Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size sedan/wagon
Target Audience:
Families, individuals seeking reliable AWD transportation
Key Competitors 1998:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Taurus, Nissan Altima
Unique Selling Proposition:
Standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system across all trims
Drivetrain Feature:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
Engine Feature:
Horizontally-opposed 'Boxer' engine layout
Body Styles:
4-door Sedan, 5-door Wagon
Benefit To Owner:
Empowers owners with the knowledge to perform maintenance and repairs, saving money and extending vehicle life.
Benefit To Mechanic:
Provides accurate, factory-sourced information for efficient and correct repairs.
Engine Mechanical:
Full overhaul, diagnostics, timing belt, cooling system, lubrication
Engine Management:
ECU, sensors (MAF, O2, TPS, CKP, CMP), fuel injection, ignition system, emission controls
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gears, synchronizers, seals, repair procedures
Transmission Automatic:
Torque converter, valve body, solenoids, internal components, fluid service, diagnostics
Drivetrain AWD:
Center differential, viscous coupling unit (VCU), front and rear drive axles, hubs, CV joints
Suspension:
Front struts, rear shocks, control arms, bushings, sway bars, wheel alignment procedures
Brakes:
Front and rear calipers, rotors, brake pads, master cylinder, brake booster, ABS system diagnostics and repair
Steering:
Power steering pump, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, alignment
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter, alternator, lighting, wipers, horn, power accessories
Body And Frame:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass, seals, chassis components, rust repair guidance
HVAC:
Air conditioning system (compressor, refrigerant, evaporator, condenser), heater core, blower motor, climate controls
Interior Trim:
Dashboard, seats, door panels, headliner, console removal and installation
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, air filters, fuel filters
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, head gasket replacement, timing belt replacement
Component Replacement:
Alternator, starter, water pump, fuel pump, injectors, brake calipers, radiators
Calibration And Adjustment:
Throttle position sensor adjustment, idle speed control, ignition timing (if applicable)
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all systems
Depth Level:
Factory Level - Comprehensive
Detail Level:
Step-by-step instructions, torque specifications, special tool requirements, diagnostic charts
Diagnostic Capabilities:
OBD-II diagnostics, sensor data interpretation, fault code interpretation
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
Not rated or limited data available for this model year
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
Not rated or limited data available for this model year
IIHS Ratings:
Not rated or limited data available for this model year
ABS:
Standard on most trims, 4-channel ABS
Airbags Driver:
Standard Dual Front Airbags
Airbags Passenger:
Standard Dual Front Airbags
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seat belts, driver's side pretensioner
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH system not standard on this model year
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (refer to manual for specific conditions)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 90,000 - 105,000 miles or 7 years (crucial for EJ25 engines, critical on EJ22)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or annually
Fuel Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (refer to manual for plug type)
Power Steering Fluid:
Subaru PSF (or equivalent ATF Dexron II/III)
Windshield Washer Fluid:
Water and washer fluid concentrate
Head Gaskets:
Common issue on EJ25D engines, often leading to coolant leaks and overheating. Manual provides diagnostic and replacement procedures.
Viscous Coupling Unit:
VCU can wear out, affecting AWD performance. Manual details inspection and replacement.
Automatic Transmission:
Occasional solenoid issues or internal wear. Manual covers diagnostics and repair.
Oxygen Sensors:
Can fail over time, affecting fuel economy and emissions. Manual guides testing and replacement.
Subaru Legacy Origin:
Subaru's flagship model, introduced in 1989 as a successor to the Subaru Leone.
Second Generation Launch:
The 1998 model is part of the second generation (BD/BG/BK), launched for the 1993 model year.
Key Updates Gen2:
Revised styling, improved interior, introduction of the 2.5L engine and turbo variants, enhanced AWD system.
Production Location:
Gunma Prefecture, Japan
Model Year Production Run:
1998 model year vehicles produced from late 1997 to mid-1998.