I have a 97 Legacy L wagon and my tires are rubbing at full compression in the rear. The suspension is super bouncy and clearly close to the end of its life so I want to replace it. I am wondering if coilovers are worth it or should I just get new oem struts? I want to keep close to the same ride height. My budget is pretty tight, but I don't want to buy something and then end up replacing it with something nicer in the future anyway.

no, not worth it.

Just get some KYB's for your model and call it a day.

 

O.

1+ on KYB.

If you have time and search the yards, I've found almost new KYB struts for <$50 each.  Complete, just unbolt and bolt the replacements on.

Has to be your lucky day in the yards.

Yeah- used - if AK has any options up there. Or RA for KYB struts - and you'll need a spring compressor. Pretty sure the good brands don't make (nor maybe anyone at this point) a full front or rear strut assembly for the 90s Legacy. 

Edited November 11, 2025Nov 11 by wtdash