🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Legacy

Year:

2004

Chassis Code:

BD/BG/BK (based on platform, specific sub-model codes apply)

Engine Codes Common:

EJ253 (2.5L SOHC), EJ255 (2.5L DOHC Turbocharged)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size Sedan/Wagon

Key Selling Points:

Standard All-Wheel Drive, Boxer Engine, Safety, Practicality

Competitors 2004:

Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Mazda6, Ford Fusion

Vehicle Philosophy:

Durable, reliable vehicle with a focus on all-weather capability and driver engagement.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Full Service and Repair Instructions for Subaru Legacy 2004

Geographic Coverage:

Global (primarily North American and European specifications, common international practices)

Estimated Pages:

1500-2000+ (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)

Type:

Workshop Manual / Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, but actual format depends on sale)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine Mechanical, Fuel System, Ignition System, Lubrication System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Turbocharging System (if applicable), Engine Control System (ECU), Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Drivetrain (All-Wheel Drive System)

Chassis:

Suspension System (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Front & Rear, ABS), Wheel & Tire Specifications, Driveshaft & Axles

Body & Electrical:

Body Construction, Exterior & Interior Trim, HVAC System, Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Components, Fuses & Relays), Lighting System, Audio System, Security System, Airbag System

Maintenance:

Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Inspections, Lubrication Points

Repair:

Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake Component Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement, Steering Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, Body Panel Repair

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting Charts, Symptom-Based Diagnostics, OBD-II Codes and Explanations, Component Testing Procedures

Specifications:

Torque Specifications for all fasteners, Clearances, Tolerances, Fluid Capacities, Electrical Specifications

Depth:

Comprehensive (covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including diagnostic procedures and electrical system troubleshooting)

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (assumed, common for digital manuals)

Searchability:

Likely fully searchable text

Quality:

High-resolution scans or original digital files, suitable for printing

Binding:

N/A (for digital format)

Paper:

N/A (for digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Name:

2.5L SOHC Naturally Aspirated Boxer (EJ253)

Engine Type:

Horizontally Opposed (Boxer), 4-Cylinder, DOHC

Displacement Cc:

2498

Bore X Stroke Mm:

99.5 x 80.0

Compression Ratio:

9.7:1

Horsepower Hp:

165 @ 5600 RPM (approx.)

Torque Lb Ft:

166 @ 4000 RPM (approx.)

Engine Name:

2.5L DOHC Turbocharged Boxer (EJ255)

Horsepower Hp:

210 @ 5600 RPM (approx.)

Torque Lb Ft:

235 @ 3600 RPM (approx.)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Ignition System:

Distributorless Electronic Ignition (Coil-on-Plug)

Induction:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Emission Control:

Catalytic Converter, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic with Sportshift

Drivetrain:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

AWD System Type:

Viscous coupling limited-slip center differential (for manual), Electronically controlled multi-plate transfer clutch (for automatic)

📐 Dimensions

Length In:

187.2

Width In:

69.7

Height In:

56.1 (Sedan), 57.7 (Wagon)

Wheelbase In:

104.0

Ground Clearance In:

6.1 (approx.)

Curb Weight Lbs:

3200-3500 (depending on trim and transmission)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Lbs:

4500-4700 (approx.)

Cargo Volume Cu Ft:

14.7 (Sedan), 36.4/67.6 (Wagon - rear seats up/down)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

5-Star (2004 model year)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

5-Star (2004 model year)

IIHS Front Offset Gp:

Good (for comparable models/years)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Traction Control:

Available (VDC - Vehicle Dynamics Control)

Airbags Front:

Standard Dual Front Advanced Airbags

Airbags Side:

Available Front Side-Impact Airbags, Available Front and Rear Side Curtain Airbags (on some trims)

Seatbelts:

3-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners and load limiters on front seats

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD player, optional premium audio system with subwoofer, optional in-dash 6-disc CD changer.

Display:

Digital clock and odometer display, auxiliary input often available.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control

Stability Control:

Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) available on some trims, particularly with automatic transmission.

Auxiliary Input:

Often present for audio devices, though not universally standard across all trims.

Bluetooth:

Not available as factory option for the 2004 model year.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe conditions), or 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal conditions, synthetic oil recommended)

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles or 2 years

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 60,000 miles (iridium type)

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 105,000 miles or 105 months (for EJ253/EJ255 engines, critical interval)

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 (API SN or higher recommended, synthetic blend or full synthetic)

Engine Oil Capacity Quarts:

4.2 (with filter for EJ253), 4.5 (with filter for EJ255)

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water)

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (gear oil)

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Subaru ATF-HP (Highly Recommended), DEXRON-III compatible fluids may be used if ATF-HP is unavailable but should be flushed with ATF-HP later.

Differential Fluid Front:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (gear oil)

Differential Fluid Rear:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (gear oil for open diff), SAE 75W-90 LS (for limited-slip diff if equipped)

Head Gaskets:

While less prevalent on the EJ253 than earlier EJ25 engines, head gasket leaks can still occur, especially with older, higher-mileage vehicles. The EJ255 in the GT models is also susceptible.

Oil Consumption:

Some EJ25 engines, particularly older ones, may exhibit higher oil consumption due to ring wear or PCV system issues. Regular checks are advised.

Rear Wheel Bearings:

Rear wheel bearings can wear out prematurely, leading to humming or grinding noises.

Cv Joints:

Front CV joint boots are prone to tearing, leading to grease loss and eventual joint failure.

Catalytic Converter:

Can become clogged or fail over time, especially if engine issues are present.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Origins:

Founded in 1953, Subaru is the automotive division of Japanese conglomerate Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries).

Brand Philosophy:

Known for its horizontally opposed 'Boxer' engines and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive systems, emphasizing safety, durability, and a unique driving experience.

Legacy Introduction:

The Subaru Legacy was introduced in 1989 as a replacement for the Subaru Leone.

Fourth Generation Start:

The 2005 model year marked the beginning of the fourth generation (BP/BL) of the Subaru Legacy.

2004 Model Positioning:

The 2004 model represents the final year of the third generation (BD/BG/BK), known for its refined styling and performance enhancements over previous generations.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan (various Subaru plants)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

While specific year awards vary, the Legacy consistently performed well in safety tests during this generation, often earning 'Good' ratings from IIHS.

Consumer Reports:

Consumer Reports typically rated the Legacy favorably for its AWD system and reliability, though engine issues could sometimes lower overall scores.

Wheel And Tire Specifications:

Commonly 16-inch or 17-inch alloy wheels. Tire sizes typically 205/55R16 or 215/45R17. Wheel bolt pattern: 5x100.