Used 2001 Subaru Legacy Consumer Reviews
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My little unstoppable AWD tank
travelking, 01/17/2014
2001 Subaru Legacy L AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
21 of 21 people found this review helpful
This is the best car Ive ever had. While this car only has decent gas mileage, due mostly to the AWD, the reliability and performance of this car is unparalleled. I bought this car new and drove it to 267,000 miles. The problems I had with it were minor. Ive gone through a couple of alternators, batteries, and clutches; but this is to be expected. At about 230,000 miles I had to replace the sychros in the manual transmission. At around 250,000 miles I developed a radiator leak which was fixed with a bottle of radiator sealant. The car was finally done by a broken timing belt. If I had replaced the timing belt when my mechanic advised, the little Subaru would still be on the road.
Great little rig
subipharm, 03/29/2011
2001 Subaru Legacy L AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
10 of 10 people found this review helpful
This has been a great wagon for me so far. I bought it with 145,000 miles on it few months back. It had all scheduled maintenance records and had the head gaskets replaced so it has been running like a champ. -The engine has ample power with the 5 speed, it can zip around town just fine and get up to speed quickly on highways. The car cruises nicely at 70mph. Plenty of head room and leg room for driver and passengers. Overall this car is a great value, reliable, handles great in rain/snow with AWD, and styling still looks good 10 years later! I would highly recommend this vehicle as family car or vehicl for outdoors people.
On Subaru 10...and FINAL
Disgruntled, 06/17/2009
2001 Subaru Legacy GT Limited AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
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!!!
Best Car Ever, so far
iluvcar, 12/22/2014
updated 12/22/2017
2001 Subaru Legacy L AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
13 of 14 people found this review helpful
It may be a little early to write a review. I've owned the car since 120,xxx, it has 150,000 now. This car is solid. I've had no major mechanical issues. With some weight reduction and iridium spark plugs, this car can easily get 22 city/ 28 hwy mpg. I bought it in May 2013 for $2,400. Update- The car has 180,xxx miles, and it's running strong. Update- Finally got rid of it at 206xxx, it ran ok but would have costed too much to maintain the car. Great car for sure, just be wary of the head gasket issues, and make sure it has somewhat clean transmission fluid.
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Great Car
mmb132, 07/28/2005
2001 Subaru Legacy GT Limited AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I bought the 2001 Legacy GT Limited Sedan in October 2004. I used a 2001 Camry as a trade in and I have NO regrets. This car is spectacular! In winter I feel like I'm driving a tank; the AWD is great. On dry pavement it's like driving a sports car. Anyone who gets into the car is very impressed with the leather interior, the stereo, the roominess of the back seat and the comfortable ride. My only gripe I would say is the gas mileage but, maybe that's because of the AWD? I'm not really sure. Besides that this a great car.
Used to love it, now I hate it.
dhall5, 10/21/2008
2001 Subaru Legacy GT Limited AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
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.
Engine Failure at 106K miles
no more Subarus 4me, 09/17/2009
2001 Subaru Legacy GT Limited AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
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.
Don't buy a Subaru
IW, 03/08/2007
2001 Subaru Legacy L AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
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.
Just don't expect service
Argus, 03/26/2003
2001 Subaru Legacy L AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Don't expect to get any type of service from a Subaru dealer. Used synthetic oil every 5K since new. I've had a knocking noise in my engine since 70,000km - diagnosed as a "bad bottom end". I'm now at 86,000km and to this date no one has been able/willing to fix it, and it continues to get worse. They claim the area "rep" has to inspect all warranty claims over $800 in value, and he is in the nighbourhood once every 3 months. It's been 5 months now and 16,000 km later I'm still waiting to get my car fixed. Fuel economy is down roughly 40% from new. I'll be taking Subaru to small claims court in May and selling my car as soon after as possible.
Cars a Piece of Junk.
12816527, 07/28/2011
2001 Subaru Legacy L AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
6 of 14 people found this review helpful
I had owned this car since 2001 and it was ok... Styling was decent, handling was good, but it always seemed to make a lot of ratteling noise which is apparently common on subarus. It needed to have the O2 sensor replaced and had other small mechanical defects. but overall it was a good car until yesterday. The engine locked up and died. the repair places said it would need a new engine, so much for Japanese cars being reliable. just avoid this car. its not great but does get good traction in the snow. And by the way it died with only 89,000 on it.
Rock solid reliability
4262, 03/16/2002
2001 Subaru Legacy GT Limited AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 4 people found this review helpful
This vehicle has been there for me with no problems. The car can go through anything in town. It suits most of my need and I'm happy with it.
So gland I got rid of it!
tomday, 01/08/2014
updated 07/10/2017
2001 Subaru Legacy GT Limited AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
6 of 17 people found this review helpful
Even if the head gaskets have been done you will be doing them again between 35-40K miles. So unreliable that even engineers I work with got rid of theirs, one was a 2008 other 2010, and have sworn they will never buy another. Bottom line If you own a Subaru it's not a matter of "if" but "when" you'll be doing head gaskets to a tune of $2K to $4K. Don't be fooled by someone trying to sell you one saying the head gaskets don't fail or after 2004 their fine. Their not! There are better cars out there with AWD that are more conferrable and more reliable for about the same price. Years affected. 1998 - 2012 2.5L engines. Yes, up to 2012! If you have one think about selling it before the head gaskets go out
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Subaricious!
Kimberly, 09/26/2010
2001 Subaru Legacy GT Limited AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
After nearly 10 years, my Subaru Legacy is still running smoothly. Very reliable, comfortable, and great for the long haul. Subaru is a quality brand that lasts.
Legacy GT
TW24, 02/04/2003
2001 Subaru Legacy GT AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I tow my small 500lb sailboat with it. Pack all my sailing/camping gear in it, climbed some of the longest grades with weekend gear no problem. The breaks have been great, no warped discs at 65,000. Finally a car with adequate breaks. Engine has been bullet proof with synthetic oil every 5000 miles. Factory Tires have proven to be cost effective and reasonably durable considering the type and cost of the tire. Handling: There aren't very many 4-door sedans for less than $30,000 that claw through corners like the GT Legacy. MPG: Without a bike rack on top 32MPG per tank at 70-75mph. With bike rack, 28-30 MPG. With boat in tow 25-28 MPG.
Great winter car, has some quirks
ajc1961, 05/18/2004
2001 Subaru Legacy L AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I purchased this car for winter driving in NJ and it was FANTASTIC considering the brutal winters for 2002-4. Some quirks I've noticed are the occasional burning smell coming from the vents after bad weather driving (probably an AWD thing) and a whistling windshield in high crosswinds when all windows are rolled up. Neither of these can be addressed by the dealer, of course. Through various internet user groups, it seems these are common Subaru quirks and although annoying, are mostly sporatic and shouldn't deter anyone from buying this car.
Waited too Long
Outback Wagon LTD, 11/26/2006
2001 Subaru Legacy L AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
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.
With a little work wont let you down.
Wyatt, 06/19/2017
2001 Subaru Legacy GT Limited AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
You see; This car is reliable in the same way a Camry is reliable. As long as you don't have your foot on the floor 24/7 the chances of it exploding reduce dramatically and these cars can easily ride you to 500,000 miles. The head gaskets were done at 150,000 miles and were genuinely satisfying to change out in an afternoon. These cars are meant to ride and feel good in the driver's seat not exactly to go fast. After some ECU tuning, I managed to get an even better fuel economy than what was provided from the factory (3-4 MPG increase hwy average).
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Amazing value
Dennis, 01/16/2022
2001 Subaru Legacy GT Limited AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This car has proved too be incredibly reliable & a joy to ride. I have absolutely nothing bad to say about this car.
Not The Best Car I've owned.
caraddiction, 10/16/2011
2001 Subaru Legacy GT Limited AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
Ok, I've owned about 11 cars in the past 6 years. I bought this car (Less than 6 mo ago) to have something paid off to save money and get better gas mileage than my 2010 Nissan Xterra. It has failed me. After buying it while driving home the head gaskets failed even after they had been replaced already,2k to fix. Then cat started malfunctioning 900 bucks, head lights burn out in 2 weeks 13 dollars per headlight, I don't touch the bulbs while installing either. Only has 130k on it. It was even owned by a mechanic. I don't know if it was from poor maintenance or Subaru. I've owned subaru in the past and this one has disappointed me tremendously. I am selling it asap.
Accord and Camry: we want a wagon
WishIhadaHonda, 03/07/2004
2001 Subaru Legacy L AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 8 people found this review helpful
We really wanted a new Honda Accord or Toyota Camry wagon, but unfortunately those manufacturers stopped making wagons in the mid -1990's. This car was more expensive (around $20,000) than Camry ($16,000) or Accord. It is considerably less sturdy (doors don't close smoothly; interior feels "cheap") than those other Japanese cars. Finally, the Legacy gets horrible gas mileage (around 22 mpg) even though this is a vehicle with standard transmission. This last issue is a real sore spot with me. Our previous car was an 1986 Camry that still got 40 mpg even after 253,000 miles.
First and last subaru. Their junk
bgtpeifer222, 10/25/2011
2001 Subaru Legacy GT AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 9 people found this review helpful
I bought my legacy just a few weeks ago. And talk about a big mistake. It has 180,000 miles on it and yes i know thats alot but the dealer clames they will run 280,000 easy. When i bought the car it had its normal subaru noises in it. And just today the rear of my transmission went out of it. No warning no nothing just a loud crack and then the rear of the trans binding. This car is JUNK. first and last one ill ever own.
Family car for those born to drive
tauyeung, 07/12/2002
2001 Subaru Legacy L AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Do your research and you'll find out about the excellent crash test rating. However, the Legacy L is also fun to drive when you get the manual transmission. It is not a fast car, but it has the same mass-to-horsepower ratio as a MINI Cooper base model. The Legacy L only needs 87 octane gas instead of 91 octane gas, which saves you money as well. It's roomy enough to move 6' book shelves (one at a time), yet drives like a car. Take it to the snow (which I did) and AWD shines.
Fun to drive
Michael Bardsley, 10/15/2002
2001 Subaru Legacy L AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
When i was introduced to the car, the salesman took me to an offroad test area, and put the car through its paces. I was shocked at how well the car drove. Since we purchase this in Alaska, we moved back to the lower 48 in mid-winter, with the subaru (L Sedan) pulling a 3,000 Ib trailer down the Alcan Highway. It performed great. Since then we have even had to use it to pull a stuck ford focus out of the sand at the beach before the ocean ate it for lunch. My only complaint would be the tight fit for a tall person driving.
Just couldn't get comfortable
Phylo74, 11/15/2002
2001 Subaru Legacy L AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have always liked Subarus, especially the AWD. I had an 83GL; 91Loyale; 97Impreza; 98Outback Sport, and an 01 Legacy. However, I recently sold my Legacy after only one year and 12000 miles. It's a reliable car with great traction, it just didn't have enough leg room, the steering wheel didn't go high enough, and there is a hard bar or something just under the seat cushioning that would make my thigh numb after about 20 minutes. I now drive my 2000 Mazda Protege instead- really comfortable.
4x4
seanjhon, 12/03/2002
2001 Subaru Legacy GT Limited AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
subaru is the best car i have driven and i will recomend it to anyone.
Best buy for money
cd-in-pa, 08/25/2003
2001 Subaru Legacy L AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
While I've only had the Legacy for a short time (will review in another year after another 20k miles) it is one of the best cars for the money. I bought mine used for a very fair price. I compared the Legacy with the Accord, Camry and Altima and found that price alone was one of the best features. Performance in the Legacy surpased all the above cars. Interior and exterior design are simple but very appealing. Solid value.
Love It!
Nick, 02/28/2006
2001 Subaru Legacy L AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I'm really happy with my 2001 Subaru Legacy L. I've had it for 2 1/2 years and so far (knock on wood) no problems. I'm bringing it in for the 90,000 tune up, so we'll see how it does. I love the way it handles, it really sticks to the road. Gets great gas mileage on long trips across the country. I've had to replace the anti-knock sensor after the check engine light came on. About a $300 job. The Subaru service department is a lot more friendlier and efficient than in the past.
luv it !
Twinkie, 03/17/2004
2001 Subaru Legacy L AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought my Subaru in February 2001. Traded in a Taurus for it. Wow!! What a difference. I had a Subaru before my taurus, but hated the Taurus. MY SUBARU is great. I have less than 30,000 miles on it now in 2004, and have NEVER had a problem with it. I have a 5 speed, manual and Love it. I prefer it over the automatic as you can control your acceleration better. It is real peppy with the 5 speed! Handles snow & rain wonderful, and I actual feel like I am in a sport car when I drive it..LOL, a big change from the Taurus, which stunk taking corners...the Subaru handles corners like a sports car & handles bad weather better than most SUV's!!
Economical, Practical & Fun Family Car
dadof3, 01/20/2005
2001 Subaru Legacy GT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Our Subaru has over 30k miles and stillloving it. We were debating between thewagon or a minivan to haul our 3 kids. We also looked at the Passat wagon.The Passat rode smoother, but the price was way too high for comparable features. We are very satisfied withour choice- great price for what youget, decent gas mileage (compared to theminivan anyway), and enough room for the kids and their stuff- can fit threechild seats across the back row. Recommend a car top carrier for longertrips. Pros: Reliable, safe, fun to drive, andthe awd can't be beat for winter driving(live in WI)Cons: Interior quality could beimproved, gas mileage seems low for a vehicle its size, needs more pep.
Great for the Northwest roads!
greatnorthwest, 02/06/2003
2001 Subaru Legacy L AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my first Subaru and all I can say is "WOW"! Since my vehicle was purchased in September I have grown to love it more. It handles excellent in the Northwest rain and snow. It has a peppy 165 HP motor, not bad for a 4 cylinder! I would highly recommend getting the auto-dimming/compass mirror. I bought one after the fact, installed it myself (piece of cake) and no more rearview mirror glare from trucks.
Gas Hog
Billy Williams, 07/10/2017
2001 Subaru Legacy L AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've owned my car for a couple months it has 230000 miles on it it came from Pennsylvania and has terrible rust damage on it and under it. It gets terrible has mileage every and I do mean every 180 miles I have to put gas in it I fill it all the way up and from full to empty I only get 180 miles and then I have to fill it up again.
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(Almost) excellent vehicle
Vincent Iannone, 06/06/2021
2001 Subaru Legacy L AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I'm the type of person who loves driving, and this is a pretty fun and good vehicle. It handles pretty well, it's actually kind of zippy and fun to drive, it's obviously good in snow since being as Subaru and it gets pretty good gas mileage considering it's AWD. It's also pretty reliable. About 169,000 miles and still running great. I have taken it off-roading (I off road it gently since it's a sedan) It's a 2001 so not bad. I'm giving it a four star however because like anything else, it has cons. One of them is that when driving on the highway there's some loud wind noise. I've gotten used to it, and I always drive with my windows down except on the highway, raining/snowing and when it's it's cold. Don't think this is normal since it's pretty loud but planning to get it checked out soon. The other is my AC suddenly started squeaking. I fixed the AC since when I bought it turns out it wasn't working. Heat always worked great but I don't want to drive with that noise. The other thing is every time I put the car to reverse, the transmission does a little click. This I'm a little worried about, since I fear the transmission might be getting bad, and I'm gonna have that checked out out asap. Other than that though, it's a pretty good, handsome little sedan. I modified it a little as well, and will continue to do that. I'm single to so I can do whatever I want.
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Hanging Tough
J. P . , 01/17/2023
2001 Subaru Legacy L AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The car now is 22 years old. Still running decent. I used the head gasket sealant made by Subaru mixed with the antifreeze. Never a problem.
Buy cheap, get cheap
cafe_guzzi, 02/10/2003
2001 Subaru Legacy L AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 2 people found this review helpful
First, the pros: Can be fun to drive! Wind it out 3rd, and you're still within the national speed limit. On wet roads, driving hard, you can 'feel' all four wheels working-- great! Now, the cons: Electric-- Aweful; build quality-- more squeaks and rattles after 41K than my F250 Diesel had after 100K miles; Door panels have fallen off, switches break; and I don't know how the headlights pass DOT. I'll run this one into the ground, and doubt I'll get another... not even a WRX.
Excellent car
Ronn, 07/18/2010
2001 Subaru Legacy GT AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
Bought this car used in 2002 with 11,000 miles. Now has 120,000. Has been very reliable. Replaced the clutch and viscous coupler at 110,000. Otherwise, just regular maintenance. Could use more power, but the 165 hp is adequate and gets decent gas mileage. Handles very well for a sedan. The AWD is great in rain.
It's not all that it's cracked up to be
Marnie Gonzalez, 07/30/2002
2001 Subaru Legacy L AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have owned my Subaru Legacy for 10 months and in the last 2 it has had to be in the shop 3 times for various reasons. I have been severely disappointed in it's performance. I owned a Subaru in the past and had virtually no problems, this time around I can't say the same thing. I will not be buying another Subaru in the past.
love it
carrotts, 05/06/2014
2001 Subaru Legacy L AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
love this car, did all the usual things before-car for 2/3yrs then changed for a new one, had this one from 2005, had a new engine at 80.000miles, (did,nt know about the head gasket), and now at 149.000miles, costs a fortune in fuel, lots of niggles that need addressing regularly but drive this or another tin box give me scoobie every day, I have the comfort pack and would sit comfortable in this car all day.
great first 'adult' car
mufasa1023, 08/01/2004
2001 Subaru Legacy L AWD 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought this car with 60,000 miles from a graduating med student and so got an amazing price. It's a great car and a nice change from my old ford ranger. AWD is amazing the engine is peppy unless the a/c is on then in drags a bit and has to be punched up a bit to accelerate. Has no glaring problems. Windshield does whistle a bit with crosswinds and it has a strange rattle noise during low end acceleration sometimes but still runs perfectly. It corners like it's on rails .