1993 Subaru Legacy Engine cooling Problems
- Complaints
- 17about this part
- Share
- 22%of 77 total for the year
- Median mileage
- —not reported
- Trend
- StableComplaints filed in the last 3 full calendar years are within 25% of the 3 years before.
NHTSA recorded 17 complaints about the engine cooling of the 1993 Subaru Legacy, 22% of the 77 complaints for this model year.
Example complaints
Selected from NHTSA records; personal details are removed. They are consumer reports, not findings.
“Driving on highway at approximately 65mhp when belts began to make noise. Shortly following car loss power, including steering. It was reported by a mechanic that the crankshaft pulley had come loose and the crankshaft had been damaged beyond repair. Car will need small block overhaul or replacement engine to function again.”
NHTSA complaint #751031, filed 2001-08“The engine cuts off while going down the road which causes a total loss of power including steering. After coasting to a stop the car can be immediately restarted. This occurs without warning and at any speed. No increment weather conditions were present. Chances of resulting in a serious accident are very high.”
NHTSA complaint #722710, filed 2000-05“Travelling on interstate 66 - for approximately 1/2 hour to 45 minutes.....at night.....instrument panel lights all on and engine lost compression....able to pull to side of the road......checked oil....fine.....waited 15-20 minutes. Car started up and ran fine rest of trip home about 2 hours.”
NHTSA complaint #719820, filed 2000-03“Travelled open road for two hours. Traveling up a mountain with car loaded for camping, and 3 passengers. Car lost compression and white smoke not steam was pouring from underneath hood. Pulled to side of the road, turned off car and popped hood. Smoke was coming from the black box on top of the engine compartment. Waited 15-20 minutes for smoke to evaporate. Started car and continued 10 - 20 minutes to destination. No further mishaps.”
NHTSA complaint #719819, filed 2000-03“Traveled for approximately 1 1/2 hours at speeds between 45 - 65. Car loaded with equipment and passengers. Traveling up mountain. Car lost compression, white smoke began coming out from hood. Pulled to side of road. Popped hood. Smoke appeared to be coming from back of engine. Allowed car to rest for 15-20 minutes. Did not proceed up mountain as we were only 1/2 way up the mountain. Turned around to head home. Car ran fine going home. Mechanic thoroughly checked out vehicle with diagnostic and visual check. …”
NHTSA complaint #719822, filed 2000-03Related service bulletins
- 10198749Jun 7, 2021This bulletin is to advise of SOAâs revised catalytic converter recycling program shipping procedure.
Engine cooling: other model years
| Year | Complaints | Share of year |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 1 | 17% |
| 2021 | 1 | 3% |
| 2016 | 1 | 1% |
| 2015 | 1 | 1% |
| 2013 | 2 | 3% |
| 2011 | 6 | 4% |
| 2010 | 4 | 3% |
| 2009 | 1 | 2% |
| 2007 | 2 | 6% |
| 2006 | 4 | 5% |
| 2005 | 29 | 16% |
| 2004 | 2 | 4% |
| 2003 | 9 | 15% |
| 2002 | 9 | 17% |
| 2001 | 11 | 14% |
| 2000 | 16 | 17% |
| 1999 | 11 | 12% |
| 1998 | 30 | 26% |
| 1997 | 31 | 22% |
| 1996 | 22 | 18% |
| 1995 | 17 | 9% |
| 1994 | 4 | 7% |
| 1993 | 17 | 22% |
| 1992 | 4 | 7% |
| 1991 | 6 | 8% |
| 1990 | 2 | 2% |
Other parts of the 1993 Subaru Legacy
13 complaintsAir bags
10 complaintsTransmission and drivetrain
9 complaintsTires
8 complaintsBrakes
7 complaintsVisibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors)
6 complaintsVehicle speed control
4 complaintsElectrical system
3 complaintsExterior lighting
2 complaintsFuel system
2 complaintsSteering
2 complaintsBody and structure
2 complaints
← All problems reported for the 1993 Subaru Legacy
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 27, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
To check a specific vehicle for open recalls, use its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Methodology