Segment:
Mid-size station wagon/crossover; positioned as a versatile, all-wheel-drive capable vehicle for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Competitors:
Ford Explorer, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, Honda CR-V (though generally smaller).
All Wheel Drive:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, a hallmark of Subaru vehicles, providing enhanced traction and stability in various conditions.
Ground Clearance:
Higher ground clearance compared to standard sedans, offering some off-road capability and better handling of rough roads.
Safety Design:
Subaru's emphasis on safety, including a robust chassis and boxer engine design contributing to a lower center of gravity.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine block, cylinder heads, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshafts, timing belt system, cooling system (radiator, water pump, thermostat), oil system (oil pump, oil pan).
Engine Fuel Ignition:
Fuel injection system, fuel pump, injectors, throttle body, intake manifold, exhaust manifold, ignition system (spark plugs, coils, distributors - if applicable).
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual and automatic transmissions, clutch assembly, driveshafts, CV joints, differentials, AWD system components.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, bushings), steering gear, power steering pump, steering column.
Brakes:
Brake calipers, rotors, pads, master cylinder, brake lines, parking brake system.
Electrical Engine:
Starter motor, alternator, battery, ECU components, sensors related to engine operation.
Electrical Body:
Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, wiring harnesses, switches, fuses, relays, power windows, locks, mirrors.
Body Exterior:
Body panels (fenders, hood, doors, trunk lid), bumpers, grille, glass, mirrors, roof rails, trim pieces.
Body Interior:
Dashboard components, seats, upholstery, carpets, door panels, center console, HVAC controls, audio system components.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system components (compressor, condenser, evaporator), heater core, blower motor, ducting.
Wheels Tires:
Wheels (alloy and steel), lug nuts, center caps.
Identification Of Parts:
Detailed exploded diagrams allowing for precise identification of every part with its corresponding manufacturer part number.
Assembly Disassembly Visualization:
Visual guidance for understanding how components are assembled and disassembled, crucial for repair and replacement.
Component Ordering:
Facilitates accurate ordering of replacement parts by providing official Subaru part numbers.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering all factory parts from nuts and bolts to major assemblies. Essential for restoration, dealer servicing, and advanced DIY repairs.
Engine 1 Variant:
2.5L DOHC EJ25D (Phase II)
Engine 1 Displacement:
2457 cc
Engine 1 Configuration:
Horizontally-opposed (Boxer), SOHC, 16-valve
Engine 1 Horsepower:
Approx. 165 hp @ 5,500 rpm
Engine 1 Torque:
Approx. 162 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
Engine 2 Variant:
2.2L SOHC EJ22E (available on earlier 2000 models or specific trims)
Engine 2 Displacement:
2212 cc
Engine 2 Configuration:
Horizontally-opposed (Boxer), SOHC, 16-valve
Engine 2 Horsepower:
Approx. 142 hp @ 5,600 rpm
Engine 2 Torque:
Approx. 140 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane (or higher recommended)
Length:
Approx. 187.2 inches (4755 mm)
Width:
Approx. 69.7 inches (1770 mm)
Height:
Approx. 59.1 inches (1500 mm) - may vary slightly with roof rails
Wheelbase:
Approx. 104.3 inches (2650 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 7.3 inches (185 mm)
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 100.0 cubic feet
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:
Approx. 37.1 cubic feet
Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:
Approx. 70.8 cubic feet
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3250 - 3450 lbs (1475 - 1565 kg), depending on transmission and trim.
Towing Capacity:
Up to 2,000 lbs (907 kg) with proper towing equipment.
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
4 out of 5 stars (for 2000 model year, as per NHTSA).
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for 2000 model year, as per IIHS).
Traction Control:
Available (standard on some trims, or as part of the AWD system's inherent stability).
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags. Side airbags were optional on some higher trims.
Seatbelts:
3-point height-adjustable front seatbelts with pretensioners, rear 3-point seatbelts.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.
Oil Change:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first (under severe driving conditions); 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months for normal conditions (check owner's manual for specific recommendations).
Timing Belt:
Replace every 90,000 - 105,000 miles (145,000 - 170,000 km) or 7 years (whichever comes first). This is CRITICAL for EJ series engines.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) depending on plug type (iridium recommended).
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30, API SJ or SL certified. Capacity: Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 L) with filter.
Coolant:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent HOAT coolant. Mixture: 50/50 with distilled water. Capacity: Approx. 6.9 quarts (6.5 L).
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Subaru ATF HP or equivalent. Capacity: Approx. 3.3 quarts (3.1 L) for drain and fill.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Subaru 75W-90 GL-5 Gear Oil or equivalent. Capacity: Approx. 2.3 quarts (2.2 L).
Differential Fluid Front:
Subaru 75W-90 GL-5 Gear Oil or equivalent. Capacity: Approx. 0.9 quarts (0.85 L).
Differential Fluid Rear:
Subaru 75W-90 GL-5 Gear Oil or equivalent. Capacity: Approx. 0.8 quarts (0.75 L).
Head Gaskets:
Early EJ25D engines are prone to head gasket failure. Look for coolant leaks, milky oil, or white smoke from exhaust.
Automatic Transmission Problems:
Some 4EAT transmissions can develop issues related to solenoid failure or torque converter problems. Regular fluid changes are crucial.
Cv Axle Boots:
CV axle boots can tear, leading to grease loss and eventual CV joint failure. Inspect regularly.
Rear Main Seal Leaks:
Rear main crankshaft seal can develop leaks over time.
Founded:
1953 (as Fuji Heavy Industries' automotive division)
Specialization:
Known for its horizontally-opposed 'boxer' engines and standard All-Wheel Drive systems.
First Generation Outback:
Introduced as a sub-model of the Subaru Legacy in 1995 (as the Outback Sport) and then as a distinct model for the 1996 model year, based on the second-generation Legacy wagon.
Third Generation Introduction:
The 2000-2001 models represent the transition into the third generation (BP/BL chassis for Legacy, specifically BP for Outback) which launched for the 2005 model year. These 2000-2001 models are part of the second generation (BD/BG chassis) but incorporated the 'Phase II' engine updates.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (Ota City, Gunma Prefecture)
Production Period:
Second generation Outback production: 1996-2004 (with significant updates for 2000).