Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size sedan and wagon.
Brand Identity:
Subaru is known for its standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, boxer engines, and a reputation for reliability and safety.
Key Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Taurus, Nissan Maxima, Mazda 626.
AWD Standard:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive on most models, providing enhanced traction and stability.
Boxer Engine:
Horizontally opposed ('boxer') engine design, offering a lower center of gravity and smoother operation.
Durability:
Reputation for robust engineering and long-term durability.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, engine control, fuel system, cooling system, lubrication system, ignition system, emissions control.
Drivetrain Systems:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission, all-wheel drive system (AWD), drive shafts, axles, differentials.
Chassis Systems:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS), wheels and tires.
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, power door locks, HVAC controls, audio system, wiring diagrams.
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, airbags, bumpers.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tune-ups.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation (where applicable).
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, reassembly, and installation.
Overhaul Procedures:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement.
Adjustment Procedures:
Valve adjustments, brake adjustments, clutch adjustments.
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on required specialized tools and diagnostic equipment for accurate repairs.
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for all fasteners and critical components.
Clearances And Tolerances:
Specifications for critical component clearances and operating tolerances.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical system wiring schematics for easy tracing and troubleshooting.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage instructions for Subaru-specific special tools.
Searchability:
Likely searchable text within the PDF for efficient information retrieval.
Print Quality:
Designed for printing, allowing users to print specific sections or the entire manual.
Binding For Printed Version:
Assumed to be a professional binding (e.g., comb, spiral, perfect binding) if purchased as a physical copy.
Paper Quality For Printed Version:
Likely on durable paper suitable for workshop environments.
Engine Code 1:
EJ22 (2.2L)
Engine Configuration 1:
2.2L Naturally Aspirated SOHC Boxer-4
Horsepower 1:
Approximately 135 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque 1:
Approximately 145 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Fuel Delivery 1:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)
Engine Code 2:
EJ25D (2.5L DOHC)
Engine Configuration 2:
2.5L Naturally Aspirated DOHC Boxer-4
Horsepower 2:
Approximately 165 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque 2:
Approximately 162 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery 2:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)
Engine Management:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) based, likely with OBD-II compliance (check specific VIN for exact implementation).
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed manual transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed automatic transmission with lock-up torque converter
AWD Integration:
Integral All-Wheel Drive system (Active AWD for automatic transmission, viscous coupling center differential for manual).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, viscosity typically 75W-90.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF, Dexron II or equivalent (refer to manual for precise specification).
Wheelbase:
Approximately 104.3 inches (2649 mm)
Length:
Approximately 186.8 inches (4745 mm) for sedan, 189.6 inches (4816 mm) for wagon
Width:
Approximately 69.1 inches (1755 mm)
Height:
Approximately 55.9 inches (1420 mm) for sedan, 57.1 inches (1450 mm) for wagon
Curb Weight:
Varies by trim and drivetrain, typically 3000-3300 lbs (1360-1500 kg)
NHTSA Ratings 1997:
Specific 1997 NHTSA ratings may not be readily available or comparable to modern standards. Refer to general safety features.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard.
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seat belts.
Structure:
Reinforced body structure for impact protection.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available or standard on higher trims.
Audio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette player, possibly a CD player on higher trims. Speaker configurations varied by trim.
ABS Availability:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an available option or standard on higher trim levels, assisting with steering control during hard braking.
OBD Interface:
On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD-II) port likely present, supporting emission and engine diagnostics, though the implementation might be early-stage for the '97 model year.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 to 7,500 miles (5,000 to 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (consult manual for exact recommendation).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for EJ series engines. Typically every 60,000 to 100,000 miles (96,000 to 160,000 km) or 5-7 years. Failure causes catastrophic engine damage due to interference design.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual; typically around 30,000 to 60,000 miles.
Coolant Flush:
Typically every 30,000 to 60,000 miles or 2-4 years.
Engine Oil Specification:
Refer to manual for viscosity grade (e.g., 5W-30, 10W-30) and API service category (e.g., SG or higher).
Coolant Specification:
Subaru Genuine Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant (refer to manual for exact type and mixture).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Head Gasket Leaks:
A common issue on EJ series engines, particularly the 2.5L DOHC (EJ25D), leading to coolant leaks or internal contamination. The manual will detail procedures for diagnosis and replacement.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gaskets and oil pan gaskets can degrade over time and leak.
Suspension Wear:
Wear in bushings, ball joints, and struts is common due to age and mileage.
Cv Axle Boots:
Torn CV axle boots can lead to joint failure.
Subaru Origins:
Subaru is the automotive division of Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries), a Japanese transportation conglomerate with a history dating back to aircraft manufacturing.
Legacy Introduction:
The Subaru Legacy was introduced in 1989 as a successor to the Subaru Leone. The 1997 model year represents the second generation (BD/BG/BK chassis) of the Legacy, produced from 1993 to 1999.
Second Generation Features:
This generation saw a significant redesign with a larger and more aerodynamic body, improved interior space, and refined mechanicals, including the introduction of the more powerful 2.5L DOHC engine.
Production Location:
Primarily manufactured in Japan.