by VIN, Year, Make, Model by License Plate

2005 Subaru Legacy Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

Rating: 4.43
Based on 48 Owner Reviews
Jovan | March 31, 2025
The 2005 Subaru Legacy is part of the fourth generation (2003-2009). It was offered as a sedan and wagon. Key trims included the 2.5i, 2.5GT, and the sporty GT limited. New, prices ranged from roughly $20,000 to $30,000. The Legacy stands out due to its standard all-wheel drive, providing superior traction and handling in various weather conditions, a feature that made it very popular.
The Good

The 2005 Subaru Legacy offered a blend of practicality and fun. Its all-wheel drive provides confident handling (emotional), while its reliability and comfortable ride appeal to the practical buyer. Performance from the GT models is engaging, and fuel efficiency is reasonable for an AWD vehicle. It represents good overall value for money.

The Bad

Common weaknesses of the 2005 Subaru Legacy include potential head gasket issues, especially in the 2.5i models. Turbo lag can be noticeable in the GT. Rust can also be a concern, especially in areas with harsh winters. Check for oil leaks and listen for unusual engine noises before purchasing.

2005 Subaru Legacy: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options:
    • 2.5L SOHC naturally aspirated 4-cylinder (2.5i models)
    • 2.5L SOHC turbocharged 4-cylinder (2.5GT models)
  • Horsepower:
    • 2.5i: 168 hp
    • 2.5GT: 250 hp
  • Fuel Economy (estimated):
    • 2.5i: 20 MPG city / 27 MPG highway
    • 2.5GT: 18 MPG city / 25 MPG highway
  • 0-60 Times (estimated):
    • 2.5i: 9.0 seconds
    • 2.5GT: 6.0 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: 2,000 lbs (with trailer brakes)
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • 2.5i: Standard features include all-wheel drive, air conditioning, power windows and locks, and a CD player.
    • 2.5GT: Adds the turbocharged engine, sport-tuned suspension, alloy wheels, sport seats, and upgraded interior trim.
    • 2.5GT Limited: Includes leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats, a sunroof, and automatic climate control.

The GT models also came with a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission, while the 2.5i mainly came with a 4-speed automatic but a 5 speed manual was optional. The wagon versions offered increased cargo space and versatility. The Legacy offered a well rounded package for buyers looking for reliability and performance.

2005 Subaru Legacy Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2005
Make Subaru
Model Legacy
Trim -
Style 5-Door
Type Wagon
Category Compact Car
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City LAFAYETTE
Dimensions
Doors 5-Door
Curb Weight 1496.85 kg
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height 147.57 cm
Overall Length 479.3 cm
Overall Width 172.97 cm
Wheelbase Length 266.95 cm
Standard Seating 5
Engine & Performance
Engine 2.5L H4
Engine Size 2.5L
Engine Cylinders 4
Transmission 4-Speed Automatic
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds 4-Speed
Drivetrain All-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System 4-Wheel ABS
Steering Type Rack & Pinion
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) $22,445 USD
Invoice Price $20,747 USD
Delivery Charges $575 USD

Vehicle History Report

Vehicle
Specifications
Ownership
History
All History
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
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Accident
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Theft
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Open Lien
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Past Sale
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Odometer
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Market Price
Analysis

What Problems Does the 2005 Subaru Legacy Have?

The 2005 Subaru Legacy is generally considered reliable, but several issues are frequently reported. The most common is head gasket failure, particularly in the 2.5i models. This can lead to coolant leaks and overheating. Oil leaks are another recurring problem, often from valve cover gaskets or the rear main seal. Turbo models (2.5GT) can experience turbocharger issues and increased oil consumption.

Rust is a concern, especially in areas with road salt. Check the undercarriage, wheel wells, and body panels for corrosion. Some owners have reported issues with the automatic transmission, including rough shifting or slipping. It's important to have the transmission fluid regularly serviced. There have been recalls related to airbags and fuel system components, so check the vehicle's VIN for outstanding recall work. Long-term, the suspension components may wear out, requiring replacement of struts, bushings, and ball joints. Regular maintenance and addressing minor issues promptly can help extend the vehicle's lifespan.

How long will the 2005 Subaru Legacy last?

A well-maintained 2005 Subaru Legacy can easily reach 200,000 miles or more. With consistent oil changes, timely repairs, and preventative maintenance, many owners report over 15 years of service. However, neglect can significantly shorten its lifespan. Head gasket issues, if ignored, can lead to catastrophic engine damage. Rust can compromise structural integrity. The automatic transmission requires regular servicing to avoid problems. The key to long-term durability is proactive maintenance and addressing issues as they arise.
Positive Owner Reviews
Lana
This vehicle was purchased for me by my dad. He went thru Lyman Motors. They did an engine rebuild on this vehicle. So, even though its 15 years old, and has quite a few miles, it was for a fair price! And, with the engine rebuilt I know it will go for another 100k miles easy! Lyman made this buying experience so much fun for us! He is such a wondering person! I recommend Lyman Motors to everyone whether you are looking for a new or used car, he will help you find exactly what you are looking for!
smittysautoinc
Strong motor for a 2.5L 4 cyl, runs great, smooth ride, comfortable and practical interior. Second Subaru we have owned. It is important to keep up with the gaskets as they tend to leak given time. Easy fix.
SubieDevotee
Fun from day 1, I loved this car! Comfortable seats, great audio system and instrument cluster. Cabin lighting is perfect?convenient and not distracting when it?s needed most
Negative Owner Reviews
WorldPh3nom
Good car. Bought used with 162k miles and besides the suspension being worn and the fact there was practically no antifreeze in the radiator when I drove the car Home, it was a pleasant drive.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2005 Subaru Legacy offered relatively basic tech for its time. Standard entertainment features included a CD player and AM/FM radio. Higher trims might have included a premium sound system with a CD changer. Driver-assistance features were limited, with no advanced systems like lane departure warning or adaptive cruise control available.

Safety features included standard anti-lock brakes (ABS) and front airbags. Side airbags were optional on some trims. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) gave the 2005 Legacy good ratings in frontal offset and side impact crash tests. NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) ratings vary depending on the specific test, but generally, the Legacy performed well.

Optional features included a sunroof, leather seats, and automatic climate control. The 2.5GT models added sporty features like alloy wheels and sport seats. While not cutting-edge by today's standards, the Legacy offered a solid set of safety features for its era. Its appeal primarily lies in its all-wheel-drive system and overall reliability rather than advanced technology.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Obsidian Black Pearl
Atlantic Blue Pearl
Regal Blue Pearl
Crystal Gray Metallic
Savannah Green Metallic
Ruby Red Pearl
Blaze Yellow
Satin White Pearl
Silver Stone Metallic
Interior Colors
Beige
Gray
Black

2005 Subaru Legacy Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2005 Subaru Legacy ranged from approximately $20,000 to $30,000, depending on the trim level and options. On the used market, prices vary widely based on condition, mileage, and location. Expect to find them anywhere from $3,000 to $8,000 typically. Depreciation has been significant, but the Legacy's all-wheel-drive system and reputation for reliability help maintain some resale value. Factors affecting resale include the presence of rust, the condition of the engine and transmission, and whether it has a clean title and service history. GT models generally command a higher price.

2005 Subaru Legacy Cost of Ownership

The 2005 Subaru Legacy falls into the moderately priced category for ownership. Insurance costs are generally average for its class. Fuel economy is reasonable but not exceptional, especially with the turbocharged engine. Maintenance can be more expensive than some competitors due to the all-wheel-drive system and potential for head gasket issues. Repairs can be costly, especially for specialized components. Overall, it's not the most economical car to own, but with proactive maintenance, costs can be managed.

2005 Subaru Legacy Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity 63.97 liters
City Mileage 9.35 km/l
Highway Mileage 12.76 km/l

2005 Subaru Legacy Safety Rating

NHTSA
Side Driver Rating
Frontal Passenger Rating
Rollover Rating
Side Rear Passenger Rating
Frontal Driver Rating
IIHS
Rear Crash Protection/Head Restraint Ratings Acceptable
Moderate Overlap Front Test Results Good
Side Impact Test Results Marginal

2005 Subaru Legacy Recalls & Defects

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:hoses, Lines/Piping, and Fittings
Recall date 2013-03-27
Recall no. 13v110000
Source NHTSA
Summary Subaru IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2005-2009 Outback and Legacy Vehicles Manufactured From December 2003, Through April 2009 and Currently, or Formerly, Registered IN Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, NEW Hampshire, NEW Jersey, NEW York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and THE District OF Columbia. Salt Water Could Splash ON THE Brake Lines Through A GAP IN THE Fuel Tank Protector, Resulting IN Excessive Corrosion OF THE Brake Lines.
Consequence Brake Line Corrosion MAY Result IN Brake Fluid Leakage. Fluid Leakage MAY Result IN Longer Distances Being Required TO Slow or Stop THE Vehicle, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Subaru Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect THE Vehicles. IF NO Brake Fluid Seepage IS Observed, THE Affected Area Will BE Rustproofed With Anti-Corrosion Wax. IF Brake Fluid Seepage IS Observed, THE Brake Lines Will BE Replaced Followed BY Rustproofing With Anti-Corrosion Wax. These Services Will BE Performed Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON MAY 30, 2013. Owners MAY Contact Subaru AT 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's Recall Campaign Number IS Wqg-43.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags
Recall date 2014-12-01
Recall no. 14v763000
Source NHTSA
Summary Subaru OF America, Inc. (Subaru) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2003-2004 Legacy and Outback Vehicles, and 2003-2005 Baja Vehicles Sold, or Ever Registered, IN Geographic Locations Associated With High Absolute Humidity. Specifically, Vehicles Sold, or Ever Registered, IN Puerto Rico, Hawaii, THE U.s. Virgin Islands, Guam, Saipan, American Samoa, Florida and Adjacent Counties IN Southern Georgia, AS Well AS THE Coastal Areas OF Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. Upon Deployment OF THE Passenger Side Frontal AIR Bag, Excessive Internal Pressure MAY Cause THE Inflator TO Rupture.
Consequence IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Passenger’s Frontal AIR Bag, THE Inflator Could Rupture With Metal Fragments Striking THE Vehicle Occupants Potentially Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Subaru Will Notify Their Owners. Dealers Will Replace THE Passenger AIR BAG Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON January 15, 2015. Owners MAY Contact Subaru AT 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's Number FOR This Recall IS Wqp-51. Note: This Recall Supersedes Recall 14v-471. This Recall HAS Been Partially Superseded BY 15v-323. All 2005 Model Year Subaru Legacy and Outback Vehicles Will NOW BE Repaired Under Recall 15v-323.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:hoses, Lines/Piping, and Fittings
Recall date 2014-06-10
Recall no. 14v311000
Source NHTSA
Summary Subaru OF America, Inc. (Subaru) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2005-2009 Outback and Legacy, 2008-2011 Impreza and 2008-2014 Impreza Wrx/Sti, and 2009-2013 Forester Vehicles, Currently, or Formerly, Registered IN Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, NEW Hampshire, NEW Jersey, NEW York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and THE District OF Columbia. Salt Water Could Splash ON THE Brake Lines Through A GAP IN THE Fuel Tank Protector, Resulting IN Excessive Corrosion OF THE Brake Lines. Note That Affected Vehicles NOT Currently, or Formerly Registered, IN THE Salt Belt States Identified Above ARE Eligible FOR Repair, AT NO Cost TO THE Customer, Upon Request.
Consequence Brake Line Corrosion MAY Result IN Brake Fluid Leakage. Fluid Leakage MAY Result IN Longer Distances Being Required TO Slow or Stop THE Vehicle, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Subaru Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Test THE Brake System BY Depressing THE Brake Pedal and Inspecting FOR Brake Fluid Leaks. IF NO Brake Fluid Seepage IS Observed, THE Affected Areas Will BE Rustproofed With Anti-Corrosion Wax. IF Brake Fluid Seepage IS Observed, THE Brake Lines Will BE Replaced Followed BY Rustproofing With Anti-Corrosion Wax. These Services Will BE Performed Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began July 2014 and Second Notifications Will RUN Through November 2014. Owners MAY Contact Subaru AT 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's Recall Campaign Number IS Wqk-47. Note: This Recall Supersedes Recall 13v-110 Which Applied TO Certain 2005-2009 Legacy/Outback Vehicles. Vehicles That Were Remedied Under THE Previous Campaign Still Need Additional Areas Rust-proofed.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2015-05-28
Recall no. 15v323000
Source NHTSA
Summary Subaru OF America, Inc. (Subaru) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2003-2004 Subaru Baja Vehicles Manufactured January 22, 2003, TO July 21, 2004, 2004-2005 Impreza Vehicles Manufactured January 28, 2003, TO MAY 31, 2005, 2003-2008 Subaru Legacy Vehicles Manufactured January 22, 2003, TO MAY 2, 2008, 2003-2008 Subaru Outback Vehicles Manufactured February 18, 2003, TO MAY 5, 2008, and 2005 Saab 9-2x Vehicles Manufactured February 11, 2004, TO March 17, 2005. THE Affected Vehicles ARE Equipped With A Passenger Side Frontal AIR BAG That MAY BE Susceptible TO Moisture Intrusion Which, Over Time, Could Cause THE Inflator TO Rupture Upon ITS Deployment.
Consequence IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Passenger's Frontal AIR Bag, THE Inflator Could Rupture With Metal Fragments Striking THE Vehicle Occupants Potentially Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Subaru Will Notify Their Owners and General Motors Will Notify Saab Owners. Dealers Will Replace THE Passenger AIR BAG Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Subaru Recall Began ON June 17, 2015. Owners MAY Contact Subaru Customer Service AT 1-800-782-2783. THE Saab Recall Began ON July 27, 2015. Owners OF Saab Vehicles MAY Call 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's Number FOR This Recall IS Wqr-53. Note: THE Recall Completely Supersedes Recall 14v-399 (Wql-48) and Partially Supersedes Recall 14v-763 (Wqp-51) IN That Model Year 2004 Through 2005 Subaru Impreza and Model Year 2005 Saab 9-2x Vehicles ARE NOW Only Part OF This Campaign. Note: ON December 18, 2015 Subaru Informed Nhtsa OF AN Expansion OF This Recall TO Include Certain Model Year 2003-2004 Subaru Baja, 2003-2008 Subaru Legacy and 2003-2008 Subaru Outback Vehicles.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Electrical System:ignition:switch
Recall date 2019-04-11
Recall no. 19v297000
Source NHTSA
Summary Subaru OF America, Inc. (Subaru) IS Recalling Certain 2009-2013 Forester Vehicles, 2008-2011 Impreza Vehicles, 2008-2014 WRX Vehicles, 2005-2014 Legacy Vehicles, 2005-2014 Outback Vehicles and 2006-2008 Tribeca Vehicles Equipped With A Mechanical KEY Ignition Switch Installed AS A Replacement Part. THE Ball Spring Inside THE Switch MAY Break, Reducing THE Strength OF THE Ignition Switch. IF This Occurs, THE Weight ON THE KEY Ring and Certain Road Conditions Could Cause THE Ignition Switch TO Move OUT OF THE RUN Position TO THE Accessory Position, Turning OFF THE Engine.
Consequence THE Engine Turning OFF Unexpectedly CAN Increase THE Risk OF A Crash. IF A Crash Occurs Under This Condition, THE AIR BAG MAY NOT Deploy, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy Subaru Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect THE Ignition Switch, Replacing THE Ignition Switch, IF Necessary, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began MAY 10, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Subaru Customer Service AT 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's Number FOR This Recall IS Wuf-91.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2020-01-02
Recall no. 20v001000
Source NHTSA
Summary Subaru OF America, Inc. (Subaru) IS Recalling Certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (Sti Included), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2x Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN THE States OF Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, THE Northern Mariana Islands (saipan), and THE U.s. Virgin Islands or "zone A." These Vehicles HAD Their Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Inflators Previously Replaced Under A Prior Recall Using Inflators OF THE Same Design. THE Inflators MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO High Absolute Humidity, Temperature and Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Subaru Will Notify Their Owners. General Motors Will Notify Saab Owners. Dealers Will Replace THE Passenger AIR BAG Inflators With Alternate Inflators, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began January 7, 2020. Subaru Owners MAY Contact Subaru Customer Service AT 1-844-373-6614. Saab Owners MAY Contact THE Saab Customer Assistance Center AT 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's Number FOR This Recall IS Tka-20.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2020-01-02
Recall no. 20v003000
Source NHTSA
Summary Subaru OF America, Inc. (Subaru) IS Recalling Certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (Including Sti), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2x Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN THE States OF Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, NEW Hampshire, NEW York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "zone C." These Vehicles HAD Their Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Inflators Previously Replaced Under A Prior Recall Using Inflators OF THE Same Design. THE Inflators MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO High Absolute Humidity, Temperature and Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Subaru Will Notify Their Owners. General Motors Will Notify Saab Owners. Dealers Will Replace THE Passenger AIR BAG Inflators, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began January 7, 2020. Subaru Owners MAY Contact Subaru Customer Service AT 1-844-373-6614. Saab Owners MAY Contact THE Saab Customer Assistance Center AT 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's Number FOR This Recall IS Tkc-20.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2020-01-02
Recall no. 20v002000
Source NHTSA
Summary Subaru OF America, Inc. (Subaru) IS Recalling Certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (Including Sti), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2006 Saab 9-2x Vehicles Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN THE States OF Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District OF Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, NEW Jersey, NEW Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "zone B." These Vehicles HAD Their Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Inflators Previously Replaced Under A Prior Recall Using Inflators OF THE Same Design. THE Inflators MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO High Absolute Humidity, Temperature and Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Subaru Will Notify Their Owners. General Motors Will Notify Saab Owners. Dealers Will Replace THE Passenger AIR BAG Inflators, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began January 7, 2020. Subaru Owners MAY Contact Subaru Customer Service AT 1-844-373-6614. Saab Owners MAY Contact THE Saab Customer Assistance Center AT 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's Number FOR This Recall IS Tkb-20.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:side/Window
Recall date 2004-06-09
Recall no. 04v274000
Source NHTSA
Summary THE Left and Right Side Curtain AIR Bags IN Certain Vehicles Involved IN This Campaign MAY NOT Fully Deploy Rapidly Enough When Activated IN A Side Impact Collision. During A Side Impact Test Conducted BY THE Insurance Institute FOR Highway Safety (Iihs), THE Test Results Indicated That There WAS A Difference Between THE Iihs Test Results and THE Result OF Side Impact Tests Conducted BY Fhi.
Consequence This MAY Result IN Failure TO Provide THE Intended Head Protection, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury TO A Seat Occupant.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Left and Right Side Curtain AIR BAG Modules. THE Recall Began ON June 11, 2004. Owners Should Contact Subaru AT 1-800-782-2783. .
Notes Subaru Recall NO. Wwr02.customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).

2005 Subaru Legacy Warranty

Basic
Original warranty 36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty 60 months / 60,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired
Rust
Original warranty 60 months / unlimited miles
Estimated remaining Expired

2005 Subaru Legacy Insurance

Insurance for a 2005 Subaru Legacy is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Wagon with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2005 Subaru Legacy Compare to Other Wagon?

The 2005 Subaru Legacy competed with the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Mazda 6, and Nissan Altima. Compared to the Accord and Camry, the Legacy offered standard all-wheel drive, a unique selling point. The Mazda 6 provided sportier handling, while the Altima offered more powerful engine options (excluding the GT). In terms of reliability, the Camry and Accord generally have a slight edge, though a well-maintained Legacy can be dependable. Feature-wise, the Legacy was competitive, though some rivals offered more advanced tech options.

Price-wise, the Legacy was generally comparable. If all-wheel drive isn't a necessity, the Honda Accord or Toyota Camry are excellent alternatives, known for their reliability and lower running costs. The Mazda 6 is a good choice for those prioritizing driving dynamics. If you want something similar but maybe more modern, consider a newer Subaru Impreza or Mazda 3 with AWD as they offer more current tech and similar practicality.

Ranks #467 Sedan

1 2023 Toyota Camry (5.0★)
2 2023 Honda Accord (0.0★)
3 2023 Lexus ES (0.0★)
4 2024 Subaru Legacy (5.0★)
5 2022 Mazda MX-30 (5.0★)
6 2024 BMW M3 (0.0★)
7 2023 Ford Mustang (5.0★)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT (0.0★)
9 2023 Audi A3 (0.0★)
10 2023 Chevrolet Camaro (5.0★)
11 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid (0.0★)
12 2023 Nissan Altima (4.0★)
467 2005 Subaru Legacy (4.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2005 Subaru Legacy a Good Wagon?

The 2005 Subaru Legacy is ideal for buyers needing all-weather capability and appreciating a sporty driving experience in the GT models. It's worth buying as a used car if thoroughly inspected for head gasket issues, rust, and oil leaks. The GT trim is desirable for enthusiasts, while the 2.5i offers a more economical option. Prioritize a well-maintained example with a complete service history. For those living in areas with snow or frequent rain, the Legacy's all-wheel drive makes it a compelling choice. Otherwise, consider other options that may offer better long-term reliability and lower running costs.

2005 Subaru Legacy Owner Reviews

4.43
Consumer Rating, Based on 48 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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Lana on June 17, 2020

What a wonderful birthday present!

This vehicle was purchased for me by my dad. He went thru Lyman Motors. They did an engine rebuild on this vehicle. So, even though its 15 years old, and has quite a few miles, it was for a fair price! And, with the engine rebuilt I know it will go for another 100k miles easy! Lyman made this buying experience so much fun for us! He is such a wondering person! I recommend Lyman Motors to everyone whether you are looking for a new or used car, he will help you find exactly what you are looking for!

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JRC1015 on December 9, 2019

Best car I have ever owned!!!

If you need lots of room and back seats that fold completely, then the subaru legacy wagon is the right car for you! I have had mine for 5 year now and I'm the second owner of the car. It has already had a new engine put in shortly before I purchased it. The Legacy wagon has never let me down and always keeps on going. I highly recommend The Subaru Legacy Wagon

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smittysautoinc on May 24, 2019

Proven reliable during the short time we've had it

Strong motor for a 2.5L 4 cyl, runs great, smooth ride, comfortable and practical interior. Second Subaru we have owned. It is important to keep up with the gaskets as they tend to leak given time. Easy fix.

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cespi on March 27, 2019

please stay away from older modelss

i bough this 05 i limited from a private seller who showed me all the service records, but after 8 months of owning it was nothing but nightmare one problem after another till this day i mean car runs well but i gave up not gonna spend anymore money. Sad but true

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long_time_Subaru_owner on November 17, 2018

One of the last over-designed cars

I have had two Subarus, and read an article in Business Week that the Legacy station wagons 2005-2007 were over-designed, and they were right, it drives like a poor man's Porsche, and with very good gas mileage. Only design flaw is the Porsche aspect, the boxer engine means it will need a new gasket if you wish to keep it more than 5 years.

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AWDl0v3R on July 24, 2018

Snow Machine

Awesome car that is reliable if taken care of and is fast from factory, and even quicker when tuned. The car is comfortable and has good features for older technology. The best mechanics are the Symetrical All-wheel drive system with a center & rear differential and the VF40 turbo which is bigger than the WRX STi. Overall, great all season vehcile for practicality, as well as, some fun on backroads.

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SubieDevotee on July 20, 2018

Added fun to commuting !

Fun from day 1, I loved this car! Comfortable seats, great audio system and instrument cluster. Cabin lighting is perfect?convenient and not distracting when it?s needed most

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Shazzam121 on March 21, 2018

I'm Gonna Miss This Car

Absolutely an excellent vehicle. Mine is a 2.5GT Wagon, and there's nothing like it under $60k. Fast, fun, practical, everything you need rolled into one car.

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Blynn on March 1, 2018

Love Subaru legacy

This is the 3rd used Subaru legacy I've ever bought. I love this car. It needed some work when I bought this used one specifically, but that wasn't because of the car, it was because if the owner before having lack of care for the car. But overall this car is amazing and it's strong! I feel safer in this car than I did in my SUV and my sedan before it. Legacy's are reliable, durable, and all around amazing! Not to mention one of the best cars to own in Colorado.

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Bsburner on January 16, 2018

Most reliable car i have owned!

Purchased this car at 83k miles and drove it to 100k with absolutely no problems! It drives great in the snow and has never had any problems. Definitely the most practical and reliable car I have ever owned.

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Jovan

Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.