Vehicle Guide

2009 Subaru Legacy Problems, Reliability & Owner's Guide

Common problems with the 2009 Subaru Legacy, reliability ratings, maintenance tips, and owner reviews. Get your complete owner's guide.

Overview

The 2009 Subaru Legacy is a midsize sedan (also offered as a wagon) known for standard all-wheel drive and confident all-weather driving. It fits buyers who want a practical commuter with extra traction for snow and rain, without moving up to an SUV. This model year is part of the fourth-generation Legacy (2005–2009), making it one of the more refined years before the 2010 redesign. In the used-car market, it’s often chosen for safety, winter capability, and a solid balance of comfort and performance.

Key Features

- Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive on all trims, a major selling point versus many front-wheel-drive midsize competitors. - Engine choices typically include a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated flat-four (commonly listed around 170 hp) and an available 2.5-liter turbocharged flat-four on GT models for stronger acceleration. - Available 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmissions, depending on trim and drivetrain setup. - Confident road manners and a comfortable ride, with a well-controlled chassis that feels more planted than many family sedans on rough or slick pavement. - Strong safety reputation for its era, with available stability control on certain trims and solid crash-test performance contributing to buyer confidence.

Common Issues & Reliability

Shoppers searching “2009 Subaru Legacy reliability” will find that these cars can be dependable when maintained, but there are several well-known areas to watch. The most discussed “2009 Subaru Legacy problems” tend to involve engine sealing, oil consumption, and age-related wear items. 1) External head gasket seepage (2.5L non-turbo)

Frequently Asked Questions

Get the Complete Guide

60+ pages of specs, maintenance schedules, and service records for your 2009 Subaru Legacy.

Starting at $9.99 • Instant PDF

Fluids & Filters

Keep your vehicle running smooth

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Compare This Vehicle

See how the 2009 Subaru Legacy stacks up against competitors.

Ready for Your Complete 2009 Subaru Legacy Guide?

Get detailed specs, maintenance schedules, fluid capacities, and service records.