Subaru Legacy EJ20 Wagon (1993-1998) FWD Petrol 2.0L (1993–1998)

The second-generation Subaru Legacy (BD/BG/BK) became a cherished family vehicle in New Zealand throughout the 1990s. Available as either a sedan or a wagon, it offers a perfect blend of reliability, all-wheel-drive capability, and practicality that many drivers still respect today. This guide shares valuable insights tailored for NZ owners and prospective buyers, ensuring you make an informed decision while keeping your Legacy in top shape.

Parts for the Subaru Legacy EJ20 Wagon (1993-1998) FWD Petrol 2.0L

• Oil Filter (16)
• Gear Oil Gearbox (14)
• Gear Oil Differential Rear (14)
• Brake Pads Front (11)
• Suspension Bush Rear Sway Bar Mount (10)
• Gear Oil Differential Front (10)
• Cv Joint (10)
• Wheel Bearing Kit/Hub Rear (9)
• Radiator Coolant (8)
• Suspension Bush Front Control Arm (7)
• Spark Plug (7)
• Cv Joint Boot Kit Rear Outer (7)
• Suspension Bush Rear Control Arm - Upper (7)
• Disc Brake Rotor Front (6)
• Brake Fluid (6)
• Water Pump (6)
• Air Filter (6)
• Cv Joint Boot Kit Rear Inner (6)
• Wiper Blade (6)
• Fuel Filter (5)
• Main Bearing Crank Shaft (5)
• Disc Brake Rotor Rear (5)
• Steering Rack End (5)
• Oxygen Sensor (5)
• Drive Shaft Front (5)
• Starter Motor (5)
• Tie Rod End (5)
• Steering Rack Boot Kit (5)
• Wiper Refill (5)
• Wiper Blade Front (5)
• Timing Kit (5)
• Automatic Transmission Filter (4)
• Brake Shoe Rear (4)
• Sway Bar Link (4)
• Timing Belt Idler (4)
• Engine Oil (4)
• Oil Seal Crank Shaft Front / Timing Front (4)
• Thermostat Housing Gasket (4)
• Timing Tensioner (4)
• Cv Joint Boot Kit Front Right Outer (4)
• Cv Joint Front Outer (4)
• Cv Joint Boot Kit Front Left Outer (4)
• Temperature Sensor / Sender Coolant (4)
• Differential Mount Bush Rear (4)
• Cv Joint Boot Kit Front Left Inner (4)
• Cv Joint Boot Kit Front Right Inner (4)
• Radiator Cap (4)
• Oil Seal Camshaft (3)
• Oil Seal Crank Shaft Rear / Rear Main Bearing (3)
• Brake Pads Rear (3)
• Control Arm Rear (3)
• Suspension Bush Sway Bar Link (3)
• Drive Shaft Rear (3)
• Differential Mount Bush Rear Axle (3)
• Valve Cover Gasket (3)
• Shocks / Strut Front (3)
• Shocks / Strut Front & Rear (3)
• Valve Cover Bolt Seal/Washer (3)
• Steering Bush Steering Rack Mount Front (3)
• Shocks / Strut Rear (3)

Known issues

Common issues for the BD/BG/BK Legacy include rust, particularly around the rear wheel arches, sills, and subframe. Head gasket failures, especially on the 2.5L engines, are well-documented. Power steering leaks, worn suspension components (especially in high-mileage examples), and issues with the automatic transmission (if equipped) should also be investigated. Regular servicing is key to mitigating these issues.

WOF tips

For WOF inspections on the 1993-1998 Legacy, key areas to check are: Rust (as above). Tyre condition and tread depth. Functionality of all lights and indicators. Suspension and steering components for wear and tear. Brake performance. Exhaust system for leaks. Windscreen for cracks and chips.

About the Subaru Legacy EJ20 Wagon (1993-1998) FWD Petrol 2.0L

The Legacy's appeal lies in its practicality, safety features (thanks to its AWD), and a variety of engine options, including 2.0L, 2.2L, and 2.5L variants. The resilient 2.2L has become a favorite among Kiwi owners, known for its long-lasting performance.

However, as with any great older model, certain parts will require attention over time. Regular servicing ensures that your Legacy remains reliable and performs at its best. Common replacements include engine oil, air filters, and brake components, often needed around the 30,000km and 60,000km service intervals. Additionally, the cooling system warrants inspection at approximately 150,000km; crucial parts like the water pump, thermostat, and radiator hoses should be replaced to avoid overheating issues. [This links perfectly to our cooling services - check them out here: /shop/cooling].

Other essential areas to keep in mind are the braking system and filtration components. Regular brake services may be necessary to ensure the longevity of your rotors and pads. Explore our braking category to find compelling options. [Link: /shop/braking]. Keeping your engine's air and oil clean is key, for which our filtration category offers a full range of options. [Link: /shop/filtration]. Addressing these common issues and regularly checking these key components will help you enjoy your Legacy for many more adventures to come.

Questions owners ask

What are some common problems I should look out for on a 1993-1998 Subaru Legacy in New Zealand?

Common issues for the BD/BG/BK Legacy in New Zealand include rust, particularly around the rear wheel arches, sills, and subframe. Head gasket failures, especially on the 2.5L engines, are also well-documented. Keep an eye out for power steering leaks and worn suspension components, especially in high-mileage examples. If your Legacy has an automatic transmission, be aware of potential issues there as well.

How often should I service my 1993-1998 Subaru Legacy?

It's recommended to service your Subaru Legacy every 10,000km. Regular servicing helps ensure your Legacy remains reliable and performs at its best. Pay close attention to engine oil, air filters, and brake components, which often need replacement around the 30,000km and 60,000km service intervals.

What should I check on my 1993-1998 Subaru Legacy before a WOF inspection?

Before taking your Legacy for a WOF, be sure to check for rust, especially around the rear wheel arches, sills, and subframe. Also, inspect the tyre condition and tread depth, ensure all lights and indicators are working correctly, check the suspension and steering components for wear and tear, test the brake performance, inspect the exhaust system for leaks, and check the windscreen for cracks and chips.

Where can I get brake pads for my 1993-1998 Subaru Legacy in NZ?

CARFIX stocks a wide range of brake components for your Legacy. You can explore our braking category online to find suitable brake pads and other braking system parts: /shop/braking.

When should I replace the water pump and thermostat on my 1993-1998 Subaru Legacy?

The cooling system on your Legacy warrants inspection at approximately 150,000km. At this point, crucial parts like the water pump, thermostat, and radiator hoses should be replaced to avoid overheating issues. CARFIX has cooling system parts available: /shop/cooling.

What engine options were available for the 1993-1998 Subaru Legacy?

The 1993-1998 Subaru Legacy was available with several engine options, including 2.0L, 2.2L, and 2.5L variants. The 2.2L engine is a popular choice among Kiwi owners due to its longevity.

What kind of filters does my 1993-1998 Subaru Legacy need, and where can I find them?

Keeping your engine's air and oil clean is key to maintaining your Legacy. You'll need an oil filter and an air filter. Our filtration category offers a full range of options for your Subaru Legacy: /shop/filtration.