Used 2001 Subaru Legacy Sedan 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.
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!!!
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.
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
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
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.
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).
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
(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.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
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.
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 .