Segment:
Mid-size sedan/wagon
Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Mazda 626
Drivetrain:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, a signature Subaru feature
Engine Layout:
Horizontally opposed (Boxer) engine layout for a lower center of gravity
Body Styles:
Offered in both 4-door Sedan and 5-door Wagon body styles
Powertrain:
Engine (all variants), Transmission (manual & automatic), Drivetrain (AWD system)
Chassis:
Suspension, Steering, Brakes (including ABS)
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, Lighting, Ignition system, Charging system, Starting system, Instruments and gauges, HVAC controls, Power accessories
Body:
Body panels, Doors, Glass, Interior trim, Bumpers, Seats
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, Oil changes, Filter replacements, Spark plug replacement, Fluid checks and changes
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, Symptom-based diagnostics, Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation (where applicable)
Repair:
Engine overhaul, Transmission repair, Brake system service, Suspension component replacement, Electrical system repairs, Bodywork repairs
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing major and minor components
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic checks to complete engine rebuilds and system diagnostics
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on diagnostic procedures and potentially required tools/scan tools
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
AWD Engagement:
Active front differential and viscous coupling center differential (manual), or electronically controlled clutch (automatic)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Subaru Extra Synchro Oil (or equivalent API GL-5, SAE 75W-90)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF-HP (or equivalent DEXRON II/III)
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
4 Stars
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
4 Stars
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - Standard on most models, optional on some base trims
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
Front 3-point height-adjustable seatbelts with pretensioners
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Every 30,000 miles (EJ22E), 60,000 miles (EJ25D - Dual Platinum)
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
Engine Oil Spec:
API SH or SG, SAE 5W-30 (or 10W-30 in warmer climates)
Engine Oil Capacity Ej22E:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change
Engine Oil Capacity Ej25D:
4.8 US quarts (4.5 liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant (Subaru Super Coolant or equivalent)
Head Gaskets:
While not as prevalent as later EJ25s, the EJ25D (DOHC) engine is known for potential head gasket failures due to its design and material limitations. Early detection and prompt repair are crucial. The EJ22E is generally more robust.
Oil Leaks:
Leaking valve cover gaskets and oil pan gaskets are common with age and mileage.
Suspension Components:
Worn control arm bushings and ball joints can lead to steering and ride quality issues.
Oil Filter Part Number:
15208AA031 (Subaru Genuine) or equivalent from aftermarket suppliers like Wix, Fram, etc.
Air Filter Part Number:
16546AA050 (Subaru Genuine) or equivalent
Spark Plug Part Number Ej22E:
NGK BKR6E-11 (or equivalent) - 4 required
Spark Plug Part Number Ej25D:
NGK PFR6B (or equivalent) - 4 required (Dual Platinum)
Brand Focus:
Subaru, part of Fuji Heavy Industries, known for its engineering prowess in aviation and AWD technology.
Generation Introduction:
The second generation Legacy (BD/BG/BK) was introduced for the 1995 model year and received a significant facelift for 1998.
Production Years Platform:
1995-1999
Assembly Location:
Gunma Plant, Japan
Insurance Institute Highway Safety:
While specific awards for the 1998 model are scarce, the second-generation Legacy generally received favorable safety ratings for its era.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings varied by engine. The EJ22E was generally considered more reliable than the EJ25D. The manual also details common repair issues to help owners maintain their vehicles.
Emission Standards:
Compliance with EPA emission standards for the model year.
