🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Legacy

Year:

2001

Chassis Code:

BD/BG/BK (3rd Generation)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2001 Subaru Legacy represented Subaru's continued effort to blend all-weather capability with mainstream passenger car appeal, competing against models like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Mazda 626. It was particularly noted for its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, a key differentiator.

Competitive Analysis:

While competitors often focused on front-wheel drive and smoother on-road dynamics, Subaru's AWD offered superior traction in adverse weather conditions. The Legacy aimed for a balance of comfort, performance, and practicality, positioning itself as a sensible choice for drivers in diverse climates or those who valued the added security of AWD.

Key Features:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, horizontally opposed 'Boxer' engines for a lower center of gravity, available wagon and sedan body styles, comfortable interior, robust build quality.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical Systems, HVAC, Bodywork, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Repair Procedures, Specifications

Page Count:

Approximately 1500+ pages (typical for a complete factory service manual)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF EBook

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine (EJ22, EJ25 SOHC/DOHC), Automatic Transmission (4EAT), Manual Transmission (5MT/6MT), All-Wheel Drive System, Front & Rear Suspension, Power Steering, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Air Conditioning (HVAC), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, SRS Airbag System, Fuel Delivery, Ignition, Emission Control, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Electrical Diagrams, Body & Interior components

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs), Engine tune-up, Diagnosis and repair of engine performance issues, Transmission servicing and overhaul, Brake system repair (pads, rotors, lines), Suspension component replacement (shocks, struts, bushings), Steering system repair, Electrical troubleshooting, HVAC system repair, Body panel repair and adjustment, Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation and resolution, Component testing and calibration, Pre-delivery inspection (PDI), Torque specifications for all fasteners

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive; covers everything from basic maintenance and fluid checks to advanced diagnostics, component overhaul, and complete vehicle assembly/disassembly. Includes detailed wiring diagrams and diagnostic flowcharts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Print Quality:

High-resolution, searchable text and clear, legible diagrams. Optimized for digital viewing and printing.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF EBook)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF EBook)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

2.5L DOHC Naturally Aspirated EJ25D Boxer-4 (Phase I)

Engine Options:

2.2L SOHC EJ22E Boxer-4 (base models), 2.5L DOHC EJ25D Boxer-4 (GT, Limited trims), 2.5L DOHC Turbocharged EJ25T Boxer-4 (GT-B Limited, GT-VDC models)

Horsepower:

165 hp @ 5,600 rpm

Torque:

166 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm

Fuel System:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Bore X Stroke:

99.5 mm x 79.0 mm

Coolant Capacity:

7.8 Liters (8.2 US Quarts)

Oil Capacity With Filter:

4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts)

Recommended Oil Type:

API SG, SH, SJ or ILSAC GF-2 certified SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for climate variations)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT)

Optional Transmission:

5-Speed Manual Transmission (5MT)

AWD System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (Active Torque Split AWD for Automatic, Viscous Center Differential for Manual)

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Subaru ATF-HP (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid for older specs, but HP is preferred)

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-5 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil

Transfer Case Fluid:

API GL-5 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil

Differential Fluid Front:

API GL-5 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil

Differential Fluid Rear:

API GL-5 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil

📐 Dimensions

Exterior Length Sedan:

4,770 mm (187.8 in)

Exterior Length Wagon:

4,655 mm (183.3 in)

Exterior Width:

1,730 mm (68.1 in)

Exterior Height Sedan:

1,435 mm (56.5 in)

Exterior Height Wagon:

1,475 mm (58.1 in)

Wheelbase:

2,630 mm (103.5 in)

Curb Weight Sedan Auto:

Approximately 1,450 kg (3,197 lbs)

Curb Weight Wagon Manual:

Approximately 1,480 kg (3,263 lbs)

Cargo Volume Wagon:

Approximately 0.98 m³ (34.7 cu ft) with rear seats up

Tire Size:

205/55R16 (common for GT/Limited trims), 195/60R15 (base models)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x100 mm

Wheel Offset:

+48 to +55 mm (typical)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Driver Side:

Good

NHTSA Front Passenger Side:

Good

IIHS Frontal Offset:

Good (for models tested)

Passive Features:

Dual front airbags, Three-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, Side-impact door beams, Crumple zones, Child safety seat anchors (LATCH)

Active Features:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Optional Traction Control System (TCS) on some models, Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) on select GT-VDC models.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Standard AM/FM/CD stereo with 4 or 6 speakers. Optional premium audio systems and cassette players were available. Climate controls typically manual or automatic based on trim.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), limited availability of Traction Control System (TCS) and Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) on higher trims.

Connectivity Features:

Limited connectivity by modern standards. Typically featured power windows, power locks, and power mirrors. Keyless entry was an option on some trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals Oil Change:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used (refer to manual for specific recommendations).

Service Intervals Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Typically recommended every 30,000 miles.

Service Intervals Spark Plugs:

100,000 miles for iridium-tipped spark plugs (if equipped, check specific model/engine).

Service Intervals Coolant:

First change at 30,000 miles or 2 years, then every 30,000 miles or 2 years thereafter. Use Subaru Super Coolant or equivalent.

Service Intervals Transmission Fluid Auto:

Inspect every 30,000 miles. Change every 45,000-60,000 miles or as per severe service schedule.

Service Intervals Transmission Fluid Manual:

Change every 60,000 miles or as per severe service schedule.

Known Issues Headgaskets:

While the EJ25D phase I engine in this generation is less prone to head gasket failure than some earlier versions, it can still be an issue, especially with overheating. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures. Later EJ25 SOHC and DOHC engines (phase II) are generally more robust.

Known Issues Radiator:

Plastic end tanks on radiators can become brittle and crack over time, leading to coolant leaks. The manual covers radiator removal, replacement, and flushing.

Known Issues Cv Joints:

Protective boots can tear, leading to grease loss and eventual CV joint failure. Manual provides replacement instructions for axles and boots.

Known Issues Rear Main Seal:

Can develop leaks over time. This is a more involved repair requiring transmission removal.

Fluid Specifications Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid

Fluid Specifications Power Steering Fluid:

Subaru Power Steering Fluid (or Dexron III/Mercon compatible)

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Subaru, a division of Fuji Heavy Industries, has a long history dating back to 1917. The brand is renowned for its engineering expertise, particularly in horizontally opposed 'Boxer' engines and its pioneering adoption of All-Wheel Drive (AWD) technology across its entire passenger car lineup.

Model Evolution:

The first Subaru Legacy was introduced in 1989 as a replacement for the Subaru Leone. The 2001 model year marked the third generation (BD/BG/BK chassis code, 1998-2004), which saw a significant redesign with a larger, more refined platform, improved interior, and updated powertrains. This generation continued to solidify Subaru's reputation for AWD performance and safety.

Production Location:

Gunma Plant, Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

Subaru vehicles, including the Legacy, are often recognized for their safety ratings and all-weather capability. While specific awards for the 2001 model year might vary, Subaru consistently performed well in IIHS and NHTSA safety tests. The Legacy was also praised for its comfortable ride and AWD system.