPMs.
May have to get another one...
pizzaboy, 11/22/2002
1998 Subaru Legacy GT 4dr Sedan AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
...to keep me and my wife from fighting over who gets to drive it! We've had it three years and the only problem is a front main seal leak that appeared around 98K miles. It drops oil on the exhaust system and smokes badly at stoplights and after running. Handles solidly, yet it's nimble. I find myself looking for twisty roads, even if it makes my drive home a bit longer. Very distinctive; I've only seen a dozen and only one other the same color (dark green).
Great car
timmind, 12/09/2002
1998 Subaru Legacy Outback Limited 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Simply fun to drive and own
Steve's Review
brennaford, 01/05/2003
1998 Subaru Legacy GT 4dr Sedan AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This has been an excellent vehicle. I have had no problems with the car. It is a lot of fun to drive & has a nice sporty feel. I was amazed at how easy it is to do routine maintanence on my Subaru. I would definitely purchase again.
Love It!
StvFord, 01/05/2003
1998 Subaru Legacy GT 4dr Sedan AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I had wanted an Outback but I test drove the GT & loved it. It is an agile performer & is lots of fun to drive. Last Winter I got to try it out in the snow & ice. What a blast! For the first time I did not worry about losing control & ending up in a ditch on my way to work. Wouldn't do a donut in the parking lot though... I have been very impressed with the ease of maintaining this car. Reliability has been great. Have only had one minor problem that the dealer fixed (oil drip).
Would buy again
Harleygirl, 01/17/2003
1998 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have loved this car until recently. At 98,000 out of nowhere we had a cracked cylinder. Still no idea why! We were far from home and made a mistake. We didn't take it to a Subaru dealer immediately. We had a "friend" put a used engine in it. Problems ever since. I looking for a new car. I am thinking SUV but have not eliminated another Outback. It goes anywhere and through everything. Just bad luck!
Good Car
Subaru Man, 01/28/2003
1998 Subaru Legacy Outback Limited 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great car. Once you drive a Subaru with AWD there is no going back.
A Great Car
Heffeln, 09/05/2003
1998 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a great car. This was the car my parents gave to me during college. It was sporty enough to be cool, but practical enough on the wallet (great gas mileage). I could fit 5 of my friends plus all the stuff needed for a tailgater! Great highway car, quick passing ability, for the average driver. Great steering. Awesome audio system (6 speaker CD/fm/tape) some of the weather stripping became weak, which allowed a bit too much wind noise to enter the car, but not enough to cause significant issues. Overall, a great car...I plan on buying a new one soon.
i998 Subaru Legacy
bbs53, 10/04/2003
1998 Subaru Legacy L 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have 2 of these cars. One has an automatic, the other a 5 speed. The 5 speed car has 165,500 miles with no major failures. I live in snow country and it is a great car for the snow. It is extremely economical to operate and has held up rather well. Would I recommend a Subaru? You bet. If you want a mid to lower priced 4wd car that is built like a tank, then this is your ride. It has all the creature comforts you could ask for. A+++++++
Great value for the money
bmwrest, 10/20/2003
1998 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
As a family of four with two dogs...this vehicle does it all! It handles Michigan pot-holes, icy road, and highways flawlessly. Why buy an SUV that's too top heavy, a gas guzzler, higher taxes (registrations are outrageous), insurance, etc.???? Second Subaru owned...first one was sold for $2,000 AFTER near 200,000 miles!
Won't be back for a second one...
badger, 03/30/2005
1998 Subaru Legacy Outback Limited 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We bought our Subaru for dependable, all season driving. It is a bit underpowered, but it wasn't billed as a high performance car. Had to replace front oil seal, both valve cover gaskets and now the head gasket has internal leak that HAS to be repaired--$3000 estimate. At 125,000 miles, we expected better reliability. Looks like this is a known problem that Subaru isn't willing to deal with. Too bad. I really liked the car other than that and had planned on another when my 1994 Jeep Grand Cherokee had to be replaced.
disappointment
mgj, 05/03/2005
1998 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Major transmission problems at 92,000 and 122,000 miles. Need engine valves, power steering valve and CV boot replaced now for more money.
Subaru Legacy GT
connie simunovic, 02/19/2004
1998 Subaru Legacy GT 4dr Sedan AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The car rides nice and is very comfortable. it's awesome in the snow!
Beware of the horizontal time bomb
Timberwolf530, 03/12/2004
1998 Subaru Legacy GT 4dr Sedan AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
At 80,000 mi. My GT started to run rough. I took it to Tom Wood.They threw about $1000 in parts at it, but could not fix it. Took it to a different dealer and they told me one of my pistons was bad (wrist pin) and it cost more to replace one than to install a new engine. $6000, 2 mos later it was back , but never did run right again. Neither the dealer or Subaru seemed to care what happened. Subaru has nice looking fun to drive cars, but dealer and coporate support is terrible.What disappointed me the most was that I loved Subarus before this happened. We also owned a '99 Outback. After this happend, we traded both cars and have sworn off Subarus for good.
Buyer beware of black
hilow, 03/12/2004
1998 Subaru Legacy GT Limited 4dr Sedan AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought a black GT Limited Legacy from a used car dealership in NH. First mistake. Leather, sunroof, 40,000 miles. I wish I never bought this car. After spending 1,000 to have a cylinder rebuilt, I ended up right back at the dealership! Another 250 on sparkplugs and wires, I don't think so. I just traded it in for a Jetta 1.8T, (which I love)Be aware someone will try and sell it to you soon!
Great all-weather sports sedan
98GTLimited, 07/09/2004
1998 Subaru Legacy GT Limited 4dr Sedan AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This 1998 model year car had 36,000 miles when I purchased it in 2001 and I saved about $11,000 off the new price. Buying used, it was a very affordable, excellent handling sports sedan that is very capable in the snowy winters of New England. The 165hp 2.5L engine provides engough power to beat the traffic light rush from 4 lanes to 2 in some Boston intersections though it's nothing compared to the turbo rush of the WRX. The reliability problems I have had include several oil leaks from the crankshaft seal (40,000 miles, $400, covered by warranty) and the oil sending unit (75,000 miles, $150).
Great Car To Drive!
StiFlyBy, 07/13/2004
1998 Subaru Legacy GT 4dr Sedan AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had this car for about 5 months now and its by far the best car i've ever driven! its fun to drive and i never have to worry about having problems with it. always a reliable car that i'd sugest to anyone!
Not all that is cracked up to be
sholden, 08/01/2004
1998 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Beware of this vehicle as I have blown a head gaskette, two tappet cover gaskets, a heater core, a radiator and a lot of other small parts. I wish my extended warranty would have lasted a little bit longer as I have dumped a ton of money into this vehicle. I would never buy another Subaru in the future.
Perfect for Canadian winters
davidscott, 10/28/2004
1998 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Canada: I owned this vehicle for 4 years and 80,000kms. It was the perfect car for a small family and was truly capable in winter with some Nokian Hakka snow tires. Had to have the clutch replaced 3 times under warranty, and the short block replaced twice under warranty. A bit underpowered for my taste though. Despite these, I would definitely buy another Subaru in the future.
the best new old car
eric, 12/25/2004
1998 Subaru Legacy GT Limited 4dr Sedan AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
i got the car from my aunt with 60000 miles and it has given me no problems. i love the sportyness of the car for a 98. it handles very well and with all wheel drive it can go about anywhere.
Beware
Roger, 03/15/2005
1998 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought my Outback new in 1998 and enjoyed it for the first 95K miles. It was reliable and handled Minnesota winters. The first repairs were at 92K when the brake pads, rotors, and clutch cylinders were replaced. That was a good track record. Now the head gasket is blown at 95K, and I don't yet know whether there is engine damage. Unlike the Phase II engines, Subaru has no extended warranty on these head gaskets. This failure should not have happened so soon on a well maintained car.
GT Wagon - 5 speed
RSamide, 04/28/2005
1998 Subaru Legacy GT 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my first Subaru. Bought it for wagon versatility, reliability, sporty, value, Honda doesn't have wagon, and AWD was a bonus here in MN. Car has 104,000 miles. It has delivered adequately in all categories but reliability has been below my previous Hondas and Acuras. Beware of dealership performance. It has been horrendous with multiple return trips after expensive head gasket replacement. Problems started after dealer repairs. MPG 22-25.
Great for 5 years
boletus, 09/06/2006
1998 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car has 67,000 miles on it and the head gasket is going. Have replaced the CV boot cover at 22,000, the oil pump seals at 67,000 and some sensor switch near the timing belt. I have loved this car up until last week and now feel very betrayed by Subaru. The mileage is excellent at 25 and 29. As the dealer said when he handed me the bill for the repairs at 67,000, "Well, except for the head gasket, everything looks just great."
6 year review
etad52, 04/01/2007
1998 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought used. 3 years old and 34000 miles. Avg hwy 27mpg. 2 problems, exhaust heat shield weld broke and rattles and like previous posts, head gasket gone at 95k. Was losing a third of my anti-freeze. Yet couldn't find out where it was going. Not on the ground or in the oil??? Other than that mechanic said engine is good, Cylinder pressure test 155-160. Leakage 2%. Except for the engine repair this car has served me well. I have done several 20 hour road trips at 75 mph. Including a DEN-IND-DEN run during the blizzard in Dec 06. Must have picked up a few hundred pounds of ice yet the car was stable and predictable. MPG dropped to 21 hwy.
98 Subaru Outback 5 speed manual
John , 04/28/2007
1998 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Pros: unbelievable in the snow. 2.5 boxer engine: great low end torque, decent fuel economy, good performance for a 4 cylinder. Handles very well. Excellent roof rack. Easy to change the oil. Cons: piston slap: dealer replaced pistons under warrantee. Alternator went and was also replaced under recall. I had to replace the clutch slave cylinder and hose. Good car, but watch out for blown head gaskets (although this didn't happen to me).
Great car
Kayaker, 08/22/2007
1998 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have had my 1998 Subaru Outback for almost 10 years and 235,000 miles. It has been an excellent, dependable car. I have just been rear-ended for the 3rd time. I am afraid the insurance company will total it. I enjoyed this car because it was very dependable (it never broke down on me), good gas mileage (over 25 mpg), four wheel drive, and carrying space. My only complaint is the front seats were not very comfortable for long trips.
Love My Car
Profswife1998, 05/05/2003
1998 Subaru Legacy Outback Limited 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I owned a 91 Subaru, sold it to my sister and bought my Outback. My old one is still running strong with over 220,000 miles on it. The cup holders in the front and back are kinda cheap and could have been placed better. I wish subaru would come out with a mini-van quick, because my family is growing and I need a mini-van, but do not want to part with my Subie. If It comes to that, I will definately buy a brand new Subaru when my kids are grown. Love My Beautiful Subaru.
98 Outaback Wagon
wengr18707, 01/19/2003
1998 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The Subaru has a nice quiet smooth ride and handles quite well around curves. I have gotten good gas mileage up to 30 on a trip in the summer and about 26 locally in the summer, the mileage drops alot in the winter to about 22 locally. I had the dealer change both the front main and rear main seals under warranty. Only because the were dripping slighly. Also the heater selecter switch light burned out and they repalced that. My main only concern is the noisy engine it runs fine but is really noisy at cold starts then gets a little quiter when warm. I like the room and utility use of this vehicle and I just turn up the sterio to overcome the engine noise.
98 GT LTD
WScottCross, 01/10/2003
1998 Subaru Legacy GT Limited 4dr Sedan AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is the best perfoming car I have owned and the AWD makes it that much better for use in New England
Buyer Beware!
T.W., 05/19/2003
1998 Subaru Legacy GT 4dr Sedan AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Took it to the dealership near my house and they had no idea what was wrong. They threw about $900 in parts at it, told me they had no idea what was wrong. Took it to a second dealership, threw $600 in parts at it before determining that the wrist pin #4 was bad. At the time it happened there were three other people on a Subaru site with sameproblem. Look up piston slap. Subaru claims that it doesn't hurt the engines. I'm not so sure. A wobbly piston would tend to wear out a writst pin. Coincidence? Subaru offered me absolutely no help or support throughout the ordeal. Cost me $6000 to fix and took them over 4 months.
Love My GT!
fastdriver, 05/27/2003
1998 Subaru Legacy GT 4dr Sedan AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This has been a wonderful car to drive! It handles tightly, feels more powerful than its 165 HP, and drives the mountain like a snowplow. Unfortunately, it's on its second alternator now... a real trouble spot! Otherwise, it has given me no problems, and with a little babying (I admit it!), still looks and acts like a new car after 100K mi of hard driving!
Great, reliable car
EMM07, 04/28/2008
1998 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Inherited the '98 Subaru Legacy wagon from my parents, and just got rid of it last month. The car was GREAT in the snow, and amazingly reliable overall. It did seem to have some problems with the alternator/belt, but never to the point that it refused to start or run. Interior cargo space was much appreciated; with the fold-down seats it could hold furniture or an entire dorm room worth of stuff. Even after 10 years and 167000 (fairly hard) miles, the car was still running at ~24 MPG and was in fairly good shape. Had it been better maintained early on, I would still have it now. It would make a great family car or college student's vehicle, especially in a cold-weather area.
01 Goat mover
Caroline B Mitchell , 07/11/2022
1998 Subaru Legacy L 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Love my Subaru Legacy Wagon. I have 198,689 miles and still going good. I use it as a farm truck and haul goats and hay in it as well as everyday use.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
It was Ok
Josh, 09/20/2009
1998 Subaru Legacy Outback 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 2 people found this review helpful
After I totaled my first car my grandma gave me her old Subaru; she loved the car it was easy for her to drive and she had trouble parting with it. I drove the car a year and totaled it as well, I was only going 10 mph when I rear ended a Jeep Cherokee, afterward I got the car fixed, and it was driving pretty good, I drove from Va, to NY and back in 2 days with no problems, now the car is in the shop an they think the head gasket has blown, I think ill be buying and Audi next.