Credov's researched list of the 3 faults the Subaru Legacy Wagon is known for (2005–2012), 2 of them serious or costly. Each one says what to look for when you check the car, so you can spot it before you buy. Not every car has these faults: they are the ones worth checking on this model.
What to look for: Brake firmly from 50 km/h to a stop several times, feeling for a rev dip, shudder or stall.
Why it matters: A torque converter that stalls the engine while braking is a safety concern as well as an expensive repair - the fix is a torque converter with the gearbox out - so this is worth testing directly rather than taking the seller's word that it drives fine.
What to look for: With a torch, check the lower edge of both cylinder heads for wet oil or crusty dried coolant.
Why it matters: A weeping head gasket on this engine tends to get worse, not better, and ends in an engine-out or engine-lowered job with both heads off; spotting the early seep avoids being surprised by an overheating car later.
What to look for: Touch the top of the dash near the windscreen for sticky, soft or glossy patches.
Why it matters: A sticky or cracked dash is purely cosmetic but a full dash-out replacement disturbs the heater and wiring and is a bigger job than it looks, so it is worth pricing into any offer rather than discovering it after the sale.
Got a question about a Subaru Legacy Wagon? Ask Credov: a noise, a warning light, a part or how to fix it.
On top of the faults above, every Credov inspection covers the basics: fuel smell, leaks or filler rust, engine oil leaks, power steering fluid leak, drive belt cracks or squeal, rust underneath: chassis and mounts, engine mounts, engine oil level and colour, coolant level, colour and leaks, head gasket failure signs, cold start: rattle, knock or smoke, rough or hunting idle, engine running hot on gauge, gearbox or diff oil leak, swapped gearbox without lvv and more.
Researched by Credov from manufacturer recalls and service bulletins, owner reports and workshop sources. Repair prices are typical ranges, not quotes. See also fault codes and repair costs.