Positioning:
Mid-size sedan/wagon known for AWD and practicality in its segment.
Key Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Mazda 626, Ford Taurus, Nissan Altima.
Differentiating Features:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) across most trims, boxer engine configuration, robust build.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, internal components, timing, valve train
Engine Management:
Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, sensors, ECU diagnostics
Transmission:
Automatic and Manual Transmission service, overhaul, components, AWD system
Drivetrain:
Front and Rear differentials, drive axles, CV joints, propeller shaft
Suspension:
Front and Rear suspension components, alignment, shock absorbers, springs
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, tie rods, rack and pinion
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, disc and drum brake service, bleeding, components
Electrical System:
Charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, body electronics
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system service and repair
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, seating, upholstery
Chassis:
Frame, body mounting, structural components
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, fluid checks, filter replacements, tire rotations
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common issues, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component replacement and repair
Rebuilds:
Detailed procedures for engine and transmission overhauls
Adjustments:
Alignment, brake adjustments, clutch adjustments
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all systems
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, resistance readings
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Target Audience:
Professional Technicians and Experienced DIYers
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed Manual Transmission (MT)
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (AT)
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (Active AWD for automatic, viscous center coupling for manual)
NHTSA Front Driver Side Impact 1995 1997:
5-star (for sedans)
NHTSA Front Passenger Side Impact 1995 1997:
4-star (for sedans)
ABS:
Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Front Airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seatbelts
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months (depending on oil type and driving conditions)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 105,000 miles or 7 years (crucial for EJ series engines due to interference design)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 60,000 - 100,000 miles (depending on plug type)
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended (check specific engine and climate)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant
Transmission Fluid Atf:
Subaru ATF-HP or equivalent Dexron-III/Mercon compatible fluid
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil
Ej25D Headgaskets:
The 2.5L DOHC EJ25D engine (Phase I) is known for potential head gasket failures, especially if not properly maintained. This is a common repair.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gaskets and oil pan gaskets can leak over time.
ABS Sensors:
ABS wheel speed sensors can fail, leading to ABS warning lights.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings and ball joints can wear out, leading to knocking sounds or poor handling.
Subaru Heritage:
Subaru, a division of Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries), has a long history in aviation and automotive manufacturing, known for its boxer engines and Symmetrical AWD systems.
Second Generation Launch:
The 1995 model year marked the introduction of the second generation (BD/BG/BK chassis) Legacy, a significant redesign from the first generation.
Key Updates Within Generation:
The 2.5L DOHC EJ25D engine was introduced in 1996, replacing the less powerful 2.2L engine in many trims and offering improved performance. Styling updates were also made over the years.
Production Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Often rated as average to good for reliability by publications like Consumer Reports during its production years, with some models receiving praise for AWD performance and durability.
Car And Driver Contender:
Frequently appeared on Car and Driver's 10Best lists in previous generations and was a solid contender in the mid-size segment.
