🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Legacy

Year:

2005

Chassis Code:

BP/BL

Platform:

Subaru Front-engine, All-wheel-drive platform

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size Sedan and Wagon

Target Audience:

Consumers seeking reliable, AWD-equipped vehicles with practical styling and a focus on safety.

Key Competitors:

Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Mazda6, Volkswagen Passat

Drivetrain Advantage:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) across most trims, a significant differentiator.

Engine Philosophy:

Horizontally opposed ('boxer') engines known for their low center of gravity and smooth operation.

Design Language:

Functional and understated design, with a focus on practicality and durability.

Manual Objective:

To provide comprehensive technical information for diagnosis, repair, and maintenance of the 2005 Subaru Legacy.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Repair and Service for Subaru Legacy 2005

Secondary Coverage:

Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Wiring Diagrams, Specifications

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 2000+ pages (typical for a full factory service manual)

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System (ECU), Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System

Transmission:

Manual Transmission (MT), Automatic Transmission (AT), Drivetrain (AWD System), Clutches, Differentials

Suspension Steering:

Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Steering System, Wheel Alignment

Brakes:

Front Brakes, Rear Brakes, Parking Brake, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Brake System Hydraulics

Electrical:

Body Electrical System, Powertrain Electrical System, Chassis Electrical System, Lighting, Instrumentation, HVAC Controls, Audio System, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) / Airbags, ECU/ECM Diagnostics and Repair, Wiring Diagrams

Body Chassis:

Body Construction, Doors, Windows, Roof, Bumpers, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Chassis Components

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning System

Maintenance:

Scheduled Maintenance (Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks), Tune-ups, Belt Replacement, Spark Plug Replacement

Repair:

Component Removal and Installation, Major Component Overhaul (Engine, Transmission), Suspension Component Replacement, Brake Component Service, Electrical Component Repair

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting Guides, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) Interpretation, Fault Finding Procedures, Circuit Diagnosis

Specifications:

Torque Specifications, Fluid Capacities, Electrical Specifications, Diagnostic Parameters, Component Dimensions

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive Electrical Schematics for all systems

Depth:

Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds and advanced electrical diagnostics)

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Typically searchable text for easy keyword finding

Quality:

High resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or sections

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

EJ253 (2.5L SOHC)

Engine Type 1:

Naturally Aspirated Boxer-4

Displacement 1:

2.5 Liters (2498 cc)

Bore X Stroke 1:

99.5 mm x 80.0 mm

Compression Ratio 1:

9.7:1

Horsepower 1:

165 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque 1:

166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine Code 2:

EJ255 (2.5L Turbocharged DOHC - GT models)

Engine Type 2:

Turbocharged Boxer-4

Displacement 2:

2.5 Liters (2498 cc)

Horsepower 2:

210 hp @ 5600 rpm (GT Manual), 206 hp @ 5600 rpm (GT Automatic)

Torque 2:

230 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (GT Manual), 227 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (GT Automatic)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Recommended Octane Rating:

87 Octane (2.5i), 91 Octane recommended for GT models

Ignition Type:

Distributorless Electronic Ignition (Coil-on-Plug)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-Speed Manual Transmission (MT)

Transmission Type Optional:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (AT) with Sportshift®

Drivetrain Configuration:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) standard on all models

AWD System Type:

Viscous coupling limited-slip center differential (MT) / Electronically controlled multi-plate clutch (AT)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

SAE 75W-90 GL-5 Gear Oil (check manual for specific Subaru specs)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Subaru ATF-HP (or equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 187.6 inches (Sedan) / 188.4 inches (Wagon)

Width:

Approx. 69.7 inches

Height:

Approx. 57.1 inches (Sedan) / 58.7 inches (Wagon)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 104.0 inches

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 5.7 inches

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,300 - 3,500 lbs (varies by trim and body style)

Cargo Volume Sedan:

Approx. 14.7 cu ft

Cargo Volume Wagon:

Approx. 37.7 cu ft (rear seats up), 70.7 cu ft (rear seats folded)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

5 Stars

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:

4 Stars

IIHS Frontal Offset:

Good

IIHS Side Impact:

Good

Active Safety Systems:

Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)

Passive Safety Systems:

Front Airbags (Driver and Passenger), Front Side-Impact Airbags, Side-Curtain Airbags (available on some trims), Three-Point Seatbelts with Pretensioners, Crumple Zones

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Base models featured AM/FM stereo with CD player. Higher trims offered optional CD changer and premium audio systems. Navigation was not widely available.

Driver Assistance Features:

ABS, Traction Control, Vehicle Dynamics Control (standard on some trims, optional on others).

Connectivity Features:

Auxiliary audio input jacks became more common. Bluetooth integration was not standard on this model year.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), or 7,500 miles/12 months with synthetic oil (check owner's manual for specific recommendations).

Engine Air Filter:

Replace every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed.

Cabin Air Filter:

Replace every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or annually.

Spark Plugs:

Iridium-tipped spark plugs typically have a service interval of 60,000 - 100,000 miles.

Timing Belt Or Chain:

This generation (EJ253/EJ255) uses a timing belt. Recommended replacement interval is typically 105,000 miles or 7 years.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 (Synthetic recommended for optimal performance and protection)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.8 US quarts (4.5 liters) with filter change (for 2.5L engines)

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or a compatible silicate-free, long-life antifreeze/coolant.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid

Power Steering Fluid:

Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or DEXRON-III (check manual for specific Subaru recommendations)

Head Gaskets:

While less prevalent than on earlier EJ engines, head gasket leaks can still occur, particularly on turbocharged models under high stress. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.

Oil Consumption:

Some EJ engines can exhibit increased oil consumption with age; regular checks are advised. Manual covers oil consumption diagnosis.

Catalytic Converter:

Premature failure of catalytic converters can occur due to various engine issues. Manual provides diagnosis for exhaust system.

Wheel Bearings:

Front wheel bearings are a common wear item that may require replacement. Manual covers bearing replacement procedures.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Origin:

Founded in 1917 as Fuji Heavy Industries, changed name to Subaru Corporation in 2017. 'Subaru' is the Japanese name for the Pleiades star cluster.

Model Introduction:

The Subaru Legacy was first introduced in 1989 as a replacement for the Subaru Leone.

Fifth Generation Intro:

The 2005 model year marked the introduction of the fifth generation Legacy (chassis code BP/BL), which ran from 2003 to 2009 in most markets (later in North America).

Design Changes 2005:

While the 2005 model continued the fourth-generation platform, it received minor styling updates and feature enhancements compared to earlier models in its generation.

Production Location:

Primarily manufactured in Japan (Gunma Plant).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Top Safety Pick History:

The Legacy platform generally received good safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA during its generation.

Consumer Reports Reliability History:

Consumer Reports ratings for this era of Legacy varied, with some model years showing average to below-average reliability, often citing issues with the AWD system and minor electrical components. The manual is crucial for addressing specific potential issues.