Segment:
Mid-size Crossover/Wagon
Target Audience:
Outdoor enthusiasts, families, individuals seeking AWD capability and practicality
Key Competitors:
Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra
Brand Philosophy:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Boxer Engine, Durability, Practicality
Model Niche:
Raised suspension and ruggedized styling differentiate it from standard Legacy sedans/wagons, offering enhanced ground clearance and capability.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, torque specifications, timing belt replacement
Engine Management:
ECM diagnosis, sensor testing, ignition system, fuel injection system, emissions control
Transmission Automatic:
Removal, disassembly, repair, valve body diagnosis, torque converter, fluid specifications
Transmission Manual:
Removal, disassembly, repair, clutch system, fluid specifications
Drivetrain AWD:
Center differential, rear differential, propeller shaft, CV joints, fluid specifications
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, strut replacement, spring replacement, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, fluid type
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system, ABS system, brake fluid specifications, rotor and pad replacement
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter motor, lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, refrigerant type
Body And Interior:
Door panels, seats, dashboard, exterior trim, rust prevention
Preventative Maintenance:
Oil change intervals, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid checks
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal and installation
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor data interpretation
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to major overhauls and diagnostics)
Engine Type:
2.5L Boxer-4 (Naturally Aspirated)
Displacement:
2457 cc (149.9 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
99.5 mm x 79.0 mm
Horsepower:
165 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque:
166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Regular (87 Octane)
Fuel Capacity:
15.1 gallons (57 liters)
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Recommended every 60,000 miles or 60 months
Type:
4-speed automatic (with Electronic Control)
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on all Outback models)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Subaru ATF HP (or equivalent)
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil
Length:
187.4 inches (4760 mm)
Width:
69.1 inches (1755 mm)
Height:
61.4 inches (1560 mm)
Wheelbase:
104.0 inches (2640 mm)
Ground Clearance:
7.7 inches (196 mm)
Passenger Volume:
99.7 cubic feet (2.82 cubic meters)
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:
30.1 cubic feet (0.85 cubic meters)
Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:
66.9 cubic feet (1.89 cubic meters)
Curb Weight Automatic:
3310 lbs (1501 kg)
Curb Weight Manual:
3200 lbs (1451 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
4470 lbs (2027 kg)
Standard Tire Size:
205/70R15 (with 15-inch wheels)
Optional Tire Size:
215/60R16 (with 16-inch wheels on higher trims)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x100
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
4 Stars (for 2002 model year)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
4 Stars (for 2002 model year)
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable (for similar models of the era, specific Outback ratings may vary)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Optional
Airbags Front:
Dual front airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional front side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts for all occupants, front seatbelt pretensioners
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD player, optional premium sound system with amplifier.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control depending on trim level.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Bluetooth:
Not available from factory.
Auxiliary Input:
Rarely equipped from factory, aftermarket solutions common.
Engine Oil And Filter Change:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Engine Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 30 months
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months (if equipped)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (iridium type)
Engine Oil Viscosity:
5W-30 (API SG or higher)
Engine Coolant:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Head Gaskets:
Early EJ series engines are known for potential head gasket failures. Early detection and repair are crucial.
Automatic Transmission:
Some early models experienced issues with the torque converter or valve body, often related to heat or fluid degradation. Regular fluid changes are important.
Suspension Bushings:
Worn suspension bushings and control arm components can lead to noise and handling issues over time.
Founding Era:
Founded in 1953 as Fuji Heavy Industries, automotive division began in 1958 with the Subaru 360.
Core Technologies:
Pioneered the use of Boxer engines and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive in passenger vehicles.
Outback Origin:
The Outback originated as a trim package on the Subaru Legacy in 1994, later becoming its own distinct model. This 2002 model is part of the second generation (second facelift).
Second Generation Release:
Second generation (second chassis code BD/BG/BK) introduced for the 1995 model year. The 2002 model represents a significant refresh from the original second-generation design.
Manufacturing Location:
Gunma Plant, Japan
