Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size sedan/wagon (often referred to as compact or intermediate depending on the market classification at the time).
Target Audience:
Families and individuals seeking reliable, all-wheel-drive capable transportation with a focus on practicality and safety.
Key Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Taurus, Nissan Altima, Mitsubishi Galant.
Unique Selling Proposition:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) across most trims, offering superior traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
Standard AWD:
The defining feature, providing enhanced grip and confidence.
Horizontally Opposed Engine:
Subaru's signature Boxer engine layout, contributing to a lower center of gravity and improved handling.
Available Body Styles:
Offered as both a four-door sedan and a five-door wagon (often referred to as the Outback Sport or similar nomenclature in some markets).
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed instructions for disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of all engine components, including cylinder heads, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing belt/chain, oil pump, and cooling system.
Engine Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, ECU diagnostics, ignition system troubleshooting, fuel injection system analysis, sensor testing, starter, alternator, and battery service.
Transmission Manual:
Service procedures for clutch inspection and replacement, gearbox disassembly, gear inspection, synchronizer repair, and transmission fluid service.
Transmission Automatic:
Troubleshooting, diagnostic procedures, fluid and filter replacement, valve body service, torque converter inspection, and transmission overhaul procedures.
Drivetrain:
Front and rear differential service, axle shaft inspection and replacement, driveshaft balancing, and universal joint service.
Suspension:
Front strut and shock absorber replacement, control arm bushing inspection, ball joint testing, sway bar link service, and rear multi-link suspension analysis.
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis, pump and rack and pinion service, steering column repair, and tie rod end replacement.
Brakes:
Disc brake component replacement (pads, rotors), drum brake service, hydraulic system bleeding, ABS system diagnostics and component replacement, parking brake adjustment.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel alignment, door and latch service, glass replacement, interior trim removal and installation, structural component inspection.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, compressor replacement, evaporator and condenser service, heater core replacement, blower motor troubleshooting.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump testing, injector cleaning and replacement, fuel filter replacement, fuel tank service, evaporative emissions control system (EVAP).
Exhaust System:
Muffler and catalytic converter replacement, exhaust pipe inspection, oxygen sensor replacement.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid level checks and top-offs, tire rotation.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common problems, including drivability issues, starting problems, and electrical faults.
Repair And Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and installation, including major component overhauls.
Diagnostics:
Includes information on using OBD-II scan tools, interpreting diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and performing specific diagnostic tests on various systems.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, essential for diagnosing electrical faults.
Depth:
Advanced diagnostic and repair procedures, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts. Covers full vehicle disassembly and reassembly.
Engine Description 1:
2.2 Liter, 16-Valve SOHC Boxer-4 Engine
Displacement 1:
2212 cc (135 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke 1:
96.0 mm x 75.0 mm
Compression Ratio 1:
9.5:1
Horsepower 1:
135 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque 1:
136 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Engine Code 2:
EJ25D (Phase II DOHC)
Engine Description 2:
2.5 Liter, 16-Valve DOHC Boxer-4 Engine (found in higher trims and GT models)
Displacement 2:
2457 cc (150 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke 2:
99.5 mm x 79.0 mm
Compression Ratio 2:
9.7:1
Horsepower 2:
165 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque 2:
166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Injection Type:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI)
Fuel Octane Rating:
87 Octane (minimum recommended, 91 for optimal performance with EJ25D)
Cooling System Type:
Liquid-cooled
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant (e.g., Subaru Super Coolant or equivalent)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 6.9 Liters (7.3 US Quarts)
Oil Type Ej22E:
SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 API SG/SH or SJ
Oil Capacity Ej22E W Filter:
4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts)
Oil Type Ej25D:
SAE 5W-30 API SG/SH or SJ (recommended for optimal performance and cold starts)
Oil Capacity Ej25D W Filter:
4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts)
Spark Plugs Ej22E:
NGK BKR6E or equivalent
Spark Plug Gap Ej22E:
1.0 - 1.1 mm (0.039 - 0.043 in)
Spark Plugs Ej25D:
NGK BKR6E or equivalent
Spark Plug Gap Ej25D:
1.0 - 1.1 mm (0.039 - 0.043 in)
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Every 90,000 miles or 72 months, whichever comes first (critical maintenance item).
Timing Belt Tensioner:
Replacement of tensioner and idler pulleys recommended during timing belt service.
Transmission Type Standard:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Fluid Manual:
SAE 75W-90 API GL-5 (or GL-4 for some earlier models, consult manual)
Transmission Fluid Capacity Manual:
Approx. 2.3 Liters (2.4 US Quarts)
Transmission Type Optional:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Subaru ATF-HP (or Dexron III/Mercon compatible)
Transmission Fluid Capacity Automatic Drain Fill:
Approx. 3.5 Liters (3.7 US Quarts)
Transmission Fluid Capacity Automatic Total With Converter:
Approx. 8.0 Liters (8.5 US Quarts)
Drivetrain AWD:
Full-time Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with viscous coupling center differential (for manual transmission) and electronic control (for automatic transmission).
Differential Fluid Front Rear:
SAE 75W-90 API GL-5
Differential Fluid Capacity Front:
Approx. 0.8 Liters (0.8 US Quarts)
Differential Fluid Capacity Rear:
Approx. 0.8 Liters (0.8 US Quarts)
Length Sedan:
Approx. 4660 mm (183.5 in)
Length Wagon:
Approx. 4680 mm (184.3 in)
Width:
Approx. 1730 mm (68.1 in)
Height Sedan:
Approx. 1400 mm (55.1 in)
Height Wagon:
Approx. 1475 mm (58.1 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2630 mm (103.5 in)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 150 mm (5.9 in) for standard models, higher for Outback/Outback Sport variants.
Cargo Volume Sedan:
N/A (specific figures not readily available, typical for segment)
Cargo Volume Wagon:
Approx. 0.9 cubic meters (31.7 cu ft) behind rear seats
Curb Weight Min:
Approx. 1350 kg (2976 lbs)
Curb Weight Max:
Approx. 1550 kg (3417 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Varies by model and trim, typically around 1950-2050 kg (4300-4520 lbs)
Towing Capacity:
Not specified for most models; light trailer towing may be possible but not recommended without specific accessory and consultation.
Wheelbase Bolt Pattern:
5 x 100 mm
Wheel Size Standard:
15-inch alloy or steel wheels
Wheel Size Optional:
16-inch alloy wheels
Tire Size Standard:
P205/60R15
Tire Size Optional:
P205/55R16
Tire Pressure Front Rear Psi:
Typically 30-32 PSI (refer to door jamb sticker)
NHTSA Crash Test Ratings 1999:
Frontal crash test results for 1999 models generally indicated good to acceptable protection for occupants.
IIHS Ratings:
Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) ratings for this generation typically showed good performance in frontal offset tests.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on most trims, optional on some base models.
Traction Control:
Traction control system (TCS) was optional on some automatic transmission models.
Airbags Front:
Driver and passenger front airbags.
Airbags Side:
Side airbags were not widely available or standard on this model year.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, front seatbelt pretensioners.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system was not standard on this model year; typically relied on seatbelt systems for child seat installation.
Audio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette player and optional CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim level.
Display:
Basic analog gauges for speed, RPM, fuel, and temperature. No digital displays or touchscreens.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims, providing highway driving convenience.
Headlights:
Halogen headlights, typically with manual aim adjustment. Fog lights were optional on some trims.
Phone Integration:
No factory Bluetooth or smartphone integration. Aftermarket solutions are available.
Manual HVAC:
Manual temperature and fan speed controls, recirculate function.
Automatic Climate Control:
Automatic climate control was not available on this model year.
Oil And Filter Change:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe service) / 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal service), check manual for specific conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Not typically equipped on this model year.
Fuel Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (copper plugs) or 100,000 miles (platinum plugs if equipped).
Timing Belt Service:
Critical: Every 90,000 miles or 72 months. Includes tensioner and idler pulleys.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months (using Subaru Super Coolant or equivalent).
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months.
Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months (more frequent under severe use).
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF DEXRON III or Subaru compatible fluid.
Head Gasket Failure Ej25D:
The EJ25D engine (2.5L DOHC) is known for potential head gasket failures. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.
Automatic Transmission Issues:
Some instances of valve body issues or premature wear in the 4EAT automatic transmission can occur, especially with neglected fluid changes.
Timing Belt Tensioner Failure:
Failure of the timing belt tensioner or idler pulleys can lead to belt failure and catastrophic engine damage. Replacement during belt service is crucial.
Catalytic Converter Failure:
Can occur due to rich fuel mixture or oil consumption, leading to reduced engine performance and check engine lights.
Susceptibility To Rust:
Like many vehicles of this era, rust can be an issue, particularly in the rocker panels, wheel arches, and rear subframe. The manual covers body repair sections.
Subaru History:
Subaru, a division of Fuji Heavy Industries, has a long history in aerospace and automotive manufacturing, known for its unique engineering philosophies like the Boxer engine and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.
Legacy Generation 2:
The 1999 model is part of Subaru's second generation (1995-1999) Legacy, which saw significant styling updates and platform refinements over the first generation.
Outback Variant:
The Outback, a more rugged, lifted version of the Legacy wagon, became a distinct model line during this generation, originating from the Legacy wagon platform.
Facelift:
The 1998 model year received a significant facelift, including redesigned front and rear fascias, interior updates, and improved safety features, which carried through to the 1999 model.
Production Location:
Primary manufacturing location was Gunma, Japan.
Sales Performance:
The second-generation Legacy was a key model in establishing Subaru's market presence in North America, with AWD being a significant draw.