🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Legacy

Year:

1998

Chassis Codes:

BD, BG, BK

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 1998 Subaru Legacy represented Subaru's mid-size offering, known for its standard All-Wheel Drive system, a key differentiator in its segment. It competed with models like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Ford Contour, appealing to buyers seeking all-weather capability and a more robust chassis.

Competitive Analysis:

While front-wheel drive was dominant in its class, Subaru's standard AWD gave the Legacy a distinct advantage in regions with inclement weather. Its horizontally-opposed ('boxer') engines also offered a lower center of gravity, contributing to its stable handling characteristics.

Key Features:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, boxer engine configuration, comfortable ride, durable construction, and a reputation for reliability.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Complete factory service and repair for 1998 Subaru Legacy. Includes all systems and components.

Page Count:

Hundreds of pages (exact count not specified, but implied to be comprehensive)

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Download PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

2.2L EJ22, 2.5L EJ25 DOHC and SOHC variants. Includes engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, and emissions control.

Transmission:

4-speed automatic (4EAT) and 5-speed manual transmissions. Includes overhaul, diagnosis, and maintenance.

Drivetrain:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, including differential service, axle repair, and drive shaft maintenance.

Brakes:

Front disc, rear drum and optional rear disc brakes. Includes ABS system (if equipped), hydraulic system, and component replacement.

Suspension Steering:

Front MacPherson strut, rear multi-link suspension. Includes steering system, power steering, alignment specifications, and component replacement.

Electrical Electronics:

Full wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, body electronics, ECU diagnostics, and sensor identification.

Body Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, doors, glass, chassis lubrication, and corrosion protection.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis, refrigerant service, and component repair.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, belt inspections and adjustments.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures, common fault codes, and step-by-step troubleshooting guides for various systems.

Repair:

Detailed repair procedures for all major components, including engine overhaul, transmission rebuilds, brake caliper replacement, and more.

Diagnostics:

On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) system access, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, and sensor data analysis.

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and other critical technical data for all repairs.

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics and body repair.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Print Quality:

High resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Type:

2.2L SOHC EJ22 Boxer-4

Engine 1 Displacement:

2212 cc

Engine 1 Bore X Stroke:

96.9 mm x 75.0 mm

Engine 1 Compression Ratio:

9.5:1

Engine 1 Horsepower:

135 hp @ 5600 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

138 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Engine 2 Type:

2.5L DOHC EJ25 Boxer-4

Engine 2 Displacement:

2457 cc

Engine 2 Bore X Stroke:

99.5 mm x 79.0 mm

Engine 2 Compression Ratio:

9.7:1

Engine 2 Horsepower:

165 hp @ 5600 rpm

Engine 2 Torque:

175 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel System:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) with Electronic Throttle Control (ETC on some models)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane or higher recommended)

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug or coil pack ignition

Engine Cooling:

Pressurized liquid cooling system with thermostatically controlled fan

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Standard:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Optional:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT) with Lock-up Torque Converter and AWD

Transmission Fluid Manual:

Subaru Manual Transmission Fluid (API GL-5) or equivalent

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Subaru ATF-HP or equivalent

AWD System Type:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (Viscous coupling center differential on manual, electronically controlled clutch pack on automatic)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

2626 mm (103.4 inches)

Length:

4600 mm (181.1 inches)

Width:

1730 mm (68.1 inches)

Height:

1435 mm (56.5 inches) Sedan / 1475 mm (58.1 inches) Wagon

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 140 mm (5.5 inches)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1400-1500 kg (3086-3307 lbs) depending on trim and drivetrain

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Not specified, consult vehicle VIN plate.

Towing Capacity:

Typically not recommended or limited for most models.

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x100 mm

Wheel Size:

15-inch or 16-inch alloy or steel wheels

Tire Size:

195/60R15, 205/55R16 (typical)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:

Not explicitly rated by NHTSA for this specific year, but generally considered safe for its era.

IIHS Crash Test Performance:

Subaru vehicles of this period were known for good structural integrity.

Active Safety:

Standard All-Wheel Drive provides enhanced traction and stability, especially in adverse conditions. Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

Passive Safety:

Driver and front passenger airbags, side-impact door beams, crumple zones, three-point seatbelts with pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM stereo with cassette player and optional CD player. Analog controls for climate and audio.

Driver Assistance Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was optional on many trims. No electronic stability control or advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) were available.

Connectivity:

No integrated Bluetooth, USB ports, or smartphone connectivity. Aftermarket head unit installation is common for modern audio sources.

Climate Control:

Manual air conditioning and heating controls. Automatic climate control was not offered on this generation.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 - 7,500 miles (6,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Refer to manual for specific recommendation.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km)

Spark Plug Replacement:

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

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) for EJ25 DOHC. EJ22 generally uses a timing chain or is belt-driven with longer intervals. Consult manual for exact spec.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG, SH, or SJ rated 5W-30, 10W-30, or 10W-40 (depending on climate). Consult manual for precise recommendation.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant (green color typical for this era) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid

Head Gaskets:

While less prevalent than on later generations, the EJ25 DOHC engine (especially early versions) could be prone to head gasket leaks. The EJ22 is generally more robust.

Automatic Transmission Issues:

The 4EAT transmission can experience internal wear and solenoid issues over time, requiring rebuilds or replacement. Fluid changes are critical.

Suspension Wear:

Worn control arm bushings, tie rods, and struts are common as the vehicle ages, affecting ride quality and alignment.

Oil Leaks:

Valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and front crankshaft seals are common sources of oil leaks on these boxer engines.

Exhaust System Corrosion:

Rust and corrosion of the exhaust system components can occur, particularly in areas with road salt.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Founded in 1953 as Fuji Heavy Industries, Subaru has a history rooted in aviation and a pioneering spirit in automotive engineering. The company is renowned for its horizontally-opposed 'boxer' engines and its commitment to the standard All-Wheel Drive system.

Model Evolution:

The 1998 Legacy belongs to the second generation (BD/BG/BK, 1994-1999). This generation saw styling updates and the introduction of the more powerful 2.5L DOHC engine. The Legacy established Subaru's reputation for practicality, durability, and go-anywhere capability.

Production Location:

Japan (Gunma Plant)

Production Years:

1998 model year

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 1998 model are not prominently cited, Subaru consistently received praise for its AWD systems and overall value in automotive reviews of the period. The Legacy was often lauded for its ride comfort and practicality.