🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Legacy

Generation Identifier:

Second Generation (BD/BG/BK)

Covered Years:

1991, 1992, 1993, 1994

Engine Code:

EJ22

Chassis Codes Covered:

BD (Sedan), BG (Wagon)

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Mid-size sedan and wagon, known for its symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system and boxer engine architecture.

Competitors Era:

Competed with vehicles like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Mazda 626, Ford Taurus, and Nissan Altima.

Key Selling Points:

Standard AWD, horizontally opposed 'boxer' engine for lower center of gravity, reliable mechanicals, comfortable ride, practical wagon variant.

Value For Mechanics:

Provides professional-level repair information essential for maintaining and repairing the EJ22 engine and associated systems, mirroring OEM service manuals.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

All models and all repairs A-Z

Estimated Page Count:

Likely 1000+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical (disassembly, assembly, inspection), fuel & emissions control, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, intake system, exhaust system, engine diagnostics and troubleshooting.

Transmission Systems:

Manual transmission (clutch, gearbox overhaul, diagnosis), Automatic transmission (operation, diagnosis, control systems, overhaul).

Drivetrain Systems:

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

Suspension Steering Systems:

Front and rear suspension components, struts, springs, control arms, sway bars, steering gear, power steering system, alignment specifications.

Brake Systems:

Front and rear brakes (disc/drum configurations), hydraulic system, parking brake, ABS (if equipped), brake fluid specifications and bleeding procedures.

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system, instrument cluster, gauges, body control modules, fuse box locations and diagrams, wiring schematics for all major systems.

HVAC Systems:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system components, refrigerant handling, diagnosis and repair.

Body Interior Exterior:

Body panel removal and installation, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, seats, bumpers, glass replacement, paint and corrosion information.

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

Detailed diagnostic procedures for all major systems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (if applicable to the era).

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance tasks (oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes), lubrication points, chassis lubrication.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, inspection, repair, and reinstallation for virtually all vehicle systems.

Overhaul Procedures:

Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures, including internal component specifications and assembly sequences.

Diagnostic Procedures:

In-depth diagnostic routines for identifying and resolving mechanical and electrical faults.

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Use of multimeter, interpretation of wiring diagrams, tracing electrical faults, testing sensors and actuators.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Details:

Digital PDF, likely searchable text and high-resolution diagrams.

Print Quality:

Professionally digitized for clear text and legible diagrams, optimized for screen viewing and printing.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally aspirated, horizontally opposed (Boxer) four-cylinder

Engine Code:

EJ22

Displacement:

2.2 Liters (2212 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

96.0 mm x 75.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.0:1

Valve Train:

Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder (16 valves total)

Horsepower Net:

Approximately 130-135 hp @ 5600-6000 rpm (depending on specific application and market)

Torque Net:

Approximately 137-140 lb-ft @ 4000-4400 rpm (depending on specific application and market)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Cooling Type:

Liquid-cooled

Oil Capacity:

Approximately 4.4 US quarts (4.2 liters) with filter

Oil Filter Part Number Example:

Subaru 15208AA031 or equivalent (e.g., Wix 51394, Fram PH7317)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission Type:

4-speed Electronically Controlled Automatic Transmission (E4AT)

Drive System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) standard on most models

AWD System Type:

Viscous coupling center differential (manual transmission), electronically controlled clutch pack (automatic transmission)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 104.3 inches (2649 mm)

Length:

Sedan: ~182.1 inches (4625 mm), Wagon: ~184.8 inches (4694 mm)

Width:

Approximately 67.5 inches (1715 mm)

Height:

Sedan: ~55.7 inches (1415 mm), Wagon: ~57.1 inches (1450 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3000-3300 lbs (1360-1500 kg) depending on body style and transmission

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings Era Context:

Safety standards and testing were evolving; detailed modern ratings are not directly comparable. Subaru emphasized its AWD system's ability to improve traction and stability.

Active Safety Features Available:

Standard All-Wheel Drive, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on higher trims or as an option.

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags for driver and passenger, crumple zones, side-impact door beams, 3-point seat belts with pre-tensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Basic factory-installed radio/cassette player with optional CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim level. Analog gauges and controls.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by era; primarily ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) on select models. AWD system provides enhanced traction and stability.

Connectivity Features:

No integrated Bluetooth or USB connectivity. Aftermarket solutions were the primary means of adding modern audio connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months for severe driving, or 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months for normal driving (consult manual for exact recommendations).

Timing Belt Replacement Interval:

Critical maintenance item. Recommended replacement every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4-5 years, due to the interference nature of the engine. Includes replacement of tensioners and idler pulleys.

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Typically around 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) depending on plug type (copper vs. platinum).

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or SH certified, SAE 5W-30 is commonly recommended. Check manual for specific viscosity based on climate.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent. Capacity ~7.3 US quarts (6.9 liters).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-5 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 is common. Capacity ~2.1 US quarts (2.0 liters).

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Subaru ATF-HP or equivalent. Capacity ~4.3 US quarts (4.1 liters) for refill.

Head Gasket Leaks:

While the EJ22 is generally more robust than later EJ series engines, head gasket leaks can still occur, especially after many miles or due to overheating. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.

Timing Belt Failure:

Crucial to adhere to timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic engine damage due to the interference design.

Oil Leaks:

Common areas for oil leaks include valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and front/rear main seals. The manual provides detailed procedures for their replacement.

Radiator And Hoses:

Aging rubber components like radiator hoses and coolant lines can degrade and leak, requiring replacement. The manual outlines the cooling system service.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Heritage:

Subaru, a division of Fuji Heavy Industries, has a long history in aviation and automotive manufacturing, known for its distinctive boxer engines and standard All-Wheel Drive systems, dating back to the Subaru 1000 in the 1960s.

Legacy First Generation:

The first-generation Subaru Legacy (1990-1994) introduced Subaru's AWD to a broader global market, establishing its reputation for traction and capability.

Legacy Second Generation Bd Bg:

The second generation (BD/BG/BK), launched in 1990 for the 1990 model year globally, continued with updated styling, improved aerodynamics, and refined mechanicals. The EJ22 engine was a core powerplant for this generation, particularly in North America. This generation saw increased focus on comfort and refinement compared to the first.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily manufactured in Japan by Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Comparison:

Subaru Legacy models often appeared on Car and Driver's '10Best' lists in the early 1990s, highlighting their value, performance, and AWD capabilities.

Consumer Reports Context:

Consumer Reports reviews of this era often noted Subaru's strong reliability reputation, particularly concerning its powertrain and AWD system, while sometimes critiquing interior refinement or noise levels compared to top competitors.