🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Legacy Outback

Year:

2008

Generation Code:

BP/BL

Generation Years:

2003-2009

Chassis Code:

BP5 (Wagon), BL5 (Sedan)

Platform:

Subaru FF platform

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Mid-size Crossover SUV / Station Wagon

Usp:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive as standard, practical wagon/SUV styling, Subaru's reputation for durability and safety.

Key Competitors:

Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Mazda CX-7, Nissan Murano (depending on specific features and pricing)

Engine Options:

2.5L Naturally Aspirated Boxer, 2.5L Turbocharged Boxer (GT models)

Drivetrain:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive

Body Style:

Wagon with increased ground clearance and SUV-like styling cues.

📋 Manual Details

Major Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Control, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Drivetrain (AWD), Brakes (ABS, EBD), Suspension, Steering, Climate Control, Power Accessories, Body, Electrical Systems (incl. wiring diagrams), SRS Airbag System, Security System

Estimated Page Count:

1500-2500 (depending on specific manual type)

Primary Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital PDF (Searchable)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Comprehensive coverage of EJ253 (2.5L SOHC) and EJ255 (2.5L DOHC Turbo) engines, including diagnostics, disassembly, assembly, and specifications. Covers both 4-speed automatic (4EAT) and 5-speed manual transmissions.

Chassis And Suspension:

Detailed sections on front and rear suspension (struts, control arms, bushings), steering system (power steering pump, rack and pinion), wheel bearing replacement, and alignment procedures.

Brakes And Wheels:

Disc brake systems (front and rear), ABS, EBD, parking brake operation, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, and wheel/tire fitment.

Electrical And Electronics:

Extensive wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, fuse box locations and functions, lighting systems, starting and charging systems, ECU diagnostics, body control modules, power windows, mirrors, and audio systems.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, transmission fluid changes, brake fluid replacement, differential fluid service, and timing belt inspection/replacement (if applicable to specific engine).

Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for engine performance issues, transmission faults, brake system malfunctions, electrical gremlins, and HVAC problems, often referencing OBD-II codes.

Repair And Rebuild:

Detailed instructions for engine component replacement (e.g., head gaskets, pistons), transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component renewal, and body panel repair.

Depth Of Information:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid checks to advanced engine internal diagnostics and complete system overhauls. Includes torque specifications, clearances, and detailed component diagrams.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Full text search enabled

Print Readability:

Optimized for clear printing, with high-resolution diagrams and text.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Na:

EJ253

Engine Displacement Na:

2.5 Liters (2457 cc)

Engine Type Na:

Naturally Aspirated, Horizontally Opposed (Boxer), SOHC, 16 Valves

Horsepower Na:

175 hp @ 5,800 rpm (approx.)

Torque Na:

166 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm (approx.)

Engine Code Turbo:

EJ255

Engine Displacement Turbo:

2.5 Liters (2457 cc)

Engine Type Turbo:

Turbocharged, Horizontally Opposed (Boxer), DOHC, 16 Valves

Horsepower Turbo:

243 hp @ 5,200 rpm (approx.)

Torque Turbo:

247 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm (approx.)

Fuel Induction:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Recommended Fuel:

87 Octane (NA), 91 Octane (GT Turbo)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT) with Sportshift

AWD System:

Active All-Wheel Drive System

Transmission Fluid Capacity Auto:

Approximately 6.0 - 6.7 quarts (refer to manual for exact fill procedure and type)

Transmission Fluid Capacity Manual:

Approximately 2.0 - 2.5 quarts (refer to manual for exact fill procedure and type)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

104.0 inches (2640 mm)

Length:

189.1 inches (4805 mm)

Width:

70.1 inches (1780 mm)

Height:

63.0 inches (1600 mm) (standard), 63.8 inches (1620 mm) (with roof rails)

Ground Clearance:

8.1 inches (206 mm)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

37.7 cubic feet (1068 liters)

Cargo Volume Max:

71.5 cubic feet (2025 liters)

Curb Weight Est Min:

3380 lbs (1533 kg)

Curb Weight Est Max:

3650 lbs (1656 kg)

Towing Capacity:

2,400 lbs (1089 kg) (when properly equipped with trailer brake controller)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test Rating:

5 Stars (Driver & Passenger)

NHTSA Side Crash Test Rating:

5 Stars (Front & Rear Passengers)

IIHS Frontal Offset Rating:

Good

IIHS Side Impact Rating:

Good

Active Safety Systems:

ABS, EBD, Traction Control System (TCS), Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC)

Airbags:

Front Dual-Stage Airbags, Front Side-Impact Airbags, Side Curtain Airbags (front and rear)

Seatbelts:

3-point front seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters, 3-point rear seatbelts

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren)

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit Features:

Optional navigation system, CD player, AM/FM stereo, auxiliary audio input.

Speaker System:

Standard 4 or 6 speaker system, optional premium audio.

Cruise Control:

Standard

All Wheel Drive:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system enhances stability and traction in various conditions.

Auxiliary Input:

Standard 3.5mm auxiliary audio input jack for portable music players.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (severe service) / 7,500 miles or 12 months (normal service, synthetic oil recommended)

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or 12-24 months

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately 60,000 - 100,000 miles (depending on plug type)

Coolant Replacement:

Initial: 100,000 miles / 10 years; thereafter: Every 50,000 miles / 5 years

Timing Belt Replacement:

Not applicable to EJ253/EJ255 engines, which use a timing chain.

Engine Oil Type Na:

SAE 5W-30, API Certified (SN or higher, ILSAC GF-5 or higher recommended for synthetic)

Engine Oil Type Turbo:

SAE 5W-30 Full Synthetic, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 (or higher)

Engine Oil Capacity Na:

4.8 US quarts (4.6 liters) with filter

Engine Oil Capacity Turbo:

4.8 US quarts (4.6 liters) with filter

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent OAT coolant

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Head Gaskets:

While less prevalent than on earlier generations, head gasket leaks can still occur, especially with the EJ25 engines. Early detection and proper repair are crucial.

Oil Leaks:

Rear main seal and oil pan gasket leaks can occur with age and mileage.

Suspension Wear:

Sway bar links, bushings, and struts can show wear over time, leading to noise and degraded handling.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Aav:

Subaru's long-standing commitment to AWD and boxer engines dates back to the Subaru Leone and Brat, establishing a niche for rugged, all-weather vehicles.

Legacy Introduction:

The Subaru Legacy was introduced in 1989, evolving through multiple generations to offer both sedan and wagon variants. The 'Outback' designation began as an option package on the Legacy wagon before becoming a distinct model.

Third Generation:

The BP/BL generation (2003-2009) saw significant styling and platform updates, with the Outback variant retaining its elevated ride height and rugged body cladding.

Manufacturing Location:

Gunma Plant, Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

The 2008 Subaru Legacy Outback was often a recipient of the IIHS Top Safety Pick award, reflecting its strong crash test performance.