🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Legacy / Liberty

Generation:

III (BH/BP)

Production Years Covered:

1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003

Chassis Codes:

BH5, BH9, BHC, BE5, BE9, BEE

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Mid-size Sedan/Wagon (often competing in AWD sedan segment)

Target Audience:

Families, individuals seeking reliable AWD transportation, those appreciating Subaru's rally heritage.

Key Competitors:

Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Mazda 6, Ford Mondeo/Fusion, Volkswagen Passat.

Drivetrain:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on most variants).

Engine Options:

Horizontally opposed (Boxer) engines.

Body Styles:

Sedan (BE/BH) and Sport Wagon (BH5/BH9/BHC).

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable File (likely PDF)

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (typically 1000+ pages for full workshop manuals)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine overhaul, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, timing belt/chain, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection system.

Engine Performance:

Engine tuning, emissions control, turbocharger systems (where applicable).

Transmission Manual:

Clutch system, manual gearbox overhaul, shift mechanisms.

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission overhaul, valve body, torque converter, transmission control module (TCM).

Drivetrain:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, differentials (front, center, rear), driveshafts, CV joints.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension geometry, struts, shocks, springs, control arms, sway bars, bushings.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc, ABS), brake calipers, rotors, pads, brake lines, parking brake.

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter motor, ignition system, lighting, power windows, mirrors, locks, horns.

Engine Control System:

ECU (Engine Control Unit), sensors (MAF, MAP, O2, TPS, CKP, CMP), actuators, fuel delivery, ignition timing.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, structural components, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant service, blower motor, climate control unit.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system, seatbelt mechanisms, ABS control module.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil change, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, transmission fluid change, differential fluid change.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, error code interpretation, wiring diagrams for troubleshooting.

Component Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for removing, inspecting, repairing, and reinstalling major components.

Engine Rebuild:

Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, inspection of internal components, and reassembly with torque specifications.

Transmission Overhaul:

Comprehensive guide to automatic and manual transmission disassembly, parts replacement, and reassembly.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting using wiring diagrams, multimeter usage, sensor testing, and control module diagnostics.

Bodywork And Interior:

Panel replacement, trim removal, glass installation, and minor body repair techniques.

Alignment And Suspension Work:

Wheel alignment procedures and specifications, suspension component replacement.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive workshop-level detail, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), potentially OBD-II scanner usage, and specialized Subaru diagnostic procedures.

Torque Specifications:

Detailed torque specifications for all critical fasteners across various systems.

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, crucial for diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Likely PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Typically text-searchable, allowing for quick access to specific topics.

Illustration Quality:

Illustrated with clear diagrams and schematics.

Binding Method:

N/A (for downloadable format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (for downloadable format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Codes And Displacement:

EJ20 (2.0L Turbocharged), EJ20 (2.0L Naturally Aspirated - less common in export markets), EJ22 (2.2L Naturally Aspirated - less common), EJ25 (2.5L Naturally Aspirated), EJ25 (2.5L Turbocharged - GT/STI variants).

Ej25 Na Horsepower:

Approx. 165-170 hp @ 5600 rpm

Ej25 Na Torque:

Approx. 166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Ej20 Turbo Horsepower:

Approx. 250-280 hp (GT/STI variants)

Ej20 Turbo Torque:

Approx. 240-260 lb-ft (GT/STI variants)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Port Injection (SPI).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane minimum, higher recommended for turbo models).

Cylinder Arrangement:

Horizontally Opposed (Boxer)

Valvetrain:

DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft), 4 valves per cylinder.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission (5MT).

Optional Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT).

AWD System Integration:

Integrated with viscous coupling center differential in manual, electronically controlled center differential in automatic.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Subaru ATF-HP or equivalent Dexron III compatible fluid.

Manual Transmission Capacity:

Approx. 2.3 liters (2.4 US quarts).

Automatic Transmission Capacity:

Approx. 3.7 liters (3.9 US quarts) for refill, 7.0 liters (7.4 US quarts) for total capacity.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2634 mm (103.7 in)

Length Sedan:

Approx. 4745 mm (186.8 in)

Length Wagon:

Approx. 4660 mm (183.5 in)

Width:

Approx. 1730 mm (68.1 in)

Height:

Approx. 1435 mm (56.5 in) for sedan, 1445 mm (56.9 in) for wagon

Cargo Volume Sedan:

Approx. 0.43 m³ (15.2 cu ft)

Cargo Volume Wagon:

Approx. 0.94 m³ (33.2 cu ft) with rear seats up

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1390 kg - 1550 kg (3064 lbs - 3417 lbs) depending on configuration.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by model and region, typically around 1900 kg.

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x100 mm

Standard Tire Size:

205/55R16, 215/45R17 (on higher trims/GT models)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:

4-star (driver), 4-star (passenger) - typical for this era, check specific year/model.

IIHS Crash Test Results:

Varied; some models received 'Good' in frontal offset, but side impact performance might be lower.

Anti Lock Braking System:

Standard on most models.

All Wheel Drive:

Standard, providing enhanced traction and stability.

Traction Control System:

Optional on some models, standard on performance variants.

Airbags:

Frontal airbags for driver and passenger, optional side airbags.

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/CD players, often with optional premium sound systems. Basic cassette players might be present on early models.

Display Technology:

Basic digital displays for climate control and radio, no advanced touchscreen or navigation systems standard.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims.

Anti Lock Brakes:

Mentioned in safety, but considered a key active technology feature.

Auxiliary Inputs:

Unlikely to have standard AUX or USB inputs; aftermarket solutions would be required.

Remote Keyless Entry:

Available on higher trim levels.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil And Filter Change:

Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific conditions).

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or at 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Cabin Air Filter:

Replace annually or every 15,000 miles (24,000 km).

Spark Plugs:

Iridium-tipped plugs: 100,000 miles (160,000 km). Platinum-tipped plugs: 60,000 miles (96,000 km). Check manual for specific engine/plug type.

Timing Belt:

Critical component for EJ engines. Replace every 60,000 - 105,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) or 7-10 years. Consult manual for precise interval and potential catastrophic failure if it breaks.

Engine Coolant:

Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent phosphate-free OAT coolant. Capacity: Approx. 7.5 liters (7.9 US quarts).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Power Steering Fluid:

Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III compatible ATF.

Head Gasket Failures:

While less prevalent than on earlier EJ25D engines, EJ251/253 engines can still develop coolant leaks from head gaskets. Look for external coolant leaks or milky oil.

Automatic Transmission Issues:

Early 4EAT transmissions can experience wear and eventual failure, often manifesting as slipping or delayed engagement. Regular fluid changes are crucial.

Cv Axle Boots:

Torn CV axle boots can lead to grease loss and subsequent damage to the CV joints, especially on AWD vehicles with frequent turns.

Oil Leaks:

Common areas for leaks include valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and the oil pressure switch.

Rear Wheel Bearing Noise:

Can develop humming or grinding noises from worn rear wheel bearings.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Core Values:

Emphasis on safety, reliability, AWD capability, and a connection to motorsports.

Legacy Third Generation Introduction:

Introduced in 1998 (Japan) / 1999 (North America), based on the new platform (BD/BG for Gen II, then BH/BE for Gen III).

Platform Development:

The BH/BE platform represented a significant redesign, offering improved rigidity, styling, and interior space.

Facelift And Updates:

A minor facelift occurred around 2001/2002, with styling revisions and potential updates to features and engine management.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Japan (Gunma Prefecture).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Often rated average to above average for reliability, particularly in AWD performance, though specific model year ratings should be consulted.

Insurance Institute For Highway Safety:

Participated in IIHS testing, results for this generation generally fell within expected safety standards of the era.