Replace starter on 98 subaru legacy

My first suspicion would be the Security Control Module. It could be going bad. It controls the Interrupt Relay, which allows the starter to crank. If this is reproducable, looking at the computer parameters when it happens may tell you what is input is missing.

Try turning on the headlamps when it fails and see if they dim when you attempt to start it. If not, probably bad starter solenoid.

Ignition switch is a good place to start, you may want to check the starter itself (PIA to pull and test because of its location), or you can always take it to autozone and have them run an electrical diagnostic (most of them do it for free and it takes 2 minutes), if that checks out, you can be assured it's either the ignition or wiring. Keep us up to date, and good luck.

i suspect either the ignition switch is worn out or the starter.
test the starter first then the ignition switch. both are fairly easy to replace and not too costly. if you are a diy person then do a screw driver starter test. This will determine if the starter works and usually how well. I buy the starter rebuild kits online for $35. The ignition switch is also around the same price and easier to change than the starter. The ignition switch is accessed by removing the lower steering column cover then the two screws for the upper cover. Then unplug the ignition switch then remove the holding screw. sometimes the wiring is taped up carefully remove the tape. when installing the new switch make sure the key is out so that the new switch will align correctly

YOU HAVE THE STARTER SOLENOID CONTACTS BURNT. REPLACE THE SOLENOID, OR STARTER WITH A REBUILD ONE.

Sounds like you could have a faulty switch, but I would check the starter selenoid first. Sometimes when the selenoid goes bad it will behave in the way you describe. If, with your key in the on position, (not on start), you can jump power from the hot wire, (positive), post on your selenoid to the hot wire that goes from the selenoid to the starter and the starter then engages, but doesn't otherwise, it is a selenoid problem. Good Luck! I hope you find this very helpful!

Do you hear a 'click' when the key is turned to start? Have someone try the key while you listen under the hood. It should be the starter solenoid clicking. You need either a test light or voltmeter to test further. One large terminal on the solenoid has the large wire from the battery positive, and should always show voltage/light at all times. Test the other side of the solenoid (large terminal) that is connected to the terminal on the starter motor. It should show light/voltage when the key is turned. If it doesn't, the solenoid must be replaced. If it does show light/voltage, then the starter motor is defective (probably brushes). If you get no click when turning the key, test the small terminal on the solenoid, you should see a voltage/light change when the key is turned. If you see a change, but no click, the solenoid coil is open or the case of the solenoid is not grounding where it is mounted. Try loosening the mounting and re-tighten. If no help, replace the solenoid. If you see no change at the small terminal, remove the wire from it and using a spare piece of wire, touch the small terminal to, first, the large terminal that the battery is connected to, then to the the mounting bolt for the solenoid. If the solenoid is good, the starter should operate with one of these two tests. In that case, the starter position of key switch is open--replace the ignition switch.

Just a sugestion: Replace the relay turns you inition on, usualy in the fuse box or in the engine bay

The starter is separate from the soleniod; It could be a part called the bendix on the starter itself. If you can remove it, take it to a auto parts store- they will check it for free.

I have the same car - same problem. Too hot or too cold and then just another once and while for good measure :(
I've had the battery checked and is good. Is it likely to be the starter?