The 1997 Subaru Legacy represented Subaru's offering in the mid-size sedan and wagon market, emphasizing its signature All-Wheel Drive system and horizontally opposed ('Boxer') engines.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, and Ford Taurus, often differentiating itself with AWD as standard or a prominent option.
Key Features
Vehicle Features:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Boxer engine for low center of gravity, comfortable ride, wagon versatility (Outback models).
Manual Value Proposition
Value:
An indispensable tool for owners and technicians to maintain, diagnose, and repair the 1997 Subaru Legacy, ensuring longevity and optimal performance.
Instrument cluster removal and installation, warning lights.
Seats:
Seat adjustment mechanisms, seat removal, seat belt anchor points.
Engine Hood Door:
Hood latch, hinges, door hinges, door alignment.
Exterior:
Body panel removal and installation, trim pieces, bumpers.
Interior:
Interior trim panels, headliner, carpeting, dashboard disassembly.
Multiplex Can Communication:
Basic understanding of vehicle communication networks (likely proprietary multiplex systems rather than CAN in 1997).
Procedures Included
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication.
Diagnosis:
Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) with procedures, wiring diagrams for electrical systems.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major mechanical and electrical components.
Overhaul:
Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures with detailed component diagrams.
Installation:
Procedures for installing new or reconditioned parts.
Technical Depth
Depth:
Factory-level diagnostic and repair information, covering everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine rebuilds and complex electrical system troubleshooting.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
Software on CD-ROM with printable output.
Print Quality
Print Capability:
High-definition, printable instructions and illustrations. Users can print the entire manual or specific sections.
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital Format)
Paper Type
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital Format)
Platform Compatibility
Compatibility:
Windows, Macintosh, and Linux
Interactivity
Features:
Interactive CD platform with bookmarks and keywords for easy navigation.
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code 2.2L:
EJ22E
Engine Displacement 2.2L:
2.2 Liters (2212 cc)
Engine Configuration 2.2L:
Horizontally Opposed 4-Cylinder (H4) SOHC
Horsepower 2.2L:
Approx. 135 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque 2.2L:
Approx. 138 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Secondary Engine
Engine Code 2.5L:
EJ25D
Engine Displacement 2.5L:
2.5 Liters (2457 cc)
Engine Configuration 2.5L:
Horizontally Opposed 4-Cylinder (H4) DOHC
Horsepower 2.5L:
Approx. 165 hp @ 5700 rpm
Torque 2.5L:
Approx. 162 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel System
Injection Type:
Multi-point Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type Standard:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Optional
Transmission Type Optional:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (with AWD)
Features
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system standard on most models, with variations depending on transmission type (e.g., viscous coupling center differential with manual, electronically controlled AWD with automatic).
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
Approx. 104.3 inches (2649 mm)
Length:
Approx. 187.0 inches (4750 mm) for Sedan, 188.2 inches (4780 mm) for Wagon
Width:
Approx. 67.1 inches (1704 mm)
Height:
Approx. 55.1 inches (1400 mm) for Sedan, 59.3 inches (1506 mm) for Outback Wagon
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3000-3400 lbs (1361-1542 kg), varies by model and configuration.
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
Not explicitly rated by NHTSA for this specific year in readily available public records. However, many vehicles of this era received 4-star ratings.
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
Not explicitly rated by NHTSA for this specific year in readily available public records.
Active Features
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available/standard on higher trims.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard.
Seat Belts:
Front and rear seat belts. Front seat belts with pretensioners.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette player. CD player was an option on some models.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Electronically controlled cruise control system.
Connectivity
None:
Connectivity features were rudimentary at best for this era; primarily limited to radio and optional CD player.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe conditions) / 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal conditions) - check owner's manual for specific recommendation.
Engine Coolant Interval:
Initial replacement at 30,000 miles or 36 months, then every 30,000 miles or 36 months thereafter. (Refer to manual for exact specification).
Spark Plug Replacement 2.2L:
Approx. 60,000 miles (refer to manual for exact type and interval).
Spark Plug Replacement 2.5L:
Approx. 30,000 miles (refer to manual for exact type and interval).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial: The EJ25D engine (2.5L) is an interference engine. Timing belt replacement is critical, typically recommended every 90,000 miles or 7 years. Failure to replace can lead to catastrophic engine damage.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 API Service SG or SH (check owner's manual for latest API classification).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter for 2.5L; 4.2 quarts (4.0 liters) for 2.2L.
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
Subaru ATF-HP or equivalent Dexron II/III compatible fluid (verify in manual).
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
Subaru Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) or equivalent API GL-4 gear oil (verify viscosity in manual).
Coolant Type:
Subaru Genuine Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant (blue color) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Known Issues
Head Gaskets 2.5L:
The EJ25D engine is known for potential head gasket failures, often due to coolant leaks or improper torque. The manual will cover diagnosis and replacement procedures.
Oil Leaks:
Leaking valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and crank seals can be common on high-mileage vehicles of this era.
Automatic Transmission Shift Issues:
Some older automatic transmissions can develop shifting issues; the manual provides diagnostic steps for these.
Wheel Bearing Wear:
Wheel bearings can wear over time, especially with AWD systems; the manual covers replacement and adjustment.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Subaru Heritage:
Subaru, a division of Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries), is known for its horizontally opposed engines and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive systems, often catering to drivers seeking capability and reliability.
Model Evolution
Legacy History:
The second generation Legacy (BD/BG/BK) was introduced for the 1995 model year and continued through 1999. It featured updated styling, improved interiors, and refined powertrains. The 'Outback' variant, introduced in 1995, gained significant popularity as a precursor to the crossover SUV trend.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (Global Production)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 5 Best Cars:
Subaru Legacy models, including the Outback variants, frequently appeared on Car and Driver's annual '10Best Cars' list in the mid-to-late 1990s, often praised for their AWD capability and value.
Ratings
Consumer Reports:
Consumer Reports typically provided reliability ratings, which varied by model year and engine. The manual would be essential for addressing any reported weaknesses.