Transfer Propeller Shaft, Drive Shaft, Front Drive Shaft, Differential, Differential Case Assy, Front Axle Hub, Rear Axle Hub
Suspension Steering:
Axle Suspension, Front Suspension System, Rear Suspension System, Front Suspension Arm, Front Stabilizer Bar, Steering Column, Power Steering, Power Steering Link Assy
Engine Hood/ Door, Front Bumper, Rear Bumper, Back Door, Side Mudguard, Roof Headlining, Windshield Glass, Outer Rear View Mirror Assy
Body Interior:
Instrument Panel, Seat, Seat Belt, Sun Roof System, Door Lock, Meter Audio/Visual, Instrument Panel
Safety Restraint:
Suppl Restraint System (SRS), Supplemental Restraint System, Seat Belt Warning System, Curtain Shield Air Bag Assy, Passenger Air Bag Assy, Side Air Bag Sensor Assy
Climate Control:
Air Condition, Heater & Air Conditioner, Heater Radiator Assembly, Receiver Condenser Assembly
Comfort Convenience:
Cruise Control, Power Window Control System, Power Door Lock Control System, Horn, Cigarette Lighter Assy
All engines (except possibly some later EZ30 variants with timing chains) utilize a timing belt, requiring replacement at intervals (e.g., 60,000-105,000 miles or 4-7 years depending on model and conditions). The manual will detail the exact procedure and intervals.
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual Transaxle
Optional
Optional Transmission:
4-speed Automatic Transaxle
Features
Drivetrain Layout:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) standard on most models
Maintenance
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Specific ATF type (e.g., Subaru ATF HP or equivalent) required. Manual provides capacity and change intervals.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Specific gear oil (e.g., GL-5) required. Manual provides capacity and change intervals.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Body Styles:
Sedan, Wagon, Sport Wagon ('Roof Wagon')
Wheelbase:
Approximately 104.3 inches (Second Gen), 105.1 inches (Third Gen)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Ranges from approximately 3,100 lbs to 3,700 lbs depending on body style, engine, and drivetrain
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Results:
IIHS and NHTSA ratings varied by year and test specifics. Manual includes safety system descriptions and potentially diagnostic procedures for SRS components.
Active Features
Active Safety:
All-Wheel Drive (standard), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on most models
Passive Features
Passive Safety:
Front airbags, Side airbags (optional on some models), Seatbelt pretensioners, Crumple zones
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory-installed radios with CD players or cassette players, AM/FM stereo. Manual covers audio system removal, installation, and troubleshooting.
Driver Assistance
Driver Aids:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), limited availability of traction control on some higher trims.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era, primarily focused on basic audio and climate control interfaces. Manual covers electrical system diagnostics for these components.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions. Manual specifies exact intervals.
Tire Rotation:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles for even tire wear.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Recommended every 2-3 years, or as per manual's guidance due to moisture absorption.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
Viscosity typically 5W-30 or 10W-30, meeting API SN/SP specifications. Manual provides precise recommendations and capacity.
Coolant:
Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent silicate-free long-life coolant. Capacity varies by engine, manual specifies.
Known Issues
Head Gaskets:
Certain EJ25D engines (Second Gen) were prone to internal coolant leaks due to head gasket failures. Later EJ25 engines and the manual's repair procedures address this.
Automatic Transmission:
Some automatic transmissions could experience wear or shifting issues. Regular fluid changes are crucial, and the manual covers diagnostic and repair steps.
Oil Leaks:
Rear main seal and oil pan gaskets can develop leaks over time. Manual details replacement procedures.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Subaru Heritage:
Known for horizontally opposed ('boxer') engines and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive systems, emphasizing traction and handling.
Model Evolution
Second Gen Evolution:
BD/BG/BK series (1995-1999) saw significant styling updates, improved interior, and introduction of the 2.5L DOHC and turbocharged EJ25D/EJ25DET engines. Available in Sedan and Wagon.
Third Gen Evolution:
BE/BH/BT series (2000-2004) featured a complete redesign with a more European styling influence, introduction of the 3.0L EZ30 H6 engine on GT models, and further refinements to AWD and chassis.
Production
Production Period:
1995-2003 for the models covered by this manual.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Model Recognition:
Subaru Legacy models from these generations were often praised for their standard AWD, comfortable ride, and practical wagon variants, making them popular in regions with adverse weather.
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