Three problems related to engine cooling system have been reported for the 2002 Subaru Legacy. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2002 Subaru Legacy based on all problems reported for the 2002 Legacy.
Car had been parked for 2 1/2 days. On cold start it made a horrible noise, check engine light came on and car died. I towed it to an auto repair shop. They said noise was internal motor noise. I authorized r&r of the oil pan and the found the #3 rod bearing spun. This vehicle has never been abused nor neglected and I have service records showing every service done on time. All oil changes were done every 3500 miles. Also. . At 92k miles my car developed a head gasket leak. Subaru has a warranty extension for 99-2002 Subaru Legacy headgaskets up to 8 years or 100,000 miles. Subaru declined coverage on my vehicle due to VIN # being outside of VIN # group they had extended.
Engine began leaking coolant at an accelerated level. Online research yielded a campaign for repairs that extends the warranty of the known issue. The wwp-99 campaign coverage was denied by the manufacturer.
Coolant leak. Dealer unsuccessfully attempted to seal. Dealer replaced one of two head gaskets($1328. 00). Dealer denied any recall. Found Subaru service program wwp-99 on internet, same model year, engine and problem. Dealer and Subaru are denying any responsibility saying car not included in VIN range.