Comprehensive, from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission overhauls
Diagnostic Tools:
Procedures for using OBD-II scanners, multimeters, and specialized Subaru diagnostic tools
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Format:
PDF
Searchability:
Searchable text for quick information retrieval
Print Quality
Quality:
High-resolution for clear diagrams and text
Printability:
Printable in whole or in part
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine 1 Code:
EJ22E
Engine 1 Displacement:
2.2 Liters
Engine 1 Configuration:
2.2L SOHC EJ22E Flat-4 (Boxer)
Engine 1 Horsepower:
135 hp @ 5800 rpm
Engine 1 Torque:
139 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Engine 2 Code:
EJ25D
Engine 2 Displacement:
2.5 Liters
Engine 2 Configuration:
2.5L DOHC EJ25D Flat-4 (Boxer)
Engine 2 Horsepower:
165 hp @ 6000 rpm
Engine 2 Torque:
162 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Engine 3 Code
Engine 3 Code:
EJ251 (late models)
Engine 3 Displacement:
2.5 Liters
Engine 3 Configuration:
2.5L SOHC EJ251 Flat-4 (Boxer)
Engine 3 Horsepower:
165 hp @ 5600 rpm
Engine 3 Torque:
162 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Performance
Redline:
Approx. 6500 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Octane Rating:
91 AKI (87 octane acceptable for EJ22E/EJ251, 91 recommended for EJ25D)
Cooling System
Cooling Type:
Liquid-cooled
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol based antifreeze
Ignition System
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with individual coil packs or single ignition coil with distributor for some early EJ25D models
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type Std:
4-speed Automatic (4EAT) with electronically controlled All-Wheel Drive
Optional
Transmission Type Opt:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Features
Automatic AWD Mode:
Driver-selectable modes (Power, Economy, Lock) on some 4EAT models
Fluid Specifications
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF HP or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon (check owner's manual for specific application)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
SAE 75W-90 GL-5 gear oil
Fluid Capacities
Automatic Transmission Capacity:
Approx. 3.8 Quarts (8.0 Liters) for complete refill
Manual Transmission Capacity:
Approx. 2.4 Quarts (2.3 Liters)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
104.3 inches (2649 mm)
Length Sedan:
187.0 inches (4750 mm)
Length Wagon:
185.6 inches (4714 mm)
Width:
69.7 inches (1770 mm)
Height Sedan:
55.7 inches (1415 mm)
Height Wagon:
57.7 inches (1465 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight Min:
3185 lbs (1445 kg) - 2.2L Manual Sedan
Curb Weight Max:
3450 lbs (1565 kg) - 2.5L Automatic Wagon
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Varies by trim and configuration (refer to vehicle data plate)
Wheels Tires
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x100mm
Standard Tire Size Sedan:
P205/55R16
Standard Tire Size Wagon:
P205/55R16 or P215/55R16 (Outback Sport)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
4-star driver, 4-star passenger (may vary slightly by model year)
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Good (may vary by test year)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard on most trims, optional on some base models
Traction Control:
Not typically available on this generation
All Wheel Drive:
Standard Symmetrical AWD system
Passive Features
Airbags Front:
Dual front airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional front side-impact airbags on some trims
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts, driver's pretensioner
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) not standard on this generation
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with cassette and CD player, optional premium audio system
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control depending on trim level
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims
All Wheel Drive System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, a core technology feature for Subaru
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months (severe conditions) or 7,500 miles or 7.5 months (normal conditions)
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 105,000 miles or 105 months (critical maintenance item for EJ25D, less critical but recommended for EJ22E)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 30 months
Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:
Every 30,000 miles or 30 months
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Every 60,000 miles or 60 months
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
5W-30 (API SG or higher)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 Quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter for EJ22E/EJ251, 4.7 Quarts (4.5 Liters) with filter for EJ25D
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF Dexron II or III
Known Issues
Head Gaskets:
The EJ25D (DOHC 2.5L) engine is prone to head gasket failure. The manual provides diagnostic procedures and replacement instructions.
Automatic Transmission Issues:
Some 4EAT transmissions can develop issues with solenoids or torque converter clutch (TCC) engagement. The manual covers diagnostic codes and repair procedures.
Cvt Transmissions:
N/A (CVT not offered on this model)
Suspension Components:
Wear in ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings is common with age; the manual details inspection and replacement.
Exhaust System:
Rusting of exhaust components, particularly catalytic converters and mufflers, is common in corrosive climates.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Subaru History:
Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries) has a long history in aircraft manufacturing and automotive production, known for its unique boxer engines and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive systems.
Model Evolution
Third Generation:
The 2000 model year is part of the third generation (1999-2004) Subaru Legacy, characterized by a significant redesign with a more modern exterior and interior.
Outback Variant:
The Outback Sport variant, a lifted wagon with rugged styling, was also part of this generation and is often covered within Legacy service information.
Production
Production Years:
1999-2004 (Third Generation)
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan (Gunma Plant)
Sales Performance:
Solid sales in North America, bolstered by Subaru's reputation for AWD and reliability, though generally outsold by segment leaders like Camry and Accord.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Consumer Reports:
Often rated well for reliability and safety by Consumer Reports for its segment, particularly the AWD system.
Ratings
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
While specific 'Top Safety Pick' designations were less common in this era, the Legacy generally performed well in crash tests.
Certifications
Epa Fuel Economy City:
Approx. 20-22 MPG (Varies by engine and transmission)
Epa Fuel Economy Highway:
Approx. 26-29 MPG (Varies by engine and transmission)