Segment:
Mid-size Sedan/Wagon
Key Selling Points:
Symmetrical AWD standard, boxer engine, upscale interior, refined ride quality
Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Mazda6, Nissan Altima
Standard AWD:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive across all models and trims.
Engine Options:
Choice of reliable 2.5L flat-four or potent 3.0L flat-six engines.
Performance Variant:
GT models offered enhanced performance with turbocharged engines and sport-tuned suspension.
Target Audience:
Professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts
Engine:
2.5L EJ25 SOHC/DOHC Naturally Aspirated and Turbocharged (GT models), 3.0L EZ30 DOHC H6 Naturally Aspirated
Transmission:
5-speed Manual, 4-speed Automatic, 5-speed Automatic (5EAT on GT models)
Drivetrain:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, differentials, driveshafts, hubs
Suspension:
Front MacPherson struts, Rear multi-link, springs, dampers, bushings, alignment specifications
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS, EBD, brake system bleeding, component replacement
Steering:
Power assisted rack and pinion, steering column, wheel alignment
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, ignition, lighting, starter, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, instrument cluster
Climate Control:
HVAC system, A/C compressor, refrigerant, heater core, blower motor, controls
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, pump, injectors, fuel pressure, evaporative emission control (EVAP)
Exhaust System:
Catalytic converter, mufflers, exhaust manifold, oxygen sensors
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, trim, sound deadening, airbags
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic procedures, scan tool usage
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement
Repair:
Engine component overhaul, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, exhaust system repair
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic guides for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based troubleshooting
Disassembly And Assembly:
Detailed instructions for removing and reinstalling all major components and sub-assemblies
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics and torque specifications
Engine Code 1:
EJ253 (2.5L SOHC)
Horsepower 1:
165 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque 1:
166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Engine Code 2:
EJ255 (2.5L DOHC Turbocharged)
Horsepower 2:
250 hp @ 5600 rpm (GT models)
Torque 2:
250 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (GT models)
Engine Code 3:
EZ30D (3.0L DOHC H6)
Horsepower 3:
245 hp @ 6600 rpm
Torque 3:
217 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm
Compression Ratio Ej25:
10.7:1
Compression Ratio Ej25 Turbo:
8.4:1
Compression Ratio Ez30:
10.7:1
Bore X Stroke Ej25:
99.5 mm x 79.0 mm
Bore X Stroke Ez30:
89.2 mm x 77.0 mm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane (91 octane recommended for GT models)
Evap System:
EVAP canister system
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual (TY754)
Optional Transmission 1:
4-speed Automatic (43024AE070)
Optional Transmission 2:
5-speed Automatic (5EAT - TZ1B7MC1AA) on GT models
AWD System:
Symmetrical AWD with viscous coupling center differential (manual) or electronically controlled multi-plate transfer clutch (automatic/5EAT)
Gear Ratios 5Mt Ej25:
3.167 / 1.882 / 1.290 / 0.971 / 0.731 (example, verify with manual)
Gear Ratios 4At Ej25:
2.78 / 1.54 / 1.0 / 0.72 (example, verify with manual)
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
Subaru Extra Gear Oil API GL-5 75W-90 (or equivalent)
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
Subaru ATF HP (High Performance)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5 Stars (2004, 2005 models)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5 Stars (2004, 2005 models)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
5 Stars (2004, 2005 models)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:
5 Stars (2004, 2005 models)
IIHS Front Crash Rating:
Good
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Good
IIHS Rear Impact Rating:
Good
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Stability Control:
Available Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC)
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags (optional on some models)
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners, load limiters
Child Seats:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
Audio System:
Available AM/FM/CD stereo systems with optional premium audio, subwoofer, and steering wheel audio controls.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on higher trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Auxiliary Input:
Some models may feature an auxiliary audio input jack.
Keyless Entry:
Available keyless entry and remote start systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months (severe use), or 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months (normal use) - check manual for specific conditions
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement Ej25:
105,000 miles (169,000 km) for iridium spark plugs
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Every 45,000 miles (72,000 km) or 45 months (severe use), or 75,000 miles (120,000 km) or 75 months (normal use) - check manual
Transmission Fluid Change Auto:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 30 months (severe use), or 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 60 months (normal use) - check manual
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 30 months
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 30 months
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30, API SJ or higher (synthetic recommended)
Engine Oil Capacity Ej25:
4.8 US quarts (4.6 L) with filter
Engine Oil Capacity Ez30:
6.1 US quarts (5.8 L) with filter
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (blue, P/N KEL10320000)
Power Steering Fluid:
Subaru Genuine ATF HP (or equivalent)
Head Gaskets:
While not as prevalent as in earlier generations, internal coolant leaks related to head gaskets can occur, especially on the EJ25 engine. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.
Turbo Lag Gt Models:
Some owners report turbo lag on GT models; the manual provides diagnostics for the turbocharger system.
Automatic Transmission Hesitation:
Occasional reports of transmission hesitation or rough shifting, particularly with the 4-speed automatic. Manual details solenoid and fluid checks.
Oil Consumption:
Some EJ25 engines may exhibit higher-than-average oil consumption; the manual covers engine health checks.
Suspension Wear:
Worn suspension bushings and ball joints can lead to noise and handling issues over time. Manual includes replacement and alignment specs.
Subaru Heritage:
Founded in 1953, Subaru is known for its horizontally-opposed (boxer) engines and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive systems.
Legacy Introduction:
The Subaru Legacy was introduced in 1989 as a replacement for the Subaru Leone. The 2004-2005 models represent the fourth generation (BL/BP).
Fourth Generation Design:
This generation featured a significant redesign with a more European-influenced styling, increased dimensions, and improved interior quality compared to its predecessor.
Production Years:
2004-2005
Manufacturing Plant:
Ota City, Gunma, Japan