🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Legacy

Year:

2005

Chassis Code:

BP (Wagon), BL (Sedan)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size Sedan and Wagon, known for its standard AWD and sporty GT/XT variants.

Competitors:

Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Mazda6, Nissan Altima, Volkswagen Passat.

Standard AWD:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive across all trims, enhancing traction and handling.

Engine Options:

Choice of naturally aspirated 2.5L Boxer, turbocharged 2.5L Boxer, and a potent 3.0L H6 Boxer engine.

Chassis Design:

Globally platformed with a focus on driving dynamics and chassis rigidity.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Trims:

2.5i, 2.5 GT, 2.5 XT, 3.0 R

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Type:

Full Service & Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

EJ253 (2.5L SOHC NA), EJ255 (2.5L DOHC Turbo), EJ257 (2.5L DOHC Turbo - STI variant not typically covered), EZ30D (3.0L DOHC NA)

Transmission:

5-speed Manual (TY754/TY755), 4-speed Automatic (4EAT-CF)

Drivetrain:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) System, differentials, axles, CV joints

Suspension:

Front MacPherson struts, Rear multi-link independent suspension, springs, shocks, bushings, alignment procedures

Brakes:

Front disc (ventilated), Rear disc, ABS, Brake fluid service, caliper/rotor replacement

Steering:

Power assisted rack and pinion, steering column, tie rods

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, injectors, lines, fuel filter, tank, evaporative emissions (EVAP) system

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, fan assembly, heater core

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter, ignition system, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams

Climate Control:

HVAC system, blower motor, A/C compressor, refrigerant, heater controls

Interior:

Seating, upholstery, dashboard components, door panels, trim removal

Bodywork:

Exterior panels, bumpers, fenders, doors, hood, trunk/tailgate, glass replacement

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid flushes (coolant, brake, transmission, differential), belt inspection/replacement

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation, common symptom analysis

Repair:

Component replacement (e.g., water pump, alternator, starter, brake pads/rotors, clutch, suspension components), engine and transmission rebuild procedures

Installation:

Accessory installation, component upgrades (e.g., turbochargers for GT/XT models), aftermarket parts integration guidelines

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, diagnostic parameter values

Depth:

Comprehensive from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Fully searchable text for quick information retrieval

Printability:

Printable pages for workshop use

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 2 5I:

EJ253, 2.5L SOHC, 16-valve, Naturally Aspirated Boxer-4

Engine 2 5Gt Xt:

EJ255/EJ257, 2.5L DOHC, 16-valve, Turbocharged Boxer-4

Engine 3 0R:

EZ30D, 3.0L DOHC, 24-valve, Naturally Aspirated Boxer-6 (H6)

Horsepower 2 5I:

165 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque 2 5I:

166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Horsepower 2 5Gt Xt:

210-250 hp (depending on specific GT/XT tune)

Torque 2 5Gt Xt:

235-250 lb-ft (depending on specific GT/XT tune)

Horsepower 3 0R:

245 hp @ 6600 rpm

Torque 3 0R:

217 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm

Injection Type:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) for NA, Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI) for Turbo and H6

Recommended Fuel:

87 Octane (2.5i, 3.0R), 91 Octane Premium Unleaded (2.5GT, 2.5XT)

Engine Management:

ECU (Engine Control Unit) with O2 sensors, knock sensors, and MAF/MAP sensors

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission:

5-speed Manual (TY754 for NA, TY755 for Turbo/H6 models)

Automatic Transmission:

4-speed Automatic (4EAT-CF) with AWD coupling

AWD System Type:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with viscous coupling center differential (manual) or electronically controlled clutch pack (automatic)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil (API GL-5, SAE 75W-90) or equivalent

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Subaru ATF HP (High Performance) or equivalent

📐 Dimensions

Length Sedan:

187.4 inches (4760 mm)

Length Wagon:

188.8 inches (4800 mm)

Width:

69.1 inches (1755 mm)

Height Sedan:

57.7 inches (1465 mm)

Height Wagon:

56.7 inches (1440 mm)

Wheelbase:

104.0 inches (2640 mm)

Wheel Size:

16-inch, 17-inch, or 18-inch alloy wheels

Tire Size Examples:

205/55R16, 215/45R17, 225/40R18

Curb Weight Range:

3180-3550 lbs (approx.)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x100mm

Lug Nut Torque:

80 ft-lbs (108 Nm)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5-Star (Driver and Passenger)

NHTSA Side Impact:

5-Star (Front), 4-Star (Rear)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCS) on some models

Electronic Stability:

Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) available on higher trims or as an option.

Airbags:

Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags (optional on some models)

Seatbelts:

Three-point height-adjustable front seatbelts with pretensioners, three-point rear seatbelts

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD audio systems, optional premium sound, satellite radio prep.

Navigation:

Optional factory navigation system available on select models.

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control.

Keyless Entry:

Standard or optional keyless entry and immobilizer system.

Auxiliary Input:

Some models may feature an auxiliary audio input jack.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 3,750 miles or 3 months, or 7,500 miles/6 months under severe driving conditions or with synthetic oil.

Engine Air Filter:

Replace every 15,000 miles or 12 months.

Cabin Air Filter:

Replace every 15,000 miles or 12 months.

Spark Plugs 2 5I:

Replace every 105,000 miles (if using iridium spark plugs).

Spark Plugs 3 0R:

Replace every 60,000 miles (if using platinum spark plugs).

Timing Belt:

This generation uses a timing *chain* for all engines, which is generally considered maintenance-free but requires inspection for wear or noise.

Coolant Flush:

Replace coolant every 30,000 miles or 24 months.

Engine Oil:

SAE 5W-30, API SM or SN certified (check owner's manual for exact specs and capacity).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Head Gasket:

While less common than on earlier generations, Subaru EJ25 engines can still experience head gasket leaks. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.

Turbocharger Issues Gt Xt:

Turbocharger lubrication issues can arise if oil is not changed regularly. The manual covers turbo inspection and maintenance.

Suspension Wear:

Bushings and ball joints can wear over time, leading to noise and alignment issues. The manual provides replacement and alignment specifications.

Automatic Transmission Performance:

Some reports of slipping or delayed engagement on older automatic transmissions. Regular fluid changes are critical.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Legacy:

Subaru, a division of Fuji Heavy Industries, has a long history in aviation and automotive manufacturing, known for its horizontally opposed 'Boxer' engines and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive systems.

Generation:

Fourth Generation (BP/BL), introduced for the 2005 model year, replacing the third-generation BG/BH Legacy.

Design Philosophy:

A significant redesign with a more aerodynamic and sculpted exterior, improved interior refinement, and a focus on a more global appeal.

Manufacturing Location:

Subaru's manufacturing plants, primarily in Japan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Iiihs Top Safety Pick:

The 2005 Subaru Legacy received 'Good' ratings in IIHS front and side impact tests, often qualifying it for safety accolades in its class for its time.