🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Subaru Model: Legacy Year: 2008 Codes Chassis Code: BP (Wagon), BL (Sedan) Platform Code: Subaru Global Platform (precursor generation) 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Mid-size sedan and wagon, known for its standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system Competitive Analysis Competitors: Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Ford Fusion, Mazda6 Key Features Standard AWD: Subaru's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive as standard equipment, enhancing traction and stability Engine Options: Horizontally opposed 'Boxer' engines offering a low center of gravity Body Styles: Available as a 4-door sedan (BL) and a 5-door wagon (BP) 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage: Complete factory service and repair information for the 2008 Subaru Legacy Page Count Pages: Hundreds (exact count not specified, but described as 'complete') Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Downloadable PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valve train, timing belt/chain, lubrication system, cooling system Engine Management: Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control (EVAP, catalytic converter), ECU diagnosis and programming, sensors (MAF, MAP, O2, crank/cam position), actuators Transmission Manual: Clutch operation, gear linkage, gear shift mechanism, internal transmission components, removal and installation Transmission Automatic: Torque converter, planetary gear sets, hydraulic control system, valve body, electronic control unit (TCU), shift solenoid operation, removal and installation Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system operation, front and rear differentials, drive shafts, CV joints, wheel bearings Brakes: Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), brake calipers, rotors, pads, master cylinder, brake booster, parking brake system Suspension: Front and rear suspension geometry, struts, shocks, coil springs, control arms, sway bars, bushings Steering: Power steering system (hydraulic), steering column, tie rods, steering rack, alignment specifications Electrical System: Battery, charging system (alternator), starter motor, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams for all circuits Body And Interior: Body panel removal/installation, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, seats, HVAC system, audio system, power windows/locks Climate Control: HVAC system operation, refrigerant system, compressor, condenser, evaporator, heater core, controls, diagnostics Safety Systems: Airbag system (SRS) operation, diagnostics, seat belt mechanisms Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil change, filter replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, brake inspection Troubleshooting: Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting charts, component testing procedures Major Repairs: Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake system repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement Diagnostics: OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) procedures, scan tool usage, live data interpretation, component electrical testing Specifications And Tolerances: Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine clearances, suspension alignment angles, tire pressures Wiring Diagrams: Comprehensive, color-coded wiring schematics for all vehicle systems Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format Details: Digital PDF, enabling selective printing and searchability Print Quality Quality: High-resolution for clear text and diagrams Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital PDF format) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital PDF format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code 1: EJ253 (2.5L SOHC) Displacement 1: 2.5 Liters (2457 cc) Configuration 1: Naturally Aspirated, Horizontally Opposed (Boxer) 4-Cylinder Horsepower 1: 173 hp @ 6000 rpm (approximate) Torque 1: 166 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (approximate) Bore X Stroke 1: 99.5 mm x 79.0 mm Compression Ratio 1: 10.0:1 Fuel Delivery 1: Electronic Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type 1: Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended) Optional Engine Engine Code 2: EZ30D (3.0L H6) Displacement 2: 3.0 Liters (2999 cc) Configuration 2: Naturally Aspirated, Horizontally Opposed (Boxer) 6-Cylinder Horsepower 2: 243 hp @ 6600 rpm (approximate) Torque 2: 219 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm (approximate) Bore X Stroke 2: 89.2 mm x 79.0 mm Compression Ratio 2: 10.7:1 Fuel Delivery 2: Electronic Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type 2: Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended) 🔧 Transmission Standard Type Std: 5-Speed Manual Transmission Optional Type Opt: 4-Speed Automatic Transmission (with manual shift mode on some trims) Features AWD System Type: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (Active on manual, automatic variations differ) Manual Trans Fluid Spec: Subaru Hypoid Gear Oil LSD (GL5) 75W-90 (Manual recommends specific Subaru fluid for LSDs) Automatic Trans Fluid Spec: Subaru ATF HP (High Performance) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Sedan Length: 4730 mm (186.2 in) Width: 1770 mm (69.7 in) Height: 1420 mm (55.9 in) Wheelbase: 2700 mm (106.3 in) Exterior Wagon Length: 4745 mm (186.8 in) Width: 1770 mm (69.7 in) Height: 1475 mm (58.1 in) Wheelbase: 2700 mm (106.3 in) Weights Curb Weight Est: 1500-1600 kg (3300-3500 lbs) depending on trim and drivetrain Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Not explicitly stated, but typically around 2000 kg (4400 lbs) Towing Capacity: Not recommended for towing (typical for Subaru sedans) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Crash Rating: 5-Star (Driver), 5-Star (Passenger) for 2008 models IIHS Side Impact Rating: Good (Top Safety Pick in its class) Active Features Active Safety Standard: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, ABS, EBD, Brake Assist...
Torque converter, planetary gear sets, hydraulic control system, valve body, electronic control unit (TCU), shift solenoid operation, removal and installation
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system operation, front and rear differentials, drive shafts, CV joints, wheel bearings
Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control System (TCS)
Passive Features
Passive Safety Standard:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags (front and rear), active front head restraints, front seatbelt pretensioners
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System Standard:
AM/FM stereo with CD player, possibly MP3 compatibility
Audio System Optional:
Upgraded audio systems with more speakers, subwoofer, and possibly auxiliary input or satellite radio capability on higher trims.
Navigation:
Optional factory-installed navigation system available on select trims.
Driver Assistance
Stability Control:
Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control System (TCS) were becoming more common and may have been standard on certain trims or optional.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
Likely available on higher trims or as an option for connecting external audio devices.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals General
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months (under severe driving conditions) or 7,500 miles or 7.5 months (under normal driving conditions), or every 6 months regardless of mileage.
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000 miles or 15 months
Cabin Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000 miles or 15 months
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Every 60,000 miles (OEM recommended)
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
The EJ253 uses a timing belt. Replacement is typically recommended every 105,000 miles or 105 months.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Capacity 2.5L:
4.8 US Quarts (4.5 Liters) with filter change (API SG/SH/SJ/SL/SM or ILSAC GF-2/GF-3/GF-4 5W-30 or 10W-30)
Engine Oil Capacity 3.0L:
5.1 US Quarts (4.8 Liters) with filter change (API SG/SH/SJ/SL/SM or ILSAC GF-2/GF-3/GF-4 5W-30 or 10W-30)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent HOAT coolant
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Known Issues
Head Gaskets:
While generally improved from earlier generations, some EJ25 engines can still experience head gasket leaks over time, particularly if overheated or poorly maintained.
Wheel Bearings:
Front wheel bearings can be prone to wear and noise, especially with AWD components.
Catalytic Converter:
Premature failure of the catalytic converter can occur, often linked to engine misfires or oil consumption.
Cv Joints:
Front CV boots can split, leading to premature wear of the CV joints if not addressed.
Automatic Transmission Logic:
Some owners report a desire for more aggressive shift points in the 4-speed automatic.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Focus:
Subaru is renowned for its horizontally opposed Boxer engines and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive systems, emphasizing capability and safety.
Model Evolution
Generation Introduction:
The 2008 model year falls within the fourth generation of the Subaru Legacy, which ran from 2003-2009 (BP/BL).
Key Updates 2008:
Minor styling updates, improved interior materials, and some powertrain enhancements were typical for mid-cycle refreshes, though specific 2008 changes should be verified.
Performance Variants:
The GT models featured turbocharged engines (2.5L EJ255) and often sport-tuned suspension, providing higher performance levels.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Ota City, Gunma Prefecture, Japan
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
The 2008 Legacy was recognized as an IIHS Top Safety Pick, reflecting its strong performance in crash tests.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Often received average to above-average ratings for reliability and performance in reviews from publications like Consumer Reports during this generation, though specific year ratings vary.