Product Name:
Subaru Legacy 1989-1994 Workshop Service Repair Manual
Vehicle Generation:
First Generation
Chassis Codes:
First generation (1989-1994): BC, BF, BJ, BK, BM, BN, BR, BS, BT, BU, BV, BW, BX, BY, BZ
Positioning:
The Subaru Legacy of this era was positioned as a practical, reliable, and often value-oriented mid-size sedan and wagon, known for its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system and Boxer engines, appealing to buyers prioritizing all-weather capability and durability.
Competitors:
Competed against models like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Maxima, Mazda 626, and Ford Tempo/Taurus. Its AWD was a significant differentiator.
Differentiators:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, horizontally-opposed (Boxer) engine configuration, durable build quality, spacious interior for its class, available turbocharged GT models.
Years Covered:
1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994
Regions Covered:
Global (specifics may vary by market, manual covers common configurations)
Estimated Page Count:
Varies significantly by specific model and engine; typically 1500-3000+ pages for a complete workshop manual set.
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
PDF (Digital Download)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical (all variants), Fuel system, Ignition system, Exhaust system, Engine control systems (ECU), Automatic Transmission (AT), Manual Transmission (MT), Drivetrain (AWD system components)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), Steering system, Brake system (front and rear disc/drum), Wheel alignment
Electrical:
Starting and charging system, Lighting system, Ignition system, Wiper and washer system, Horn, Power windows, Mirrors, Seats, Instrument cluster, Audio system wiring, Engine Control Module (ECM) and related sensors, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) wiring (if equipped)
Body:
Exterior body panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Interior trim, Glass, Seats, Restraint systems (seat belts), HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, Oil and filter changes, Fluid checks and replacements, Spark plug replacement, Belt inspection and replacement, Brake pad/shoe replacement, Tire rotation and balancing
Repair:
Engine rebuilds, Transmission overhaul, Brake caliper/rotor replacement, Suspension component replacement (shocks, struts, control arms), Steering rack repair/replacement, Electrical component diagnosis and replacement, Body panel repair and replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, Symptom-based diagnostics, OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics) code reading and interpretation (if applicable), Electrical circuit testing, Component testing procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete component overhauls. Assumes a competent technician with general automotive knowledge.
Engine Codes:
EJ22, EJ25 (Naturally Aspirated and Turbocharged variants)
Ej22 Horsepower:
Approximately 110-130 hp (depending on exact year and emissions controls)
Ej22 Torque:
Approximately 125-135 lb-ft
Ej25 Naturally Aspirated Horsepower:
Approximately 165 hp
Ej25 Turbocharged Horsepower:
Approximately 200-220 hp (GT models)
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Multi-point injection (MPI)
Configuration:
Horizontally-Opposed (Boxer) 4-Cylinder
Displacement:
2.2 Liters (EJ22), 2.5 Liters (EJ25)
Block Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Head Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Timing Drive:
Timing Belt
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual (standard on many trims)
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic (optional on most trims)
Drivetrain:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (Standard on most models, some base models might have been FWD, confirm with VIN)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (verify with manual for specific grades)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF-HP or equivalent (verify with manual for specific grades)
Body Styles:
4-Door Sedan, 5-Door Wagon
Wheelbase:
Approximately 101.4 inches (2575 mm)
Length:
Approximately 179.7 inches (Sedan), 181.7 inches (Wagon) (4565 mm / 4615 mm)
Width:
Approximately 67.9 inches (1725 mm)
Height:
Approximately 55.1 inches (Sedan), 58.3 inches (Wagon) (1400 mm / 1480 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3000-3400 lbs (1360-1540 kg), depending on body style and equipment
NHTSA Ratings:
Not extensively rated by NHTSA for this era compared to modern standards; refer to specific recall data and safety bulletins.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some trims, particularly later models and higher trims.
AWD Traction:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive provides enhanced traction and stability in various conditions.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard from ~1990/1991 onwards. Passenger airbag became available on higher trims later in the generation.
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seat belts (driver and front passenger often with pretensioners).
Audio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette player. Optional CD player. Speaker configurations vary by trim level.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control systems depending on trim. Detailed operation and repair for HVAC components.
Cruise Control:
Electronically controlled cruise control standard on many trims.
ABS:
As mentioned in safety, ABS was an option and a significant electronic safety feature for its time.
Wiring Harnesses:
The manual provides detailed wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, crucial for diagnosing and repairing electrical issues and for aftermarket installations.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Consult the manual for exact specifications.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical: Recommended replacement interval is typically around 60,000 to 100,000 miles or 5-7 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Coolant Flush:
Recommended every 2-4 years or 30,000-60,000 miles.
Transmission Fluid Service:
Automatic: Every 30,000-50,000 miles. Manual: Check and top off as needed, fluid typically long-life but can be changed every 60,000 miles.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 API SH or higher (verify with manual for specific viscosity and API rating)
Engine Coolant:
Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors for Subaru engines. Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (verify with manual for specific type)
Head Gaskets:
While more prevalent in later EJ series engines, early EJ25 engines could experience head gasket issues due to material limitations. This manual will detail the procedures for diagnosis and repair.
Crankshaft Reluctor Ring Wear:
Some models with automatic transmissions may experience issues with crankshaft reluctor rings affecting crank position sensor readings, leading to starting or stalling problems. Covered in diagnostics.
Automatic Transmission Behavior:
Certain early automatic transmissions might exhibit less-than-optimal shifting characteristics or durability; proper fluid maintenance is key.
Exhaust Manifold Cracking:
Cast iron exhaust manifolds can sometimes develop cracks due to thermal cycling, leading to exhaust leaks and ticking noises. Repair or replacement procedures will be detailed.
Rear Main Seal Leaks:
Common on many vehicles of this age, rear main seal leaks can occur. The manual will outline the labor-intensive process for replacement.
Heritage:
Subaru, a division of Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries), has a long history of producing vehicles known for their distinctive engineering, particularly their Boxer engines and All-Wheel Drive systems. This heritage of innovation and robustness is carried into the Legacy.
Generation Intro:
The first-generation Subaru Legacy was introduced in 1989 as a replacement for the Subaru Leone. It was designed to compete in the increasingly popular mid-size sedan and wagon market.
Design Philosophy:
The design emphasized aerodynamics, interior space, and a more refined driving experience compared to previous Subaru models, while retaining core Subaru attributes.
Facelifts:
Received a significant facelift for the 1992 model year, with updated styling, improved interior features, and refinements to the suspension and engine.
Production Period:
1989-1994
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary manufacturing in Japan (Gunma Prefecture).
Car And Driver Ten Best:
While specific year awards may vary, the Subaru Legacy was often recognized for its value, AWD capability, and competent performance, frequently appearing on 'Ten Best' lists or praised in automotive publications of the era.
Consumer Reports:
Consumer Reports ratings for this generation often highlighted its reliability for a Subaru, particularly the EJ22 engine, and its practicality as an AWD vehicle, though some years might show average ratings for certain components.
