Vehicle Class:
Mid-size Sedan and Wagon
Competitive Segment:
Direct competitor to vehicles like Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Mazda6, Nissan Altima.
Subaru Niche:
Known for standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Boxer engines, and a reputation for reliability and safety.
Differentiation:
Standard AWD provided a significant advantage in traction and all-weather capability compared to most competitors in its class.
Engine Offerings:
Offered a range of Boxer engines, including naturally aspirated and turbocharged variants, appealing to performance-oriented buyers.
Standard AWD:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive was a hallmark feature of the Legacy, enhancing grip and stability.
Boxer Engine Layout:
Low center of gravity from horizontally opposed 'Boxer' engines contributed to better handling dynamics.
Safety Focus:
Subaru's commitment to safety, often receiving high marks in crash tests.
Available Performance Variants:
The GT and GT Limited trims offered turbocharged power and sport-tuned suspension for enthusiast appeal.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed disassembly, assembly, overhaul, and component testing for EJ253, EJ255, EZ30D engines. Includes timing belt replacement, valve adjustments, piston ring installation, cylinder head reconditioning.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, fuel injection system (EFI), sensors (MAF, MAP, O2, Crank/Cam), ignition coils, starter motor, alternator, battery, wiring diagrams.
Transmission Manual:
Disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair of 5-speed manual transmission. Includes clutch operation, gear synchros, shift forks, output shaft, bearings.
Transmission Automatic:
Troubleshooting, repair, and overhaul of 4-speed and 5EAT automatic transmissions. Includes valve body diagnostics, torque converter, transmission control module (TCM) operation, fluid types and capacities.
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, front and rear differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, wheel bearings, propeller shaft.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, coil springs, control arms, ball joints, bushings, anti-roll bars, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic), steering rack, tie rods, steering column, steering angle sensor, alignment procedures.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brake systems, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, rotor and pad replacement, caliper repair.
Electrical System Body:
Lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, power locks, mirrors, wipers, horn, central locking, keyless entry, immobilizer system.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system. Includes refrigerant types, charging procedures, blower motor, evaporator, condenser, compressor, cabin air filter replacement.
Body Exterior:
Body panel removal and installation (fenders, bumpers, doors, hood, trunk), glass replacement, seals, exterior trim.
Body Interior:
Dashboard removal, seat removal and installation, interior trim panels, headliner, carpeting, airbag system safety precautions.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS), seatbelt pre-tensioners, pre-collision systems (if equipped), safety sensor locations and testing.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic scan tool usage, live data interpretation, component testing procedures.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter change, air filter replacement, cabin air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs.
Major Maintenance:
Timing belt replacement (EJ engines), coolant flush and replacement, brake fluid flush, transmission fluid change, differential fluid change.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues across all vehicle systems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair And Overhaul:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation.
Component Testing:
Electrical component testing using multimeters, resistance checks, voltage checks, continuity tests.
Calibration And Adjustment:
Wheel alignment procedures, idle speed adjustment (if applicable), headlight aim adjustment.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, detailed, and thorough. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostic procedures for electrical and mechanical systems, including interpretation of sensor data and fault codes.
Rebuild Instructions:
Detailed instructions for rebuilding major components like engines, transmissions, and differentials.
Specification Accuracy:
Highly accurate torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and electrical resistance values.
Standard Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Optional Transmission Type 1:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Optional Transmission Type 2:
5-Speed 'Sportshift' Automatic Transmission (5EAT)
AWD System Integration:
All transmissions are paired with Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system.
Manual Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios for each gear are detailed in the manual (e.g., 1st: 3.454, 2nd: 1.842, 3rd: 1.370, 4th: 1.060, 5th: 0.788, Reverse: 3.333).
Automatic Transmission Modes:
5EAT models feature a sequential manual shift mode ('Sportshift').
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-5 SAE 75W-90 Hypoid Gear Oil.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF-HP (High Performance) or equivalent DEXRON III compatible fluid. Capacity approx. 6.5-7.5 quarts for change with filter.
Center Differential Fluid:
Subaru Differential Fluid-5 (or GL-5 equivalent).
Rear Differential Fluid:
Subaru Differential Fluid-5 (or GL-5 equivalent).
Sedan Length:
Approx. 4760 mm (187.4 in)
Wagon Length:
Approx. 4755 mm (187.2 in)
Width:
Approx. 1770 mm (69.7 in)
Height:
Approx. 1430 mm (56.3 in) (Sedan), Approx. 1470 mm (57.9 in) (Wagon)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2670 mm (105.1 in)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 150 mm (5.9 in)
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 97.4 cu ft (Sedan), Approx. 101.4 cu ft (Wagon)
Trunk Volume Sedan:
Approx. 14.7 cu ft
Cargo Volume Wagon:
Approx. 30.0 cu ft (behind rear seats), Approx. 67.6 cu ft (with rear seats folded)
Curb Weight Base:
Approx. 1490 kg (3285 lbs)
Curb Weight Gt Sedan:
Approx. 1580 kg (3483 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Typically around 1950-2050 kg (4300-4500 lbs)
Towing Capacity:
Not officially specified or recommended by Subaru for most trims.
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x100 mm
Wheel Size Standard:
16 or 17 inches
Wheel Size Gt:
17 or 18 inches
Tire Size Example:
205/55R16 (base), 215/45R17 (GT)
NHTSA Frontal Driver:
5 Stars (2004-2006 models)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger:
5 Stars (2004-2006 models)
NHTSA Side Driver:
5 Stars (2004-2006 models)
NHTSA Side Passenger:
5 Stars (2004-2006 models)
NHTSA Side Rear Occupant:
5 Stars (2004-2006 models)
IIHS Moderate Overlap Frontal:
Good (2005 models)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (2005 models)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution
Traction Control:
Available (often standard on higher trims or with certain transmissions)
Stability Control:
Available (Vehicle Dynamics Control - VDC)
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear side-curtain airbags (availability varies by trim).
Seatbelts:
3-point height-adjustable front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters, 3-point rear seatbelts.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced chassis structure designed to resist roof crush.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, or 7,500 miles (12,000 km) / 12 months with synthetic oil, under normal driving conditions. Severe conditions may require more frequent changes.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months, or more often in dusty conditions.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for platinum/iridium plugs (e.g., NGK).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 105,000 miles (168,000 km) or 7 years for EJ engines (critical preventative maintenance item).
Coolant Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months for the initial service, then every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 48 months thereafter.
Brake Fluid Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (preferred) or 5W-30 Conventional. Check owner's manual for exact specification.
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US Quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter for 2.5L, 5.0 US Quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter for 3.0L H6.
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant. Never use green conventional coolant.
Power Steering Fluid:
Subaru Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III ATF.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Head Gaskets:
While not as prevalent as in earlier generations, some EJ25 engines can still experience head gasket issues, especially if overheated. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.
Oil Leaks:
Common areas for oil leaks include valve cover gaskets and crankshaft seals. The manual covers seal replacement.
Evaporative Emissions System:
Issues with the EVAP system, such as a faulty purge valve or charcoal canister, can trigger check engine lights. The manual details EVAP system diagnostics.
Automatic Transmission Issues:
Some 5EAT transmissions have been known to develop issues with torque converters or valve bodies. Proper maintenance and fluid changes are crucial. The manual provides diagnostic guidance.
Wheel Bearing Wear:
Premature wear of wheel bearings can occur, especially with aggressive driving or in areas with road salt. The manual details bearing replacement.
Ac System Leaks:
O-rings and seals in the AC system can degrade over time, leading to refrigerant leaks. The manual outlines AC system servicing.
Clutch Wear:
Standard wear item for manual transmission vehicles. The manual provides clutch replacement procedures and specifications.
Brake Component Wear:
Rotors and pads are wear items, with replacement intervals depending on driving style. The manual covers brake system inspection and replacement.
Cv Axle Boots:
Torn CV axle boots can lead to joint failure. The manual details CV axle replacement.
Subaru Origin:
Founded in 1953, originally Fuji Heavy Industries. Known for its automotive division specializing in horizontally opposed 'Boxer' engines and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.
Legacy Brand Introduction:
The Subaru Legacy was introduced in 1989 as a replacement for the Subaru Leone.
Generation Introduction:
The fourth generation (BP/BL) Legacy was introduced for the 2005 model year, with the 2004 model year being the final year of the third generation (BD/BG/BK).
Design Philosophy Gen4:
Featured a more aerodynamic and refined exterior design compared to its predecessor. Increased wheelbase and track width improved handling and interior space.
Engine Updates Gen4:
Introduction of the 3.0L EZ30D H6 engine for premium trims and continued use of updated EJ25 variants.
Manufacturing Location:
Ota City, Gunma Prefecture, Japan
Production Period:
2003-2009 (for the BP/BL generation)
Sales Performance:
Competed effectively in the mid-size segment, with AWD appeal driving sales, especially in regions with challenging weather.