Market Position:
The Subaru Outback, particularly during the 1998-2004 model years (Second Generation), carved a niche as a versatile, all-wheel-drive crossover wagon, blending the comfort and practicality of a station wagon with the ruggedness and capability of an SUV. It appealed to consumers seeking go-anywhere ability, especially in inclement weather or for outdoor recreational activities, without the fuel economy penalties or size of traditional SUVs.
Competitive Analysis:
Key competitors for the Subaru Legacy Outback during this era included the Toyota Camry/Avensis Wagon (with AWD variants), Audi Allroad Quattro, Volvo V70 Cross Country, and potentially larger SUVs that offered comparable utility but less car-like driving dynamics. Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system was a significant differentiator.
Key Features:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on all models), raised suspension for increased ground clearance, durable body cladding, spacious interior, flat-four boxer engine providing a low center of gravity.
Systems Covered:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Fuel & Emission Control, Engine Cooling, Engine Lubrication, Engine Performance Control, Ignition System, Starting System, Charging System, Automatic Transmission, Manual Transmission, Drivetrain (Front & Rear Axles, Drive Shafts, Differentials), Suspension System (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (ABS, Hydraulics, Parking Brake), Exhaust System, Fuel Tank & Lines, Body Control System, Interior & Exterior Lighting, Body & Frame, Doors, Windows, Seats, HVAC System, Electrical Wiring Diagrams, Cruise Control, Airbag System, Audio System, Information Displays
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Maintenance, Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Procedures, Component Removal & Installation, Major Engine Overhaul, Transmission Overhaul, Brake System Servicing, Suspension & Steering Alignment, Electrical System Diagnosis, Body Panel Repair, Climate Control Service, SRS System Servicing, Hybrid System (if applicable) Service
Engine Overhaul Procedures:
Detailed steps for engine disassembly, component inspection, piston ring replacement, bearing replacement, valve stem seal replacement, head gasket replacement, and engine reassembly.
Transmission Repair Procedures:
Instructions for removing and reinstalling transmissions, torque converter replacement, valve body service, clutch pack replacement (for automatic), and gear inspection.
Brake System Repair:
Disc brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, master cylinder replacement, brake line bleeding, ABS sensor diagnosis and replacement.
Suspension Steering Alignment:
Front and rear suspension component replacement (struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, bushings), power steering pump and rack repair, steering wheel alignment procedures.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, troubleshooting flowcharts for common electrical faults, component testing procedures, fuse and relay identification.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including torque specifications, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and wiring schematics.
Diagnostic Trouble Codes:
Includes a comprehensive listing of OBD-II Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) specific to Subaru, along with their definitions and potential causes.
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners, including engine components, drivetrain, suspension, brakes, and chassis bolts.
Special Tools:
Lists and diagrams of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures, such as timing belt tensioner tools or suspension alignment equipment.
Rebuild Procedures:
In-depth instructions for rebuilding major components like engines and transmissions, including specifications for clearances and tolerances.
Wiring Diagrams:
High-quality, detailed wiring schematics for all electrical systems, including power distribution, grounds, sensor inputs, and actuator outputs.
Ground Clearance:
Approximately 8.1 inches (206 mm)
Wheelbase:
104.3 inches (2649 mm)
Length:
Approximately 187.2 inches (4755 mm)
Width:
Approximately 69.7 inches (1770 mm)
Height:
Approximately 61.4 inches (1560 mm)
Curb Weight Range:
3200 - 3500 lbs (1450 - 1590 kg)
Towing Capacity:
2000 lbs (907 kg)
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:
Approximately 36.2 cubic feet (1025 liters)
Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:
Approximately 71.5 cubic feet (2025 liters)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
Good
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
Good
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
Acceptable
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:
Acceptable
Active Features:
All-Wheel Drive (standard), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS) (optional/later models).
Passive Features:
Dual front airbags, front side-impact airbags (optional/later models), front seatbelt pre-tensioners, crumple zones.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (severe duty) or 7,500 miles/12 months (normal duty), consult manual for specifics.
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Every 105,000 miles or 105 months (critical for EJ engines).
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Approximately 60,000 miles (depending on spark plug type).
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG, SH, or SJ; SAE 5W-30 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on climate).
Coolant Specification:
Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or a 50/50 mix of ethylene glycol with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid Specification:
Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III/Mercon ATF.
Known Issues:
Head gasket leaks (particularly on EJ25 DOHC engines), oil consumption, catalytic converter issues, front strut mount failure, minor coolant leaks from hoses or thermostat housing.
Oil Filter Part Number:
Subaru 15208AA100 (example, verify for specific model year/engine)
Air Filter Part Number:
Subaru 16546AA020 (example, verify for specific model year/engine)
Brand Heritage:
Subaru, a division of Fuji Heavy Industries, has a long history in automotive manufacturing, known for its horizontally opposed boxer engines and standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, emphasizing durability and all-weather capability.
Model Evolution:
The Outback originated as a trim package on the Subaru Legacy station wagon, first introduced in 1994. For the 1998 model year, it became a distinct model in North America, featuring a longer wheelbase, increased ride height, and rugged exterior styling, solidifying its position as a pioneering crossover wagon.
Production Locations:
Primary production for North American markets was at Subaru's Lafayette, Indiana, USA plant. Japanese market models were produced in Japan.
