Segment:
Mid-size Sedan/Wagon, Crossover SUV
Key Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Fusion, Mazda6, Nissan Altima (Sedan); Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Mazda CX-5 (Outback)
Subaru Differentiators:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (Standard), Boxer Engine Layout, Emphasis on Safety and Durability
Intended Users:
DIY Mechanics, Professional Technicians, Subaru Owners seeking in-depth repair knowledge
Powertrain:
Engine (FB25, EJ253, EJ255), Transmission (CVT, Manual, Automatic), Drivetrain (AWD System)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front/Rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS, EBD), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, ECUs, Lighting, Audio, Power Accessories, Body Control Modules
Body:
Body & Frame, Exterior Trim, Interior Trim, HVAC System
Emissions Control:
Diagnosis and repair of EVAP, O2 sensors, catalytic converter systems.
Climate Control:
HVAC system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, component replacement (compressor, blower motor, etc.).
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, evaporative emissions system (EVAP).
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan operation.
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspection/Replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Fault Codes (DTCs), Diagnostic Procedures for all major systems
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Repair, Brake System Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Repair, Body Panel Repair
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical system wiring diagrams for all major circuits.
Troubleshooting Charts:
Comprehensive diagnostic flowcharts based on symptoms and error codes.
Timing Belt Or Chain Maintenance:
Detailed procedures for timing belt inspection/replacement (EJ253) or chain maintenance (FB25), including tensioners and guides.
Wheel Alignment Specifications:
Factory alignment angles for front and rear suspension.
Wheel Bolt Torque:
Specific torque values for wheel lug nuts.
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic fluid checks to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic flowcharts.
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on using OBD-II scanners, Subaru Select Monitor (SSM) where applicable.
Engine Options:
2.5L Naturally Aspirated (EJ253/FB25), 2.5L Turbocharged (EJ255 - for specific trims/Outback XT)
2.5I (Na) Horsepower:
170 hp @ 5,800 rpm (EJ253), 175 hp @ 5,800 rpm (FB25)
2.5I (Na) Torque:
170 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm (EJ253), 174 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm (FB25)
2.5Xt (Turbo) Horsepower:
224 hp @ 5,200 rpm (EJ255)
2.5Xt (Turbo) Torque:
260 lb-ft @ 2,800 rpm (EJ255)
Injection Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPFI) for EJ, Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI) for FB/EJ255
Configuration:
Horizontally Opposed (Boxer)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Blue Long Life Coolant (or equivalent silicate-free, ethylene glycol-based)
Oil Type And Capacity:
5W-30 Synthetic (2.5L NA: ~4.8 qts), 5W-30 Synthetic (2.5L Turbo: ~4.8 qts)
Legacy Standard Transmission:
5-Speed Manual (GP/GV series)
Outback Standard Transmission:
CVT (Lineartronic)
Legacy Optional Transmission:
CVT (Lineartronic) for 2.5i, 5-Speed Automatic for 2.5GT
Outback Optional Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic (for 3.0L 6-cylinder models, though less common for this year range, primarily 2.5L)
Drivetrain:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) standard on all models
Cvt Fluid:
Subaru CVT Fluid (NS-2 or equivalent)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF-HP or equivalent
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil (75W-90 GL-5) or equivalent
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for 2010 Legacy and Outback)
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
5-Star Rating (for 2010 Legacy and Outback)
NHTSA Side Crash Test:
5-Star Rating (for 2010 Legacy and Outback)
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
4-Star Rating (for 2010 Legacy and Outback)
Standard AWD:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive for enhanced traction and stability.
Brake Assist:
Yes (part of ABS system)
Electronic Brakeforce Distribution:
Yes (EBD)
Airbags:
Front, Side Curtain, Front Seat Side Airbags
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH System
Audio System:
Base units feature AM/FM/CD, optional units include navigation, Bluetooth, and aux input.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Stability Control:
Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) standard.
Usb Port:
Available on some trims/optional audio systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months for severe driving, 7,500 miles or 12 months for normal driving (check owner's manual for specific conditions)
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or annually
Spark Plug Replacement:
105,000 miles for Iridium spark plugs
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
Subaru Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF-HP) or equivalent (check manual for exact spec)
Oil Consumption:
Some EJ253 engines can exhibit oil consumption; FB25 generally improved. Monitoring oil levels is crucial.
Cvt Issues:
Early CVTs could experience occasional hesitation or juddering; regular fluid changes are important for longevity.
Suspension Components:
Wear on control arm bushings and sway bar links can occur over time, especially in higher-mileage vehicles.
Head Gaskets:
While the EJ253 in this era is less prone to blown head gaskets than earlier generations, it's still a known Subaru concern. The FB25 (introduced later in the generation) is generally more robust.
Subaru History:
Founded in 1953, Subaru is known for its horizontally opposed Boxer engines and its pioneering use of All-Wheel Drive in passenger vehicles.
Legacy Generation:
This is the 5th generation (BP/BL for previous, BM/BR for this era) Legacy, marking a significant redesign and shift to a larger platform.
Outback Evolution:
The Outback, originating as a trim level of the Legacy wagon, became a distinct model, emphasizing increased ride height and rugged styling.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (Gunma Prefecture)
