Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV / Station Wagon
Niche:
All-wheel drive as standard, practicality, go-anywhere capability
Key Competitors:
Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra
Standard AWD:
Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system standard on all trims
Ground Clearance:
Enhanced ground clearance for off-road capability
Horizontally Opposed Engine:
Subaru Boxer engine for a lower center of gravity
Versatility:
Spacious interior and cargo area, roof rails
Primary Coverage:
Comprehensive service, repair, and maintenance
Secondary Coverage:
Diagnostic procedures, electrical schematics, specifications
Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, differentials (front, center, rear), driveshafts, CV joints
Transmission:
Automatic Transmission (4EAT/4AT), Manual Transmission (5MT)
Chassis:
Suspension (front strut, rear multi-link), steering system, braking system (ABS, front ventilated discs, rear solid discs)
Electrical:
Engine Control Module (ECM), Body Control Module (BCM), lighting, instruments, power accessories, audio system, HVAC controls, airbags (SRS)
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, roof (including sunroof if equipped)
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics, electrical circuit tracing
Repair:
Engine component replacement (pistons, rings, valves), transmission overhaul, brake component replacement, suspension part replacement, radiator/AC condenser replacement
Installation:
Component installation and removal for all major systems
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, diagnostic parameters
Depth:
Full factory-level diagnostic and repair procedures
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on using Subaru Select Monitor (SSM) or equivalent OBD-II scanners
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all systems
Engine Code:
EJ251 (Naturally Aspirated)
Engine Type:
2.5L Flat-4 (Boxer)
Displacement:
2457 cc (2.5 Liters)
Valvetrain:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 16 valves
Horsepower:
165 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque:
166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)
Head Gasket Concern:
Known tendency for coolant leaks from head gaskets on some EJ engines of this era; manual covers inspection and replacement.
Standard Transmission:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT/4AT)
Optional Transmission:
5-speed Manual Transmission (5MT)
AWD System:
Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (Active AWD for automatic, Viscous coupling center differential for manual)
Automatic Mode:
Driver-selectable modes (Power/Hold) on 4EAT
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF HP (or Dexron III compatible)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Gear Oil API GL-5, SAE 75W-90
NHTSA Frontal Driver:
5 Stars
NHTSA Frontal Passenger:
5 Stars
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System standard
Traction Control:
Available (check specific trim)
Airbags:
Dual front airbags, available side airbags (check specific trim)
Seatbelts:
Front pretensioners with force limiters
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional cassette, and premium audio system available on higher trims.
Display:
Basic digital clock and radio display.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Automatic Headlights:
Available on higher trims
Aux Input:
Not typically standard; aftermarket solutions common.
HVAC:
Manual or automatic climate control depending on trim.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (severe driving), 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal driving)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (iridium/platinum)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 105,000 miles or 105 months (critical for EJ engines)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter (5W-30 or 10W-30)
Coolant Capacity:
7.2 US quarts (6.8 L) (Subaru Super Coolant blue)
Head Gaskets:
Common failure point, often requiring replacement due to coolant leaks. Manual details diagnostic procedures.
Automatic Transmission Shifts:
Some reports of rough shifting; fluid changes and solenoid checks covered in manual.
Wheel Bearings:
Can be prone to wear; manual provides replacement procedures.
Brand Identity:
Subaru is renowned for its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system and horizontally opposed Boxer engines, offering robust performance and capability.
Legacy Generation:
Second Generation Legacy (BG/BK) for Outback variant
Outback Introduction:
The Outback concept originated from the Legacy wagon, with raised suspension and ruggedized styling, becoming a distinct model line.
Production Years:
1990-2004 (Legacy), 1995-present (Outback as distinct model/trim)
Assembly Location:
Gunma, Japan
Consumer Reports:
Subaru generally received good ratings for reliability and performance in its segment during this period, though head gasket issues were noted.
Best Resale Value:
Subarus typically maintain strong resale value due to their durability and AWD capabilities.
Emissions Standards:
Meets EPA and California ARB emissions standards for the model year.
