2013 Subaru Legacy with 100K miles
Asked by DrDreSJ Nov 21, 2020 at 12:19 AM about the 2013 Subaru Legacy 2.5i Limited AWD
Question type: Shopping & Pricing
I am thinking of getting my teen a 2013 Subaru Legacy limited with 100K
miles, asking price is about $10K. Any trouble spots to watch out for? Will it
be too high maintenance for him? It has 1 owner and no accidents.
I read about older Subarus with head gasket and CVT issues.
6 Answers
The CVT issues apply to this car but not the head gaskets. As always have it inspected before you buy. Some Subies are oil burners which the mechanic may not be able to diagnose. Use 5W30 oil and the problem should be minimal.
With all the great deals going on with new subarus this month, I am ready to throw in the towel on the used vehicle search! Thank you for the input.
I bought new because used prices are just too darn high. Good luck.
TheSubaruGuruBoston answered 3 years ago
2013 is the biggest financial risk because the failure rate of the CVT is fairly high, AND other years won't work, so you're left chasing a good used 2013 clone. It's a $2.5k gamble. I chose that route for my daughter's '13 Limited last month, as otherwise it's a strong runner. The hope is that the "new-used" CVT will last at least a few more years. Tough call for a child's vehicle. If AWD isn't de riguer I recommend a simple Mazda3 as a very reliable, durable, fine-handling option. Disclaimer: I trade in and service 2016-2019 OBs and Legacys in the Boston area that I modify with STi suspension parts for vastly improved handling, and have provided specimens to clients in about 28 States and 8 countries over 37 years. Right now I have a trio of 2017-2018 loaded Limited OBs in the $21-23k range, but am always seeking fine off-lease Premiums in the high teens. RSVP if I can help. Ern 781 483-3922 RSVP if I can be helpful
And do Impreza's have the same issues? He's looking at a 2011 with 114k miles.
I guess it just seems silly/crazy to buy a used Subaru at this point if they have such issues.