🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Legacy

Year:

1996

Chassis Codes:

BD, BG, BK

Engine Codes:

EJ22, EJ25

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Mid-size sedan and wagon, known for its standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system.

Key Competitors 1996:

Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Mazda Millenia, Nissan Maxima.

Standard AWD:

Subaru's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, providing enhanced traction and stability.

Boxer Engine:

Horizontally-opposed (Boxer) engine configuration for a lower center of gravity and improved handling.

Diy Support:

Empowers DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians to perform maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs effectively.

📋 Manual Details

Market Coverage:

All Models / Engines / Trim / Transmission Types for 1996 Subaru Legacy

Estimated Pages:

2000+

Manual Classification:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Primary Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical (EJ22, EJ25 naturally aspirated and turbocharged variants), Fuel system (injection, fuel pump, lines), Ignition system, Exhaust system, Cooling system, Lubrication system, Turbocharger systems (where applicable).

Drivetrain:

Manual Transmission (5-speed), Automatic Transmission (4-speed), All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, Front and Rear differentials, Driveshafts, Axles, Clutch system.

Chassis And Suspension:

Front and Rear suspension (struts, control arms, bushings), Steering system (power steering pump, rack and pinion), Wheel bearings, Hubs.

Braking System:

Front and Rear disc brakes, ABS system (Anti-lock Braking System), Brake fluid specifications, Hydraulic lines, Master cylinder, Calipers, Rotors.

Electrical System:

Battery, Charging system (alternator), Starting system (starter motor), Lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), Fuses, Relays, Wiring diagrams, Ignition coil packs, Spark plugs.

Body And Interior:

Body panels, Doors, Windows, Mirrors, Seats, Dashboard, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning) system, Body control modules, Interior trim removal and installation.

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, Filter replacements (oil, air, fuel), Spark plug replacement, Coolant flush and fill, Brake fluid flush, Drive belt inspection and replacement, Tire rotation and balancing, Battery maintenance, Wiper blade replacement.

Repair Procedures:

Engine component repair and replacement (pistons, rings, valves, head gaskets), Transmission overhaul and repair, Suspension component replacement, Brake system repairs, Electrical component diagnosis and replacement, Bodywork and panel repair, HVAC system repair.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides for common drivability issues, electrical faults, engine performance problems. Includes diagnostic flowcharts and component testing procedures. OBD-I diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings.

Special Tools:

Listing and usage instructions for specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.

Diagnostic Depth:

Advanced diagnostics including oscilloscope use for sensor and actuator testing, fuel injector testing, ignition system analysis.

Rebuild Depth:

Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures with detailed torque specifications, clearances, and assembly instructions.

Specification Depth:

Comprehensive technical specifications including engine data, drivetrain ratios, dimensional data, electrical system schematics, and material specifications.

📊 Manual Specifications

PDF Quality:

High-resolution, searchable PDF with clear text and diagrams.

Printable:

Printable from any standard PDF reader, allowing for physical copies.

Diagram Clarity:

Diagrams and illustrations are clear, detailed, and easy to follow for repair procedures.

Binding Description:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Description:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Option 1:

2.2L Naturally Aspirated EJ22 SOHC Flat-4

Engine Option 2:

2.5L Naturally Aspirated EJ25 DOHC Flat-4 (GT, Outback Sport models)

Engine Option 3:

2.5L Turbocharged EJ25 DOHC Flat-4 (GT, Limited Turbo models)

Ej22 Horsepower:

135 hp @ 5600 rpm

Ej22 Torque:

135 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Ej25 DOHc Horsepower:

165 hp @ 6000 rpm

Ej25 DOHc Torque:

155 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Ej25 Turbo Horsepower:

210 hp @ 5500 rpm

Ej25 Turbo Torque:

220 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPFI)

Recommended Fuel:

87 Octane Unleaded (91 Octane for Turbo models)

Block Material:

Aluminum Alloy

Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum Alloy

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Sedan:

5-Speed Manual Transmission (with AWD)

Transmission Type Sedan Wagon:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (with AWD)

AWD System:

Viscous coupling center differential with asymmetrical torque split (front/rear distribution varies based on conditions).

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil (GL-5, SAE 75W-90) or equivalent.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Subaru ATF-HP or Dexron III compatible fluid.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

104.3 inches (2649 mm)

Length Sedan:

187.2 inches (4755 mm)

Length Wagon:

185.8 inches (4720 mm)

Width:

69.1 inches (1755 mm)

Height Sedan:

54.9 inches (1395 mm)

Height Wagon:

55.9 inches (1420 mm)

Curb Weight Manual:

3100 - 3300 lbs (approx.)

Curb Weight Automatic:

3150 - 3350 lbs (approx.)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact:

4-star (driver and passenger)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on most models.

Traction Control:

N/A (Traction control systems were not widely available on this generation).

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger front airbags.

Seatbelts:

Front and rear three-point seatbelts, pretensioners for front seats.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/Cassette stereo system with optional CD player. Speaker configurations vary by trim level.

Cruise Control:

Available on most models.

Power Features:

Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors available on higher trims.

Cellular Integration:

N/A (No factory integrated Bluetooth or cellular connectivity).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months (whichever comes first).

Engine Air Filter:

Replace every 15,000 miles or 15 months.

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 30,000 miles (standard), 60,000 miles (platinum).

Timing Belt:

Replace every 60,000 miles or 5 years (critical maintenance item on EJ series engines).

Engine Oil Capacity Ej22:

4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter (Subaru 5W-30 or 5W-40 API SG/SH/SJ).

Engine Oil Capacity Ej25:

4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter (Subaru 5W-30 or 5W-40 API SG/SH/SJ).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol-based (Subaru Super Coolant or equivalent, 50/50 mix with distilled water).

Head Gaskets:

Potential for head gasket leaks on EJ25 DOHC engines, especially early versions. The manual provides diagnostic and repair procedures.

Oil Leaks:

Common areas for oil leaks include valve cover gaskets, crankshaft seals, and oil cooler seals.

Suspension Wear:

Wear in bushings, ball joints, and struts can lead to noise and handling issues.

Automatic Transmission Issues:

Some automatic transmissions can exhibit delayed shifting or slipping, particularly with higher mileage.

📚 Vehicle History

Founder:

N/A (Subaru established in 1953 from Fuji Heavy Industries).

First Generation Legacy:

Introduced globally in 1989, replacing the Subaru Leone.

Second Generation Legacy Introduction:

Second generation introduced in 1993. The 1996 model year represents a significant refresh of the second generation, often referred to as the 'phase II' update with cosmetic and mechanical refinements.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan (Main production facility)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The Subaru Legacy was a Car and Driver 10Best winner in 1992 and 1993, recognized for its value and standard AWD.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Reliability ratings for this generation are generally average to above average, with some specific model year and engine variations noted in detailed reviews.