🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Legacy

Year:

1996

Chassis Code:

BD/BG/BK Series

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Subaru's mid-size offering, known for its standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system and durable engineering. Competed against models like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Mitsubishi Galant.

Key Differentiators:

Standard AWD, boxer engine layout offering a low center of gravity, robust build quality, and a reputation for longevity.

Model Highlights:

Emphasis on practicality, all-weather capability, and reliability. The 1996 model represents the second generation (second facelift) of the Subaru Legacy.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Types:

2.2L EJ22 SOHC, 2.5L EJ25 DOHC

Drivetrain:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

Body Styles:

Sedan, Wagon

Estimated Page Count:

1000+

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital Format (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing belt, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection, emissions control.

Engine Performance:

Ignition system, detonation control, idle speed control, turbocharger (if applicable on specific trims, though not standard for '96 US models).

Transmission:

Manual transmission (5-speed), Automatic transmission (4-speed), clutch system, transfer case, AWD system components.

Brakes:

Front disc brakes (ventilated), Rear disc brakes (solid), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), parking brake, brake hydraulics.

Suspension Steering:

Front struts, rear struts, control arms, sway bars, power steering system, steering rack.

Electrical Electronics:

Battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting system, wiring diagrams, fuses and relays, instrument cluster, power windows, power locks, climate control system, audio system.

Body Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, door mechanisms, glass, seals, chassis components, rust prevention.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, refrigerant system.

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, timing belt replacement, brake pad replacement, tune-ups.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, OBD-I diagnostic codes (relevant for 1996 models) and troubleshooting procedures.

Repair Rebuild:

Engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair.

Installation:

Component installation and replacement (e.g., alternator, starter, fuel pump).

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring schematics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Searchable text for quick information retrieval

Printability:

Printable for hard copy reference

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Code:

EJ22

Engine 1 Type:

2.2 Liter SOHC (Single Overhead Cam) Boxer-4

Engine 1 Displacement:

2212 cc (134.9 cu. in.)

Engine 1 Bore X Stroke:

96.9 mm x 75.0 mm (3.81 in x 2.95 in)

Engine 1 Compression Ratio:

9.5:1

Engine 1 Horsepower Est:

135 hp @ 5600 rpm

Engine 1 Torque Est:

138 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Engine 2 Code:

EJ25

Engine 2 Type:

2.5 Liter DOHC (Dual Overhead Cam) Boxer-4

Engine 2 Displacement:

2457 cc (149.9 cu. in.)

Engine 2 Bore X Stroke:

99.5 mm x 79.0 mm (3.92 in x 3.11 in)

Engine 2 Compression Ratio:

9.7:1

Engine 2 Horsepower Est:

165 hp @ 5600 rpm

Engine 2 Torque Est:

162 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Injection Type:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Type:

4-Speed Electronically Controlled Automatic Transmission

Drivetrain:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) standard on all models.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (or as specified in manual)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Subaru ATF-HP (or Dexron III/Mercon equivalent, consult manual for exact specs)

Capacity Liters:

2.6 L (2.7 US qt)

Capacity Liters:

3.5 L (3.7 US qt) (Pan Drop)

📐 Dimensions

Length Mm:

4661 mm (183.5 in)

Width Mm:

1700 mm (66.9 in)

Height Mm:

1405 mm (55.3 in)

Length Mm:

4656 mm (183.3 in)

Width Mm:

1700 mm (66.9 in)

Height Mm:

1486 mm (58.5 in)

Wheelbase:

2634 mm (103.7 in)

Curb Weight Kg:

1380 - 1470 kg (approx. 3042 - 3241 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Kg:

1830 kg (approx. 4034 lbs)

Cargo Volume Liters:

Approx. 1030 Liters (with rear seats up)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

4 Stars (for 1996 model year, specific testing may vary)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

4 Stars (for 1996 model year, specific testing may vary)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners for front seats

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory radio with cassette player, optional CD player. Basic speaker system.

Cruise Control:

Optional on some trims

Original Connectivity:

Limited to analog systems; no modern Bluetooth or USB connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Filter Change:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months

Engine Oil Change:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months (using synthetic oil, consult manual for conventional oil intervals)

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 105,000 miles (168,000 km) or 7 years (critical interval)

Spark Plugs:

Inspect at 30,000 miles (48,000 km), replace as needed (or at higher intervals depending on type)

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years

Engine Oil:

API SG or SH, ILSAC GF-2, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (Consult manual for specific temperature ranges)

Coolant:

Subaru Super Coolant (or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant), 50/50 mix with distilled water

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 (or DOT 4 if specified)

Engine Oil Liters:

4.5 L (4.8 US qt) with filter (EJ22), 4.7 L (5.0 US qt) with filter (EJ25)

Coolant Liters:

7.6 L (8.0 US qt) (approx.)

Head Gaskets:

While less common on the EJ22, EJ25 DOHC engines (especially early ones) can be prone to head gasket failures due to coolant leaks. The manual will provide specific procedures for diagnosis and replacement.

Automatic Transmission:

Some reports of torque converter shudder or delayed engagement on higher mileage vehicles. Manual will detail diagnostic checks.

Timing Belt:

Timely replacement is crucial. Failure can lead to severe engine damage. Manual provides replacement intervals and procedures.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Subaru, a division of Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries), has a long history in aviation and automotive manufacturing, pioneering the use of boxer engines and All-Wheel Drive in passenger vehicles.

Second Generation Phase:

The 1996 Legacy is part of the second generation (BD/BG/BK), produced from 1993 to 1999. This model year represents the second significant facelift of the second generation, featuring updated styling and technology.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

All Wheel Drive Reputation:

Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system received accolades for its effectiveness in various weather conditions, enhancing safety and traction.

Consumer Reports Rankings:

Generally rated well for reliability and performance, particularly praised for its AWD capability. Specific ratings vary by model year and trim.