🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Subaru Model: Legacy Outback Year: 1998 Trim Level: GTL Codes Chassis Code: BD/BG (2nd Generation) Engine Code Primary: EJ25D (2.5L SOHC) 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Crossover SUV / Station Wagon Target Audience: Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, Subaru owners seeking comprehensive repair information Competitive Analysis Competitors 1998: Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Explorer, Jeep Cherokee Key Features Vehicle AWD Standard: True (Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system) Ground Clearance: Higher than standard Legacy, offering light off-road capability Key Features Manual Value Proposition: Provides the same detailed information as dealer workshop manuals, empowering owners for maintenance and repair. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Main Coverage: Complete Service, Repair, and Workshop Page Count Estimated Pages: 1500+ Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual (FSM) Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine mechanical, Fuel system, Ignition system, Exhaust system, Cooling system, Lubrication system, Engine diagnostics Transmission: Automatic Transmission (4EAT), Manual Transmission (5MT), Clutch system, Drivetrain (Subaru All-Wheel Drive) Chassis: Suspension (front and rear), Steering system, Brake system (front disc, rear drum/disc), Wheel alignment Electrical: Wiring diagrams, Lighting, Instrumentation, Power windows, Locks, Mirrors, Audio system, HVAC controls, Engine control module (ECM) and sensors Body: Body structure, Exterior trim, Interior trim, Doors, Hood, Liftgate, Glass replacement, Body repair, Paint codes Procedures Included Maintenance: Oil change, Filter replacement, Spark plug replacement, Belt inspection/replacement, Fluid checks and changes, Tune-ups Repair: Engine overhaul, Transmission rebuild, Brake component replacement, Suspension component replacement, Electrical diagnostics and repair, HVAC system repair Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides, OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), Sensor testing, Component testing procedures Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive (dealer-level technical information for repair and maintenance) 📊 Manual Specifications File Format PDF Features: Searchable text, High resolution, Printable pages Print Quality Quality: High-quality reproductions of original factory documentation Binding Type Format Binding: N/A (Digital PDF) Paper Type Format Paper: N/A (Digital PDF) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Naturally Aspirated Boxer Engine Displacement: 2.5 Liters (2457 cc) Configuration: Horizontally Opposed 4-Cylinder (EJ25D) Valvetrain: SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 16 Valves Performance Horsepower: 165 hp @ 5,500 rpm Torque: 177 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-point Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended) Other Bore X Stroke: 99.5 mm x 79.0 mm Compression Ratio: 9.1:1 Engine Oil Capacity Quarts: 4.8 (with filter) Engine Oil Specification: API SH or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (depending on climate) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 4-Speed Electronically Controlled Automatic (4EAT) with Subaru's All-Wheel Drive system Optional Transmission Type Optional: 5-Speed Manual Transmission (5MT) with Subaru's All-Wheel Drive system Features AWD System: Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with viscous coupling center differential (on manual) or electronically controlled multi-plate transfer clutch (on automatic). Fluid Specification Automatic Transmission Fluid: Subaru Genuine ATF or equivalent (Dexron II/III compatible for some models, refer to specific manual section) Fluid Capacity Automatic Transmission Fluid Quarts: Approx. 3.6 (pan removal) / 9.0 (total overhaul) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 186.0 inches Width: 67.7 inches Height: 59.1 inches Wheelbase: 104.3 inches Ground Clearance: Approx. 7.7 inches Weights Curb Weight Lbs: 3180 - 3340 lbs (approx.) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr Lbs: 4400 lbs (approx.) Cargo Cargo Volume Cubic Feet: Approx. 32.3 (rear seats up) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Driver Side: Not directly available for this specific model year and trim, but generally rated well for its class. NHTSA Front Passenger Side: Not directly available for this specific model year and trim. Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) AWD Traction: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive enhances traction and stability. Passive Features Airbags Front: Driver and front passenger airbags Seatbelts: Three-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners for front seats Child Anchors: LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system (may be present, verify with manual) 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM stereo with CD player or cassette player, 4-speaker system (upgrades available) Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard cruise control Connectivity OBD Standard: OBD-II compliant for emissions and diagnostics 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval Miles: 3,750 miles or 3.75 months (severe duty) / 7,500 miles or 7.5 months (normal duty) Timing Belt Replacement Miles: 60,000 - 75,000 miles (CRITICAL for EJ25D engine; failure leads to catastrophic engine damage) Spark Plug Replacement Miles: 30,000 miles (standard copper plugs) Coolant Flush Interval Miles: 30,000 miles or 2 years Fluid Specifications Brake Fluid: DOT 3 or DOT 4 Power Steering Fluid: Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or DEXRON II/III compatible fluid Coolant: Subaru Super Coolant or a quality ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors (50/50 mix with distilled water) Known Issues Head Gaskets: While the EJ25D (SOHC) engine is generally more reliable than the DOHC EJ25, head gasket leaks (internal coolant leaks or oil/coolant mixing) are a known concern and a primary focus of this manual. Timing Belt: Timing belt tensioner and idler...