Market Segment:
Mid-size sedan and wagon, known for its standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system and reliability
Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Ford Taurus, Mazda 626
Standard AWD:
The 1997 Legacy was notable for offering standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive across its model range, a significant differentiator.
Subaru Philosophy:
Emphasizes durability, safety, and practicality, appealing to a pragmatic buyer base.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical (EJ22, EJ25), lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions control, engine diagnostics
Transmission Systems:
Manual transmission (M/T), automatic transmission (A/T), clutch, drivetrain, axles, differentials
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension, rear suspension, steering system, wheel alignment
Brake Systems:
Front brakes (disc/ventilated disc), rear brakes (disc), parking brake, ABS (where equipped)
Electrical Systems:
Charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, wipers, power accessories, wiring diagrams
Body Chassis:
Body construction, interior trim, exterior trim, doors, windows, glass, seals, bumpers
Heating Ac:
HVAC system, climate control, refrigerant, diagnostics
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tune-ups
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting, fault codes
Repair Overhaul:
Component removal, installation, disassembly, assembly, rebuilding procedures
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostics (where applicable), sensor testing, actuator testing
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications
Depth:
Comprehensive: from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical system diagnostics and repair
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Boxer-4 (Horizontally-Opposed)
Displacement:
2.2 Liters (2212 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
96.0 mm x 75.0 mm
Horsepower:
135 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque:
145 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Boxer-4 (Horizontally-Opposed)
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2457 cc)
Horsepower:
165 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque:
166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline, 87 octane (minimum recommended)
ECM:
Engine Control Module (ECM) for fuel, ignition, and emissions management
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission (M/T)
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (A/T) with electronic control
Drivetrain:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) standard on all models.
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically Actuated Single Dry Plate Clutch (M/T)
Wheelbase:
104.3 inches (2649 mm)
Length:
185.6 inches (4714 mm) (Sedan), 186.0 inches (4724 mm) (Wagon)
Width:
67.5 inches (1715 mm)
Height:
54.9 inches (1395 mm) (Sedan), 55.7 inches (1415 mm) (Wagon)
Curb Weight Min:
3000 lbs (approx. 1360 kg)
Curb Weight Max:
3300 lbs (approx. 1500 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model, consult specific vehicle VIN
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-star (driver), 4-star (passenger) (for similar models of this era)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models/trims
Traction Control:
Not typically available on this generation
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger front airbags standard
Seatbelts:
Front pretensioner seatbelts, three-point rear seatbelts
Child Seat Anchors:
Not standard in the modern LATCH system, but provisions for seat belt installation exist.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette player with optional CD player. Speaker configurations vary by trim.
Navigation:
Not available from the factory for this model year.
Cruise Control:
Available on most models.
All Wheel Drive:
Standard Symmetrical AWD system provides enhanced traction and stability in various conditions.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (whichever comes first), or 7,500 miles/6 months with synthetic oil.
Coolant Change Interval:
Initial change at 30,000 miles, then every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
30,000 miles for standard plugs; consult manual for specific type.
Timing Belt Replacement:
60,000 miles or 4 years (critical for EJ engines; consult manual for exact interval and procedure for EJ25D).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for climate-specific recommendations)
Transmission Fluid Type Mt:
API GL-5 SAE 75W-90 (or 75W-140 for heavy-duty use)
Transmission Fluid Type At:
Subaru ATF-HP (or Dexron III compatible)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based, long-life coolant (e.g., Subaru Super Coolant or equivalent)
Head Gaskets:
While less prevalent than on later EJ25D engines, early EJ25D engines could experience head gasket failures. The EJ22 is generally very robust.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gaskets and oil pan gaskets can degrade over time, leading to leaks.
Oxygen Sensors:
Oxygen sensors can fail over time, affecting fuel economy and emissions.
Catalytic Converter:
Can become clogged or fail due to age or engine misfires.
Subaru Origin:
Founded in 1953, Subaru (part of Fuji Heavy Industries) is known for its pioneering use of the horizontally-opposed 'boxer' engine and its focus on All-Wheel Drive technology.
Generation:
Second Generation (1995-1999)
Styling:
Introduced a more rounded and aerodynamic design compared to the first generation.
Platform:
Shared platform with the Impreza, but with a longer wheelbase and distinct styling.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (primarily Gunma Prefecture)
Production Years:
1995-1999 (for this generation)
