🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Legacy

Model Years:

2013, 2014, 2015

Chassis Code Outback:

BR

Chassis Code Legacy:

BM/BR

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Mid-size crossover SUV (Outback) and mid-size sedan/wagon (Legacy).

Brand Philosophy:

Subaru is known for its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, horizontally-opposed ('Boxer') engines, and a strong reputation for safety and reliability.

Outback Competitors:

Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Nissan Rogue, Mazda CX-5.

Legacy Competitors:

Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Fusion, Nissan Altima, Mazda6.

AWD Standard:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is standard across all trims.

Boxer Engine Layout:

Low center of gravity for improved handling and stability.

Value Proposition:

Provides comprehensive factory-level repair and maintenance information, empowering owners and independent shops.

Accessibility:

Instant download in PDF format for immediate use on computers, tablets, or for printing.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Full Factory Service & Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive factory service, repair, maintenance, diagnostics, and troubleshooting.

Update Status:

Covers the complete model years specified, no expiration.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, valve train, pistons, crankshaft, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection system.

Engine Management:

ECU diagnostics, sensor operation (MAF, O2, Crankshaft Position, Camshaft Position), ignition system, emission control systems.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch, gearbox assembly, shifting mechanisms, lubrication.

Transmission Automatic:

Transmission assembly, torque converter, valve body, electronic control, fluid specifications, cooler system.

Drivetrain:

All-Wheel Drive system (Symmetrical AWD), differentials (front, rear), driveshafts, CV joints, wheel bearings.

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, ABS, EBD, brake calipers, rotors, pads, brake lines, parking brake system.

Suspension:

Front suspension (struts, control arms, stabilizer bar), Rear suspension (multi-link, struts, stabilizer bar), alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system (hydraulic or electric depending on variant), steering rack, tie rods, steering column.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system, starter motor, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, seats, HVAC system components, glass, mirrors.

Diagnostics:

OBD-II codes, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), troubleshooting flowcharts, repair procedures for common faults.

Preventative Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement.

Component Removal Installation:

Step-by-step instructions for removing and reinstalling major and minor components across all systems.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Systematic approach to diagnosing and fixing problems, including symptom-based diagnostics.

Specifications And Tolerances:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed schematics for all electrical systems, including component locations and pinouts.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.

Diagnostic Capability:

Advanced diagnostic procedures, including sensor data analysis and ECU reprogramming guidance (where applicable).

Repair Complexity:

Covers everything from basic fluid services to major engine and transmission overhauls.

Level Of Detail:

Highly detailed, with exploded views, diagrams, and clear, concise written instructions.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchable Text:

Yes

Printable:

Yes

Image Resolution:

High-resolution diagrams and images for clarity.

Binding Method:

N/A (Digital PDF download)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital PDF download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 2.5I:

EJ253 (2013-2014), FB25 (2015)

Engine Type 2.5I:

2.5L Naturally Aspirated Flat-4 (Boxer)

Displacement 2.5I:

2498 cc

Horsepower 2.5I:

170 hp @ 5600 rpm (approximate, may vary slightly by year/spec)

Torque 2.5I:

174 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm (approximate)

Fuel System 2.5I:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) or Direct Injection (DI for FB25)

Fuel Type 2.5I:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended)

Engine Code 3.6R:

EZ36D

Engine Type 3.6R:

3.6L Naturally Aspirated Flat-6 (Boxer)

Displacement 3.6R:

3630 cc

Horsepower 3.6R:

256 hp @ 6000 rpm (approximate)

Torque 3.6R:

247 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (approximate)

Fuel System 3.6R:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type 3.6R:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended)

Engine Cooling System:

Pressurized coolant system with thermostat and electric cooling fan(s).

Ignition System:

Distributorless ignition system (DIS) with individual coil-on-plug (COP) or coil-near-plug (CNP) design.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Base:

6-speed Manual Transmission (for select Legacy trims and base Outback models).

Transmission Type Optional:

Subaru Lineartronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

Cvt Features:

Paddle shifters with manual mode, simulated gear shifts for driver engagement.

AWD System Integration:

Symmetrical AWD system is electronically managed by the transmission control unit for optimal power distribution.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Subaru CVT Fluid (e.g., K0100Y0710 or equivalent) for Lineartronic; Gear oil for manual transmission.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 108.1 inches (2746 mm)

Length:

Outback: ~191.5 inches (4864 mm); Legacy: ~188.4 inches (4785 mm)

Width:

Outback: ~71.7 inches (1821 mm); Legacy: ~71.5 inches (1816 mm)

Height:

Outback: ~66.1 inches (1679 mm); Legacy: ~59.0 inches (1499 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Outback: ~8.7 inches (221 mm)

Cargo Volume Outback Behind Rear Seat:

Approximately 34.3 cubic feet (971 liters)

Cargo Volume Outback Total:

Approximately 71.3 cubic feet (2019 liters) with rear seats folded.

Curb Weight:

Varies by trim and powertrain, typically 3400-3800 lbs (1542-1724 kg).

Towing Capacity:

2,700 lbs (1,225 kg) for Outback, typically not recommended for Legacy.

Wheelbase Bolt Pattern:

5x100 mm

Wheel Size Standard:

17-inch alloy wheels (common for Outback and base Legacy).

Wheel Size Optional:

18-inch alloy wheels (common for higher trims).

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Rating 2013-2015:

Generally 5-Star overall rating (check specific year/model for precise figures).

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Consistently awarded Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+ for these model years.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System.

Ebd:

Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution.

Vsc:

Standard Vehicle Stability Control.

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control System (TCS).

Eyesight Driver Assist:

Optional EyeSight advanced driver-assist system (Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking, Lane Departure Warning, etc.) available on higher trims.

Airbags Front:

Dual front advanced airbags.

Airbags Side:

Front side-impact airbags and front/rear side-curtain airbags.

Airbags Knees:

Driver's knee airbag.

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters for all occupants.

Child Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit Features:

Standard audio system with CD player, AM/FM radio, USB input, Bluetooth connectivity. Optional touchscreen displays with navigation, satellite radio, and smartphone integration (e.g., Pandora, iHeartRadio).

Display Sizes:

Commonly 6.2-inch or 7-inch touchscreens depending on trim level and options.

Eyesight Suite:

Optional suite including: Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Pre-Collision Braking (PCB), Pre-Collision Throttle Management (PCTM), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), and Sway Warning.

Blind Spot Detection:

Optional Blind Spot Detection (BSD) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA).

Rearview Camera:

Standard or optional rearview camera system on most trims.

Bluetooth Audio Streaming:

Standard Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming.

Usb Ports:

Standard USB input for media playback and device charging.

Keyless Entry Start:

Available Keyless Access with Push-Button Start on higher trim levels.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Severe driving may require more frequent changes.

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Typically replaced at 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Cabin Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Typically replaced at 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km).

Spark Plug Replacement:

105,000 miles (168,000 km) for 2.5L (FB25); 105,000 miles (168,000 km) for 3.6L (EZ36D).

Coolant Replacement:

First replacement at 137,500 miles (220,000 km) or 11 years. Subsequent replacements every 75,000 miles (120,000 km) or 5 years.

Transmission Fluid Cvt:

Replace every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) if used in severe conditions (e.g., towing, dusty environment); otherwise, consult manual or Subaru dealer for extended intervals.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 0W-20 synthetic (check owner's manual for specific engine variant).

Engine Oil Capacity 2.5L:

Approximately 5.1 US quarts (4.8 liters)

Engine Oil Capacity 3.6L:

Approximately 5.7 US quarts (5.4 liters)

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life OAT coolant.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Cv Axle Boots:

Susceptible to tearing, leading to CV joint failure if not addressed promptly.

Oil Consumption 2.5L Ej253:

Some early models in this range (particularly 2013-2014 EJ253) may exhibit oil consumption; monitoring levels is crucial.

Cv Transmissions:

While generally reliable, some CVT issues like hesitation or shudder can occur, often related to fluid maintenance or software updates.

Suspension Components:

Strut mounts, ball joints, and bushings can wear over time, particularly on the Outback due to its higher ride height and use case.

Catalytic Converter:

Potential for premature failure in some cases, often manifesting as a check engine light and reduced engine performance.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Origin:

Founded in Japan in 1953, originally as Fuji Heavy Industries.

Core Technologies:

Pioneered symmetrical AWD and Boxer engines in mass-produced passenger vehicles.

Generation Context:

The 2010-2014 model (fourth generation, BP) was replaced by the 2015 model year, which marked the beginning of the fifth generation (BS).

Fifth Gen Launch:

The 2015 Outback (BS) introduced a significantly revised platform, updated styling, and improved interior.

Generation Context:

The 2010-2014 model (fifth generation, BM/BR) was the generation encompassing these years. It was a significant redesign.

Major Updates Legacy Bm Br:

Introduced the larger cabin and improved refinement compared to previous generations.

Manufacturing Location:

Lafayette, Indiana, USA (Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Inc. - SIA)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Awards:

Consistently recognized by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) with Top Safety Pick and Top Safety Pick+ awards.

NHTSA Awards:

High safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), typically achieving 5-star overall ratings.

Kes Awards:

Often cited for reliability and value by automotive publications like Kelley Blue Book (KBB) and Consumer Reports.

Emission Standards:

Meets Federal EPA and California CARB emission standards for the specified model years.