Vehicle Segment:
Compact/Mid-size Sedan and Wagon.
Brand Philosophy:
Subaru is known for its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system and horizontally opposed (Boxer) engines, emphasizing safety, reliability, and capability.
Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Mazda 626, Mitsubishi Galant, Nissan Altima.
AWD Standard:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) across most trims, providing superior traction and handling in various conditions.
Engine Type:
Horizontally-opposed (Boxer) engines, offering a lower center of gravity for improved stability and handling.
Body Styles:
Offered in Sedan and Wagon body styles.
Reliability Reputation:
Generally good reliability, though specific engine variants and head gasket issues are known concerns for some Subaru models of this era.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, diagnosis, repair, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel injection system, exhaust system.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starter system, charging system, engine control module (ECM) diagnosis and wiring diagrams.
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission disassembly, assembly, repair, troubleshooting, clutch system.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission (4EAT) disassembly, assembly, repair, diagnosis, troubleshooting, hydraulic control.
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, differentials (front and rear), driveshafts, CV joints, wheel bearings.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, shock absorbers, struts, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, tie rods, diagnosis and repair.
Brakes:
Brake system (front disc, rear disc or drum depending on model), ABS system diagnosis, brake fluid specifications, caliper and master cylinder repair.
Body And Chassis:
Body construction, interior trim removal and installation, exterior trim, glass replacement, body repair procedures, corrosion prevention.
Electrical System General:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, horn, wipers, washers, power windows, power door locks, interior and exterior lighting.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis, repair, refrigerant handling, component replacement.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS) diagnosis and replacement procedures (with necessary safety precautions), seat belts.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspections.
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) codes and explanations.
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for removing and installing virtually all mechanical and electrical components.
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension upgrades/repairs, brake system overhauls.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Use of wiring diagrams, pinpoint tests, and diagnostic tools for electrical system faults.
Body Repair:
Procedures for panel replacement, welding, door and window adjustments, bumper repair.
Specifications Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, resistance values, diagnostic parameters.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic flowcharts and wiring diagrams.
Engine Displacement Ej22:
2.2 Liters (2212 cc)
Engine Displacement Ej25:
2.5 Liters (2457 cc)
Engine Configuration:
4-Cylinder, Horizontally-Opposed (Boxer)
Valvetrain:
SOHC (Single Overhead Cam) or DOHC (Double Overhead Cam) depending on engine and trim.
Horsepower Ej22:
Approximately 130-137 hp @ 5500-5600 rpm
Torque Ej22:
Approximately 137-140 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Horsepower Ej25:
Approximately 165-170 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque Ej25:
Approximately 166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane or higher recommended)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
4-star (may vary slightly by specific test and configuration).
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
4-star (may vary slightly by specific test and configuration).
IIHS Frontal Offset:
'Good' rating (for models equipped with airbags).
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on higher trims or as an option.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard on most models.
Seatbelts:
3-point front seat belts with pretensioners, 3-point rear seat belts.
Crumple Zones:
Designed with front and rear crumple zones for energy absorption.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe service) / 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal service), consult manual for specifics.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (platinum or iridium plugs may have longer intervals, check spec).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for EJ engines; typically every 90,000 to 105,000 miles or 7 years. Failure can cause severe engine damage (interference engine).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended (consult manual for temperature-specific viscosity).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5-4.8 US quarts (with filter) for EJ22/EJ25.
Coolant Type:
Subaru Genuine Coolant or equivalent (typically a silicate-free ethylene glycol coolant).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Subaru Genuine ATF-HP or equivalent Dexron-III/Mercon compatible fluid (check specific manual for 4EAT).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Head Gaskets:
A common concern in EJ series engines, particularly the EJ25. Symptoms include coolant leaks (internal or external), overheating, and white smoke from the exhaust. The 1996-1999 EJ25 (Phase 1) are more prone than earlier EJ22 or later EJ25 (Phase 2).
Oil Leaks:
Can occur from valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and rear main seals, especially with higher mileage.
Idling Issues:
Can be caused by vacuum leaks, dirty idle air control (IAC) valve, or faulty oxygen sensors.
AWD System Wear:
Wear in CV joints, driveshaft U-joints, and differential mounts can lead to clunks or vibrations, especially during acceleration or turns.
Subaru Founding:
Founded in 1953, Subaru (meaning 'Seven Stars' in Japanese) is the automobile division of Subaru Corporation.
AWD Pioneering:
Subaru was one of the first manufacturers to offer All-Wheel Drive as standard equipment on passenger cars, beginning with the Subaru Leone in 1972.
Legacy Introduction:
The Subaru Legacy was introduced in 1989 as a replacement for the Subaru Leone, positioned as a more refined and capable vehicle.
Second Generation:
The 1995 model year marks the beginning of the second generation of the Subaru Legacy (BD/BG/BK platform).
Design Changes Gen2:
The second generation featured a more rounded and aerodynamic design compared to its predecessor, with improved interior comfort and features.
Production Period:
1995-1999 (Second Generation).
Manufacturing Location:
Japan.