Mid-size sedan and wagon offering a blend of comfort, AWD capability, and performance, often appealing to those seeking an alternative to mainstream brands.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Mazda6, Ford Fusion
Key Features
Differentiating Features:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, horizontally-opposed 'Boxer' engines, solid build quality, reputation for reliability.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Primary Coverage:
North American Market
Trim Levels Covered:
All trims including 2.5i, 2.5GT, 3.0R, GT Spec.B (if applicable for the specific model year market)
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 2000-3000 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (variable torque distribution depending on transmission type)
Fluid Specifications
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF HP (or equivalent meeting Subaru spec)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Subaru Gear Oil API GL-5, SAE 75W-90
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length Sedan:
189.1 inches (4803 mm)
Length Wagon:
190.4 inches (4836 mm)
Width:
70.1 inches (1780 mm)
Height Sedan:
58.1 inches (1476 mm)
Height Wagon:
59.4 inches (1509 mm)
Wheelbase
Wheelbase:
105.1 inches (2670 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight 2.5I Auto Sedan:
3330 lbs (1510 kg)
Curb Weight Gt Auto Sedan:
3480 lbs (1579 kg)
Cargo
Cargo Volume Sedan:
Approx. 14.7 cu ft
Cargo Volume Wagon:
Approx. 39.4 cu ft (rear seats up), 73.7 cu ft (rear seats folded)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star Driver / 5-Star Passenger
NHTSA Side Impact:
5-Star Driver / 5-Star Rear Passenger
IIHS Front Overlap Frontal Offset:
Good
IIHS Side Impact:
Good
IIHS Roof Strength:
Good
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Vsc:
Standard Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags (front and rear)
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
Child Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD stereo with 4 or 6 speakers. Optional Rockford Fosgate premium audio system available on higher trims.
Navigation:
Optional factory-installed GPS navigation system available.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
Standard auxiliary audio input jack.
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free system available on some trims.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (severe conditions) or 7,500 miles (normal conditions), or 6 months, whichever comes first. Consult manual for specific engine/oil type recommendations.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Engine Coolant Replacement:
Initial change at 105,000 miles (168,000 km), then every 60,000 miles (96,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement 2.5I:
Platinum: 105,000 miles
Spark Plug Replacement 3.0R:
Iridium: 105,000 miles
Timing Belt Replacement:
Not applicable (all engines in this generation use timing chains)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Capacity 2.5L:
Approx. 4.8 US Quarts (4.6 Liters) with filter change (for EJ253/EJ255)
Engine Oil Capacity 3.0L:
Approx. 6.7 US Quarts (6.3 Liters) with filter change (for EZ30D)
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 0W-20 (preferred for fuel economy and cold weather), SAE 5W-30, or SAE 10W-30 depending on climate and manufacturer recommendation.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron II/III ATF
Known Issues
Head Gaskets:
While less prevalent than in earlier generations, external oil leaks from head gaskets can occur. Internal leaks are rarer in this specific generation.
Wheel Bearings:
Front wheel bearings can be a wear item, with premature failure reported by some owners.
Exhaust Manifold:
Cracks in the exhaust manifold (particularly on the driver's side) can lead to exhaust leaks and ticking noises.
Ac Compressor:
AC compressor clutch failure can lead to loss of cooling.
Oil Pan Leaks:
The gasket for the oil pan can degrade and cause leaks.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Subaru Heritage:
Established in 1953 as Fuji Heavy Industries, Subaru is known for its pioneering use of All-Wheel Drive and its horizontally-opposed 'Boxer' engines.
Model Evolution
Legacy Introduction:
The Subaru Legacy was introduced in 1989 as a replacement for the Subaru Leone.
Fifth Generation:
The 2009 model year represents the final year of the third generation (BP/BL), which debuted in 2003/2004 with a significant redesign and updated powertrains.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (Mainly Gunma Prefecture)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
The 2009 Subaru Legacy received an 'Overall Safety Excellence' award from the IIHS and was a Top Safety Pick for its class.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Generally rated as average to above-average in reliability by consumer publications for this generation.