🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Legacy Outback

Year:

2002

Chassis Code:

BH (for 2002 model year)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Subaru Legacy Outback occupies the niche of a car-based station wagon with SUV-like capabilities, appealing to outdoor enthusiasts and families.

Competitors:

Competed against models like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, and other compact SUVs/crossovers of its era.

Subaru Advantage:

Subaru's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, horizontally opposed 'boxer' engines, and excellent ground clearance for its class.

Value:

Provides DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics with the authoritative information needed to maintain and repair the 2002 Legacy Outback, saving significant costs on labor.

📋 Manual Details

Scope:

Comprehensive repair and service for the 2002 Subaru Legacy Outback

Estimated Page Count:

Estimated 2500-3500+ pages (typical for complete factory service manuals of this era)

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (Instant Download)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed diagnosis, overhaul, and repair procedures for all engine variants

Transmission:

Covers both Automatic (4EAT) and Manual (5-speed) transmissions, including rebuilds and diagnostics

Drivetrain:

Front and rear differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, AWD system operation

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications, shock absorbers, springs

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system diagnosis and repair, parking brake

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, alignment

Electrical:

Complete wiring diagrams, lighting, accessories, power distribution, charging system

Climate Control:

HVAC system diagnosis, repair, refrigerant handling, climate control module

Body:

Interior and exterior trim removal/installation, body panels, glass, doors, locks

Safety Systems:

Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) - airbag components, diagnosis, and replacement procedures

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement

Tune Up:

Detailed tune-up procedures, including ignition timing and component testing

Engine Repair:

Engine removal/installation, cylinder head overhaul, piston/ring replacement, crankshaft bearing service

Transmission Repair:

Complete overhaul instructions for both manual and automatic transmissions

Brake Service:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, bleeding procedures, ABS component testing

Suspension Service:

Replacement of ball joints, control arms, bushings, struts/shocks

Electrical Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting electrical faults using wiring diagrams, component testing

Emissions Control:

Diagnosis and repair of emissions-related systems, catalytic converter, O2 sensors

Ac Service:

Air conditioning system diagnosis, refrigerant recharge, component replacement

Body Repair:

Door panel removal, mirror replacement, bumper repair/replacement

Timing Procedures:

Valve timing procedures, chain/gear replacement, tensioner adjustments

Depth:

Extremely comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds

Illustrations:

Detailed diagrams and illustrations for component identification and repair procedures

Diagnostics:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving faults

Specifications:

Includes all essential technical specifications, torque values, clearances, and fluid capacities

Special Tools:

Lists and descriptions of specialized tools required for certain procedures

Troubleshooting Guides:

Includes comprehensive troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues, often with flowcharts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

Portable Document Format (PDF)

Searchability:

PDF format typically allows for text searching of keywords, aiding in quick access to specific information.

Quality:

High-resolution scans, typically readable and printable

Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Type:

N/A (Digital Format - printable on demand)

Completeness:

This is a factory-level service manual, meaning it covers all aspects of vehicle maintenance and repair as intended by the manufacturer.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code And Type:

EJ25 SOHC (2.5L Naturally Aspirated Flat-4 Boxer) and EJ25 DOHC Turbo (2.5L Turbocharged Flat-4 Boxer - limited markets/trims)

Horsepower Sohc:

Approx. 165 hp @ 5600 rpm (SOHC)

Torque Sohc:

Approx. 166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (SOHC)

Horsepower DOHc Turbo:

Approx. 210-220 hp @ 5600 rpm (DOHC Turbocharged - GT/GT-Limited trims)

Torque DOHc Turbo:

Approx. 235-245 lb-ft @ 3000-4000 rpm (DOHC Turbocharged)

Type:

Sequential multi-point fuel injection (MPI)

Octane Rating:

87 octane (for SOHC), 91 octane premium unleaded (for DOHC Turbocharged)

Capacity And Type:

Approx. 6.9 quarts (6.5 liters) of 50/50 ethylene glycol coolant

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT) or 5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Options:

Higher trim levels or specific markets may have offered a choice between manual and automatic.

AWD System:

All-wheel drive is standard on all 2002 Legacy Outback models.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Subaru ATF-HP (or equivalent)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

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

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

104.3 inches (2649 mm)

Overall Length:

187.4 inches (4760 mm)

Overall Width:

69.7 inches (1770 mm)

Overall Height:

63.0 inches (1600 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approximately 8.1 inches (205 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3300-3600 lbs (1497-1633 kg) depending on trim and options

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Good (2002 model year ratings are often based on earlier tests for similar vehicles, check specific NHTSA database for precise scores if available)

NHTSA Side Impact:

Good (2002 model year ratings are often based on earlier tests for similar vehicles, check specific NHTSA database for precise scores if available)

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard

Traction Control:

Traction control may be available on higher trim levels or optional.

Airbags:

Front airbags, side airbags (optional on some trims).

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD player, optional premium audio systems may include cassette or CD changer.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Power Ports:

12V power outlets for accessory charging.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months (severe duty) or 7,500 miles or 7.5 months (normal duty), though earlier intervals are often recommended by enthusiasts.

Timing Belt:

Crucial: Approximately every 60,000 - 100,000 miles or 5-7 years (due to interference engine design), consult manual for exact interval and related component replacement (water pump, tensioners).

Spark Plugs:

Typically around 60,000 - 100,000 miles, depending on type (e.g., platinum or iridium).

Engine Oil:

5W-30 synthetic or conventional oil recommended (consult manual for specific API service classification and viscosity for climate).

Coolant:

Subaru Super Coolant or equivalent, 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Head Gaskets:

While less prevalent than in earlier generations, head gasket leaks can still occur, especially on higher-mileage SOHC EJ25 engines. The manual will detail inspection and replacement.

Cv Boots:

Torn front and rear CV axle boots are a common wear item, leading to joint damage if not addressed. The manual covers their inspection and replacement.

O2 Sensors:

Oxygen sensors can degrade over time, affecting fuel economy and emissions. The manual will aid in their diagnosis and replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Identity:

Subaru, a division of Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries), is renowned for its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and boxer engines, often associated with reliability, safety, and outdoor adventure.

Outback Origin:

The Outback began as a more rugged, lifted version of the Legacy station wagon, launched in 1995. For 2000, the Outback became its own distinct model line, based on the third-generation Legacy platform (BP/BL).

Third Generation:

The 2002 model falls within the third generation of the Subaru Legacy (2000-2004), which featured a more refined and modern design compared to its predecessor.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan (Subaru's primary manufacturing facilities)