🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Legacy & Outback

Chassis Code:

BM-BR

Model Years Covered:

2012, 2013

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Mid-size sedan and station wagon, known for its standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD) capability and versatility.

Key Competitors:

Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Fusion, Mazda6, Volkswagen Passat.

Unique Selling Proposition:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive across all trims, Boxer engine architecture, high safety ratings, practical wagon/SUV-like capability in the Outback variant.

Audience:

Individuals and families seeking reliable, safe, and capable transportation, particularly those in regions with inclement weather or who enjoy outdoor activities.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Coverage Scope:

Complete Workshop Service Repair

Estimated Page Count:

Over 2000

Type:

Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete overhaul, component testing, timing belt/chain, cylinder heads, pistons, crankshaft, lubrication system.

Engine Management:

EFI, ignition system, emission controls, sensors, actuators, ECM diagnosis and repair, wiring diagrams.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch, gearbox operation, disassembly, assembly, component replacement, fluid specifications.

Transmission Automatic:

Torque converter, valve body, planetary gears, electronic control, diagnostic procedures, fluid service.

Drivetrain:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system operation, front/rear differentials, drive shafts, CV joints, prop shaft, viscous coupling.

Suspension:

Front struts, rear shock absorbers, control arms, ball joints, bushings, springs, wheel alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, ABS, EBD, brake calipers, rotors, pads, bleeding procedures, parking brake.

Steering:

Power steering system, rack and pinion, tie rods, steering column, linkage.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, interior/exterior circuits, power windows, mirrors, locks.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system diagnosis, refrigerant service, component replacement.

Body And Chassis:

Frame, body panels, doors, hoods, trunk lid, interior trim, glass replacement, corrosion protection.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system diagnosis and repair, SRS module, seatbelt mechanisms.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tire rotations, spark plug replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting, common fault identification.

Component Replacement:

Step-by-step instructions for replacing major and minor components.

Rebuilding Procedures:

Detailed instructions for engine and transmission rebuilding.

Diagnostic Trouble Codes:

Listing of DTCs, their meanings, and diagnostic steps.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for all systems.

Depth:

Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission overhauls and advanced diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

Optimized PDF for digital viewing and printing. Searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Quality:

High-resolution diagrams and images for clarity.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Legacy Outback 2.5I:

EJ253

Engine Description 2.5I:

2.5-liter, naturally aspirated, horizontally opposed (Boxer) 4-cylinder

Horsepower 2.5I:

170 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque 2.5I:

170 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine Code 3.6R:

EZ36D

Engine Description 3.6R:

3.6-liter, naturally aspirated, horizontally opposed (Boxer) 6-cylinder

Horsepower 3.6R:

256 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque 3.6R:

247 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Recommended Fuel:

87 Octane Regular Unleaded (87 AKI)

Valvetrain:

DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 4 valves per cylinder

Timing Belt Chain:

Timing Chain (EJ253 and EZ36D)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type 2.5I:

6-speed Manual Transmission (MT)

Transmission Type All Models:

Subaru Lineartronic™ Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with Paddle Shifters

Transmission Type 3.6R:

5-speed Automatic Transmission (5EAT)

AWD System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (Standard on all trims)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 189.2 inches

Width:

Approx. 72.4 inches

Height:

Approx. 59.0 inches

Length:

Approx. 188.4 inches

Width:

Approx. 71.5 inches

Height:

Approx. 65.7 inches

Ground Clearance Outback:

8.7 inches

Wheelbase:

Approx. 109.4 inches

Cargo Volume Seats Up:

Approx. 34.5 cu ft

Cargo Volume Seats Down:

Approx. 71.3 cu ft

Curb Weight 2.5I:

Approx. 3,300 - 3,500 lbs

Curb Weight 3.6R:

Approx. 3,500 - 3,700 lbs

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Rating:

5-Star (2012-2013 models generally achieved high scores)

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Yes (models equipped with optional EyeSight received higher ratings)

Brake Assist:

Standard

Electronic Brakeforce Distribution:

Standard

Traction Control:

Standard

Electronic Stability Control:

Standard

Anti Lock Braking System:

Standard

Airbags:

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

Seatbelts:

Three-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners.

Eyesight System:

Optional driver assistance system featuring adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, lane departure warning, etc.

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with auxiliary input. Optional touchscreen navigation systems available.

Bluetooth:

Available Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity and audio streaming.

Eyesight Features:

Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking, Pre-Collision Throttle Management, Lane Departure Warning, Sway Warning.

Rearview Camera:

Available on select trims and as an accessory.

Usb Ports:

Standard on most trims for charging and audio playback.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).

Engine Air Filter:

Replace every 15,000 miles or 12 months.

Cabin Air Filter:

Replace every 15,000 miles or 12 months.

Spark Plugs 2.5I:

Iridium-tipped, replace at 105,000 miles.

Spark Plugs 3.6R:

Iridium-tipped, replace at 105,000 miles.

Transmission Fluid Cvt:

Replace CVT fluid every 30,000 miles (severe conditions) or 60,000 miles (normal conditions).

Transmission Fluid 5Eat:

Replace ATF every 30,000 miles (severe conditions) or 60,000 miles (normal conditions).

Engine Oil 2.5I:

SAE 0W-20, API SN or SP certified. Capacity: 4.8 US quarts (4.5 liters) with filter.

Engine Oil 3.6R:

SAE 0W-20, API SN or SP certified. Capacity: 6.9 US quarts (6.5 liters) with filter.

Coolant:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free antifreeze. Capacity varies by engine.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Differential Fluid Front:

SAE 75W-90 GL-5 (for manual transmission). Check manual for CVT/Automatic specs.

Differential Fluid Rear:

SAE 75W-90 GL-5 (for manual transmission and some AWD systems). Check manual for CVT/Automatic specs.

Cvt Hesitation Acceleration:

Some owners reported hesitation or 'drone' from the CVT during acceleration, often addressable via software updates or proper fluid maintenance.

Head Gasket Leaks:

While less common on these later EJ engines compared to earlier generations, it's still a potential concern and covered in detail within the manual for diagnosis and repair.

Brake Wear:

Front brake pads and rotors can wear relatively quickly due to vehicle weight and AWD system engagement. Manual covers inspection and replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Heritage:

Fuji Heavy Industries (now Subaru Corporation) has a long history in aviation and automotive manufacturing, known for its Boxer engines and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive systems since the 1970s.

Legacy Generation Fifth:

The BM/BR chassis represents the fifth generation of the Subaru Legacy, introduced for the 2010 model year. This generation saw a move towards a larger, more American-market-focused design.

Outback Segment Creation:

The Outback, originally a trim level of the Legacy, became a distinct model in 1995, effectively creating the 'crossover' segment by blending wagon utility with SUV-like ground clearance and styling.

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) as a Top Safety Pick for its robust safety structure.

Kbb Awards:

Often praised by Kelley Blue Book for its value, practicality, and all-weather capability.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Generally rated as average to above-average reliability by consumer reporting agencies.