🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Subaru Model: Legacy Year: 1996 Trim Levels Covered: L, Postal, LSI, Outback, LS, Brighton Generation: Second Generation (BD/BG/BK/BH) Codes Chassis Codes: BD (Sedan), BG (Wagon) 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning In Market: A comprehensive factory service manual for a popular and capable AWD vehicle. Essential for owners and independent repair shops aiming for accurate and efficient maintenance and repair of the 1996 Subaru Legacy. Competitive Analysis Competitor Manuals: Directly competes with aftermarket manuals like Haynes or Chilton, offering superior factory accuracy, detail, and a broader scope of coverage, especially regarding diagnostics and specific Subaru technologies like the AWD system and EAT transmissions. Key Features Manual Advantages: Genuine Subaru documentation ensures accuracy and completeness. Interactive CD platform enhances usability. High-definition illustrations and photographs provide clear guidance. Extensive coverage of all systems. Diagnostic trouble codes and procedures are included, a significant advantage for troubleshooting. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Content Overview: Comprehensive service, parts, and repair information. Specific Coverage Areas: Engine, control system, mechanical components, fuel system, emission control, intake/exhaust, cooling, lubrication, ignition, starting, charging, automatic transmission, manual transmission, transfer case, propeller shaft, drive shafts, differentials, axles, suspension, tires, wheels, brake control, brakes, parking brake, steering column, power steering, air conditioning, supplemental restraint system, seat belts, engine immobilizer, cruise control, wipers, washers, door locks, meters, audio/visual systems, park assist, horns, other systems, windshield, glass, mirrors, instrument panel, seats, engine hood, doors, exterior, interior, multiplex communication, CAN communication. Page Count Estimated Page Count: Likely over 1000 pages (typical for full factory service manuals of this era). Manual Type Manual Classification: Factory Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Media Format: Software (likely interactive CD with printable instructions) Platform Compatibility: Windows, Macintosh, Linux Digital Delivery: Download link provided post-purchase. 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Systems: Detailed coverage of the 2.2L H4 engine, including timing belt replacement, component diagnostics, and rebuild procedures. Transmission Systems: Covers both automatic (e.g., 4EAT) and manual transmissions, including operation, diagnosis, and repair. Electrical Systems: Extensive coverage of wiring diagrams, component testing, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and troubleshooting for all electrical systems. Chassis Systems: Detailed information on suspension, steering, brakes, and alignment procedures. Body And Interior: Coverage for body panel removal/installation, interior trim, and climate control systems. Procedures Included Maintenance Procedures: Routine maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, transmission, brake), filter replacements, spark plug service, and belt inspections. Diagnostic Procedures: Includes diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and step-by-step diagnostic procedures for various systems. Repair Procedures: Detailed, step-by-step repair instructions for virtually all components, often accompanied by diagrams and photographs. Troubleshooting Guides: Organized troubleshooting sections to help identify and resolve common and uncommon vehicle issues. Technical Depth Depth Of Information: Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Manual Format: Interactive software platform with printable pages. High-definition illustrations and diagrams. Print Quality Print Capabilities: Print entire manual or specific sections. High-definition, printable instructions and illustrations. Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital format) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Horizontally-opposed 4-cylinder (Boxer) Displacement: 2.2 Liters (2212 cc) Engine Code: EJ22 Performance Horsepower Est: ~135 hp @ 5600 rpm (exact figures may vary slightly by trim) Torque Est: ~140 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (exact figures may vary slightly by trim) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type Recommendation: Unleaded Regular Gasoline (87 Octane) Engine Features Drivetrain Configuration: Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD). Timing Belt Maintenance: Critical coverage for timing belt replacement intervals and procedures. Failure to replace can cause catastrophic engine damage. 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: 5-speed Manual Transmission Optional Optional Transmission: 4-speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT - Electronic Automatic Transmission) Features 4Eat Modes: The manual details the operation and maintenance of the 4EAT, which often included modes like Power and Economy. Fluid Specifications Manual Transmission Fluid: Refer to manual for specific API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil recommendations and viscosity grades (e.g., 75W-90). Automatic Transmission Fluid: Subaru Genuine ATF HP or an equivalent meeting the required specifications. Capacity typically around 7-8 quarts for a drain and fill. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Body Styles: 4-door Sedan (BD) and 5-door Wagon (BG). Wheelbase Est: ~104.3 inches Length Est: Sedan: ~183 inches, Wagon: ~185 inches Width Est: ~67.9 inches Height Est: Sedan: ~55.1 inches, Wagon: ~57.9 inches Weights Curb Weight Est: ~3000-3300 lbs (depending on body style and equipment) Towing Capacity Est: Typically around 1500-2000 lbs for equipped models, check specific model ratings. 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Ratings 1996: Information on 1996 safety ratings would be found in the manual if available from NHTSA. Active Features Active Safety Features: Standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD) for enhanced traction and stability. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) often standard or available on higher trims. Passive Features Passive...
A comprehensive factory service manual for a popular and capable AWD vehicle. Essential for owners and independent repair shops aiming for accurate and efficient maintenance and repair of the 1996 Subaru Legacy.
Competitive Analysis
Competitor Manuals:
Directly competes with aftermarket manuals like Haynes or Chilton, offering superior factory accuracy, detail, and a broader scope of coverage, especially regarding diagnostics and specific Subaru technologies like the AWD system and EAT transmissions.
Key Features
Manual Advantages:
Genuine Subaru documentation ensures accuracy and completeness. Interactive CD platform enhances usability. High-definition illustrations and photographs provide clear guidance. Extensive coverage of all systems. Diagnostic trouble codes and procedures are included, a significant advantage for troubleshooting.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Manual Content Overview:
Comprehensive service, parts, and repair information.
Specific Coverage Areas:
Engine, control system, mechanical components, fuel system, emission control, intake/exhaust, cooling, lubrication, ignition, starting, charging, automatic transmission, manual transmission, transfer case, propeller shaft, drive shafts, differentials, axles, suspension, tires, wheels, brake control, brakes, parking brake, steering column, power steering, air conditioning, supplemental restraint system, seat belts, engine immobilizer, cruise control, wipers, washers, door locks, meters, audio/visual systems, park assist, horns, other systems, windshield, glass, mirrors, instrument panel, seats, engine hood, doors, exterior, interior, multiplex communication, CAN communication.
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Likely over 1000 pages (typical for full factory service manuals of this era).
Manual Type
Manual Classification:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Media Format:
Software (likely interactive CD with printable instructions)
Platform Compatibility:
Windows, Macintosh, Linux
Digital Delivery:
Download link provided post-purchase.
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine Systems:
Detailed coverage of the 2.2L H4 engine, including timing belt replacement, component diagnostics, and rebuild procedures.
Transmission Systems:
Covers both automatic (e.g., 4EAT) and manual transmissions, including operation, diagnosis, and repair.
Electrical Systems:
Extensive coverage of wiring diagrams, component testing, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and troubleshooting for all electrical systems.
Chassis Systems:
Detailed information on suspension, steering, brakes, and alignment procedures.
Body And Interior:
Coverage for body panel removal/installation, interior trim, and climate control systems.
Procedures Included
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, transmission, brake), filter replacements, spark plug service, and belt inspections.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Includes diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and step-by-step diagnostic procedures for various systems.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed, step-by-step repair instructions for virtually all components, often accompanied by diagrams and photographs.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Organized troubleshooting sections to help identify and resolve common and uncommon vehicle issues.
Technical Depth
Depth Of Information:
Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Manual Format:
Interactive software platform with printable pages. High-definition illustrations and diagrams.
Print Quality
Print Capabilities:
Print entire manual or specific sections. High-definition, printable instructions and illustrations.
Binding Type
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital format)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Type:
Horizontally-opposed 4-cylinder (Boxer)
Displacement:
2.2 Liters (2212 cc)
Engine Code:
EJ22
Performance
Horsepower Est:
~135 hp @ 5600 rpm (exact figures may vary slightly by trim)
Torque Est:
~140 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (exact figures may vary slightly by trim)
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type Recommendation:
Unleaded Regular Gasoline (87 Octane)
Engine Features
Drivetrain Configuration:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD).
Timing Belt Maintenance:
Critical coverage for timing belt replacement intervals and procedures. Failure to replace can cause catastrophic engine damage.
The manual details the operation and maintenance of the 4EAT, which often included modes like Power and Economy.
Fluid Specifications
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil recommendations and viscosity grades (e.g., 75W-90).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru Genuine ATF HP or an equivalent meeting the required specifications. Capacity typically around 7-8 quarts for a drain and fill.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Body Styles:
4-door Sedan (BD) and 5-door Wagon (BG).
Wheelbase Est:
~104.3 inches
Length Est:
Sedan: ~183 inches, Wagon: ~185 inches
Width Est:
~67.9 inches
Height Est:
Sedan: ~55.1 inches, Wagon: ~57.9 inches
Weights
Curb Weight Est:
~3000-3300 lbs (depending on body style and equipment)
Towing Capacity Est:
Typically around 1500-2000 lbs for equipped models, check specific model ratings.
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Ratings 1996:
Information on 1996 safety ratings would be found in the manual if available from NHTSA.
Active Features
Active Safety Features:
Standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD) for enhanced traction and stability. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) often standard or available on higher trims.
Passive Features
Passive Safety Features:
Dual front airbags, three-point seatbelts with pretensioners, reinforced body structure.
Supplemental Restraint System:
Detailed explanation and repair procedures for the SRS system, including airbag module replacement and sensor diagnostics.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment Features:
Base audio systems, typically with AM/FM radio and cassette player. CD players were optional on higher trims or aftermarket additions.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited by era, primary assistance is the standard All-Wheel Drive system and optional ABS.
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB. Radio and speaker systems are the extent of 'connectivity'.
Climate Control
Climate Control System:
Manual HVAC system with optional automatic climate control on certain higher-trim models. The manual covers diagnosis and repair of the A/C system.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,750 to 7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Refer to manual for exact recommendation.
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Critical interval, typically 60,000 to 100,000 miles or 5-7 years. The manual provides precise guidance and procedures.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Automatic transmissions: typically every 30,000-60,000 miles. Manual transmissions: less frequent, often around 60,000 miles.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity grade (e.g., 5W-30 or 10W-30) and API service classification.
Coolant Specification:
Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or an equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors suitable for Subaru engines. Capacity approx. 6.5 quarts.
Head gasket leaks (though less prevalent on EJ22 compared to later EJ25 engines), timing belt failure if not replaced on schedule, differential seal leaks, and potential for seized caliper pins.
Common Subaru Issues 4Eat:
Failure of the transmission control unit (TCU) or solenoids, and wear in the hydraulic system. Regular fluid changes are critical for longevity.
Parts Information
Manual Parts Coverage:
While not a dedicated parts catalog, the service manual often references Subaru part numbers for critical components and consumables.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Subaru Heritage:
Subaru, a division of Fuji Heavy Industries, has a long history of producing reliable vehicles, particularly known for its pioneering use of All-Wheel Drive in passenger cars.
Model Evolution
Legacy Introduction:
The Subaru Legacy was introduced in 1989 as a replacement for the Subaru Leone, aiming for a more upscale and larger segment. The 1996 model represents the second generation, which brought significant styling and engineering updates.
Second Generation Updates:
The BD/BG generation (1995-1999) featured a more aerodynamic design, improved interior comfort, and refined AWD systems compared to its predecessor.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in Japan.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Model Recognition:
The second-generation Legacy, in general, received positive reviews for its AWD system and comfortable ride, making it a strong contender in the mid-size sedan and wagon market.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Owners' experiences and reliability data for this era would be detailed in comprehensive automotive reviews and databases accessible through the manual's context.
Certifications
Iso Certification:
Subaru vehicles are manufactured under strict quality control standards, often adhering to ISO certifications.