🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Legacy

Model Years Covered:

1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999

Trim Levels Covered:

L, GT, Outback

Generations Covered:

Second Generation (BD/BG/BK)

Chassis Codes:

BD (sedan), BG (wagon)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Mid-size sedan and wagon, often considered a competitor to Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Ford Taurus in its era.

Value Proposition:

Known for its standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system (on most models), boxer engines, and robust build quality, offering a blend of utility and comfort.

Unique Selling Points:

Standard AWD, Boxer engine layout contributing to a lower center of gravity, practical wagon (Outback) variant offering increased ground clearance.

Manual Strength:

The manual is positioned as the 'best bang for the buck' for DIY enthusiasts, covering a wide range of essential repair and maintenance tasks for a significant period of the Subaru Legacy's second generation.

Target Audience:

Subaru Legacy owners (1992-1999) looking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, seeking cost-effective solutions and in-depth technical guidance.

📋 Manual Details

General Coverage:

Comprehensive service and repair information

Specific Systems:

Engine, Brakes, Intercooler, Turbocharger, Exhaust, Transmission, Drivetrain (Center & Rear Differentials), Suspension, Steering, Electrical Systems, Wiring Diagrams

Estimated Page Count:

High (exact count not specified, but described as comprehensive)

Type:

Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine removal/installation, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valve train, timing belt, oil pump, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system components (injectors, pump), intake and exhaust manifolds, emissions controls (including turbocharger and intercooler specific components).

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, starter motor, alternator, ECU (Engine Control Unit) diagnostics and operation, sensors (MAF, O2, TPS, knock, etc.), wiring diagrams for engine management.

Transmission Drivetrain:

Manual Transmission (MT): clutch, gearbox, shifter mechanism, driveshafts, front/rear axle components. Automatic Transmission (AT): torque converter, transmission operation, fluid, valve body, electronic controls. All-Wheel Drive (AWD) System: center differential operation, viscous coupling unit, driveshafts, rear differential.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake system components, hydraulic system, brake fluid, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) troubleshooting and operation, parking brake, brake rotor and pad replacement, caliper service.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, springs, control arms, bushings), wheel bearings, alignment specifications. Steering system (rack and pinion, power steering pump, hoses, tie rods), steering column.

Body Chassis:

Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, seat removal, bumpers, chassis components, corrosion protection.

Electrical Lighting HVAC:

Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, dashboard illumination, power windows/locks, fuses, relays, battery, charging system, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system operation and service (compressor, evaporator, condenser, blower motor, refrigerant). Detailed wiring diagrams for all circuits.

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, coolant flushes, spark plug replacement, brake pad/rotor replacement, tire rotation, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspections and replacement.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides for common drivability issues, electrical faults, braking problems, suspension noise, and HVAC malfunctions. Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation (where applicable).

Repair Rebuild:

Step-by-step instructions for engine component removal and installation, transmission service, brake caliper and rotor replacement, suspension component replacement, steering rack overhaul, exhaust system repair, turbocharger and intercooler servicing, electrical component repair.

Technical Data:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities and types, wiring diagrams, diagnostic procedures, component testing methods, alignment angles.

Depth:

Intermediate to Advanced. Covers routine maintenance, detailed diagnostics, and component-level repairs and rebuilds.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

Windows, Linux, macOS

Searchability:

Searchable text content (typical for well-produced PDFs)

Quality:

High quality, intended for printing detailed diagrams and text.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

EJ22

Configuration:

Naturally Aspirated Boxer-4 (Horizontally Opposed)

Displacement:

2.2 Liters (2212 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

96.9 mm x 75.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.5:1

Horsepower Peak:

Approx. 130-135 hp @ 5500-5600 rpm (varies by year and specific model)

Torque Peak:

Approx. 137-140 lb-ft @ 4400-4800 rpm (varies by year and specific model)

Fuel System:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)

Ignition System:

Distributorless ignition system (DIS) on later models, distributor on earlier models.

Engine Code:

EJ25D

Configuration:

Naturally Aspirated Boxer-4 (Horizontally Opposed)

Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2457 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

99.5 mm x 80.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.5:1

Horsepower Peak:

Approx. 165-167 hp @ 5600-5800 rpm

Torque Peak:

Approx. 170-172 lb-ft @ 4000-4400 rpm

Fuel System:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)

Ignition System:

Distributorless ignition system (DIS)

Engine Code:

EJ22T (for GT models)

Configuration:

Turbocharged Boxer-4 (Horizontally Opposed)

Displacement:

2.2 Liters (2212 cc)

Horsepower Peak:

Approx. 190 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque Peak:

Approx. 194 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Induction:

Garrett T25 turbocharger, intercooler

Fuel System:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Type:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission with Electronic Control

AWD System:

Full-time All-Wheel Drive (Symmetrical AWD) with viscous coupling center differential.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (Subaru Extra-S or equivalent)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Subaru ATF-HP or Dexron III/Mercon equivalent

Front Differential Fluid:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90

Rear Differential Fluid:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4,600 mm (181.1 in)

Width:

Approx. 1,700 mm (66.9 in)

Height:

Approx. 1,400 mm (55.1 in)

Length:

Approx. 4,580 mm (180.3 in)

Width:

Approx. 1,710 mm (67.3 in)

Height:

Approx. 1,490 mm (58.7 in) / 1,595 mm (62.8 in) for Outback

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2,620 mm (103.2 in)

Front Track:

Approx. 1,470 mm (57.9 in)

Rear Track:

Approx. 1,460 mm (57.5 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1350-1500 kg (2976-3307 lbs) depending on body style and powertrain.

Cargo Volume:

Significant cargo space, especially with rear seats folded down in wagon models.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

NHTSA crash test data for this era is less comprehensive than modern standards. Generally considered a safe vehicle for its time, but specific 5-star ratings are unlikely to be widely available.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on most models, particularly higher trims and later years.

AWD:

Standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD) provides enhanced traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags standard from the mid-1990s onwards. Side airbags were not common on this generation.

Seat Belts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.

Child Anchors:

LATCH/ISOFIX child seat anchor points were not standard on this generation, though some vehicles may have had provisions.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette player, CD player optional on some models/trims. Speaker configurations vary.

Dashboard:

Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, and temperature. Warning lights for various systems.

Cruise Control:

Electronically controlled cruise control available on most trims.

Traction Control:

Traction control systems were not common or standard on this generation.

Auxiliary Ports:

No factory auxiliary audio inputs (e.g., 3.5mm jack, USB) or Bluetooth connectivity.

Power Features:

Power windows, power door locks, and power mirrors were available on higher trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (severe vs. normal). Refer to manual for exact specifications.

Engine Oil Filter:

Replace with every oil change.

Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (typically 30,000 miles or sooner if dirty).

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 30,000 miles (copper core) or 60,000 miles (platinum/iridium, if applicable).

Coolant Flush:

Every 24,000-30,000 miles or 24 months. Use Subaru Super Coolant or equivalent.

Timing Belt:

Crucial maintenance item. Replace every 60,000-100,000 miles or 5-7 years, as it's an interference engine. Also recommended to replace water pump and tensioner/idlers at the same time.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Manual: Inspect every 30,000 miles, change as needed. Automatic: Change fluid and filter every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on driving conditions.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 24-36 months. Use DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Engine Oil:

API Service SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific climate recommendations).

Coolant:

Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or a silicate-free, OAT (Organic Acid Technology) coolant. Do not mix coolant types.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron III/Mercon or Subaru's specified power steering fluid.

Head Gaskets:

A common issue on EJ25D (2.5L) engines, particularly early ones, leading to coolant leaks or combustion gases entering the cooling system. The manual will detail diagnosis and repair procedures.

Timing Belt Tensioner:

Tensioner failure can lead to the timing belt jumping or breaking, causing severe engine damage. It's critical to replace the tensioner and idler pulleys with the timing belt.

Oxygen Sensors:

Can become fouled and lead to poor fuel economy and check engine lights.

Automatic Transmission Behavior:

Some AT models may exhibit shifting issues or torque converter shudder. Fluid changes and filter replacements are key maintenance points.

Cvt:

This generation of Legacy did NOT feature CVT transmissions; they used traditional automatic or manual gearboxes.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Identity:

Subaru is known for its horizontally opposed 'Boxer' engines and its pioneering adoption of All-Wheel Drive (AWD) as standard across its model range, emphasizing safety, durability, and all-weather capability.

First Generation:

The first generation Subaru Legacy (1989-1994) established the model's reputation for AWD and reliability.

Second Generation Introduction:

The second generation (BD/BG/BK) debuted in late 1993 for the 1994 model year, evolving the design with a more aerodynamic and rounded appearance. It continued the core Subaru tenets of Boxer engines and AWD.

Outback Introduction:

The 'Outback' variant, a lifted and more rugged version of the Legacy wagon, was introduced for the 1995 model year, creating the crossover utility vehicle segment.

Engine Updates:

The 2.5-liter EJ25D engine was introduced, offering more power. The turbo EJ22T continued in GT models for enhanced performance.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured by Subaru Corporation in Japan.

Production Period For This Manual:

Covers the entire second generation lifecycle from 1992/1993 to 1999. Note: Some early 1992/1993 models may carry over some first-gen styling cues or components, but the bulk of this generation is BD/BG chassis.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver:

Subaru Legacy models, particularly GT and Outback variants, have historically been well-regarded by automotive publications like Car and Driver for their practicality, performance (especially AWD), and value.

Consumer Reports:

Consumer Reports typically rated Subaru vehicles highly for reliability and owner satisfaction during this period, although specific model year ratings would vary.

Emissions Standards:

Vehicles conform to U.S. Federal and California emissions standards for the respective model years. The manual will cover diagnostic procedures for emissions-related fault codes.