Segment:
Mid-size sedan and wagon, known for its standard All-Wheel Drive system and boxer engine layout.
Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Mazda 6, Ford Fusion.
AWD Standard:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive provided a significant competitive advantage, especially in inclement weather.
Boxer Engine:
Subaru's signature horizontally opposed 'boxer' engines offered a lower center of gravity for improved handling.
Main Coverage:
Comprehensive service and repair for all mechanical and electrical systems.
Trim Levels Covered:
All US market trim levels including 2.5i, GT, Outback, and special editions.
Estimated Pages:
~2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era).
Type:
Online Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF or similar accessible online format)
Engine:
Engine mechanical (2.5L SOHC EJ251, 2.5L DOHC EJ253, 2.5L DOHC Turbo EJ255), lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions control, starting and charging.
Transmission:
Manual transmission (5-speed), automatic transmission (4-speed), clutch system, driveline, AWD system.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS, parking brake, specifications for rotor/pad replacement, bleeding procedures.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension (MacPherson struts front, multi-link rear), steering system (power steering), wheel alignment specifications.
Electrical Body:
Body and interior (doors, windows, seats, trim), lighting, instrumentation, HVAC system, power accessories, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, ECUs.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes, belt inspections.
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Component testing, fault code retrieval and interpretation (OBD-II), symptom-based troubleshooting.
Major Repairs:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake caliper/master cylinder replacement, head gasket repair.
Bodywork:
Panel removal/installation, bumper repair, dent removal techniques, glass replacement.
Depth:
Comprehensive coverage from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring schematics.
Digital Format:
Likely PDF, optimized for digital viewing and printing. Searchable text is highly probable.
Printability:
Designed for printing specific sections or the entire manual. High-resolution diagrams and clear text.
Binding:
N/A (Online/Digital Format)
Paper Quality:
N/A (Online/Digital Format)
Engine Code Base:
EJ251 (2.5L SOHC)
Engine Displacement Base:
2457 cc
Engine Configuration Base:
Horizontally Opposed (Boxer) 4-Cylinder
Horsepower Base:
Approx. 165 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque Base:
Approx. 166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Engine Code Gt:
EJ255 (2.5L DOHC Turbocharged)
Horsepower Gt:
Approx. 210 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque Gt:
Approx. 235 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended for naturally aspirated, 91 octane recommended for turbocharged).
Type Standard:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic Transmission with Electronic Control
AWD System:
Active All-Wheel Drive (distributes power to wheels for optimal traction).
Manual Fluid Type:
API GL-5 Gear Oil (refer to manual for specific viscosity, e.g., 75W-90)
Automatic Fluid Type:
Subaru ATF-HP (Highly Recommended), or equivalent DEXRON-III H / MERCON.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 104.0 inches (Sedan/Wagon)
Length Sedan:
Approx. 187.4 inches
Length Wagon:
Approx. 188.0 inches
Width:
Approx. 68.1 inches
Height:
Approx. 56.1 inches (Sedan), 57.7 inches (Wagon)
Curb Weight Base:
Approx. 3200 - 3400 lbs (depending on trim and transmission)
Curb Weight Turbo:
Approx. 3400 - 3600 lbs (GT models)
Trunk Volume Sedan:
Approx. 14.7 cu ft
Cargo Volume Wagon:
Approx. 36.4 cu ft (seats up), 70.1 cu ft (seats down)
NHTSA Front Driver:
Good (for 2000-2003 models)
NHTSA Front Passenger:
Good (for 2000-2003 models)
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable (for some 2000-2003 models, varies by year/configuration)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on most trims.
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS) on some models.
Airbags Front:
Dual front SRS airbags.
Airbags Side:
Optional front side-impact airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe conditions); 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal conditions), using synthetic oil recommended for longer intervals.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months, or more often in dusty conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (copper plugs) or 60,000 miles (platinum/iridium plugs, if applicable).
Coolant Change:
Initial change at 30,000 miles, then every 30,000 miles thereafter. Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) is specified.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial: Every 90,000 miles or 7 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage (interference engine).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 (preferred for most conditions). Check manual for specific viscosity recommendations.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Subaru power steering fluid or Dexron III/Mercon ATF.
Head Gaskets:
A common issue across many Subaru models of this era. The EJ25 engine is prone to head gasket leaks due to coolant seepage, particularly the inner coolant passages. Replacement often involves replacing the head bolts as well.
Crankshaft Seal:
Rear crankshaft main seal leaks can occur, often requiring transmission removal for replacement.
Transmission Mounts:
Worn transmission mounts can lead to clunking noises or vibration.
Wheel Bearings:
Front wheel bearings can be a wear item.
Catalytic Converter:
Can fail over time due to age or engine misfires.
Subaru Identity:
Subaru, a division of Fuji Heavy Industries, is renowned for its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system and horizontally opposed boxer engines.
Legacy Introduction:
The Subaru Legacy was first introduced in 1989 as a replacement for the Subaru Leone.
Generation Transition:
The 2000-2003 models represent the end of the third generation (BD/BG/BK) before the significant redesign of the fourth generation (BP/BL) for 2005.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (primarily Gunma Plant)
Car And Driver Best:
The Subaru Legacy lineup frequently appeared on Car and Driver's Ten Best lists in previous generations, establishing a reputation for value and capability.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Varied reliability ratings during this period, with some common issues like head gaskets impacting overall scores. The manual provides essential guidance for mitigating these.
