🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Legacy & Outback

Chassis Codes:

BM (Legacy Sedan), BR (Outback Wagon)

Generation Codes:

5th Generation (BM/BR)

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Mid-size sedan (Legacy) and mid-size crossover SUV (Outback), known for standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and practicality.

Key Competitors:

Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Fusion (Legacy); Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Edge, Nissan Murano (Outback).

Subaru Strengths:

Standard AWD, Boxer engine configuration, high safety ratings, practical interior space, wagon/SUV versatility (Outback).

Target Audience:

DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, Subaru owners seeking in-depth maintenance and repair knowledge.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Model Years:

2012-2013

Covered Regions:

Global (with potential regional variations noted for specific markets/emissions)

Manual Type:

Factory Service and Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

Estimated Page Count:

Over 2500 pages (typical for comprehensive factory manuals)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, engine management (EFI), fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, ignition system.

Transmission Drivetrain:

Automatic Transmission (CVT - Lineartronic & Conventional AT), Manual Transmission, Drivetrain components (all-wheel drive system, differentials, driveshafts, axles).

Chassis Suspension Steering:

Front and Rear Suspension, Steering system (power steering), Wheel alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Front and Rear Brakes (disc brakes), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), VDC (Vehicle Dynamics Control), parking brake system.

Electrical Electronics:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), instrument panel, power windows, power seats, mirrors, audio system, climate control system, body control modules (BCM).

Body Interior:

Body panels, doors, bumpers, glass, interior trim, seats, airbags, body sealing, structural components.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system components, operation, diagnosis, and repair.

Maintenance:

Recommended service intervals for oil changes, fluid flushes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, brake pad inspection, tire rotation, and belt inspection.

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation (OBD-II), symptom-based troubleshooting guides.

Repair Rebuild:

Step-by-step repair procedures for all major vehicle components, including engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair, and body panel repair.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair and maintenance procedures.

Technical Specifications Data:

Torque specifications for critical fasteners, fluid capacities, electrical wiring diagrams, component locations, diagnostic data, and performance specifications.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive factory-level detail covering everything from basic fluid checks and tire pressure to complex engine management diagnostics, transmission rebuilds, and structural body repairs.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Searchable text content for quick information retrieval.

Print Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or sections.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Legacy Outback:

2.5L EJ253 (Naturally Aspirated Boxer-4)

Displacement 2.5L:

2457 cc (149.9 cu in)

Horsepower 2.5L Hp:

170 hp @ 5,600 rpm

Torque 2.5L Lb-Ft:

170 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm

Engine Code Outback 3.6R:

3.6L EZ36D (Naturally Aspirated Boxer-6)

Displacement 3.6L:

3630 cc (221.5 cu in)

Horsepower 3.6L Hp:

256 hp @ 6,000 rpm

Torque 3.6L Lb-Ft:

247 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm

Fuel Injection Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Engine Layout:

Horizontally-opposed (Boxer) engine

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type 2.5I:

6-speed Manual Transmission (6MT)

Transmission Type 2.5I Outback:

Lineartronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

Transmission Type 3.6R:

5-speed Automatic Transmission (5EAT)

Drivetrain Layout:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) - Standard on all models

Lineartronic Cvt Fluid Type:

Subaru CVT Fluid (Genuine Subaru or equivalent spec, e.g., NS-2, CVTF-II)

5Eat Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

Subaru ATF HP (Genuine Subaru or equivalent spec)

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

Subaru Manual Transmission Fluid (Genuine Subaru or equivalent spec, e.g., GL-5 75W-90)

📐 Dimensions

Length Mm Legacy:

4,730 mm (186.2 in)

Length Mm Outback:

4,790 mm (188.6 in)

Width Mm:

1,780 mm (70.1 in)

Height Mm Legacy:

1,475 mm (58.1 in)

Height Mm Outback:

1,605 mm (63.2 in)

Wheelbase Mm:

2,750 mm (108.3 in)

Curb Weight Kg 2.5I Mt:

1,518 kg (3,347 lbs)

Curb Weight Kg 2.5I Cvt:

1,551 kg (3,420 lbs)

Curb Weight Kg Outback 3.6R:

1,701 kg (3,750 lbs)

Cargo Volume Liters Outback:

930 L (32.9 cu ft) with rear seats up

Max Cargo Volume Liters Outback:

1,790 L (63.3 cu ft) with rear seats folded

Wheelbase Bolt Pattern:

5x100 mm

Tire Size 2.5I Outback:

225/65R17

Tire Size Outback 3.6R:

225/55R18

🛡️ Safety Features

IIHS Top Safety Pick 2012 2013:

Yes (Both models consistently received Top Safety Pick awards during these years)

NHTSA Overall Rating 2012 2013:

5-Star (Typically achieved across various crash test categories)

Active Safety Systems:

Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA).

Passive Safety Features:

Advanced front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags (front and rear), front knee airbags, Active front head restraints, front pre-tensioner seatbelts.

Outback Ground Clearance:

8.7 inches (221 mm) - Significant for SUV-like capability.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Subaru's infotainment system typically featured a touch-screen display with AM/FM/CD/MP3, auxiliary audio input, USB port, Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming. Higher trims may offer navigation.

Available Driver Assistance:

Optional features included a rearview camera, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), and in higher trims, the EyeSight driver assistance system (though EyeSight was more prominent in later model years, availability should be verified by trim).

Connectivity Features:

Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity, USB audio interface, auxiliary audio input jack.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (severe driving) / 7,500 miles or 12 months (normal driving), using synthetic oil. Always consult the manual for exact recommendations.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Approximately every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Approximately every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement:

100,000 miles for Iridium-tipped spark plugs (typical for this era).

Engine Oil Spec:

SAE 0W-20 synthetic engine oil (API SN or ILSAC GF-5 compliant).

Coolant Spec:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life OAT coolant.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Common Issues Head Gaskets:

While Subaru improved head gasket design in later generations, early models (prior to this generation's full impact) sometimes had issues. The EJ253 in this era is generally more robust, but the manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures if needed.

Common Issues Cvt Lineartronic:

CVTs require specific maintenance. Irregular fluid changes or using incorrect fluid can lead to premature wear. The manual will cover correct procedures.

Common Issues Suspension:

Wear in sway bar links, bushings, and struts can occur over time, especially with higher mileage or aggressive driving. Alignment checks are crucial.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Founding:

Founded in 1953, a division of Fuji Heavy Industries (now Subaru Corporation).

Subaru AWD Pioneer:

Pioneered All-Wheel Drive technology in passenger cars, becoming a core brand identity.

Legacy Introduction:

First introduced in 1989 as a replacement for the Subaru Leone.

Outback Introduction:

Originally introduced in 1994 as the 'Outback Sport' and later the 'Outback', a more rugged, lifted version of the Legacy wagon.

Bm Br Generation Debut:

The fifth generation (BM/BR) debuted for the 2010 model year, with the 2012-2013 models representing a mid-cycle refresh with styling updates and powertrain enhancements.

Assembly Plant:

Lafayette, Indiana, USA (Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Inc. - SIA)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Awards:

Consistent recognition as IIHS Top Safety Picks and high NHTSA ratings highlight the vehicles' safety design.

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Consumer Reports often rated these models well for predicted reliability and owner satisfaction, particularly highlighting their AWD capabilities and safety.

Emissions Standards:

Compliance with EPA and CARB emissions standards for the respective model years.