Segment:
Mid-size sedan and wagon, known for All-Wheel Drive (AWD) capability and a reputation for reliability and safety.
Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Taurus, Nissan Altima, Mazda 626.
AWD Standard:
Standard All-Wheel Drive across most trims, differentiating it from many competitors.
Body Styles:
Offered as a sedan and a wagon (Outback trim often considered a lifted wagon variant).
Engine Options:
Primarily Boxer engines, known for their low center of gravity.
Engine Coverage:
Engine mechanicals, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, emission control systems, engine electricals.
Transmission Coverage:
Manual transmission (5-speed), automatic transmission (4-speed), clutch, driveline components (propshaft, differentials).
Chassis Coverage:
Suspension (front struts, rear multi-link), steering system, braking system (front discs, rear discs, ABS).
Electrical Coverage:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, starting and charging system, instrument panel, body electrical (windows, locks, wipers), audio system, climate control.
Body Coverage:
Body construction, exterior panels, interior trim, seats, glass, bumpers.
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, inspections.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major mechanical and electrical components.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault codes, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Rebuilding Procedures:
Engine rebuilding, transmission rebuilding, component overhaul instructions.
Depth Of Information:
Full factory service information, covering everything from basic adjustments to complete engine and transmission overhauls.
Engine Code And Type:
EJ251 (2.5L SOHC naturally aspirated Boxer-4) and EJ22E (2.2L SOHC naturally aspirated Boxer-4).
Horsepower 2.5L:
Approximately 165 hp @ 5,600 rpm (may vary slightly by sub-model).
Torque 2.5L:
Approximately 180 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm (may vary slightly by sub-model).
Horsepower 2.2L:
Approximately 135 hp @ 5,600 rpm.
Torque 2.2L:
Approximately 140 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm.
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI).
ECU:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) with diagnostics.
Standard Transmission:
5-speed manual transmission (common on base models and sport trims).
Optional Transmission:
4-speed automatic transmission (common on higher trims and sedan models).
AWD System:
Full-time All-Wheel Drive system, with viscous coupling center differential (manual transmission) or electronically controlled multi-plate clutch (automatic transmission).
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-star driver, 4-star passenger (for sedans of this era, specific testing for 1999 may vary).
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) often standard or optional depending on trim.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (typical for this era, consult manual for exact specifications).
Engine Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Transmission Fluid Change Auto:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Engine Oil Type Viscosity:
API SG or higher; 5W-30 is commonly recommended (refer to manual for climate variations).
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent; 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF-HP or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon (verify with manual for specific type).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-5; 75W-90 gear oil.
Head Gaskets:
While more prevalent in later generations, early signs of coolant loss or milky oil can indicate potential head gasket leaks.
Exhaust Gaskets:
Cracked exhaust manifold gaskets can lead to ticking noises on startup.
Suspension Components:
Wear on sway bar links, bushings, and struts is common due to age and mileage.
Cv Joints:
Front and rear CV joints can wear out, leading to clicking noises during turns.
Subaru Legacy Introduction:
Subaru has a long history of producing reliable and capable vehicles, with a strong focus on AWD technology.
Third Generation Launch:
The third generation (BD/BG/BK) was introduced in late 1998 for the 1999 model year, featuring a complete redesign with a more rounded body style and improved chassis.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan by Subaru Corporation.
