🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Legacy

Model Generations Covered:

Second Generation (BD/BG/BK), Third Generation (BE/BH)

Chassis Codes Covered:

BD, BG, BK, BE, BH

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Subaru Legacy during this period was positioned as a capable, all-wheel-drive focused mid-size sedan and wagon, often appealing to buyers seeking all-weather traction and a blend of comfort and performance, differentiating itself from front-wheel-drive dominated competitors.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against vehicles like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Taurus, and Nissan Altima. Its standard AWD was a significant competitive advantage, especially in regions with inclement weather.

Key Features:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on most models), horizontally opposed Boxer engines, robust build quality, practical wagon variants, and a reputation for durability and safety.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All major mechanical, electrical, and body systems for the specified model years and generations.

Page Count:

Comprehensive, typically exceeding 2000 pages for full factory documentation.

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical (including EJ22, EJ25 SOHC/DOHC, EJ20 turbo), engine management (ECU diagnostics, sensors, actuators), fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system, transmission (manual and automatic), drivetrain (AWD system, differentials), suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS), electrical system (wiring diagrams, lighting, power distribution, comfort systems), HVAC, body and chassis, interior components, body repair, collision repair, specifications, troubleshooting, and maintenance.

Procedures Included:

Scheduled maintenance, lubrication, fluid changes, filter replacements, engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, brake system repairs, suspension component replacement, steering system repairs, electrical component testing and replacement, HVAC system diagnosis and repair, body panel repair and replacement, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting guides, torque specifications, alignment procedures, and wiring harness repair.

Technical Depth:

Expert level, covering detailed diagnostic procedures, component specifications, overhaul instructions, and advanced troubleshooting for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Searchable PDF with high-resolution diagrams.

Print Quality:

Designed for clear viewing and printing of technical diagrams and text.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine 1:

2.2L SOHC EJ22E Boxer

Primary Engine 2:

2.5L SOHC EJ25D Boxer

Primary Engine 3:

2.5L DOHC EJ251/EJ253 Boxer (post-2000)

Primary Engine 4:

2.0L DOHC EJ20 Turbocharged Boxer (GT/GT-B variants, market specific)

Ej22E Horsepower:

Approx. 135 hp @ 5600 rpm

Ej22E Torque:

Approx. 140 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Ej25D Horsepower:

Approx. 165 hp @ 6000 rpm

Ej25D Torque:

Approx. 162 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Ej251 Horsepower:

Approx. 167 hp @ 5600 rpm

Ej251 Torque:

Approx. 170 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel System:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Recommended Fuel:

87 Octane Unleaded (91 Octane for turbocharged models)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transmission (MT)

Optional Transmission:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (AT) with Electronically Controlled Sequential Activation

AWD System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on all models, with variations in center differential depending on transmission type).

Automatic Transmission Feature:

Active AWD system on later models (BE/BH chassis) for improved traction management.

📐 Dimensions

Sedan Length Approx:

185.0 - 187.0 inches

Wagon Length Approx:

187.0 - 189.0 inches

Width Approx:

67.5 - 68.7 inches

Height Approx:

55.0 - 57.5 inches (sedan), 57.0 - 59.0 inches (wagon)

Curb Weight Approx:

3000 - 3400 lbs

Wheelbase Approx:

104.0 - 104.3 inches

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

4-star (1995-1998 models)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

4-star (1995-1998 models)

IIHS Front Offset Compatibility:

Good (1995-1998 models)

Active Features Standard:

All-Wheel Drive

Active Features Optional:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Passive Features Standard:

Dual front airbags, 3-point seatbelts with pretensioners, crumple zones.

Passive Features Optional:

Side airbags (late models), reinforced body structure.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Standard AM/FM stereo with cassette or CD player. Optional premium audio systems available on higher trims. Basic climate controls.

Driver Assistance Features:

Primarily focused on the AWD system. ABS available on some models. No advanced electronic driver-assistance systems (ADAS).

Connectivity Features:

Limited to basic audio input (e.g., CD player, cassette). No USB, Bluetooth, or integrated smartphone connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe driving) / 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal driving), consult manual for specifics.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 60,000 - 105,000 miles or 5-7 years, depending on engine and model year (crucial for interference engines).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles depending on spark plug type (copper vs. iridium).

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 5W-30, API Service SG, SH, or SJ; or ILSAC GF-1 or GF-2 (Check manual for exact viscosity and API rating based on climate/model year).

Coolant Specification:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors. Mix 50/50 with distilled water.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Subaru ATF-HP or Dexron II/III equivalent (confirm with manual).

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-5 Gear Oil SAE 75W-90.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Known Issue 1:

Head Gasket Failure: Particularly common on EJ25D (phase 1) engines. Symptoms include coolant loss, white smoke from exhaust, overheating. Manual provides repair procedures.

Known Issue 2:

Cracked Exhaust Manifolds: Can cause exhaust leaks and ticking noises. Manual covers replacement.

Known Issue 3:

Automatic Transmission Issues: Torque converter shudder or erratic shifting can occur with age. Manual aids diagnosis and repair.

Known Issue 4:

CV Joint Wear: Common with AWD vehicles, especially if boots are damaged. Manual covers replacement and inspection.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Subaru, a division of Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries), has a long history of producing reliable vehicles with a focus on engineering innovation, particularly its boxer engines and all-wheel-drive systems, dating back to its founding in 1953.

Model Evolution Phase 1:

The second generation (BD/BG/BK, 1995-1999) introduced a more rounded, aerodynamic styling, improved interior comfort, and revised powertrains including the EJ25D. Offered in sedan and wagon body styles.

Model Evolution Phase 2:

The third generation (BE/BH, 1999-2004) brought a significant styling redesign, adopting a more European-influenced aesthetic. Updated powertrains included the EJ251/EJ253 and improved AWD systems. Offered in sedan and wagon (Outback Sport wagon variants).

Production Years:

1995 - 2003

Manufacturing Locations:

Japan (Gunma Plant)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognition 1:

Car and Driver's Ten Best: Several Legacy models, particularly those with turbocharged engines and wagon variants, received recognition from automotive publications for their value and performance.

Recognition 2:

Kiplinger's Personal Finance: Consistently ranked for good value and cost of ownership in its segment.

Certifications:

Compliant with all applicable US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) for its model years.