Subaru Legacy Differential problem

Sounds like the clutch packs in the transmission are going. On the AT model, they control power distribution between the front/rear axles. I have the 5MT tranny, and it uses a similar process, but different components so another person might be able to explain it better.

I've had the same issue on my 95 LS. The dealer states that this is a normal characteristic of the AWD system but I was skeptical. Then I checked the air pressure in my tires and one was low. With the correct pressure, the symptoms went away so I'd start there. Also, have your tires been rotated on a regular basis and/or are the front tires more worn than the rear? The difference in circumference due to wear on the front tires can also cause the binding feel in turns.

I had the same thing on mine. It needed to be driven a few miles before I could reproduce the symptoms. It was a bad center differential which had to be replaced. $1000 bucks. Good luck.

- Manuel.

Sounds like it could be the center diff. I think they have limited slip center diffs and limited slip rear diffs. Try changing the gear lube, maybe even to a synthetic.

Changing the gear lube won't help the viscous center diff. It is a sealed package with a different type of fluid inside. Unless there is more than one type of center diff?