Used Subaru Legacy Estate 1998 - 2003 reliability

A full service history is absolutely essential, as you take a big risk buying a car with a less-than-perfect maintenance record. Once you've found the Legacy of your dreams, we'd also recommend a professional mechanical inspection, because this is a complex bit of kit.

Before you call the experts in, though, you should be able to weed out many of the duds yourself. The four-wheel-drive system, engine, gearboxes, axles and suspension are the areas to concentrate on. Be especially vigilant if the car has been fitted with a towbar.

If you're suspicious about potential faults in any of these areas, keep looking. There are enough good used Legacys around for you not to have to take the gamble. Check the bodywork and look underneath for signs of over-enthusiastic off-roading.

Generally, though, a cared-for Legacy will feel solidly screwed together and be capable of notching up a high mileage without getting baggy.