🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Subaru Model: Legacy Year: 1997 Codes Chassis Codes: BD, BG, BK Production Codes: GC8, GF8 (shared platform components) 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Segment: Mid-size sedan and wagon, known for its standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system and reliability Competitive Analysis Competitors: Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Ford Taurus, Mazda 626 Key Features Standard AWD: The 1997 Legacy was notable for offering standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive across its model range, a significant differentiator. Subaru Philosophy: Emphasizes durability, safety, and practicality, appealing to a pragmatic buyer base. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage: All mechanical and electrical systems for the 1997 Subaru Legacy Page Count Page Count: Hundreds (exact count not specified, but implies comprehensive) Manual Type Manual Type: Factory Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Downloadable PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Systems: Engine mechanical (EJ22, EJ25), lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions control, engine diagnostics Transmission Systems: Manual transmission (M/T), automatic transmission (A/T), clutch, drivetrain, axles, differentials Suspension Steering: Front suspension, rear suspension, steering system, wheel alignment Brake Systems: Front brakes (disc/ventilated disc), rear brakes (disc), parking brake, ABS (where equipped) Electrical Systems: Charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, wipers, power accessories, wiring diagrams Body Chassis: Body construction, interior trim, exterior trim, doors, windows, glass, seals, bumpers Heating Ac: HVAC system, climate control, refrigerant, diagnostics Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tune-ups Troubleshooting: Diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting, fault codes Repair Overhaul: Component removal, installation, disassembly, assembly, rebuilding procedures Diagnostics: OBD-II diagnostics (where applicable), sensor testing, actuator testing Specifications: Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive: from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical system diagnostics and repair 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: PDF (Portable Document Format) Print Quality Print Quality: High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual Binding Type Binding Type: Digital (Downloadable PDF) - No physical binding Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: EJ22E Engine Type: Naturally Aspirated Boxer-4 (Horizontally-Opposed) Displacement: 2.2 Liters (2212 cc) Bore X Stroke: 96.0 mm x 75.0 mm Compression Ratio: 9.7:1 Horsepower: 135 hp @ 5600 rpm Torque: 145 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm Optional Engine Engine Code: EJ25D Engine Type: Naturally Aspirated Boxer-4 (Horizontally-Opposed) Displacement: 2.5 Liters (2457 cc) Horsepower: 165 hp @ 5500 rpm Torque: 166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPFI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline, 87 octane (minimum recommended) Engine Management ECM: Engine Control Module (ECM) for fuel, ignition, and emissions management 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 5-Speed Manual Transmission (M/T) Optional Transmission Type: 4-Speed Automatic Transmission (A/T) with electronic control Features Drivetrain: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) standard on all models. Clutch Type: Hydraulically Actuated Single Dry Plate Clutch (M/T) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 104.3 inches (2649 mm) Length: 185.6 inches (4714 mm) (Sedan), 186.0 inches (4724 mm) (Wagon) Width: 67.5 inches (1715 mm) Height: 54.9 inches (1395 mm) (Sedan), 55.7 inches (1415 mm) (Wagon) Weights Curb Weight Min: 3000 lbs (approx. 1360 kg) Curb Weight Max: 3300 lbs (approx. 1500 kg) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Varies by model, consult specific vehicle VIN 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: 4-star (driver), 4-star (passenger) (for similar models of this era) Active Features ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models/trims Traction Control: Not typically available on this generation Passive Features Airbags: Driver and Passenger front airbags standard Seatbelts: Front pretensioner seatbelts, three-point rear seatbelts Child Seat Anchors: Not standard in the modern LATCH system, but provisions for seat belt installation exist. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM/Cassette player with optional CD player. Speaker configurations vary by trim. Navigation: Not available from the factory for this model year. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Available on most models. All Wheel Drive: Standard Symmetrical AWD system provides enhanced traction and stability in various conditions. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (whichever comes first), or 7,500 miles/6 months with synthetic oil. Coolant Change Interval: Initial change at 30,000 miles, then every 15,000 miles or 12 months. Spark Plug Replacement: 30,000 miles for standard plugs; consult manual for specific type. Timing Belt Replacement: 60,000 miles or 4 years (critical for EJ engines; consult manual for exact interval and procedure for EJ25D). Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for climate-specific recommendations) Transmission Fluid Type Mt: API GL-5 SAE 75W-90 (or 75W-140 for heavy-duty use) Transmission Fluid Type At: Subaru ATF-HP (or Dexron III compatible) Coolant Type: Ethylene Glycol based, long-life coolant (e.g., Subaru Super Coolant or equivalent) Brake Fluid Type: DOT 3 Known Issues Head Gaskets: While less prevalent than on later EJ25D engines, early EJ25D engines could experience head...
4-star (driver), 4-star (passenger) (for similar models of this era)
Active Features
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models/trims
Traction Control:
Not typically available on this generation
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger front airbags standard
Seatbelts:
Front pretensioner seatbelts, three-point rear seatbelts
Child Seat Anchors:
Not standard in the modern LATCH system, but provisions for seat belt installation exist.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette player with optional CD player. Speaker configurations vary by trim.
Navigation:
Not available from the factory for this model year.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Available on most models.
All Wheel Drive:
Standard Symmetrical AWD system provides enhanced traction and stability in various conditions.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (whichever comes first), or 7,500 miles/6 months with synthetic oil.
Coolant Change Interval:
Initial change at 30,000 miles, then every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
30,000 miles for standard plugs; consult manual for specific type.
Timing Belt Replacement:
60,000 miles or 4 years (critical for EJ engines; consult manual for exact interval and procedure for EJ25D).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for climate-specific recommendations)
Transmission Fluid Type Mt:
API GL-5 SAE 75W-90 (or 75W-140 for heavy-duty use)
Transmission Fluid Type At:
Subaru ATF-HP (or Dexron III compatible)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based, long-life coolant (e.g., Subaru Super Coolant or equivalent)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Known Issues
Head Gaskets:
While less prevalent than on later EJ25D engines, early EJ25D engines could experience head gasket failures. The EJ22 is generally very robust.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gaskets and oil pan gaskets can degrade over time, leading to leaks.
Oxygen Sensors:
Oxygen sensors can fail over time, affecting fuel economy and emissions.
Catalytic Converter:
Can become clogged or fail due to age or engine misfires.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Subaru Origin:
Founded in 1953, Subaru (part of Fuji Heavy Industries) is known for its pioneering use of the horizontally-opposed 'boxer' engine and its focus on All-Wheel Drive technology.
Model Evolution
Generation:
Second Generation (1995-1999)
Styling:
Introduced a more rounded and aerodynamic design compared to the first generation.
Platform:
Shared platform with the Impreza, but with a longer wheelbase and distinct styling.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (primarily Gunma Prefecture)
Production Years:
1995-1999 (for this generation)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Common Praise:
Praised for its standard AWD, reliability (especially with the EJ22 engine), and practicality. Often considered a capable winter vehicle.
Ratings
Consumer Reports:
Generally rated well for reliability and owner satisfaction in its class, though some early EJ25D issues were noted by testers.