🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Legacy

Year:

2002

Chassis Code:

BD/BG/BK (Gen 3)

Engine Codes Covered:

EJ251, EJ253 (2.5L Naturally Aspirated), EJ20 (2.0L Naturally Aspirated - JDM/European market variants if applicable within scope)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size Sedan / Wagon

Key Selling Points:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on most models), boxer engine, comfortable ride, practical interior, robust build quality.

Competitors:

Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Mazda6, Ford Taurus.

Drivetrain:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

Engine Layout:

Horizontally-opposed (Boxer)

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Repair, Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Electrical Schematics, Component Removal/Installation

Specific Systems Covered:

Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Drivetrain, Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Suspension, Steering, Brakes (ABS), Climate Control, Electrical Systems (including ECUs, wiring diagrams), Body & Chassis, Restraint Systems (Airbags), Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed breakdown of EJ251/EJ253 engines, including cylinder head, piston, crankshaft, timing belt replacement, valve adjustment, lubrication system, and cooling system components.

Engine Performance:

Fuel injection system diagnosis and repair, ignition timing, emission control systems (catalytic converter, EGR), idle speed control.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch system, gear shifter linkage, gearbox overhaul, fluid replacement, and troubleshooting for 5-speed manual transmissions.

Transmission Automatic:

Diagnosis, fluid and filter change, torque converter information, and general overhaul procedures for 4-speed automatic transmissions.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake system diagnosis, pad and rotor replacement, caliper overhaul, ABS system component testing and repair, hydraulic system bleeding.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension component replacement (struts, control arms, bushings), wheel alignment specifications, power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering rack and column.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, fuse and relay locations, component testing procedures using a multimeter, starter and charging system diagnosis.

HVAC:

Climate control system diagnosis, refrigerant service (R134a), compressor, evaporator, condenser, and blower motor replacement, heater core service.

Preventative Maintenance:

Detailed oil change procedures, filter replacements (air, oil, fuel), spark plug replacement intervals and specifications, coolant flushes, brake fluid replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic flowcharts for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems, including interpretation of Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs).

Component Replacement:

Step-by-step instructions for removing and installing major components such as engine, transmission, suspension parts, brakes, starter, alternator, fuel pump, and body panels.

Diagnostics:

Use of Subaru Select Monitor (SSM) diagnostic tool, understanding sensor data, static and dynamic electrical tests.

Depth:

Expert-level, covering from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, complex electrical diagnostics, and bodywork repairs.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Fully searchable text content for quick access to information.

Printability:

Printable pages for physical reference.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution diagrams and illustrations.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

EJ251

Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2457 cc)

Configuration:

Naturally Aspirated, SOHC, 16-valve, Flat-4 (Boxer)

Horsepower:

165 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque:

166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Induction:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline, 87 Octane (Minimum)

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water)

Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 API SG or higher

Oil Capacity:

4.5 US Quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter change

Replacement Interval:

105,000 miles or 105 months, whichever comes first. Critical component; failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Type:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission with Lock-up Torque Converter

AWD System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with viscous coupling center differential.

Fluid Type:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil

Fluid Type:

Subaru ATF-HP (High Performance) or Dexron III compatible

📐 Dimensions

Length:

187.4 inches (4760 mm)

Width:

69.1 inches (1755 mm)

Height:

56.3 inches (1430 mm)

Wheelbase:

104.3 inches (2650 mm)

Curb Weight:

3200 - 3400 lbs (1450 - 1540 kg) approx., depending on trim and body style.

Trunk Volume Sedan:

13.1 cubic feet (371 liters)

Cargo Volume Wagon:

36.7 cubic feet (1039 liters) with rear seats up; 69.2 cubic feet (1960 liters) with rear seats folded.

Standard Wheel Size:

15-inch or 16-inch alloy wheels

Standard Tire Size:

205/55R16 or 205/60R15

Bolt Pattern:

5x100mm

Offset:

ET48-55 (typical)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Good (Driver & Passenger) - 2002 model year

IIHS Side Impact:

Acceptable - 2002 model year

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on most trims.

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCS) on some models.

Airbags:

Front driver and passenger airbags. Available side-impact airbags on select trims.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners for front occupants.

Child Seats:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system in rear seats.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/CD player with 4-6 speaker options. Aftermarket head unit installation guidance might be present or easily adaptable.

Climate Control:

Manual or automatic climate control depending on trim level.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models.

Power Accessories:

Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors are common features.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months, or every 7,500 miles or 7.5 months with synthetic oil, whichever comes first.

Tire Rotation:

Every 7,500 miles or 7.5 months.

Cabin Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed.

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Replace every 30,000 miles under dusty conditions.

Power Steering Fluid:

Subaru Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III ATF

Brake Fluid:

SAE J1703 or FMVSS No. 116 DOT 3

Washer Fluid:

Subaru Windshield Washer Fluid or equivalent (non-methanol based recommended for seal longevity)

Head Gaskets:

While less common on the EJ251/253 compared to earlier EJ22/EJ25s, Subaru head gasket leaks are a known potential issue. Early detection and proper repair are crucial.

Timing Belt Tensioner:

Failure of the timing belt tensioner can lead to belt slippage or breakage, requiring immediate attention. The manual provides guidance on inspection.

Wheel Bearings:

Front and rear wheel bearings can wear out, especially on AWD vehicles. The manual details the replacement procedure.

Evaporative Emissions System:

Canister purge valve issues can lead to check engine lights. The manual covers EVAP system diagnostics.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Subaru, a division of Fuji Heavy Industries, has a long history of producing reliable and capable vehicles, particularly known for their pioneering use of AWD in passenger cars.

Generation:

Third Generation (GC/GF/GM chassis codes for sedans/wagons, 1998-2001; BD/BG/BK chassis codes for this 2000-2004 facelifted iteration). This 2002 model represents a significant refresh of the third generation.

Production Years:

2000-2004 (for the facelifted third generation)

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Awards:

Subaru Legacy models from this era consistently received good safety ratings from organizations like the IIHS and NHTSA, highlighting their robust construction and standard AWD.

Consumer Ratings:

The 2002 Legacy was generally well-regarded for its comfortable ride, refined interior for its class, and the inherent security of its AWD system, making it a practical choice for varied climates.