🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Legacy

Year:

2012

Platform:

Subaru Front-Wheel Drive chassis (BP/BL generation predecessor, BM/BR generation)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size sedan, known for its standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system and practical appeal

Target Audience:

Families, individuals seeking reliable transportation with enhanced traction in various weather conditions

Key Competitors:

Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Ford Fusion, Chevrolet Malibu

Standard AWD:

Subaru's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system provides superior traction and stability

Engine Options:

Choice between a capable 2.5L boxer engine and a more powerful 3.6L boxer engine

Interior Space:

Comfortable seating and a spacious cabin, characteristic of the Legacy's mid-size segment positioning

📋 Manual Details

Global Coverage:

Mechanics worldwide

Content Scope:

All major topics covered complete

Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Format:

Digital (assumed PDF based on common industry practice for workshop manuals)

Language:

English

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed diagnostics, repair, overhaul, component testing, timing belt/chain procedures (if applicable), cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, ignition system, emissions control

Transmission:

Automatic Transmission (AT) and Manual Transmission (MT) service, repair, torque converter, clutch system, gear ratios, fluid specifications, diagnostic procedures

Drivetrain:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, differentials (front, center, rear), driveshafts, CV joints, wheel bearings

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), brake fluid specifications, disc and drum brake service, parking brake system

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, springs, control arms, sway bars, alignment specifications, troubleshooting

Steering:

Power steering system, hydraulic pump, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, alignment

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, relay locations, charging system, starting system, lighting, power windows, mirrors, seats, instrument cluster, ECU (Engine Control Unit) and other module diagnostics, sensor testing, battery specifications

Body:

Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, glass replacement, rust prevention, paint codes, structural repair, crash repair procedures

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant types, charging procedures, compressor, condenser, evaporator, climate control module

Safety:

Airbag system (SRS - Supplemental Restraint System), seatbelt mechanisms, pre-tensioners, diagnostic procedures for safety systems

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, brake inspections, tune-ups

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (OBD-II), diagnostic flowcharts, component testing procedures

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, including engine overhauls, transmission rebuilds, suspension and brake repairs, electrical system fixes

Installation:

Procedures for replacing components such as alternators, starters, water pumps, fuel injectors, spark plugs, sensors, body panels

Calibration:

Procedures for recalibrating sensors and modules after replacement or repair (e.g., steering angle sensor, throttle body)

Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Likely searchable text, enabling quick location of specific information

Print Readability:

Designed for clear reproduction, with high-resolution diagrams and text

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Code:

EJ253 (2.5L)

Engine 1 Type:

Naturally Aspirated Boxer-4 (Horizontally Opposed)

Engine 1 Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2457 cc)

Engine 1 Horsepower:

170 hp @ 5,600 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

170 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm

Engine 2 Code:

EZ36D (3.6R)

Engine 2 Type:

Naturally Aspirated Boxer-6

Engine 2 Displacement:

3.6 Liters (3630 cc)

Engine 2 Horsepower:

256 hp @ 6,000 rpm

Engine 2 Torque:

247 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI) for 2.5L, Sequential Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI) for 3.6L

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Recommended Octane:

87 Octane (for 2.5L), 87 Octane Recommended (for 3.6L, premium may yield slight performance benefits)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission 2.5I:

6-speed Manual Transmission (MT)

Transmission 3.6R:

5-speed Automatic Transmission (AT) with paddle shifters

Transmission 2.5I Optional:

6-speed Lineartronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

AWD System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with Variable Torque Distribution (VTD) on CVT and AT models, viscous coupling limited-slip center differential on MT models.

Cvt Fluid Type:

Subaru CVT Fluid (e.g., K0321Y0000 or equivalent)

At Fluid Type:

Subaru ATF HP (e.g., KO114YA000 or equivalent)

Mt Fluid Type:

Gear Oil GL-5 75W-90 (specific Subaru part number will be in the manual)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

189.2 inches (4805 mm)

Width:

71.7 inches (1820 mm)

Height:

57.1 inches (1450 mm)

Wheelbase:

109.4 inches (2780 mm)

Curb Weight 2.5I Mt:

Approx. 3,325 lbs (1508 kg)

Curb Weight 2.5I Cvt:

Approx. 3,375 lbs (1531 kg)

Curb Weight 3.6R At:

Approx. 3,525 lbs (1599 kg)

Cargo Volume:

14.7 cubic feet (416 liters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Rating:

5-Star (typically for this generation, refer to specific year for official ratings)

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Yes (typically for this generation, refer to specific year for official ratings)

Traction Control:

Standard (part of AWD system)

Electronic Stability Control:

Standard (Vehicle Dynamics Control - VDC)

ABS:

Standard 4-wheel disc Anti-lock Braking System

Airbags:

Dual front, front side-impact, side-curtain airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point height-adjustable front seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters

Child Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Available premium audio systems with CD player, MP3 capability, auxiliary input, USB port, Bluetooth connectivity.

Navigation:

Optional GPS navigation system integrated into the dashboard display.

Rear View Camera:

Available rear-view camera for enhanced parking visibility.

Keyless Entry Start:

Available Keyless Access System with Push Button Start.

Bluetooth:

Standard Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio streaming on most trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 6 months for severe driving conditions, or 7,500 miles or 12 months for normal driving conditions (refer to manual for specific usage definitions).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on conditions.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement 2.5L:

Iridium-tipped spark plugs typically rated for 60,000 miles.

Spark Plug Replacement 3.6L:

Iridium-tipped spark plugs typically rated for 60,000 miles.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 30,000 miles or 24 months.

Coolant Flush:

Initial flush at 60,000 miles, then every 30,000 miles thereafter. Use Subaru Super Coolant.

Engine Oil 2.5L:

SAE 0W-20, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified (e.g., Subaru Extra Engine Oil 0W-20)

Engine Oil 3.6L:

SAE 0W-20, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified (e.g., Subaru Extra Engine Oil 0W-20)

Engine Oil Capacity 2.5L:

4.8 US quarts (4.5 Liters) with filter change

Engine Oil Capacity 3.6L:

6.9 US quarts (6.5 Liters) with filter change

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) - Pre-diluted

Oil Consumption:

Some 2.5L (EJ253) engines may exhibit increased oil consumption, particularly with higher mileage. Manual will detail checks and potential fixes.

Cv Axle Boots:

CV axle boots can be prone to tears, leading to lubricant loss and potential damage if not addressed promptly.

Wheel Bearings:

Front wheel bearings can sometimes wear prematurely, especially in models with frequent use in harsh conditions.

Battery Drain:

Intermittent electrical issues or battery drain can occur, often related to parasitic draws or module communication faults.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Aero Legacy:

Subaru's history in aviation influences its engineering, particularly its expertise in boxer engines and AWD systems.

Fifth Generation:

The 2012 model is part of the fifth generation (BM/BR) Legacy, which debuted for the 2010 model year. This generation saw a significant increase in size and a shift towards a more mainstream American market focus.

Design Philosophy:

Shift from a European-inspired design of previous generations to a more Americanized aesthetic to appeal to a broader audience.

Manufacturing Location:

Lafayette, Indiana, USA (Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Inc.)

Production Period:

2009-2014 (for the BM/BR generation)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Safety Recognition:

Consistently received good ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) for safety performance.

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Generally rated well by automotive publications like Consumer Reports for reliability and value, though some specific model years or engines might have nuances.