🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Outback

Year:

2012

Body Style:

Station Wagon / SUV Crossover

Chassis Code:

BR

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size Crossover SUV / Station Wagon

Target Audience:

Families, outdoor enthusiasts, individuals seeking AWD capability and practicality.

Key Competitors:

Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Nissan Rogue, Mazda CX-5.

Drivetrain:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.

Ground Clearance:

Higher than average for its class, enhancing off-road and adverse weather capability.

Cargo Space:

Generous cargo capacity with versatile seating configurations.

Safety Reputation:

Strong safety ratings and reputation for build quality.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

All mechanical and electrical systems, body, and chassis.

Specific Systems Highlighted:

Engine, Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, HVAC, Electrical, Fuel System, Exhaust, SRS, Body Repair, Diagnostics, Schematics.

Estimated Pages:

Over 2000 pages (typical for comprehensive factory manuals)

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain Engine:

Detailed coverage for the EJ253 (2.5L SOHC) and EZ36D (3.6L DOHC) engines, including component removal/installation, overhaul, diagnostics, and specifications.

Powertrain Transmission:

Comprehensive sections for the 5-speed manual (TY756) and the Subaru Lineartronic CVT (TR580/TR690) automatic transmissions, including fluid types, capacities, diagnostic procedures, and repair instructions.

Drivetrain:

Covers Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, differentials (front and rear), viscous coupling center differential, and drive axles/shafts.

Suspension Steering:

Detailed information on front and rear suspension components (struts, control arms, bushings), steering rack, power steering system, and alignment specifications.

Brakes:

In-depth coverage of ABS, EBD, brake system components (calipers, rotors, master cylinder), parking brake, and bleeding procedures.

Electrical Lighting:

Full electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, and diagnosis for lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, locks, mirrors, and wipers.

HVAC:

Coverage of air conditioning system operation, refrigerant handling, blower motor, climate control modules, and heater core replacement.

Fuel Exhaust:

Fuel system components (pump, injectors, tank), evaporative emissions control (EVAP), and exhaust system layout and repair.

Body Chassis:

Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, and basic body repair guidelines.

Safety Srs:

Airbag system (SRS) components, deployment, diagnosis, and replacement procedures, including seatbelt pretensioners.

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspection/replacement, and general preventative maintenance.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic flowcharts and procedures for common and uncommon issues, including engine performance, electrical gremlins, and drivetrain problems.

Repair Overhaul:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation.

Diagnostics:

OBD-II diagnostic trouble code (DTC) explanations, data stream interpretation, and specific diagnostic tools and techniques.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage instructions for specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical diagnostics and body repair.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Text-searchable PDF for quick information retrieval.

Quality:

High-resolution scans of original factory documentation.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Option 1:

2.5L DOHC Boxer (EJ253)

Engine Option 2:

3.6L DOHC Boxer (EZ36D)

Horsepower 2.5L:

170 hp @ 5600 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:

Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Cooling System:

Water-cooled, pressurized system.

Emissions Control:

Catalytic converter, Secondary Air Injection System (on some models/regions), EVAP system.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual (TY756)

Optional Transmission:

Subaru Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) - TR580 (for 2.5L) or TR690 (for 3.6L)

AWD System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive standard on all models.

Cvt Modes:

Manual mode with paddle shifters (on some trims/CVT models).

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-5 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (check manual for specific Subaru part numbers like K0305N0700).

Cvvt Transmission Fluid:

Subaru CVT Fluid (H Series, e.g., K0321Y0070, check specific application).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 189.9 inches

Width:

Approx. 70.1 inches

Height:

Approx. 65.4 inches

Wheelbase:

Approx. 107.9 inches

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 8.7 inches

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:

Approx. 34.5 cu ft

Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:

Approx. 74.7 cu ft

Curb Weight 2.5L:

Approx. 3,360 - 3,460 lbs

Curb Weight 3.6L:

Approx. 3,540 - 3,640 lbs

Towing Capacity:

Up to 2,600 lbs (check owner's manual for specific configurations and limitations).

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Rating:

5-Star (typically for this generation)

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Likely Top Safety Pick award recipient.

Active Safety:

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

Passive Safety Airbags:

Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags, front seatbelt pretensioners.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

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

Speaker System:

Typically 4 or 6 speakers depending on trim level.

Driver Assistance Features:

Optional EyeSight driver assistance system (introduced in later model years, check specific 2012 configurations), backup camera (optional).

Connectivity Options:

Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming (optional, depending on trim and head unit).

Instrument Cluster:

Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, and engine temperature. Multi-information display for trip computer, fuel economy, and vehicle status.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,750 miles under severe driving conditions or 7,500 miles under normal conditions (check owner's manual for specifics and oil type).

Engine Air Filter:

Replace every 15,000 miles or as needed.

Cabin Air Filter:

Replace every 15,000 miles or annually.

Spark Plugs 2.5L:

Iridium spark plugs, typically replaced every 60,000 miles.

Spark Plugs 3.6L:

Iridium spark plugs, typically replaced every 60,000 miles.

Timing Belt Chain:

The EJ253 and EZ36D engines use a timing chain, which is generally maintenance-free for the life of the engine, unlike the timing belt used in some previous Subaru engines. Confirmation within the manual is advised.

Engine Oil Capacity 2.5L:

Approx. 4.8 US quarts (with filter) - 0W-20 Synthetic recommended.

Engine Oil Capacity 3.6L:

Approx. 6.9 US quarts (with filter) - 0W-20 or 5W-30 Synthetic recommended (check manual).

Coolant:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant. Capacity around 7.7 US quarts (2.5L) or 8.6 US quarts (3.6L).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Head Gaskets:

While earlier generations were notorious, head gasket issues were significantly improved in this generation. However, it's still a component to monitor. The manual will detail inspection and replacement.

Cvvt Issues:

Some CVT models may experience issues related to fluid degradation or internal wear. Regular fluid changes are critical. The manual covers diagnostic procedures.

Wheel Bearings:

Can be a wear item, particularly with higher mileage and exposure to harsh conditions. The manual covers replacement.

Evap System:

EVAP canister purge valve or vent solenoid issues can cause check engine lights. Diagnostic procedures are included.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Heritage:

Founded in 1953, known for its horizontally-opposed Boxer engines and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive systems, particularly in performance and all-weather vehicles.

Outback Heritage:

Originated as the 'Subaru Legacy Outback' in 1995, becoming its own model line in 1998. Known for blending wagon practicality with SUV-like ground clearance and capability.

Fourth Generation:

The 2012 model is part of the fourth generation (2010-2014), which introduced a larger chassis, improved styling, and more powerful engine options.

Manufacturing Location:

Lafayette, Indiana, USA (for North American market).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Recognition:

Consistently recognized by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for its safety performance.

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Often receives good ratings from Consumer Reports for reliability and owner satisfaction, although specific ratings can vary by year and powertrain.

Safety Certifications:

Meets all applicable U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS).