Segment:
Mid-size SUV/Crossover (Outback), Mid-size Sedan/Wagon (Legacy L, GT)
Competitors 2003:
Toyota Camry/Solara, Honda Accord, Ford Taurus, Nissan Altima, Mazda 6, Volvo V70/S60 (Outback variations)
Subaru Strengths:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on most models), horizontally-opposed 'boxer' engines, solid build quality, good safety reputation.
Target Audience:
Individuals and families seeking reliable, capable, and all-weather-ready vehicles, particularly those who value AWD and practicality.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, starter system, charging system
Drivetrain:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission, transfer case, differentials, drive axles, propshaft
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brakes (hydraulic, parking, ABS)
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, power locks, audio system, HVAC controls, ECU diagnostics
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, exterior trim, bumpers, seats, HVAC components
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, belt replacements, spark plug replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation, component testing
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair, body panel repair
Installation:
Component installation, accessory installation (where applicable)
Engine Mechanical Procedures:
Cylinder head removal/installation, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft service, camshaft timing, valve adjustment.
Transmission Repair Procedures:
Automatic transmission overhaul, manual gearbox disassembly and assembly, clutch replacement.
Brake System Procedures:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper overhaul, brake line bleeding, ABS component testing.
Electrical Diagnostics Procedures:
Fuse and relay testing, circuit diagnosis using wiring diagrams, sensor testing (e.g., O2 sensor, MAP sensor, Crankshaft Position Sensor).
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering all aspects from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.
Illustrations Type:
Detailed diagrams, schematics, and step-by-step photographs.
Transmission Type Gt:
5-speed Manual
Transmission Type L Outback:
4-speed Automatic (with Sportshift on some Outback models)
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on all trims)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF HP (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compliant fluid)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil
Wheelbase:
Approx. 104.3 inches (2649 mm)
Length:
Approx. 187.4 inches (4760 mm) (Outback), 185.4 inches (4710 mm) (Legacy Sedan)
Width:
Approx. 69.7 inches (1770 mm)
Height:
Approx. 63.4 inches (1610 mm) (Outback), 56.1 inches (1425 mm) (Legacy Sedan)
Front Headroom:
Approx. 40.0 inches (1016 mm)
Rear Legroom:
Approx. 34.6 inches (879 mm)
Cargo Volume Outback:
Approx. 37.5 cubic feet (seats up)
Curb Weight Approx:
3300 - 3550 lbs (1497 - 1610 kg)
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
5 Stars (Driver & Passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact Front:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Impact Rear:
4 Stars
IIHS Front Overlap Crush Test:
Good
ABS:
Standard 4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available (VDC - Vehicle Dynamics Control on some models)
Airbags:
Front driver and passenger airbags, front side-impact airbags (optional on some trims)
Seatbelts:
3-point height-adjustable seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months (whichever comes first) under severe conditions, or 7,500 miles/7.5 months under normal conditions.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 15 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 105,000 miles (iridium type).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 105,000 miles or 7 years (for naturally aspirated EJ25), 60,000 miles or 5 years (for turbo EJ25, consult manual for specific recommendations).
Engine Oil Specification:
5W-30 Synthetic (or 10W-30 conventional under moderate climates), meeting API SJ/SL classification. Check owner's manual for exact specs.
Coolant Specification:
Subaru Super Coolant (blue ethylene glycol-based) or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Head Gaskets:
While less prevalent than earlier generations, the EJ25 engine can still be prone to head gasket failures. Early detection and proper replacement are crucial.
Turbocharger Lag:
The GT model's turbocharger can exhibit some lag, typical of its era. Manual provides diagnostic procedures for turbo system issues.
Catalytic Converter:
Some models may experience catalytic converter issues, particularly with high mileage or engine misfires.
