Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size Crossover SUV / Station Wagon
Target Audience:
Families, outdoor enthusiasts, those seeking AWD capability and versatility
Key Competitors:
Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra (though Outback is more car-like)
All Wheel Drive:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system
Ground Clearance:
Higher than traditional sedans/wagons, offering mild off-road capability
Cargo Capacity:
Generous for its class, with folding rear seats
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, timing belt/chain, lubrication, cooling system, fuel delivery, ignition system
Engine Performance:
Diagnosis and tuning, emissions control systems
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox overhaul, gearshift mechanism
Transmission Automatic:
Overhaul, torque converter, valve body, electronic controls
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, differentials, driveshafts, CV joints
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, bushings, alignment
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, EBD, brake calipers, rotors, pads, parking brake
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, power windows, locks, mirrors
Body And Frame:
Body panels, corrosion prevention, structural integrity, doors, hood, tailgate
HVAC:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, climate control systems
Interior Trim:
Seats, dashboard, trim panels, sound insulation
Diagnostic Systems:
OBD-II diagnostics, trouble codes (DTCs), sensor information
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tire rotations
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for replacing virtually all parts
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all systems
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds)
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostic procedures and fault code interpretations
Rebuild Instructions:
Detailed instructions for complete component rebuilds
Engine Code:
EJ251, EJ253, EJ254 (2.5L Naturally Aspirated), EJ255 (2.5L Turbocharged - XT models)
Engine Type:
Horizontally Opposed (Boxer) 4-Cylinder
Displacement Na:
2.5 Liters (2457 cc)
Displacement Turbo:
2.5 Liters (2457 cc)
Horsepower Na:
Approximately 165-175 hp (depending on year and emissions compliance)
Torque Na:
Approximately 162-166 lb-ft
Horsepower Turbo:
Approximately 210-250 hp (XT models)
Torque Turbo:
Approximately 235-250 lb-ft (XT models)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended for NA, premium may be recommended for XT)
Length:
Approximately 4740-4770 mm (186.6-187.8 in)
Width:
Approximately 1770-1775 mm (69.7-69.9 in)
Height:
Approximately 1555-1570 mm (61.2-61.8 in)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2670 mm (105.1 in)
Ground Clearance:
Approximately 200-213 mm (7.9-8.4 in)
Cargo Volume Seats Up:
Approximately 33.5 cu ft
Cargo Volume Seats Down:
Approximately 68.8 cu ft
Curb Weight:
Approximately 1500-1650 kg (3300-3640 lbs)
Towing Capacity:
Typically 2000-2700 lbs (check specific model and region)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (for certain model years/configurations)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for certain model years/configurations)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Stability Control:
Standard Electronic Stability Control (VDC - Vehicle Dynamics Control)
Airbags Front:
Dual Front Airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional Front Side-Impact Airbags, Optional Curtain Airbags (depending on trim)
Seatbelts:
3-point height-adjustable front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
Head Unit:
Base models feature a basic AM/FM/CD player. Higher trims may have optional CD changers, navigation systems, and premium audio (e.g., Harman Kardon).
Connectivity:
Limited by modern standards; may include auxiliary input jack. Bluetooth was not widely standard.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control, often with steering wheel mounted controls.
Other Features:
Optional power liftgate, automatic climate control (on higher trims).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,750 miles (severe) or 7,500 miles (normal) with synthetic oil, or every 6 months.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 105,000 miles or 7 years (for 2.5L naturally aspirated engines with timing belts - some models may have chain or interference engines, consult manual)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 60,000 - 100,000 miles depending on plug type (iridium recommended)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (check owner's manual for specific recommendations)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent Subaru long-life coolant
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Subaru ATF HP (ATF-HP) or equivalent specified fluid
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Subaru Gear Oil (Hypoid Gear Oil API GL-5, SAE 75W-90)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Head Gaskets:
While the EJ25 engine is known for head gasket issues, later revisions and this generation saw improvements. However, it's a potential concern, especially on higher mileage units.
Oil Leaks:
Rear main seal and oil cooler seals can develop leaks.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings, ball joints, and struts can wear over time, especially with aggressive driving or on rough roads.
Evap Emissions System:
Canister vent valve solenoids and hoses are common failure points.
Brand Focus:
Known for Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and horizontally opposed Boxer engines
Outback Origin:
Originated as a more rugged, higher-ground-clearance version of the Subaru Legacy wagon.
Generation Introduced:
This generation (BP/BL) was introduced for the 2005 model year, but the '02-ON' in the product name suggests coverage extends to the previous generation (BH).
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (Subaru's primary manufacturing base)