Segment:
Mid-size Crossover SUV / Station Wagon with Standard All-Wheel Drive
Target Audience:
Owners seeking to perform DIY maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops, automotive enthusiasts.
Competitors:
Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra, Mazda CX-5 (though CX-5 is slightly later generation competitor).
Standard AWD:
Subaru's symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system is a hallmark, providing superior traction and stability in various weather conditions.
Ground Clearance:
Higher ground clearance compared to traditional sedans, enhancing off-road and foul-weather capability.
Comprehensiveness:
Factory-level detail ensures accuracy and completeness for all repair and maintenance tasks.
Durability:
No expiry dates and instant download provide continuous access and value.
Coverage Years:
2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007
Covered Models:
Subaru Legacy Outback (all trims and engine configurations)
Estimated Page Count:
3000+
Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual
Format:
Digital (PDF, likely optimized for computer, tablet, smartphone)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical (including timing belt, head gaskets, pistons, crankshaft), Fuel and emissions control (EFI, evaporative emissions, catalytic converters), Ignition system, Lubrication system, Cooling system, Turbocharging system (for XT models)
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual transmission (5-speed), Automatic transmission (4-speed), All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, Differentials (front, rear), Driveshafts, CV joints
Chassis Suspension:
Front suspension (MacPherson struts, control arms), Rear suspension (multi-link independent), Steering system (power steering), Brakes (ABS, rotor/pad replacement, hydraulic system), Wheel alignment specifications
Electrical Electronics:
Battery, Starting system, Charging system (alternator), Lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), Wiring diagrams (comprehensive for all circuits), Fuses and relays, Instrument cluster, Power windows/locks/mirrors, HVAC controls, Audio system, ECU diagnostics
Body Interior:
Body panels (doors, hood, trunk, fenders), Bumpers, Glass and seals, Interior trim, Seats, HVAC system (blower, evaporator, heater core), Air conditioning system, Body seals and weatherstripping
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), Spark plug replacement, Air filter replacement, Coolant flush and replacement, Brake fluid flush, Differential fluid change, Transmission fluid change
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings, Symptom-based troubleshooting guides, Electrical circuit testing procedures, Component testing (sensors, actuators), Engine performance diagnostics
Repair Rebuild:
Engine rebuild procedures (short block, long block), Cylinder head removal and installation, Timing belt replacement, Transmission removal and installation, Clutch replacement, Brake caliper and master cylinder replacement, Suspension component replacement, Power steering pump replacement
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level repair and diagnostic information, including detailed procedures, torque specifications, special tool requirements, and wiring diagrams. Covers routine maintenance to major component overhauls.
Engine 2 5L Sohc:
EJ253 (2005-2007, SOHC NA, 165 HP @ 5600 RPM, 166 lb-ft @ 4000 RPM)
Engine 2 5L DOHc Na:
EJ254 (2002-2004, DOHC NA, 167 HP @ 5600 RPM, 166 lb-ft @ 4000 RPM)
Engine 2 5L Turbo:
EJ255 (2004-2006, DOHC Turbo, 210 HP @ 5600 RPM, 235 lb-ft @ 3600 RPM - Outback XT)
Engine 3 0L DOHc H6:
EZ30D (2002-2004, DOHC H6 NA, 205 HP @ 6000 RPM, 210 lb-ft @ 4000 RPM - Outback 3.0)
Horsepower Range:
165 HP to 210 HP (depending on engine)
Torque Range:
166 lb-ft to 235 lb-ft (depending on engine)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane or higher recommended (91 octane for Turbo models)
Timing Belt Interval:
105,000 miles or 105 months (whichever comes first)
Spark Plug Type:
Iridium spark plugs (NGK ILFR6A recommended for most models)
Transmission Type Standard:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission with Electronic Control (4EAT) or 5-Speed Manual Transmission (5MT)
Transmission Type Optional:
Available across all engine variants, with manual typically on lower trims or specific performance models, and automatic standard on higher trims/larger engines.
AWD System Type:
Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (Active AWD for automatic transmission, viscous center coupling for manual transmission)
Atf Type:
Subaru ATF HP (for 4EAT models) or Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil or API GL-5 equivalent, SAE 75W-90
Length:
Approx. 187.4 inches
Width:
Approx. 70.1 inches
Height:
Approx. 60.8 inches (standard), 63.0 inches (Outback)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 104.3 inches
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 7.1 - 8.7 inches (Outback models)
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:
Approx. 31.7 cubic feet (Outback wagon)
Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:
Approx. 68.4 cubic feet (Outback wagon)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 3,300 lbs to 3,700 lbs (depending on engine and trim)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5 Stars (2002-2007 models)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5 Stars (2002-2007 models)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Good (2002-2007 models)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS) on some models
Stability Control:
Available Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) on some later models (2005+)
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags (optional on some trims), side curtain airbags (optional on some later trims)
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners for all occupants
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional premium audio with subwoofer. Aux input availability varies by trim and year.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on higher trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Tire Pressure Monitoring:
Optional Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) available on some models.
Bluetooth:
Not standard; aftermarket solutions or specific dealer-installed options might exist.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles with severe driving conditions or 7,500 miles with normal driving conditions (refer to manual for exact distinction)
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (typically every 30,000 miles)
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000 miles or annually
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.8 US quarts (4.5 L) for 2.5L engines, 6.4 US quarts (6.0 L) for 3.0L H6 engines (with filter)
Engine Oil Viscosity:
5W-30 (recommended for most conditions, check manual for specific temperature ranges)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Head Gaskets:
While less prone than earlier generations, Subaru head gaskets can still be a concern, especially on the EJ25 DOHC naturally aspirated engines. Look for coolant leaks or milky oil.
Oil Consumption:
Some EJ25 engines may exhibit oil consumption; regular checks are advised. Piston ring wear can be a cause.
Cv Axles:
Front CV axles can wear out, leading to clicking noises when turning. The boots can also tear, requiring replacement.
Catalytic Converter:
Can fail over time, leading to reduced engine performance and check engine lights. P0420 is a common code.
Subaru Heritage:
Founded in 1953, Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (now Subaru Corporation) has a history of engineering innovation, particularly known for its Boxer engines and All-Wheel Drive systems.
Legacy Outback Genesis:
The Outback line originated from the Subaru Legacy wagon, gaining increased ground clearance, protective cladding, and AWD as standard to create a niche for a 'sport utility wagon'.
Generation Details:
The 2002-2007 models represent the third generation (BP/BL), offering a significant redesign with a focus on refinement, increased size, and improved performance compared to the previous generation.
Manufacturing Location:
Gunma Plant, Japan
Production Period:
2002-2007