🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Outback

Model Year:

2008-2009

Chassis Code:

BP (Station Wagon), BP9 (Sedan)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size Crossover SUV / Station Wagon

Usp:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, robust build, wagon-like practicality with SUV styling.

Direct Competitors:

Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Edge, Nissan Murano, Mazda CX-7

Drivetrain:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on all trims).

Body Style:

Dual-purpose wagon/SUV, offering higher ground clearance than traditional wagons.

📋 Manual Details

Regions Covered:

Global (North America focus)

Estimated Page Count:

Approx. 2000+ pages (typical for full service manual)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital File (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, Engine control, Fuel system, Ignition system, Exhaust system, Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Drivetrain (All-Wheel Drive)

Chassis:

Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS, EBD), Wheels & Tires

Body Electrical:

HVAC, Lighting, Power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), Audio system, Instrument cluster, SRS (Airbag) system, Body control modules

Body Structure:

Body panels, Doors, Hood, Tailgate, Interior trim, Sealing

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, Fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake, transmission, differential), Filter replacements, Inspections

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

Symptom-based troubleshooting, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation, Electrical circuit diagrams, Component testing procedures

Repair Rebuild:

Component removal and installation, Engine overhaul, Transmission repair, Suspension and brake component replacement, Bodywork repairs

Specifications Tolerances:

Torque specifications, Clearances, Wear limits, Alignment specifications

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchable Text:

Yes (typically)

Image Resolution:

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

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

EJ253

Engine Type:

Horizontally Opposed (Boxer) 4-Cylinder

Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2457 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

99.5 mm x 79.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.7:1

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Valvetrain:

DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 16 Valves, Subaru Active Valve Control System (AVCS)

Horsepower:

170 hp @ 5800 rpm (approx.)

Torque:

170 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Minimum Recommended)

Cooling System:

Pressurized Liquid Cooling System

Exhaust System:

Two-stage catalytic converter system, stainless steel mufflers.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT) with Subaru's Variable Torque Distribution (VTD) All-Wheel Drive.

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual Transmission (MT) with viscous coupling center differential AWD.

Automatic Features:

Manumatic (sequential shifting capability), Hill Holder clutch system (manual only).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Subaru ATF HP (Highly Recommended) or DEXRON-III compatible fluid.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil (75W-90) or equivalent GL-5 rated synthetic gear oil.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

189.1 inches (4803 mm)

Width:

70.1 inches (1780 mm)

Height:

61.7 inches (1567 mm)

Wheelbase:

104.0 inches (2642 mm)

Ground Clearance:

8.1 inches (206 mm)

Passenger Volume:

Approx. 101.7 cu ft

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:

Approx. 33.5 cu ft

Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:

Approx. 67.4 cu ft

Curb Weight:

3417 - 3593 lbs (1550 - 1630 kg) depending on configuration

Towing Capacity:

2700 lbs (1225 kg) with factory-installed tow hitch

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test:

5 Stars (Driver & Passenger)

NHTSA Side Impact Crash Test:

5 Stars (Front & Rear Occupant)

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Yes (for models equipped with side airbags)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Ebd:

Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control System (TCS)

Stability Control:

Standard Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC)

Airbags:

Standard front dual-stage airbags, Available front side-impact airbags and side-curtain airbags (IIHS Top Safety Pick dependent).

Seatbelts:

3-point height-adjustable front seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters, 3-point rear seatbelts.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player, available MP3 playback, auxiliary audio input. Higher trims may feature premium audio systems (e.g., Harman Kardon).

Navigation:

Optional factory-installed GPS navigation system available on higher trim levels.

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control.

Auxiliary Input:

Standard 3.5mm auxiliary audio input jack.

Bluetooth:

Not available as standard equipment for these model years; aftermarket solutions are common.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change:

Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months for severe driving conditions; 7,500 miles or 7.5 months for normal driving conditions (refer to owner's manual for specific definition of conditions).

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (typically every 30,000 miles).

Cabin Air Filter:

Replace every 15,000 miles or annually.

Spark Plugs:

Iridium type recommended for 100,000-mile interval.

Coolant Replacement:

Initial replacement at 30,000 miles or 30 months, then every 30,000 miles or 30 months thereafter (Subaru Super Coolant Blue).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 API SG, SH, SJ, SL, SM certified synthetic or premium conventional engine oil.

Engine Oil Capacity:

4.8 US quarts (4.5 liters) with filter change.

Brake Fluid:

FMVSS No. 116 DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Power Steering Fluid:

Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or DEXRON-III ATF.

Head Gaskets:

While less common than in earlier generations, minor coolant leaks from head gaskets can occur, particularly in higher-mileage vehicles. The manual will detail inspection procedures and replacement guidelines.

Wheel Bearings:

Front wheel bearings can be a wear item. The manual provides specifications for checking play and procedures for replacement.

Suspension Components:

As with most vehicles of this age and type, bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends can wear, impacting alignment and ride quality. The manual details inspection and replacement.

Ac Compressor Clutch:

The AC compressor clutch can fail over time. The manual covers AC system diagnosis and component replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Focus:

Subaru is renowned for its commitment to All-Wheel Drive technology and horizontally opposed 'Boxer' engines, fostering a reputation for durability and capability in diverse conditions.

Third Generation Debut:

The 2005 model year marked the debut of the third generation (BP/BL chassis), featuring a significant redesign with a taller wagon body and increased ground clearance, solidifying its crossover identity.

2008 Refresh:

The 2008 model year received a mid-cycle refresh, including updated exterior styling (grille, headlights, taillights), revised interior trim, and improved features. This manual specifically covers this refreshed third generation.

Manufacturing Plant:

Gunma Plant, Japan

Production Years For Generation:

2005-2009

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Crash Test Recognition:

Consistently rated well by the IIHS, often earning 'Top Safety Pick' status when equipped with optional side airbags.

Automotive Press Awards:

Often praised by automotive journalists for its value, standard AWD, and practicality, though sometimes criticized for engine refinement and interior noise compared to some competitors.