🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Outback

Year:

2000

Chassis Code:

BP/BL (Second Generation)

Vin Prefix:

4S3

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2000 Subaru Outback represented Subaru's commitment to providing a versatile, all-wheel-drive station wagon with SUV-like capabilities. It was positioned as a practical and adventurous vehicle for families and individuals who valued safety, all-weather capability, and a comfortable ride, often appealing to outdoor enthusiasts.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against vehicles like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, and Jeep Cherokee. The Outback's key differentiator was its standard symmetrical all-wheel-drive system and its wagon-based platform, offering a lower center of gravity and car-like handling compared to truck-based SUVs.

Key Features:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, elevated ground clearance, boxer engine, wagon utility, comfortable and refined interior, strong safety record.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

North America

Page Count:

Thousands (estimated for comprehensive software)

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Software (likely digital, searchable)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Control Systems (ECU), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Drivetrain (AWD), Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Braking System (ABS), Climate Control (HVAC), Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Components), Body & Chassis, Interior Components, Exterior Trim, Safety Systems (Airbags), Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)

Procedures Included:

Routine Maintenance, Inspections, Troubleshooting, Diagnosis, Component Removal & Installation, Engine Rebuilding, Transmission Overhaul, Brake Service & Repair, Suspension & Steering Alignment, Electrical System Diagnostics & Repair, HVAC System Service, Body Panel Repair, Emissions Control Systems Service, Software Updates & Diagnostics

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive: From basic fluid changes and filter replacements to complete engine and transmission overhauls, electrical system troubleshooting with detailed wiring diagrams, and advanced diagnostic procedures.

Diagnostics:

Includes diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) with descriptive explanations and troubleshooting flowcharts for various systems. Covers use of OBD-II scanners and Subaru's specific diagnostic tools.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed, color-coded wiring diagrams for all major electrical systems, including engine control, lighting, accessories, and safety systems.

Torque Specifications:

Provides specific torque values for all fasteners, including engine components, suspension parts, brake calipers, wheel lug nuts, and body panels.

Rebuild Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including specifications for internal components, clearances, and assembly.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Systematic guides for diagnosing common and uncommon problems, often presented in a question-and-answer format or based on symptoms.

Lubrication Charts:

Detailed charts specifying lubricant types, grades, and capacities for engine, transmission, differentials, and chassis components.

Wheel Alignment:

Specifications for camber, caster, and toe angles for front and rear suspensions, along with adjustment procedures.

Brake Specifications:

Disc brake rotor thickness, pad thickness, caliper piston bore diameter, master cylinder bore diameter, parking brake adjustment.

Tire Information:

Recommended tire sizes and inflation pressures for various loads and driving conditions. Includes information on wheel offset and bolt pattern.

Body And Interior:

Covers removal and installation of interior trim panels, seats, dashboard components, exterior body panels, bumpers, and associated hardware.

Specifications Data:

Comprehensive data tables including engine dimensions, performance figures, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, and component tolerances.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Proprietary Software format or PDF (searchable text is highly probable)

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital Format - High resolution, zoomable)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Manual Completeness:

Officially Licensed, Comprehensive Coverage

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

2.5L EJ25 SOHC Naturally Aspirated Flat-4 (Boxer)

Horsepower:

165 hp @ 5,600 rpm

Torque:

166 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm

Fuel System:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Bore X Stroke:

99.5 mm x 79.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.3:1

Valve Train:

SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 16 Valves (4 valves per cylinder)

Engine Block Material:

Aluminum

Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)

Emission Control:

California/Federal Emission Standards, Catalytic Converter

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT)

Optional Transmission:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

AWD System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive

Automatic Transmission Features:

Electronically Controlled, Sportshift (Driver-selectable manual mode)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Subaru ATF-HP or Dexron III/Mercon compatible (Check manual for specific Subaru part number)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil or equivalent 75W-90 (API GL-5)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

104.3 inches (2649 mm)

Overall Length:

187.4 inches (4760 mm)

Overall Width:

70.1 inches (1781 mm)

Overall Height:

66.1 inches (1679 mm) (with roof rails)

Ground Clearance:

8.0 inches (203 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,260 - 3,450 lbs (1479 - 1565 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 4,600 lbs (2087 kg)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:

31.5 cu ft (892 L)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:

68.5 cu ft (1940 L)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Driver:

5-Star

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Passenger:

5-Star

IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:

Good

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS) - optional on some trims

Passive Features:

Driver and Front Passenger Airbags, Side-Impact Door Beams, Crumple Zones, Height-Adjustable Seatbelts, Pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Standard AM/FM/CD Player, Optional Premium Audio System, Cassette Player (common in this era).

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise Control, Optional Limited Slip Differential (rear)

Connectivity Features:

N/A (No Bluetooth or USB connectivity in this model year)

Comfort Convenience Features:

Power windows, Power door locks, Air Conditioning, Tilt Steering Wheel, Keyless Entry (optional)

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months (Severe Use) / 7,500 miles or 7.5 months (Normal Use). Check manual for exact recommendation and oil type.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (depending on driving conditions)

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (depending on driving conditions)

Spark Plug Replacement:

Platinum-tipped: 60,000 miles; Iridium-tipped: 100,000 miles (Consult manual for exact type and interval)

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 60,000 - 105,000 miles (This model uses a timing belt; crucial to follow interval).

Engine Oil Type:

5W-30 Synthetic or Conventional (Check owner's manual for specific API service classification and Subaru recommendation, e.g., SAE 5W-30 API SN or higher)

Engine Oil Capacity:

4.8 US quarts (4.5 L) with filter

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent Asian vehicle coolant (Ethylene Glycol based)

Coolant Capacity:

6.7 US quarts (6.3 L)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Known Issues:

Head Gasket Failure (especially on earlier EJ25 engines, though improved on later models), Crankshaft Position Sensor failure, CV Axle wear, Alternator failure, Radiator leaks.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Subaru, a division of Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries), has a long history of producing reliable vehicles known for their horizontally-opposed (boxer) engines and standard all-wheel-drive systems, emphasizing safety, durability, and off-road/all-weather capability.

Model Evolution:

The Outback, originally introduced as a trim level for the Subaru Legacy wagon in 1995, became a standalone model in 1996. The 2000 model year marked the introduction of the second generation (BP/BL chassis), featuring a redesigned exterior, improved interior, and updated powertrains. This generation further solidified the Outback's identity as a robust, go-anywhere wagon.

Production Years:

1995 (as Legacy trim) - Present (Standalone model: 1996 - Present)

Manufacturing Locations:

Gunma Plant, Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

Subaru Outback models frequently received accolades for safety from organizations like the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) for their robust construction and standard AWD system. Consumer reports often cited its practicality and all-weather capability.