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.
Een selectie kiezen resulteert in het geheel verversen van de pagina.