Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, Subaru owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, and parts managers.
Value Proposition:
Provides essential part number information and labor estimates that are often costly to obtain from dealerships, empowering users with critical data for cost-effective repairs.
Primary Utility:
Facilitates accurate part ordering and verification, reducing errors and ensuring the correct components are sourced for repairs.
Additional Benefit:
Labor information aids in repair planning and cost assessment.
Major Systems Covered:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, Body Components, Climate Control, Safety Systems (Airbags, ABS), Wheels & Tires
Specific Components Detailed:
Engine internal components, transmission internals, brake assemblies, suspension arms, steering rack, electrical harnesses, body panels, interior trim pieces, HVAC components
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive, likely exceeding 1000 pages based on typical Subaru parts catalogs for this era.
Type:
Parts List / Parts Catalog
Powertrain:
Detailed breakdown of engine components (e.g., pistons, crankshaft, cylinder head), fuel injection system parts, ignition coils, timing belt/chain components, exhaust manifolds, catalytic converters, transmission gears, clutch assemblies, drive shafts, differentials, and transfer case components.
Chassis And Suspension:
Comprehensive listing for front and rear suspension components (struts, control arms, ball joints, bushings), steering rack and linkage, wheel bearings, brake calipers, rotors, pads, parking brake mechanisms, and ABS sensors.
Electrical And Body:
Covers lighting components, wiring harnesses, fuses, relays, starter motor, alternator, battery components, body panels (fenders, doors, hoods, bumpers), exterior trim, interior trim pieces, seats, airbags, and climate control system components.
Part Identification:
Detailed exploded view illustrations of each component assembly with corresponding part numbers and descriptions for accurate identification and ordering.
Labor Information:
Includes estimated labor times for various repair and replacement procedures, crucial for DIY budgeting and professional shop estimates.
Depth Of Information:
Intermediate to Advanced. While not a step-by-step repair manual, it provides the necessary part numbers for all components, enabling the identification of parts for any repair or maintenance task.
Searchability:
Searchable text, allowing for quick retrieval of part numbers, component names, and descriptions.
Linked Bookmarks:
Yes, includes linked bookmarks for easy navigation through different sections and systems.
Print Readability:
Designed for clear reproduction when printed, with legible text and detailed illustrations.
Binding:
N/A (Digital File)
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital File)
Engine Family:
EJ Series (Boxer Engine)
Engine Displacement Options:
2.5L (EJ253 naturally aspirated, EJ255/EJ257 turbocharged for specific trims)
Engine Configuration:
Horizontally-opposed (Boxer)
Horsepower Range Approximate:
165-250 hp (depending on naturally aspirated vs. turbocharged variants)
Torque Range Approximate:
160-250 lb-ft (depending on naturally aspirated vs. turbocharged variants)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
105,000 miles or 105 months (critical maintenance item for EJ engines)
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Approximately 60,000 miles (iridium type recommended)
Transmission Type Standard:
4-speed Automatic (4EAT)
Transmission Type Optional:
5-speed Manual
Drivetrain Layout:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Subaru ATF-HP (or equivalent meeting specifications)
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
Subaru ExtraS PS Fluid (or equivalent like Red Line GL-5 75W-90)
Length:
Approximately 187.4 inches
Width:
Approximately 69.7 inches
Height:
Approximately 61.4 inches
Wheelbase:
Approximately 104.1 inches
Cargo Volume Rear Seats Up:
Approximately 38.7 cubic feet
Cargo Volume Rear Seats Down:
Approximately 71.3 cubic feet
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3,300 - 3,600 lbs (depending on configuration)
Towing Capacity:
2,400 lbs (with appropriate trailer hitch)
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
5-star (for driver and passenger in most configurations)
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Good (for most models with side airbags)
Braking System:
4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, available front side-impact airbags, available front and rear side-curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD player, optional premium audio with cassette or CD changer.
Display Technology:
Basic digital or analog climate control displays, no integrated navigation or advanced touchscreens.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
All Wheel Drive:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is a primary technological feature, providing enhanced traction and stability.
Auxiliary Inputs:
Typically no standard auxiliary or USB inputs; aftermarket solutions may be available.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (severe service) / 7,500 miles or 12 months (normal service).
Engine Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles, or as needed based on conditions.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles, or as needed based on conditions.
Brake Fluid Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 miles or 36 months.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
5W-30 (API SG, SH, or SJ classification recommended)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 US quarts (with filter change)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free long-life coolant.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid (or equivalent ATF Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid)
Head Gasket Failure:
Common issue on EJ25 engines of this era, often requiring replacement of head gaskets and related components. Look for coolant leaks or milky oil.
Catalytic Converter Failure:
Can fail due to age or internal engine issues, leading to reduced power and check engine lights.
Automatic Transmission Issues:
Some models may experience harsh shifting or delayed engagement. Regular fluid changes are crucial.
Rear Wheel Bearing Wear:
Rear wheel bearings can wear out over time, causing humming or grinding noises.
Subaru Specialty:
Known for its horizontally-opposed ('boxer') engines and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, emphasizing safety, durability, and all-weather capability.
Outback Origin:
The Outback originated as a more rugged, lifted version of the Legacy wagon, effectively creating the crossover segment.
Third Generation Key Changes:
This generation (BH/BE) introduced a completely new chassis, increased wheelbase, revised styling, and improved interior space compared to its predecessor.
Manufacturing Location:
Gunma Plant, Japan
Global Market Presence:
Popular in North America, Australia, and other markets valuing AWD and practical utility.
Safety Awards:
Consistently received good safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS during its production run, reflecting Subaru's commitment to safety.
Consumer Satisfaction:
Often praised for reliability, utility, and AWD performance, though specific awards for this generation might vary by publication.
