Segment:
Mid-size sedan/wagon, known for All-Wheel Drive (AWD) capability
Unique Selling Proposition:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system across most trims, Boxer engine architecture
Key Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Mazda6, Ford Fusion
Standard AWD:
Subaru's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system is standard on most variants, enhancing traction and stability.
Boxer Engine:
Horizontally opposed (Boxer) engine provides a lower center of gravity for improved handling.
Safety Focus:
Subaru's consistent emphasis on safety, often achieving high ratings in crash tests.
General Coverage:
Comprehensive workshop service and repair
Target Audience:
Professional technicians, advanced DIY enthusiasts
Estimated Pages:
Approx. 2500-3000 (typical for a full workshop manual)
Type:
Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, emissions control, automatic transmission (4EAT, 5EAT), manual transmission (5MT, 6MT), transfer case, differential (front/rear)
Chassis:
Front suspension, rear suspension, steering system, brake system (hydraulic, parking), wheel and tire service
Electrical:
Body electrical systems, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, audio system, security system, powertrain control module (PCM), body control module (BCM), SRS (Airbag) system, Antilock Braking System (ABS), Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC)
Body:
Body construction, exterior trim, interior trim, doors, windows, roof, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), wiring diagrams, component testing
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, suspension repair, brake component replacement, electrical component repair, body panel repair
Installation:
Component replacement, accessory installation (as applicable to factory options)
Depth:
Detailed component removal and installation, torque specifications, special tool requirements, diagnostic procedures, wiring schematics, exploded views
Engine Type 1:
2.5L Naturally Aspirated Boxer-4 (EJ253)
Engine Type 2:
3.6L Naturally Aspirated Boxer-6 (EZ36D)
Engine Type 3:
2.0L Turbocharged Boxer-4 (EJ20X - JDM/specific markets)
Horsepower 2.5L:
170 hp @ 5800 rpm
Torque 2.5L:
170 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Horsepower 3.6L:
256 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 3.6L:
247 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Recommended Octane:
87 AKI (for 2.5L), 87 AKI recommended for 3.6L (91 AKI for optimal performance)
Transmission Type 2.5L:
5-speed Manual Transmission (5MT) (optional on some trims), 4-speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT) (standard on base models)
Transmission Type 3.6L:
5-speed Automatic Transmission (5EAT) with SI-Drive
Transmission Type Optional:
6-speed Manual Transmission (6MT) available on GT trims with 2.5L Turbo
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with Active Torque Split (ATS) on 4EAT/5EAT, Variable Valve Timing (VVT) on EJ253 and EZ36D
Si Drive:
Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-DRIVE) with Sport, Intelligent, and Sport Sharp modes available on 5EAT equipped vehicles.
IIHS Front Crash Test:
Good (Top Safety Pick)
IIHS Side Impact Test:
Good (Top Safety Pick)
IIHS Roof Strength:
Good (Top Safety Pick)
NHTSA Front Driver:
5 Stars
NHTSA Front Passenger:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Driver:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Passenger:
5 Stars
NHTSA Rollover:
4 Stars (SUV/Sedan)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Vdc:
Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) with traction control
E Brake:
Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) on some models
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags (front and rear)
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters, LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
Audio System:
Available with AM/FM stereo, CD player, MP3 capability, and auxiliary audio input. Optional premium audio systems and navigation available.
Display:
Multi-function display in the instrument cluster and/or center console for vehicle information, climate control, and audio settings.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control on most models.
Backup Camera:
Available as an option or part of premium packages, often integrated with the navigation system display.
Bluetooth:
Available Bluetooth hands-free phone system and audio streaming on higher trims or as an option.
Usb Port:
Available USB port for charging and media playback on select models.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (severe conditions) or 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months (normal conditions) - check manual for specifics.
Tire Rotation:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km)
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed (typically every 30,000 miles or 48,000 km)
Cabin Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed (typically annually)
Transmission Fluid:
Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) change recommended every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for severe use or as per manual's 'Line Service' schedule. Manual transmission fluid: typically 60,000 miles (96,000 km).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-20 Synthetic (preferred for 2.5L) or SAE 5W-30 (for 3.6L) - consult owner's manual for exact specification.
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant. Mix 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Subaru ATF HP (High Performance) or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, viscosity dependent on temperature (e.g., 75W-90)
Power Steering Fluid:
Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid.
Head Gaskets:
While less prevalent than on earlier generations, the EJ253 engine can still be susceptible to head gasket leaks over time. Early detection is key.
Catalytic Converter:
Can become clogged or fail, especially with high mileage or improper maintenance, leading to reduced power and check engine lights.
Cvt Issues:
Not applicable to this model year as CVTs were not yet standard. However, early automatic transmissions (4EAT) may require fluid service to prevent wear.
Wheel Bearings:
Can wear out over time, especially with consistent exposure to harsh conditions, resulting in humming or grinding noises.
Suspension Components:
Struts, ball joints, and bushings can wear, leading to a less precise ride and potential knocking noises.
Subaru Heritage:
Subaru, a division of Fuji Heavy Industries, has a history rooted in aviation and is known for its pioneering use of Boxer engines and All-Wheel Drive in passenger cars.
Fifth Generation:
The 2010 model year marks the introduction of the fifth generation (BM/BR) Legacy, which saw a significant increase in overall size and a move to a larger platform.
Assembly Location:
Lafayette, Indiana, USA (Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Inc. - SIA)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
The 2010 Subaru Legacy earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's (IIHS) Top Safety Pick award for its excellent performance in crash tests.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Consumer Reports ratings for reliability vary by model year and specific components, but Subaru generally maintains a reputation for dependable vehicles.