🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Legacy Outback

Model Designation:

BP/BL Generation (North American Market)

Model Years Covered:

1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004

Chassis Codes Covered:

BH (1998-2004 Outback)

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Mid-size crossover/station wagon with standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD), known for its go-anywhere capability and practicality.

Target Demographic:

Individuals and families seeking a versatile vehicle for outdoor activities, diverse weather conditions, and comfortable daily commuting.

Key Competitors:

Toyota Camry/RAV4, Honda Accord/CR-V, Ford Mondeo/Escape, Nissan Altima/Xterra

Differentiating Factors:

Standard symmetrical AWD system, horizontally-opposed 'boxer' engine architecture, robust build quality, and practicality.

Notable Features Vehicle:

Subaru's renowned Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, increased ground clearance compared to standard Legacy, rugged body cladding, versatile cargo space.

Notable Features Manual:

Comprehensive coverage, clear step-by-step instructions, detailed diagrams, extensive diagnostic procedures, essential for DIY repairs and professional service.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

North America

Regional Variations:

Focus on specifications relevant to North American market models

Estimated Page Count:

1500-2000+ (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, lubrication system, cooling system, exhaust system, engine control system (ECU/ECM), transmission (automatic & manual), clutch, drivetrain (AWD system components)

Chassis:

Suspension (front & rear), steering system, braking system (ABS, disc brakes, parking brake), wheels & tires

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, seats, HVAC system, lighting system, body electrical systems, chassis electrical, wiring diagrams

Diagnostic And Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), pinpoint tests, electrical troubleshooting procedures, diagnostic tools and equipment

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups), fluid checks and changes, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad/rotor service

Repair:

Engine overhaul, transmission repair, suspension component replacement, brake system service, electrical component repair, body panel repair

Diagnostics:

Step-by-step diagnostic routines for various symptoms, use of scan tools, voltage and resistance testing

Technical Specifications:

Torque specifications, tightening sequences, clearances, electrical resistance values, fluid capacities and types

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance and fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics.

Diagnostic Detail:

In-depth diagnostic procedures, including wiring diagrams, component location charts, and logical troubleshooting trees.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical schematic diagrams for all vehicle systems.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable, allowing for quick navigation to specific topics.

Illustration Clarity:

High-quality, clear, step-by-step illustrations and diagrams.

Image Resolution:

Sufficient resolution for detailed viewing of diagrams and photographs.

Binding Type Digital:

N/A (Digital)

Paper Type Digital:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

EJ251 (2.5L SOHC)

Engine Displacement 1:

2457 cc (2.5 Liters)

Engine Configuration 1:

Horizontally-opposed 4-cylinder (Boxer)

Horsepower 1:

165 hp @ 5600 rpm (approx.)

Torque 1:

162 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)

Engine Code 2:

EJ253 (2.5L SOHC - later models, slight variations)

Engine Displacement 2:

2457 cc (2.5 Liters)

Engine Configuration 2:

Horizontally-opposed 4-cylinder (Boxer)

Horsepower 2:

167 hp @ 5600 rpm (approx. for EJ253)

Torque 2:

166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx. for EJ253)

Compression Ratio:

9.4:1 (typical for EJ251/EJ253)

Redline:

6500 rpm (approx.)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane (minimum recommended)

Required Octane:

87 AKI

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type 1:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

Transmission Code 1:

4EAT (4-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission)

Transmission Type 2:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Code 2:

5MT

Drive System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) standard on all models.

Automatic AWD Coupling:

Viscous coupling center differential (for 4EAT) or mechanical center differential with viscous coupling (for 5MT).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

185.0 inches (4699 mm)

Width:

69.7 inches (1770 mm)

Height:

63.0 inches (1600 mm)

Wheelbase:

104.3 inches (2649 mm)

Ground Clearance:

7.3 inches (185 mm)

Cargo Volume Rear Seats Up:

31.1 cu. ft. (881 L)

Cargo Volume Rear Seats Down:

66.7 cu. ft. (1889 L)

Curb Weight Approx:

3300 - 3500 lbs (1497 - 1588 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr Approx:

4500 - 4700 lbs (2041 - 2132 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Driver:

4 stars (1998-2001 models)

NHTSA Frontal Crash Passenger:

4 stars (1998-2001 models)

NHTSA Side Impact Driver:

5 stars (1998-2001 models)

NHTSA Side Impact Passenger:

5 stars (1998-2001 models)

IIHS Frontal Offset Bf:

Good (1998-2001 models)

ABS:

Standard on most trims

Traction Control:

Available on some higher trims or later models

Airbags Front:

Driver and passenger front airbags

Airbags Side:

Optional front side-impact airbags on some models/trims

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with CD player and cassette tape player (depending on trim level and options). Speaker configurations vary.

Display Type:

Basic digital or analog displays for radio and climate control. No advanced touchscreens or navigation.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models.

Limited Electronic Aid:

Primarily focused on mechanical grip and stability via AWD. No advanced electronic driver-assistance systems like lane keeping assist or adaptive cruise control.

Connectivity Options:

Limited to analog inputs for aftermarket audio devices if applicable. No Bluetooth or USB connectivity in factory systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months (severe driving conditions), 7,500 miles or 7.5 months (normal driving conditions).

Engine Oil Filter Replacement:

At every oil change.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 15 months.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 15 months (if equipped).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 60,000 miles or 60 months (Platinum or Iridium plugs).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 105,000 miles or 105 months (crucial for EJ series engines).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30, API SG or higher.

Engine Oil Capacity:

4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water).

Transmission Fluid Type Automatic:

Subaru ATF-HP (or Dexron III compatible).

Transmission Fluid Type Manual:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Head Gaskets:

While less prevalent than in earlier EJ25 engines, coolant leaks from head gaskets can still occur, especially with age and mileage. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.

Crankshaft Position Sensor:

Failure of the crankshaft position sensor can lead to no-start or stalling issues. The manual will cover its location and testing.

Automatic Transmission Issues:

Some 4EAT transmissions might exhibit delayed engagement or shifting issues; proper fluid level and condition are critical. The manual provides diagnostic steps.

Suspension Wear:

Like many vehicles of this era, wear on bushings, ball joints, and struts is common. The manual details inspection and replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru AWD Legacy:

Subaru's commitment to All-Wheel Drive began in 1972, establishing a core brand identity for traction and all-weather capability.

Outback Introduction:

The Outback was originally introduced as a trim level for the Subaru Legacy wagon in 1995, distinguishing itself with increased ground clearance and rugged styling.

Generation Coverage:

This manual specifically covers the second generation of the Subaru Outback (BG chassis in Japan, BH in North America for this period) which ran from 1995 to 2004, with this manual focusing on the facelifted version (often referred to as a mid-cycle refresh).

Manufacturing Location:

Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Inc. (SIA) in Lafayette, Indiana, USA.

Production Years For This Manual:

1998-2004

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Generally received good ratings for reliability and capability from publications like Consumer Reports, though some specific model years might have had specific recommendations for maintenance.

Model Reputation:

The Outback is widely recognized for its versatility, all-weather capability, and durability, often praised for its ability to handle light off-road conditions and inclement weather.

Safety Certifications:

Compliant with all US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) for its production years.