AI-generated · grounded in NHTSA data
Reliability & 5-year cost of ownership — 2008 Subaru Legacy
Overall rating NHTSA-grounded
Average
Estimated 5-year repair + maintenance cost: $3,500–$7,000
The 2008 Subaru Legacy has an average reliability rating due to common airbag and braking issues. Recalls highlight airbag inflator malfunctions and potential brake line corrosion. Electrical problems also persist, with some ignition switches and air injection pump relays failing.
Most-common failures
| Part | Typical mileage | Cost range | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airbag inflator | 70,000–100,000 miles | $300–$600 | very common |
| Brake lines | 60,000–90,000 miles | $200–$500 | common |
| Ignition switch | 50,000–80,000 miles | $150–$300 | common |
| Air injection pump relay | 40,000–70,000 miles | $100–$250 | occasional |
| Cylinder head | 80,000–120,000 miles | $800–$1,200 | occasional |
Scheduled maintenance to budget
Routine items every owner should plan for.
- Oil change every 5,000 miles
- Brake fluid change every 2 years
- Tire rotation every 6,000 miles
- Coolant flush every 5 years
- Replace spark plugs every 60,000 miles
Warning signs to watch for
Symptoms that signal a major upcoming repair.
- Unresponsive airbag light
- Brake fluid leaks
- Engine oil leaks
- Overheating engine
- Intermittent electrical failures
Generated by gpt-4o on 6/17/2026. Cost ranges are conservative estimates that account for typical regional variation.