Segment:
Mid-size Crossover/Wagon
Target Audience:
Families, outdoor enthusiasts, those seeking AWD capability in a versatile wagon form factor.
Key Competitors:
Toyota Highlander, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Mazda CX-7
Differentiating Factors:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Subaru's boxer engine layout, excellent ride comfort and handling, spacious interior, robust build quality.
Manual Utility:
Empowers DIY mechanics and owners with detailed procedures and specifications for efficient maintenance and repair, reducing reliance on costly dealership services.
Engine:
2.5L Naturally Aspirated (EJ253), 2.5L Turbocharged (EJ255 - XT models)
Transmission:
4-speed Automatic (4EAT), 5-speed Manual
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, differentials, axles
Suspension:
Front strut assembly, rear multi-link, springs, shock absorbers, bushings
Brakes:
Front disc, rear disc (ABS, EBD integration)
Steering:
Power assisted rack and pinion
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, ignition, lighting, body control modules, wiring diagrams
HVAC:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation controls
Fuel:
Fuel delivery system, injectors, fuel pump, evaporative emissions control (EVAP)
Exhaust:
Manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, emissions control
Cooling:
Radiator, thermostat, water pump, coolant flow
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, seals
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seat belts, SRS system
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid flushes
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic fault codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics
Repair:
Component removal and installation, system overhauls
Diagnostics:
ECU diagnosis, sensor testing, actuators
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, pressure readings
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics for all systems
Body Repair:
Panel replacement, dent repair, welding procedures
Interior Trim:
Removal and installation of interior panels and components
Climate Control:
AC system servicing, heater core replacement, blower motor diagnostics
Suspension Steering Repair:
Component replacement, alignment procedures
Brake System Service:
Pad/rotor replacement, caliper service, brake fluid bleeding
Transmission Service:
Fluid changes, filter replacement, internal component inspection
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics and electrical system analysis.
Transmission Type Na:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT)
Transmission Type Xt:
5-speed Manual Transmission (MT)
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic (4EAT) on XT models
AWD System Type:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (Variable Torque Distribution for Auto, viscous coupling LSD for Manual)
Gear Ratios Auto:
Refer to manual for specific ratios (e.g., 2.807, 1.501, 1.000, 0.737, Rev: 2.093)
Gear Ratios Manual:
Refer to manual for specific ratios (e.g., 3.166, 1.785, 1.182, 0.914, 0.733, Rev: 3.333)
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
Subaru ATF HP (or equivalent)
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
Subaru Extra-S (or equivalent 75W-90 synthetic gear oil)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (Driver & Passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact:
5-Star (Front & Rear Passengers)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution
Traction Control:
Available on some trims, integrated with VDC
Vehicle Dynamics Control:
Available on some trims (VDC)
Airbags:
Front airbags, Side curtain airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, LATCH system
Head Unit Features:
AM/FM stereo, CD player, optional MP3 playback, auxiliary input (on some models)
Speaker System:
Standard 4-speaker, optional 6-speaker system
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control
Keyless Entry:
Available on select trims
Usb Port:
Not standard; aftermarket options or later model integrations
Bluetooth:
Not standard; aftermarket options or later model integrations
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe duty), or 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal duty). Refer to owner's manual for specific conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement Na:
105,000 miles (Iridium)
Transmission Fluid Change Auto:
Every 30,000 miles for severe driving, or every 60,000 miles for normal. Consult manual.
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (recommend checking)
Engine Oil Type Na:
SAE 0W-20 (API SG or higher)
Engine Oil Type Xt:
SAE 5W-30 (API SG or higher)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (or equivalent P-HOAT coolant)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Head Gaskets:
While the EJ253 is generally more reliable than earlier EJ engines regarding head gaskets, they can still be a potential issue, especially on higher-mileage vehicles. Symptoms include coolant loss, white smoke, or milky oil.
Catalytic Converter:
Can sometimes fail prematurely due to oil consumption or carbon buildup.
Automatic Transmission:
The 4EAT is generally robust but can develop solenoid issues or torque converter shudder if fluid is not maintained.
Rear Wheel Bearings:
Can sometimes develop noise or play, requiring replacement.
Cv Axles:
Dust boots can tear, leading to contamination and eventual CV joint failure.
Subaru Focus:
Known for its engineering prowess, particularly its horizontally opposed (boxer) engines and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive systems, offering enhanced stability and traction.
Outback Genesis:
Originally a trim level of the Subaru Legacy, the Outback became a distinct model line in 1996, offering increased ground clearance and rugged styling to appeal to outdoor enthusiasts.
Third Generation:
The 2005-2009 generation (BP chassis for wagon) marked a significant redesign, featuring a more refined interior, increased dimensions, and updated powertrain options.
Manufacturing Location:
Gunma Prefecture, Japan