🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Legacy

Year:

1996

Chassis Code:

BD/BG

Factory Vin Prefix:

4S3

👋 Introduction

Segment:

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

Competitors:

Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Mazda MX-6.

Distinguishing Features:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (except base FWD models), horizontally-opposed 'Boxer' engine, reputation for durability and safety.

Intended Users:

DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, Subaru enthusiasts seeking detailed technical information.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Complete Factory Service and Repair

Trim Levels Covered:

All trims and configurations available for the 1996 model year

Estimated Pages:

1000+

Type:

Workshop Manual / Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF) / Printable

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine management (ECU).

Drivetrain:

Automatic transmission (4EAT), manual transmission (5MT), front-wheel drive (FWD), all-wheel drive (AWD) system (including viscous coupling center differential and rear differential).

Chassis:

Suspension (front struts, rear multi-link), steering system (power steering), brake system (ABS, disc/drum configurations), wheels and tires.

Electrical:

12V battery system, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), instrumentation, wipers, horn, power windows, power locks, audio system wiring, fuse and relay box layouts.

Body:

Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, seats, HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), emissions control systems, body repair procedures.

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flushing, brake fluid replacement, belt replacement, tune-ups, fluid level checks.

Repair:

Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, alternator replacement, starter replacement, fuel pump replacement, HVAC component repair, body panel repair.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for OBD-I system, wiring diagrams for electrical system analysis.

Special Procedures:

Timing belt replacement (critical procedure), AWD system service, ABS bleeding procedures, torque specifications for critical fasteners.

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic preventative maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic charts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text content for quick information retrieval.

Diagrams:

High-quality, clear, and detailed diagrams and illustrations.

Printed Version Binding:

Likely a coil-bound or perfect-bound format for ease of use on a workbench (for original print editions).

Printed Version Paper:

Durable paper stock suitable for workshop environments (for original print editions).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

EJ22E

Engine Type:

2.2L SOHC Naturally Aspirated Flat-4 (Boxer)

Displacement:

2212 cc

Bore X Stroke:

96.9 mm x 75.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.5:1

Horsepower Net:

130 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque Net:

137 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multiport Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)

Ignition Type:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Distributor-based, depending on specific market/variant (manual will cover both if applicable).

Timing Belt Replacement Interval:

Typically 60,000 - 105,000 miles (refer to manual for exact interval).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT) or 5-speed Manual Transmission (5MT)

Optional Transmission:

N/A (depending on market, primarily AWD equipped).

AWD System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on most models), featuring viscous coupling center differential.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Subaru ATF-HP or Dexron III (refer to manual for exact specification).

Manual Transmission Fluid:

75W-90 GL-5 (refer to manual for exact specification).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 187.6 inches (Sedan)

Width:

Approx. 67.7 inches

Height:

Approx. 55.7 inches (Sedan), 56.7 inches (Wagon)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 104.3 inches

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3100-3300 lbs (depending on configuration)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Refer to vehicle placard.

Cargo Volume Sedan:

Refer to owner's manual.

Cargo Volume Wagon:

Refer to owner's manual.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:

4-star (1996 model year data may be limited, consult specific NHTSA archives).

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:

4-star (1996 model year data may be limited, consult specific NHTSA archives).

Anti Lock Brakes:

Available (ABS) on most models.

Traction Control:

Not typically available for this model year.

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger Airbags.

Seatbelts:

3-point seat belts with pretensioners for front occupants.

Crumple Zones:

Designed with front and rear crumple zones for energy absorption.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/Cassette or CD player, with optional premium sound systems. Manual details wiring and speaker replacements.

Cruise Control:

Available on higher trim levels.

OBD System:

OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics, First Generation). Manual provides diagnostic procedures and connector pinouts.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,750 miles or 3 months, or 7,500 miles/6 months with synthetic oil (consult manual for specific recommendations).

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on conditions.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Not standard on all models, but if equipped, typically every 15,000 miles.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Automatic: Every 30,000-60,000 miles. Manual: Check and change as needed or every 60,000 miles.

Engine Oil Specification:

10W-30 or 5W-30 (refer to manual for seasonal recommendations).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.4 US quarts (with filter change).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based, Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent.

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 6.6 US quarts.

Power Steering Fluid:

Subaru power steering fluid or Dexron III (refer to manual).

Head Gaskets:

While less common on the EJ22E than later EJ series, head gasket leaks can still occur. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.

Automatic Transmission Durability:

The 4EAT can be prone to wear, especially if maintenance is neglected. The manual provides diagnostic and repair steps.

Suspension Wear:

Front struts and rear bushings can wear over time, affecting ride and handling. Manual covers replacement procedures.

Electrical Connectors:

Corrosion or loose connections can cause intermittent issues, particularly in the engine bay or under the chassis. Manual's wiring diagrams are crucial.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Focus:

Founded in 1953, Subaru is known for its engineering, particularly its adoption of the boxer engine and All-Wheel Drive.

Legacy Introduction:

The second generation Legacy (BD/BG) was introduced for the 1995 model year, replacing the first generation (BC/BJ).

Second Generation Changes:

This generation featured a more aerodynamic design, improved interior comfort, and enhanced safety features compared to its predecessor.

Assembly Location:

Mainly Gunma Plant, Japan.

Second Gen Production:

1995-1999

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Generally received average to above-average reliability ratings from publications like Consumer Reports during its production years, especially for AWD models.

Safety Certifications:

Met all US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) for 1996.