🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Legacy

Generation:

First Generation

Applicable Years:

1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size sedan and wagon, known for its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system.

Differentiation:

Subaru's Boxer engine and standard AWD offered a distinct advantage in traction and handling compared to many front-wheel-drive competitors.

Key Competitors:

Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Maxima, Mazda 626, Ford Taurus.

AWD Standard:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive was standard on most trims, enhancing stability and traction.

Boxer Engine:

Horizontally opposed (Boxer) engine design contributed to a lower center of gravity.

Body Styles:

Offered in Sedan and Wagon (Station Wagon) body styles.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Engine, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Ignition System, Starting System, Charging System, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Drivetrain, Axles, Driveshafts, Differential, Brakes (Front and Rear), ABS, Steering System, Suspension (Front and Rear), Wheels, Tires, Body and Frame, Exterior Trim, Interior Trim, HVAC System, Electrical System, Lighting, Instruments, SRS (Airbag) System, Cruise Control, Emissions Control System

Estimated Pages:

1500+

Type:

Workshop Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine removal/installation, cylinder head, valve train, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, engine block assembly, timing belt/chain, lubrication, cooling systems.

Engine Performance:

Fuel injection system diagnosis and repair, ignition system timing and diagnosis, emission control systems, engine diagnostics, turbocharger systems (where applicable).

Transmission Manual:

Clutch inspection and replacement, manual transmission removal/installation, internal component inspection and repair, gear shift mechanism.

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission removal/installation, fluid and filter service, torque converter, transmission control system, internal component inspection and repair.

Drivetrain And Axles:

Front and rear differential service, driveshaft balancing and U-joint replacement, CV joint inspection and replacement, wheel bearing service.

Brakes And ABS:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, brake caliper service, brake line and hose replacement, hydraulic system bleeding, ABS component testing and diagnosis.

Suspension And Steering:

Front and rear suspension component replacement (struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints), power steering system service, steering rack diagnosis and repair, wheel alignment specifications.

Electrical System:

Battery testing and replacement, alternator and starter motor service, wiring diagrams, fuse and relay identification, lighting system diagnosis, instrument cluster troubleshooting, power windows, locks, and mirrors.

HVAC System:

Air conditioning system diagnosis and recharge, heater core replacement, blower motor service, climate control system troubleshooting.

Body And Interior:

Body panel removal and installation, door and window seal replacement, interior trim panel removal, seat adjustment and removal, sound deadening.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil and filter changes, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush, belt replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon problems, fault code retrieval and interpretation (where applicable via OBD-I).

Repair And Rebuild:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation for all major systems.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for various vehicle systems, including engine control, lighting, accessories, and safety systems.

Specifications And Tolerances:

Tightening torque specifications for all fasteners, engine clearances, wear limits, and other critical technical data for accurate repairs.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering from basic preventative maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical diagnostics and bodywork.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Printability:

Printable pages for on-the-job reference.

Quality:

High-resolution scans ensuring clarity of text and diagrams.

Type:

Not applicable (Digital)

Type:

Not applicable (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

EJ22

Configuration:

2.2L SOHC 16-valve Flat-4 (Boxer)

Displacement:

2212 cc

Bore X Stroke:

96.0 mm x 75.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.5:1

Horsepower Est:

110-115 hp @ 5200 rpm

Torque Est:

133-137 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm

Engine Code:

EJ18

Configuration:

1.8L SOHC 16-valve Flat-4 (Boxer)

Displacement:

1781 cc

Bore X Stroke:

92.0 mm x 80.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.5:1

Horsepower Est:

90-95 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque Est:

102-107 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Engine Code:

EJ22T (Turbocharged)

Configuration:

2.2L SOHC 16-valve Turbocharged Flat-4 (Boxer)

Displacement:

2212 cc

Bore X Stroke:

96.0 mm x 75.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.5:1

Horsepower Est:

165 hp @ 5600 rpm (GT Turbo models)

Torque Est:

181 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (GT Turbo models)

Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission

AWD System:

Viscous coupling center differential, rear mechanical differential. Automatic transmission models featured a Variable Torque Distribution (VTD) AWD system.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4620 mm (181.9 in)

Width:

Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 in)

Height:

Approx. 1405 mm (55.3 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2620 mm (103.2 in)

Length:

Approx. 4625 mm (182.1 in)

Width:

Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 in)

Height:

Approx. 1450 mm (57.1 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2620 mm (103.2 in)

Curb Weight Est:

1300-1500 kg (2866-3307 lbs), varies by trim and drivetrain.

Gvw Est:

1800-1950 kg (3968-4300 lbs), varies by model.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Resistance:

Generally rated as good or better due to AWD and lower center of gravity, though specific ratings may vary by year and test methodology.

Braking:

Front ventilated disc brakes, rear solid disc brakes (standard on most models). ABS was optional or standard on higher trims.

Traction Control:

Not typically available on early models. AWD system provided significant passive traction enhancement.

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag became standard during this generation. Passenger airbag was optional or standard on later models.

Seatbelts:

Front and rear seat belts, with pretensioners on front belts for later models.

Chassis Design:

Reinforced chassis with crumple zones for improved occupant protection.

💡 Technology Features

Radio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player was common. Optional CD player available on higher trims.

Speakers:

Typically 4-6 speaker systems depending on trim level.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature on many models, particularly for the front wheels or all four wheels depending on the year and trim.

Cruise Control:

Electronically controlled cruise control was available as an option or standard on many trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (whichever comes first) using conventional oil. Consult manual for synthetic oil intervals.

Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed.

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 30,000 miles (typically copper-core plugs).

Timing Belt:

Replace every 60,000 miles or 4 years (critical maintenance item for EJ series engines).

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Inspect every 30,000 miles, change as needed (refer to manual for specific fluid type, typically GL-5 gear oil).

Automatic Transmission Fluid Filter:

Change fluid and filter every 30,000 miles.

Engine Oil:

API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 recommended. Consult manual for viscosity in extreme temperatures.

Coolant:

Subaru Super Coolant (or equivalent) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF DEXRON II or equivalent.

Head Gasket Leaks:

While not as prevalent as on later EJ25 engines, early EJ22 engines can develop head gasket leaks over time, particularly if overheated or poorly maintained. The manual provides diagnostic procedures.

Timing Belt Tensioner:

The automatic tensioner for the timing belt can fail, leading to belt slippage or breakage. Timely replacement of the belt and tensioner assembly is crucial.

Cv Axle Boots:

The rubber boots on the Constant Velocity (CV) axles can degrade and tear, leading to grease loss and eventual CV joint failure. Regular inspection is recommended.

Oxygen Sensor Failure:

Oxygen sensors can become fouled or fail, impacting fuel economy and emissions. The manual details testing procedures.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Philosophy:

Subaru has a long history of building reliable vehicles with a focus on practicality and advanced drivetrain technology, particularly AWD.

Launch Year:

1989

First Generation End:

1994

Mid Cycle Refresh:

Minor styling updates and feature revisions occurred throughout the generation, notably around 1992.

Engine Introductions:

The EJ22 became the dominant engine. The EJ18 was used in base models, and the turbocharged EJ22T powered the performance-oriented GT models.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Initial Reception:

The first-generation Legacy was generally well-received for its comfortable ride, capable AWD system, and respectable build quality, establishing Subaru's presence in the mainstream mid-size market.