Positioning:
The Subaru Legacy Outback for this period was a pioneering vehicle, blending the comfort of a sedan with the capability of an all-wheel-drive wagon, carving out a niche in the emerging crossover/SUV market.
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles like the Toyota Camry Wagon, Honda Accord Wagon, and early iterations of compact SUVs. Its standard AWD offered a distinct advantage in adverse weather conditions.
Unique Selling Points:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, horizontally opposed 'boxer' engines, practical wagon/SUV-like utility, robust build quality.
Regions:
North America (USA and Canada)
Type:
Official Factory Service Manual / Repair Workshop Manual
Os Compatibility:
Windows 95/98/ME/XP/Vista/7/8/8.1/10, Linux, macOS, iOS, Android
Powertrain:
Engine (EJ22, EJ18), transmission (manual and automatic), drivetrain (AWD system)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (front discs, rear drums/discs), wheels, tires
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, glass
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, charging system, ignition system, starting system, accessories, diagnostics
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems
Emissions:
Emission control systems, diagnosis and repair
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tune-ups
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake system overhaul, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting common issues, symptom-based diagnosis, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) where applicable, component testing
Assembly Disassembly:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for removing and installing major components and sub-assemblies
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, electrical values
Depth:
Comprehensive coverage from basic maintenance to advanced engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Format Details:
Searchable PDF for easy navigation and information retrieval. Allows for printing of specific sections or the entire manual.
Quality:
High-resolution scans ensuring clarity of text, diagrams, and illustrations, suitable for professional use.
Paper Type:
Not Applicable (Digital Format)
Engine Code Displacement:
EJ22 (2.2L SOHC) and EJ18 (1.8L SOHC)
Horsepower Ej22:
Approximately 110 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque Ej22:
Approximately 131 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Horsepower Ej18:
Approximately 95 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque Ej18:
Approximately 105 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
System:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Type:
Pressurized liquid cooling system
Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Distributor-based ignition (depending on specific year/model variant)
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
AWD System:
Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system with viscous coupling center differential (or electronic controls on later models within this range).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-5 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 (check manual for specific capacities and approved brands)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF-HP (or equivalent Dexron II/III, consult manual for exact specification and capacity)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 104.3 inches (2649 mm)
Length:
Approximately 187.8 inches (4770 mm)
Width:
Approximately 67.3 inches (1709 mm)
Height:
Approximately 61.6 inches (1565 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3100-3300 lbs (1406-1497 kg), varies by trim and drivetrain.
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not comprehensively rated by modern standards, but considered robust for its era.
Braking System:
Front ventilated discs, rear solid discs or drums (depending on trim). Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags were becoming standard or optional during this period.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seatbelts.
Oil Change:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (whichever comes first), or 7,500 miles/6 months with synthetic oil (consult specific manual for confirmation).
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or approximately every 30,000 miles.
Spark Plugs:
Replace approximately every 60,000-100,000 miles, depending on type (copper vs. platinum).
Timing Belt:
Crucial: Subaru EJ series engines (EJ22, EJ18) are typically interference engines. Timing belt replacement is critical, usually recommended every 60,000 miles or 4 years. Failure to do so can result in catastrophic engine damage.
Engine Oil:
API SJ or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (check owners manual for specific temperature range viscosity)
Coolant:
Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Head Gaskets:
While less prevalent than on later EJ series engines, head gasket leaks can occur. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.
Cooling System:
Age-related degradation of hoses, radiator, and water pump can lead to leaks or overheating. Manual covers inspection and replacement.
Automatic Transmission:
Early automatics can sometimes exhibit harsh shifting or slipping due to wear. The manual provides diagnostic steps.
Heritage:
Subaru, a division of Fuji Heavy Industries, has a long history rooted in aviation, which influenced their focus on boxer engines and all-wheel-drive technology.
Legacy Introduction:
The Subaru Legacy was introduced globally in 1989 as a replacement for the Subaru Leone. The Outback variant, initially a trim level, evolved into its own distinct model by the mid-1990s, but this manual covers the early 'raised wagon' concept within the Legacy line.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan.
