🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Legacy

Model Variant:

Liberty (Australian Market Name)

Year:

1992-1994

Chassis Codes:

BD, BG, BK, BJ

Engine Codes Covered:

EJ18, EJ20, EJ22

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size sedan and wagon, known for its standard All-Wheel Drive system and boxer engine configuration.

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, and professional workshops seeking in-depth repair and maintenance information for this generation of Subaru Legacy.

Competitors 1992-1994:

Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Ford Taurus, Mazda 626, Mitsubishi Galant.

Key Differentiators:

Standard AWD, boxer engine layout, robust build quality, reputation for durability, unique styling.

Manual Value:

Provides factory-level accuracy for repairs, maintenance, and diagnostics, saving significant costs compared to dealership servicing. Eliminates subscription or expiry fees.

Vehicle Features:

Available in sedan and wagon body styles. Features Subaru's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive as standard. Offered with various boxer engine options, known for their low center of gravity.

📋 Manual Details

Geographic Coverage:

Global (primarily Australia, North America, Europe)

Trim Levels Covered:

All (e.g., LX, DL, GL, GX, GT, Outback variants)

Estimated Page Count:

1000+

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete disassembly, inspection, repair, and assembly of all engine variants (EJ18, EJ20, EJ22). Includes cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing belt, oil pump, cooling system, lubrication.

Engine Fuel System:

Fuel injection (MPI), fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, EVAP system, fuel tank servicing.

Engine Ignition System:

Spark plugs, ignition coils, distributor (if applicable), ignition timing, ECU control.

Engine Electrical:

Starter motor, alternator, battery, wiring diagrams for engine sensors and actuators.

Transmission Manual:

Complete overhaul, clutch replacement, gear shift mechanism, internal components, fluid specifications and capacities.

Transmission Automatic:

Complete overhaul, torque converter, valve body, planetary gear sets, hydraulic control, fluid specifications and capacities, electronic control unit (ECU) interface.

Drivetrain AWD:

Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system maintenance, center differential, viscous coupling unit, rear differential, driveshafts, CV joints.

Brakes:

Disc brake systems (front and rear), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnosis and repair, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, parking brake system.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems (struts, control arms, ball joints, bushings), alignment specifications, wheel bearing replacement, shock absorber replacement.

Steering:

Power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering rack, tie rods, power steering pump, fluid specifications.

Electrical System:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams, lighting systems, power windows, door locks, wipers, horn, instrument cluster, interior and exterior lighting.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system (refrigerant types, charging, leak detection), heating system, climate control operation, blower motor, evaporator, condenser.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim removal and installation, chassis component replacement.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, fluid level checks and top-offs, tire rotation, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts for common symptoms, fault code interpretation (OBD-I), electrical circuit testing, mechanical component diagnostics.

Component Replacement:

Step-by-step instructions for replacing major components like engines, transmissions, alternators, starters, radiators, fuel pumps, brake calipers.

Engine Rebuild:

Detailed instructions for complete engine disassembly, cleaning, measurement of critical components (e.g., cylinder bore, piston ring gap, bearing clearance), reassembly, and break-in procedures.

Transmission Rebuild:

Comprehensive guides for overhauling both manual and automatic transmissions, including detailed diagrams of internal parts and assembly sequences.

Alignment And Balancing:

Wheel alignment specifications and procedures, wheel balancing instructions.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Schematics for all vehicle electrical systems, troubleshooting steps for electrical faults, testing of sensors and actuators.

Depth:

Extremely High - Covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic procedures.

Diagnostic Tools:

Information relevant for using OBD-I scanners, multimeters, vacuum gauges, compression testers, and specialized Subaru diagnostic tools of the era.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable, enabling quick access to specific information.

Quality:

High resolution, suitable for printing specific pages or the entire manual.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type 18L:

EJ18E - 1.8L SOHC Naturally Aspirated Boxer-4

Engine Type 20L:

EJ20D - 2.0L DOHC Naturally Aspirated Boxer-4 (Common in JDM/AUDM markets)

Engine Type 22L:

EJ22E - 2.2L SOHC Naturally Aspirated Boxer-4 (Common in North American markets)

Engine Type 22L Turbo:

EJ22G - 2.2L DOHC Turbocharged Boxer-4 (Limited availability, e.g., GT models)

Horsepower Ej18:

Approx. 103 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque Ej18:

Approx. 115 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Horsepower Ej20:

Approx. 135 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque Ej20:

Approx. 133 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm

Horsepower Ej22:

Approx. 130 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque Ej22:

Approx. 137 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Horsepower Ej22 Turbo:

Approx. 190 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque Ej22 Turbo:

Approx. 190 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Injection Type:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Octane Rating:

87 (or higher recommended for turbocharged models)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Std:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type Opt:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (with Lock-up Torque Converter)

AWD System:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (clutched center differential or viscous coupling unit depending on transmission/model).

Manual Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios available within the manual for each engine/transmission variant.

Automatic Features:

Electronically controlled, Power/Economy modes on some variants.

📐 Dimensions

Length Sedan:

Approx. 4615 mm (181.7 in)

Length Wagon:

Approx. 4645 mm (182.9 in)

Width:

Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 in)

Height Sedan:

Approx. 1370 mm (53.9 in)

Height Wagon:

Approx. 1495 mm (58.9 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2620 mm (103.2 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1300-1500 kg (2866-3307 lbs), varies by configuration.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by model, typically around 1800-2000 kg.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Crash Test Results:

Ratings vary by model year and specific testing protocols. Information generally available for US-market vehicles.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System available on higher trim levels and as an option.

AWD:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive enhances traction and stability.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags standard on most models from 1992 onwards.

Seatbelts:

Three-point front and rear seatbelts. Pre-tensioners for front seatbelts may be present on later models.

Rollover Protection:

Reinforced chassis and roof structure, particularly on wagon variants.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM cassette player, optional CD player. Speaker configurations vary by trim level.

Climate Control:

Manual climate control systems, with manual or automatic temperature control available on higher trims.

Cruise Control:

Available on most models.

Traction Control:

Limited availability, primarily through ABS systems in some variants.

Connectivity Features:

Basic functionality for the era. No integrated Bluetooth or advanced telematics.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Consult manual for specific driving conditions.

Transmission Fluid Change Manual:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.

Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months. Inspect regularly.

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial maintenance item. Interval typically around 60,000-90,000 miles (96,000-145,000 km). Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or higher. SAE 10W-30 recommended for most climates. Consult manual for climate-specific recommendations.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.0-4.5 US quarts (3.8-4.3 L) with filter change, depending on engine variant.

Transmission Fluid Type Manual:

API GL-5 SAE 75W-90 gear oil.

Transmission Fluid Type Automatic:

Subaru ATF-HP (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon specification fluid).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant (typically 50/50 mix with distilled water).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Head Gasket Leaks:

While less common than in later generations, early EJ series engines can experience head gasket leaks, particularly if overheated. Manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.

Timing Belt Wear:

Regular replacement is critical. Manual provides timing marks and tensioning procedures.

Automatic Transmission Problems:

Potential for wear in older units, particularly with high mileage. Manual details diagnostics and overhaul.

Suspension Component Wear:

Bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends can wear over time, affecting handling. Manual details replacement and alignment.

Radiator Leaks:

Plastic end tanks on radiators can become brittle and leak with age. Manual covers replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Heritage:

Subaru, a division of Fuji Heavy Industries, has a history rooted in aerospace engineering, which influences its unique boxer engine and symmetrical AWD technologies.

First Generation Legacy:

Launched in 1989, the second generation (1990-1994) saw significant styling updates and refinements, including the introduction of the 'Liberty' name in Australia and other markets. This generation also saw the introduction of the turbocharged GT model and the Outback precursor wagon.

Generations Covered:

Specifically covers the second generation (BD/BG chassis) of the Subaru Legacy.

Production Period:

1989-1994 (Second Generation). Manual covers 1992-1994 models.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Japan (Gunma Prefecture).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Ten Best:

The Subaru Legacy (second generation) was frequently recognized by automotive publications like Car and Driver for its handling, AWD capability, and overall value, though specific 'Ten Best' inclusions may vary by year.

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Consumer Reports typically rated Subaru vehicles highly for reliability and owner satisfaction during this period, especially regarding powertrain and AWD systems.