Market Segment:
Mid-size sedan and wagon, known for its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system.
Key Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Mazda 626, Nissan Altima, Mitsubishi Galant.
Distinguishing Features:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) on most models, Boxer engine configuration, comfortable ride, practical wagon variant.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, engine control systems (ECU), manual transmission, automatic transmission, drive shafts, differentials.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, mirrors, door locks, audio system, climate control, airbags, starter, alternator, battery.
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, bumpers, seats, HVAC system operation and components.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, lubrication, inspections.
Diagnosis And Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common faults, fault codes, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical diagnostic trees.
Repair And Overhaul:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components, engine overhaul procedures, transmission rebuilds, brake component replacement, body panel repair.
Specifications And Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, engine timing, component dimensions.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering all aspects from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced diagnostic procedures and electrical schematics.
Engine Code:
EJ25D (2.5L SOHC), EJ22E (2.2L SOHC)
Engine Type:
Horizontally Opposed (Boxer), Naturally Aspirated
2.5L Ej25D Horsepower:
165 hp @ 5600 rpm
2.5L Ej25D Torque:
170 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
2.2L Ej22E Horsepower:
135 hp @ 5600 rpm
2.2L Ej22E Torque:
138 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane recommended, premium for optimal performance)
NHTSA Driver Front Impact Rating:
Not rated / Available data limited for this year.
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact Rating:
Not rated / Available data limited for this year.
ABS:
Available, typically on higher trims or AWD models.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags standard.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seatbelts.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (whichever comes first).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles or 5 years (critical for EJ25D, interference engine).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API SJ or higher)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (with filter) for 2.2L; 4.8 US quarts (with filter) for 2.5L.
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors), mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF-HP (or DEXRON-III/MERCON compatible)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-5 SAE 75W-90 gear oil.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF-HP or DEXRON-III/MERCON compatible.
Head Gaskets:
The 2.5L EJ25D engine is prone to head gasket failure due to design limitations. Early detection and proper repair are crucial. The manual provides diagnostic and repair procedures.
Oil Leaks:
Common areas for leaks include valve cover gaskets and crankshaft seals.
Idle Control Valve:
Can become dirty or malfunction, leading to rough idle or stalling. Manual includes cleaning and testing procedures.
Brand Focus:
Subaru, a division of Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries), is known for its horizontally opposed Boxer engines and its pioneering use of All-Wheel Drive in passenger vehicles.
Generation Info:
The 1998 Subaru Legacy represents the second generation (1995-1999, chassis codes BD/BG/BK), which saw significant updates in styling, chassis rigidity, and powertrain options. It moved to a longer wheelbase for improved ride and interior space.
Manufacturing Location:
Gunma Prefecture, Japan