Positioning:
The Subaru Legacy Outback occupies the niche of a car-based station wagon with SUV-like capabilities, appealing to outdoor enthusiasts and families.
Competitors:
Competed against models like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, and other compact SUVs/crossovers of its era.
Subaru Advantage:
Subaru's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, horizontally opposed 'boxer' engines, and excellent ground clearance for its class.
Value:
Provides DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics with the authoritative information needed to maintain and repair the 2002 Legacy Outback, saving significant costs on labor.
Engine:
Detailed diagnosis, overhaul, and repair procedures for all engine variants
Transmission:
Covers both Automatic (4EAT) and Manual (5-speed) transmissions, including rebuilds and diagnostics
Drivetrain:
Front and rear differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, AWD system operation
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications, shock absorbers, springs
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system diagnosis and repair, parking brake
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, alignment
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, lighting, accessories, power distribution, charging system
Climate Control:
HVAC system diagnosis, repair, refrigerant handling, climate control module
Body:
Interior and exterior trim removal/installation, body panels, glass, doors, locks
Safety Systems:
Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) - airbag components, diagnosis, and replacement procedures
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement
Tune Up:
Detailed tune-up procedures, including ignition timing and component testing
Engine Repair:
Engine removal/installation, cylinder head overhaul, piston/ring replacement, crankshaft bearing service
Transmission Repair:
Complete overhaul instructions for both manual and automatic transmissions
Brake Service:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, bleeding procedures, ABS component testing
Suspension Service:
Replacement of ball joints, control arms, bushings, struts/shocks
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting electrical faults using wiring diagrams, component testing
Emissions Control:
Diagnosis and repair of emissions-related systems, catalytic converter, O2 sensors
Ac Service:
Air conditioning system diagnosis, refrigerant recharge, component replacement
Body Repair:
Door panel removal, mirror replacement, bumper repair/replacement
Timing Procedures:
Valve timing procedures, chain/gear replacement, tensioner adjustments
Depth:
Extremely comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Illustrations:
Detailed diagrams and illustrations for component identification and repair procedures
Diagnostics:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving faults
Specifications:
Includes all essential technical specifications, torque values, clearances, and fluid capacities
Special Tools:
Lists and descriptions of specialized tools required for certain procedures
Troubleshooting Guides:
Includes comprehensive troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues, often with flowcharts.
Engine Code And Type:
EJ25 SOHC (2.5L Naturally Aspirated Flat-4 Boxer) and EJ25 DOHC Turbo (2.5L Turbocharged Flat-4 Boxer - limited markets/trims)
Horsepower Sohc:
Approx. 165 hp @ 5600 rpm (SOHC)
Torque Sohc:
Approx. 166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (SOHC)
Horsepower DOHc Turbo:
Approx. 210-220 hp @ 5600 rpm (DOHC Turbocharged - GT/GT-Limited trims)
Torque DOHc Turbo:
Approx. 235-245 lb-ft @ 3000-4000 rpm (DOHC Turbocharged)
Type:
Sequential multi-point fuel injection (MPI)
Octane Rating:
87 octane (for SOHC), 91 octane premium unleaded (for DOHC Turbocharged)
Capacity And Type:
Approx. 6.9 quarts (6.5 liters) of 50/50 ethylene glycol coolant
NHTSA Front Impact:
Good (2002 model year ratings are often based on earlier tests for similar vehicles, check specific NHTSA database for precise scores if available)
NHTSA Side Impact:
Good (2002 model year ratings are often based on earlier tests for similar vehicles, check specific NHTSA database for precise scores if available)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard
Traction Control:
Traction control may be available on higher trim levels or optional.
Airbags:
Front airbags, side airbags (optional on some trims).
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Oil Change:
Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months (severe duty) or 7,500 miles or 7.5 months (normal duty), though earlier intervals are often recommended by enthusiasts.
Timing Belt:
Crucial: Approximately every 60,000 - 100,000 miles or 5-7 years (due to interference engine design), consult manual for exact interval and related component replacement (water pump, tensioners).
Spark Plugs:
Typically around 60,000 - 100,000 miles, depending on type (e.g., platinum or iridium).
Engine Oil:
5W-30 synthetic or conventional oil recommended (consult manual for specific API service classification and viscosity for climate).
Coolant:
Subaru Super Coolant or equivalent, 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Head Gaskets:
While less prevalent than in earlier generations, head gasket leaks can still occur, especially on higher-mileage SOHC EJ25 engines. The manual will detail inspection and replacement.
Cv Boots:
Torn front and rear CV axle boots are a common wear item, leading to joint damage if not addressed. The manual covers their inspection and replacement.
O2 Sensors:
Oxygen sensors can degrade over time, affecting fuel economy and emissions. The manual will aid in their diagnosis and replacement.
Subaru Identity:
Subaru, a division of Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries), is renowned for its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and boxer engines, often associated with reliability, safety, and outdoor adventure.
Outback Origin:
The Outback began as a more rugged, lifted version of the Legacy station wagon, launched in 1995. For 2000, the Outback became its own distinct model line, based on the third-generation Legacy platform (BP/BL).
Third Generation:
The 2002 model falls within the third generation of the Subaru Legacy (2000-2004), which featured a more refined and modern design compared to its predecessor.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (Subaru's primary manufacturing facilities)
