Vehicle Segment:
Compact/Mid-size Car (depending on body style and market classification)
Target Audience:
Families, individuals seeking reliable all-wheel drive capability in a practical package.
Key Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Maxima, Mazda 626, Mitsubishi Galant, Ford Taurus.
Distinguishing Features:
Subaru's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on most models), horizontally opposed 'Boxer' engine, robust build quality, practicality of the wagon variant.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, cooling system, ignition system, exhaust system, engine management (ECU), manual transmission, automatic transmission, clutch, drive axles, differential.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS if equipped), wheels, tires.
Electrical:
Battery, starting system, charging system, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, power locks, mirrors, wipers, washers, horn, audio system, climate control systems, wiring diagrams.
Body:
Exterior body panels, doors, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, glass, interior trim, seats, body sealing, rust prevention.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, lubrication, spark plug replacement, belt replacement.
Repair Rebuild:
Engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, brake caliper overhaul, suspension component replacement, steering rack replacement, cylinder head repair, radiator replacement, fuel pump replacement.
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Fault diagnosis for engine performance issues, electrical system faults, transmission problems, braking system irregularities. Includes diagnostic codes and symptom-based troubleshooting charts.
Installation Adjustment:
Component installation and removal procedures, alignment adjustments, brake bleeding, clutch adjustment, timing belt tensioning.
Depth Level:
Expert Level (suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts)
Detail Level:
Includes detailed step-by-step instructions, torque specifications, diagnostic procedures, component diagrams, and exploded views.
Digital Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Printability:
Printable (high-resolution for clear reproduction)
Binding Method:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital Download)
Reader Requirement:
Requires any standard PDF reader (e.g., Adobe Acrobat Reader)
Drm Status:
DRM-Free (Complete freedom to use, copy, and print)
Download Speed:
Fast Download
Engine Code Options:
EJ22 (2.2L), EJ20 (2.0L - in some markets, particularly Australia/NZ where 'Liberty' was used), EJ18 (1.8L - less common in 1992 for Liberty).
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Horizontally Opposed (Boxer) 4-Cylinder SOHC or DOHC (depending on specific engine variant)
Ej22 Horsepower:
Approx. 110-130 hp (varies by market and specific tuning)
Ej22 Torque:
Approx. 130-145 lb-ft (varies by market and specific tuning)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating as per owner's manual/market requirements)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (typically silicate-free for modern aluminum engines, check manual for specific Subaru recommendation for this era, likely a conventional green coolant).
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
60,000 miles or 4-5 years (crucial maintenance item for EJ engines)
Standard Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Optional Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (with Lock-up Torque Converter)
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on most models, can be full-time or viscous-coupling center differential depending on transmission type).
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
GL-5 Gear Oil (SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 typically, check manual for exact spec)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron II or equivalent (check manual for exact Subaru specification)
Crash Test Performance:
Limited data available for this era; generally considered safe for its time, but lacks modern advanced safety features. Focus on structural integrity and passive restraints.
Braking System:
Front Ventilated Disc Brakes, Rear Solid Disc or Drum Brakes (depending on model/trim). Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models.
Restraint Systems:
Front seat belts, optional driver and passenger airbags (less common in base models).
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player. Optional CD player available on higher trims. Manual covers removal, installation, and basic troubleshooting.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System available on select models, offering improved braking control in emergency situations. Manual covers ABS system diagnostics and components.
Cruise Control:
Electronic cruise control system standard on many trims, enhancing long-distance driving comfort. Manual details operation and service.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (depending on driving conditions and oil type used - consult manual)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on plug type)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change (for EJ22, check manual for exact spec)
Engine Oil Viscosity:
10W-30 or 5W-30 (depending on climate, consult manual for recommended viscosity grades)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 7.0-7.5 US quarts (6.6-7.1 liters) (for EJ22, check manual)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for exact specification)
Head Gasket Leaks:
While not as prevalent as in later EJ engines, early EJ22 engines can experience head gasket leaks, especially if overheated. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.
Cv Joint Wear:
Typical for AWD vehicles of this era, front CV joints can wear over time. Manual covers inspection and replacement.
Rust Corrosion:
Common in areas with road salt. The manual covers body panel repair and rust prevention measures.
Subaru Philosophy:
Founded on aviation engineering principles, Subaru has always focused on stability, reliability, and distinctive engineering (Boxer engine, AWD).
Liberty Introduction:
The Liberty (known as Legacy in North America) was Subaru's flagship model for much of the late 80s and 90s, replacing the Subaru Leone. The second generation (BC/BF/BJ/BD/BG) saw significant styling updates and chassis improvements.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (primarily Gunma Plant)
