3 Star Reviews for 2002 Subaru Legacy

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

3.95/5 Average
49 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Only minor changes are in store for Subaru's midsize Legacy sedan and wagon. GT Limiteds receive a standard All-Weather Package that includes heated front seats, heated outside mirrors and a windshield wiper de-icer. GT models now have larger front brakes, a new ignition switch illumination ring, standard floor mats and wood grain-patterned door switch trim. Other upgrades for all Legacys include a dome light off-delay and an internal trunk release (sedans only).

Pros:
  • All-wheel drive, a host of standard features, less expensive than many European competitors.
Cons:
  • Side airbags available only on Limited models, no six-cylinder engine offered.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 49.00
  • Worst car I ever owned - 2002 Subaru Legacy
    By -

    I picked up this car with 30k miles in great shape and right away started having problems with window seals, moon roof seal, O2 sensors, head lights, check engine light, heat shield, clutch, electrical bugs, you name it, Ive fixed it, until finally with 70k miles on the odometer, the engine jumped time and bent all the valves costing me $3500. No aftermarket support either, because no one wants anything to do with this lemon. I cant say that I blame them. I cant wait to be rid of this heap.

  • Subarus are over rated - 2002 Subaru Legacy
    By -

    I was very excited when I ordered my Subaru. That all ended after two weeks of ownership thats when the steering started going in and out. I never had a road noise issues it was the wind blowing through the window that never closed proper after two years that I had issue with. That was fixed four times it never lasted more than two weeks. At three years old the car started rusting (body and brake lines), the ABS was no longer working at this point. Maybe I expect to much when I pay $27k car. Last thing I had flat once and the jack broke. I sold this car with over 59k on it.

  • I will never buy another Subaru - 2002 Subaru Legacy
    By -

    I bought my 2002 Subaru Legacy GT Sedan Automatic used (36k). Since then, I have had every service performed, including oil changed every 3500 miles. At 92k miles I had to replace the head gaskets (both sides) $1800. At 120k miles the moon roof computer went out (probably used 3 times a year $500) At 126k miles it spun the #3 Rod Bearing and damaged the Crankshaft. ($4300) - the dealer stocks the short block which tells me they are having LOTS of problems with this motor. This car has never been neglected or abused and always had factory parts as replacement. I am very disappointed in this purchase and now I have no car because its motor blew and its at the repair shop with no money to fix it

  • Less Than Expected - 2002 Subaru Legacy
    By -

    Seems to be issues with the front brakes, and the windows in front doors leak air. (BAD) Dealer doesnt seem to be able to correct this.

  • Be cautious if buying used - 2002 Subaru Legacy
    By -

    Bought this vehicle used and it has not been a great experience. Overall, the car is ok but if you are in the market for this model, go above and beyond to see if the vehicle has any oil consumption issues. My car eats oil like crazy and after researching "oil consumption subaru" I have learned I am not alone. Ive switched to a thicker oil and have just learned to live with the issue. I have had several VWs and now appreciate what I had with the VR6 engine. Looking forward to seeing how this thing does in the snow, but I really dont like driving this car. Subarus can be good, but this thing is getting sold in the spring.

  • Clutch issues - 2002 Subaru Legacy
    By -

    I had to replace the clutch in 2008 and now am told I need another clutch! Quoted price is $1000 this seems ridiculous to me. HELP!

  • Subaru Legacy - 2002 Subaru Legacy
    By -

    First few years of ownership the car performed as desired. However in the third year of ownership road noise became louder. Car has started to rust in the rear door jams at the seams. The rear quarter panel has developed large rust areas. These days I would expect a car to last more than 5 years before rusting out.

  • Problem after problem - 2002 Subaru Legacy
    By -

    In the 5 1/2 years since we bought our 2002 legacy weve had to replace the oil pan (60k miles), head gasket (85k miles), and catalytic converters (88k miles). Our maintanence costs on this car are running at a rate of around $4000/yr, which is more than the payment of a new car. Its either a lemon, or Subaru just doesnt build them like they used too.

  • quality declines in late model Subarus - 2002 Subaru Legacy
    By -

    Less than 26000 miles and have had major brake job (all 4 wheels), new clutch, repeated problems with wind noise and check engine light coming on. Basically a big dissapointment compared to the many Subarus Ive owned in the past.

  • Junkie - 2002 Subaru Legacy
    By -

    I had this subie for 9 months. It blow one head gasket. So I replaced both of them, after 700 miles it cracked a head. The head lights keep burning out. Wind noise is very loud. Its just a junkie car. Rust is coming in on the rear doors buy the seams. I wash and take care of my cars. But after 5 years and 85,000 miles its just junkie. I will never buy a sub again.

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