🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Legacy Outback

Year:

1998

Chassis Code:

BD/BG (Second Generation)

Engine Codes:

EJ25D (2.5L SOHC Naturally Aspirated), EJ22E (2.2L SOHC Naturally Aspirated - less common for Outback in '98 but possible)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 1998 Subaru Legacy Outback solidified Subaru's niche in the burgeoning crossover utility vehicle market, blending the car-like comfort and handling of a sedan with enhanced ground clearance and standard All-Wheel Drive, appealing to outdoorsy families and individuals seeking capability without sacrificing on-road manners.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed with vehicles like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and early iterations of SUVs, differentiating itself with Subaru's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, Boxer engine configuration, and a more wagon-like, less truck-like persona.

Key Features:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, increased ground clearance (approx. 7.3 inches), unique Outback styling cues (cladding, roof rails, raised suspension), comfortable and practical interior, horizontally opposed Boxer engine for lower center of gravity.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All models and engines for 1998 Subaru Legacy Outback

Page Count:

Estimated 1000+ pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Complete Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital Format (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshafts, timing belt, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, engine performance diagnostics.

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, fuel injection system (MPI), starter system, charging system, ECU (Engine Control Unit) diagnostics, sensors (crankshaft position, camshaft position, oxygen, MAF, MAP, etc.), wiring diagrams.

Transmission:

Manual and Automatic transmissions: disassembly, assembly, clutch system (manual), torque converter (automatic), gear ratios, valve body operation (automatic), transmission control module (TCM) diagnostics, fluid specifications, maintenance.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive (FWD) and Subaru's All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system (including viscous coupling center differential), front axle shafts, rear axle shafts, drive shafts, differentials, wheel bearings.

Suspension:

Front McPherson strut, rear multi-link suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, ball joints, bushings, sway bars, alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, steering wheel, alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Front disc brakes (vented), rear disc brakes, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) components and diagnostics, brake master cylinder, brake lines, parking brake system, fluid specifications.

Body:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, window regulators, sunroof operation, interior trim, exterior trim, bumpers, hood, tailgate, glass replacement.

Electrical Body:

Lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), horn, wipers and washers, power windows, power door locks, mirrors, instrument cluster, audio system, HVAC controls, body control module (BCM) where applicable, wiring diagrams.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system: AC compressor, condenser, evaporator, expansion valve, blower motor, cabin filter, refrigerant types and capacities, leak testing, system diagnostics.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel, cabin), spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, transmission fluid changes, timing belt replacement intervals and procedures.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, common problems and solutions, error code interpretation.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair procedures for all major systems, component replacement guides, torque specifications for critical fasteners, seal and gasket replacement.

Diagnostics:

OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), using scan tools, sensor testing, circuit testing, fuel pressure testing, compression testing.

Wiring:

Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all systems, connector pinouts, component locations.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid checks and component replacement to complete engine and transmission overhauls, complex electrical diagnostics, and body repair.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans of original factory manual pages, allowing for clear printing.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF, allowing for quick navigation to specific topics.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine Variant:

2.5L SOHC Naturally Aspirated EJ25D

Horsepower:

165 hp @ 5,600 rpm

Torque:

155 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm

Fuel System Type:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine Configuration:

Horizontally Opposed (Boxer) 4-cylinder

Displacement:

2457 cc (2.5 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

99.5 mm x 80.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.0:1

Recommended Fuel:

87 Octane (Regular Unleaded)

Timing Belt Replacement Interval:

Recommended every 60,000 to 90,000 miles or 7 years, whichever comes first. Crucial for this engine due to interference design.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (with electronically controlled torque converter)

AWD System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive standard on all models. Manual transmission typically features a viscous coupling center differential with a 50/50 front/rear torque split under normal conditions. Automatic transmission features an electronically controlled active torque split AWD system.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Subaru ATF-HP (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid if ATF-HP is unavailable for this specific vintage, though manual should specify) - capacity approx. 7.6 qts dry fill.

📐 Dimensions

Ground Clearance:

Approximately 7.3 inches (185 mm)

Length:

Approximately 187.4 inches (4760 mm)

Width:

Approximately 69.7 inches (1770 mm)

Height:

Approximately 59.1 inches (1500 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 104.3 inches (2650 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,100 - 3,300 lbs (depending on transmission and trim)

Cargo Volume Seats Up:

Approx. 36.7 cubic feet

Cargo Volume Seats Down:

Approx. 72.1 cubic feet

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test Rating:

N/A (1998 models predated standardized 5-star ratings)

Active Features:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (enhances traction and stability), Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

Passive Features:

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

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Limited features by modern standards, but functional for the era. Speaker configurations typically 4 or 6.

Driver Assistance Features:

Primarily limited to optional ABS. No electronic stability control or advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS).

Connectivity Features:

N/A (No integrated Bluetooth, USB, or smartphone connectivity).

Comfort Features:

Power windows, power door locks, cruise control, remote keyless entry (optional on some trims), air conditioning, tilt steering wheel.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months (severe duty) / 7,500 miles or 7.5 months (normal duty) - refer to manual for exact conditions.

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 7,500 miles

Brake Fluid Change Interval:

Every 24 months or 30,000 miles

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 (or 10W-30 depending on temperature range)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Subaru Green coolant is common for this era.

Power Steering Fluid:

Subaru Special Power Steering Fluid or Dexron II/III ATF

Head Gaskets:

The EJ25D engine in this generation is known for potential head gasket leaks (internal or external), often due to coolant degradation or overheating. Early detection and repair is crucial.

Timing Belt Tensioner:

The automatic tensioner for the timing belt can fail, leading to skipped timing or belt breakage. It's often recommended to replace with a manual tensioner setup during timing belt service.

Oil Leaks:

Valve cover gaskets and oil pan gaskets can be prone to leaks over time.

Oil Filter Example Part Number:

Subaru OEM: 15208AA031; aftermarket examples include Fram PH7317, Wix 51356

Air Filter Example Part Number:

Subaru OEM: 16546AA020; aftermarket examples include Fram CA8020, Wix 42566

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Subaru, a division of Fuji Heavy Industries, has a long history in aviation and automotive manufacturing, known for its Boxer engines and standard All-Wheel Drive systems, fostering a reputation for reliability, safety, and all-weather capability.

Model Evolution:

The Outback began as a trim package for the Subaru Legacy station wagon in 1995, featuring increased ground clearance and ruggedized styling. It proved so popular that by the second generation (1995-1999), it became a distinct model line, setting the template for Subaru's future crossover vehicles.

Production Years:

1990-1994 (Legacy Wagon), 1995-1999 (Legacy Outback as distinct model/trim)

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The Subaru Outback platform generally received positive reviews for its practicality, capability, and unique positioning. While specific 1998 awards may be scarce, the Outback consistently ranked well in consumer satisfaction surveys for brands focused on utility and all-weather performance.

Iiihs Crash Test Rating:

N/A (IIHS ratings for this model year may not be readily available or comparable to modern standards).