Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size sedan and wagon, often positioned as an affordable all-wheel-drive alternative
Target Demographic:
Families, individuals seeking reliable transportation, those valuing AWD capability
Key Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Taurus, Nissan Altima
Unique Selling Proposition:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system across most trims
All Wheel Drive:
Standard Symmetrical AWD providing enhanced traction and stability
Boxer Engine:
Horizontally-opposed (Boxer) engine for a lower center of gravity
Durability Reliability:
Reputation for robust engineering and longevity
Body Styles:
Available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door wagon
Engine Coverage:
Detailed coverage of all engine variants
Transmission Coverage:
Manual and automatic transmissions
Chassis Suspension Coverage:
Front and rear suspension, steering, brakes
Electrical Coverage:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, ECUs
Body Interior Coverage:
Body panels, interior trim, HVAC, safety systems
Estimated Page Count:
1000+
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Engine Management:
Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, engine mechanicals
Powertrain:
Engine repair, transmission overhaul, drivetrain components (CVT, AWD)
Braking System:
Hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), parking brake
Steering Suspension:
Power steering, steering rack, front/rear suspension components, wheel alignment
Body Chassis:
Frame repair, body panel replacement, rust prevention
HVAC:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation system diagnosis and repair
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS), seatbelt mechanisms
Electrical Components:
Lighting, wipers, power accessories, audio system, battery, alternator
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tune-ups
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults
Engine Repair:
Complete engine rebuilds, component replacement (pistons, valves, head gaskets)
Transmission Repair:
Clutch replacement, automatic transmission fluid changes, internal component repair
Brake Service:
Brake pad replacement, rotor machining, brake bleeding, caliper repair
Suspension Steering Repair:
Strut/shock replacement, ball joint replacement, tie rod end replacement
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Wiring diagram interpretation, circuit testing, sensor diagnosis
Body Repair:
Panel alignment, glass replacement, interior trim removal/installation
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission overhaul and complex diagnostics
Diagnostic Codes:
Includes interpretation of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) where applicable
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque specifications for all critical fasteners
Alignment Specifications:
Wheel alignment specifications (camber, caster, toe)
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete, detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all systems
Engine Type 1:
2.5L SOHC Naturally Aspirated Flat-4 (Boxer)
Bore Stroke 1:
99.5 mm x 80.0 mm
Compression Ratio 1:
9.7:1
Horsepower 1:
165 hp @ 5,500 rpm (approx.)
Torque 1:
200 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery 1:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type 1:
Unleaded Regular (87 Octane)
Engine Type 2:
2.2L SOHC Naturally Aspirated Flat-4 (Boxer)
Horsepower 2:
135 hp @ 5,600 rpm (approx.)
Torque 2:
140 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery 2:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Not rated (vehicle predates extensive NHTSA testing standards)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Not rated (vehicle predates extensive NHTSA testing standards)
IIHS Ratings:
Limited data available for this model year
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on select trims
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) not commonly available, but possible on higher trims
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seatbelts, driver's pretensioner
Structure:
Reinforced body structure, side impact beams
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Basic speaker configurations (4-6 speakers).
Climate Control:
Manual climate controls for heating and air conditioning. Automatic climate control not typically available.
Cruise Control:
Electronic cruise control system standard or optional on most trims.
Instrument Cluster:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, engine temperature. Warning lights for various systems.
Connectivity Options:
Limited connectivity by modern standards. Primarily focused on basic audio and vehicle systems. No Bluetooth or USB ports standard.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under severe conditions, every 3,000 miles).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for platinum-tipped plugs, or 30,000 miles for standard copper plugs.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 90,000 miles (144,000 km) or 7 years (critical on EJ25D due to interference design).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.
Transmission Fluid Change Auto:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 48 months.
Engine Oil Type 1:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 recommended
Engine Oil Capacity 1:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter
Engine Oil Type 2:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 recommended for colder climates
Engine Oil Capacity 2:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water) or equivalent (silicate-free)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
Subaru genuine power steering fluid or ATF Dexron II/III
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF Dexron II/III
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil
Head Gasket Failure:
The EJ25D engine is known for prone head gasket failure due to coolant leaks and internal weaknesses. This manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.
Crankshaft Reluctor Ring Failure:
The reluctor ring on the crankshaft can fail, leading to no-start or intermittent stalling issues. Diagnosis is covered.
Oil Leaks:
Common oil leaks can occur from valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and front crankshaft seals. The manual details their replacement.
Cv Joint Wear:
Front and rear CV joints can wear over time, especially in AWD systems, leading to clicking noises. The manual covers CV axle inspection and replacement.
Ejector Seat Sensor Failure:
For models equipped with certain airbag systems, the ejector seat sensor could fail, affecting airbag deployment.
Subaru Foundation:
Founded in 1953 as Fuji Heavy Industries, focused on aviation initially.
Subaru Identity:
Known for its commitment to AWD technology and boxer engines.
First Generation:
First generation Legacy introduced in 1989.
Second Generation Intro:
Second generation (BD/BG/BK) introduced for the 1995 model year.
Styling Changes 1997:
Minor styling updates for 1997, including revised grille and headlights.
Outback Introduction:
The Outback variant, with increased ground clearance and ruggedized styling, was introduced for the 1995 model year as an option package on the wagon.
Manufacturing Location:
Mainly produced in Gunma, Japan.
Sales Positioning:
Marketed globally, with significant presence in North America and Japan.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Typically rated average to above average for reliability, with some specific model years receiving praise for AWD performance and value.
Car And Driver Awards:
Subaru Legacy models were often featured on Car and Driver's '10Best' lists in earlier generations, highlighting its competitive performance and value.
Emissions Standards:
Meets EPA and CARB emissions standards for the respective model year.