Mid-size sedan and wagon, known for AWD and reliability.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Mazda6, Nissan Altima.
Key Features
All Wheel Drive:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system enhances traction and stability in various conditions.
Engine Options:
Choice of reliable naturally aspirated or powerful turbocharged Boxer engines.
Build Quality:
Reputation for durable construction and long-term reliability.
Manual Purpose
Purpose:
To provide Subaru owners and technicians with the authoritative information needed to maintain and repair the 2008 Subaru Legacy to factory specifications.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Coverage Summary:
Comprehensive repair, maintenance, and troubleshooting for all systems of the 2008 Subaru Legacy.
5-star (driver), 5-star (passenger) - for both sedan and wagon.
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for both sedan and wagon).
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System.
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution.
Brake Assist:
Standard Brake Assist.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Standard front, side-curtain, and front-seat side airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point height-adjustable front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, rear 3-point seat belts.
Child Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD player, optional MP3 playback, SiriusXM Satellite Radio readiness, available Harman Kardon premium audio system.
Navigation:
Optional factory-installed GPS navigation system.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS).
Stability Control:
Standard Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC).
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
Standard auxiliary audio input jack.
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free phone system available on select trims.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change:
Every 3,750 miles (severe conditions) or 7,500 miles (normal conditions), or every 6 months.
Engine Air Filter:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months, or more frequently in dusty conditions.
Cabin Air Filter:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months.
Spark Plugs Ej253:
Every 105,000 miles (Platinum or Iridium).
Spark Plugs Ej255 Ez30D:
Every 60,000 miles (Platinum).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months (Subaru Super Coolant Blue).
Timing Belt:
For EJ engines, timing belt should be replaced every 105,000 miles or 7 years. (Note: EZ30D is a timing chain).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Capacity:
2.5L NA: 4.8 US quarts (4.5 L), 2.5L Turbo: 4.8 US quarts (4.5 L), 3.0L: 6.9 US quarts (6.5 L) with filter change. Use 5W-30 synthetic oil.
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant.
Known Issues
Head Gaskets:
While less common than on older Subaru models, head gasket leaks can still occur, particularly on EJ253 engines. Look for coolant loss or white smoke from the exhaust.
Turbo Oil Lines:
On turbocharged models (GT), inspect turbocharger oil feed lines for leaks or clogging, as this can lead to turbo damage.
Power Steering Pump:
Occasional leaks or noise from the power steering pump.
Cvt Transmission:
Not applicable to this model year; this generation used traditional automatic or manual transmissions.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Subaru Philosophy:
Subaru's heritage is deeply rooted in engineering excellence, particularly with its horizontally opposed Boxer engines and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive systems, emphasizing safety, reliability, and capability.
Model Evolution
Fourth Generation:
The 2008 Subaru Legacy is part of the fourth generation (2004-2009), which introduced significant styling updates, improved chassis dynamics, and enhanced safety features. The 'Baja' wagon styling was a notable characteristic.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (Gunma Prefecture).
Sales Performance:
The Legacy has consistently been a strong performer in its segment, appreciated for its unique engineering and all-weather capability, though often selling in lower volumes than its FWD-biased competitors.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Irok Top Safety Pick:
The 2008 Subaru Legacy, with its strong crash test performance, was often considered a Top Safety Pick by organizations like the IIHS.
Consumer Reports:
Consistently ranked well by Consumer Reports for reliability and owner satisfaction, particularly the AWD system.