🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Legacy

Generations Covered:

First Generation (BF/BG)

Years Covered:

1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994

Chassis Codes:

BF (sedan), BG (wagon)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size sedan and wagon, known for its AWD system and reliability

Target Audience:

DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, Subaru enthusiasts

Competitors:

Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Mitsubishi Galant

Subaru Advantage:

Standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD) across most, if not all, trims, horizontally-opposed 'boxer' engine layout offering a lower center of gravity

Defining Features:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard), boxer engine, durable construction, practical wagon option (GT trims offered performance variants)

Value Proposition:

Empowers owners to perform extensive maintenance and repairs, saving significant costs and extending vehicle lifespan.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Focus:

Comprehensive Service and Repair

Market Region:

Global (primarily North America as indicated by English language)

Estimated Pages:

1500-2000+

Type:

Factory Service Manual (WSM)

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, engine management (ECU), cooling system, lubrication system

Drivetrain:

Manual transmission, automatic transmission, transfer case, front differential, rear differential, drive axles, CV joints

Suspension:

Front suspension (MacPherson strut), rear suspension (multi-link), springs, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column

Brakes:

Front and rear brakes (disc/drum or disc/disc depending on trim), ABS system (if equipped), brake lines, master cylinder, calipers, pads, rotors

Electrical:

12V electrical system, battery, alternator, starter, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, sensors, ECUs, dashboard instruments

Body:

Exterior body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, interior trim, upholstery, HVAC system, door locks, windows

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance tasks, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt replacement

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, error code interpretation (OBD-I), symptom-based troubleshooting guides

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems, component removal and installation, component testing and adjustment

Rebuild:

Engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, differential rebuild

Specifications:

Torque specifications, diagnostic specifications, alignment specifications, component tolerances

Depth:

Expert level, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical troubleshooting and diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text for quick information retrieval

Digital Quality:

High-resolution scans, clear diagrams and text

Printability:

Printable pages for workshop use

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

EJ22

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Boxer-4 (Horizontally Opposed)

Displacement:

2.2 Liters (2212 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

92.0 mm x 80.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.5:1

Valvetrain:

SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 16 valves (4 valves per cylinder)

Horsepower Hp:

130 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque Lb-Ft:

137 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane recommended)

Engine Code Optional:

EJ22T (Turbocharged)

Turbocharged Performance:

Approx. 190 hp (specific ratings vary by market and year)

Turbocharged Engine Notes:

Found in higher performance GT and Liberty RS models, requires premium fuel.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-Speed Manual

Transmission Type Optional:

4-Speed Automatic (with Lock-up Torque Converter)

AWD System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on most trims)

AWD Variation:

Viscous coupling center differential with open front and rear differentials for manual transmissions. Electronically controlled torque split for automatic transmissions (less common in this gen).

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-5 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III (or equivalent) ATF

Differential Fluid:

GL-5 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Inches:

101.4 inches

Length Inches Sedan:

180.7 inches

Length Inches Wagon:

182.1 inches

Width Inches:

67.7 inches

Height Inches Sedan:

55.5 inches

Height Inches Wagon:

57.1 inches

Curb Weight Lbs Approx:

2900-3200 lbs (depending on trim and body style)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Lbs:

Approx. 3900-4100 lbs

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x100 mm

Standard Tire Size:

195/60R15, 205/55R15 (depending on trim)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Limited data available for this era; generally considered safe for its time, but modern standards differ.

Active Safety Features:

All-Wheel Drive (standard), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) (optional on some trims, standard on higher trims later in the generation).

Passive Safety Features:

Three-point seatbelts (front and rear), driver-side airbag (standard on most trims from 1991 onwards), collapsible steering column, side-impact door beams.

Child Seat Anchors:

Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) not standard; relies on seatbelt routing for child seats.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM stereo with cassette player. Optional CD player became available later in the generation. Speakers varied by trim level.

User Interface:

Manual analog knobs and buttons for radio tuning, volume, and cassette control. Simple climate control knobs.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited to ABS on higher trims. No electronic stability control, traction control, or adaptive cruise control. Focus on mechanical grip via AWD.

Connectivity Options:

No integrated Bluetooth, USB, or smartphone connectivity. Requires aftermarket solutions for modern connectivity.

Instrument Cluster:

Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, and engine temperature. Warning lights for various systems (check engine, oil pressure, battery, etc.).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe service) / 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal service) - Check manual for exact recommendation for your driving conditions.

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every 7,500 miles, replace as needed (typically 15,000-30,000 miles).

Cabin Air Filter:

Not standard on all models; inspect if equipped every 15,000 miles, replace as needed.

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 30,000 miles (typically copper core plugs for this era).

Timing Belt:

This engine uses a timing belt. Replacement interval is typically 60,000 to 90,000 miles. Crucial to replace as failure can cause severe engine damage.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (depending on climate)

Engine Oil Capacity Quarts:

Approx. 4.2 US quarts (with filter)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water. Subaru Blue coolant or equivalent.

Coolant Capacity Quarts:

Approx. 7.0 US quarts

Common Problems:

Head gasket leaks (less common than later EJ engines but still possible), radiator leaks, power steering pump leaks, aging rubber hoses and belts, automatic transmission issues (e.g., valve body problems), clutch wear, exhaust system corrosion, catalytic converter failure due to age.

Engine Oil Consumption:

Some EJ22 engines can develop increased oil consumption with age and mileage, especially if not maintained properly.

Critical Items:

Regular inspection and timely replacement of the timing belt and associated components (tensioner, idler pulleys, water pump) are critical for engine longevity.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Specialization:

Subaru has a long history of producing vehicles with All-Wheel Drive and horizontally-opposed ('boxer') engines, emphasizing practicality, durability, and all-weather capability.

Introduction Year:

1989 (North America)

Original Purpose:

To replace the Subaru Leone, offering a more refined and larger alternative with standard AWD.

Design Language:

Characterized by clean lines, functional design, and a focus on aerodynamic efficiency for its time.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan (Gunma Prefecture Plant)

Production Years Global:

1989-1994

🏆 Awards & Recognition

General Reputation:

The Subaru Legacy of this era gained a reputation for reliability, all-weather capability, and a comfortable ride, especially in wagon form which appealed to families.

Consumer Reports Standings:

Generally rated as average to above average for reliability in its class, with specific components like the AWD system being particularly robust.

Emissions Compliance:

Compliant with US EPA emissions standards for the respective model years. Manual will contain specific emission control system diagnostics.