🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Legacy Outback

Year:

2002

Body Style:

Station Wagon / SUV Crossover

Generation:

Third Generation (BH/BG)

Chassis Codes:

BH (Wagon), BG (Sport Wagon)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Mid-size Crossover SUV / Station Wagon

Target Audience:

Families, outdoors enthusiasts, those seeking all-wheel-drive capability in a versatile package.

Key Competitors:

Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra, Chevrolet Tracker.

Subaru Advantage:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, horizontally opposed ('boxer') engines, good ground clearance for its class.

Unique Selling Points:

Standard AWD, boxer engine design for lower center of gravity, comfortable ride, practical cargo space, robust build quality.

Manual Value Proposition:

Empowers owners and independent mechanics with factory-level diagnostic and repair knowledge, saving time and money on maintenance and repairs.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Coverage:

All engine variants for 2002 Legacy Outback

Transmission Coverage:

All transmission variants for 2002 Legacy Outback

Trim Level Coverage:

All trim levels for 2002 Legacy Outback

Estimated Page Count:

Over 2000 pages (typical for complete factory service manuals)

Manual Type:

Complete Official Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions control, engine management (ECU/PCM), starting and charging

Transmission Systems:

Automatic Transmission (AT), Manual Transmission (MT), clutch, drivetrain, driveshafts, differentials, AWD system

Braking Systems:

Hydraulic system, power assist, front and rear disc brakes, parking brake, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, steering gear, power steering system, alignment

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, gauges, body electrical, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams

HVAC Systems:

Heating, ventilation, air conditioning (AC) system, refrigerant handling, climate control

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, interior trim, seats, safety belts, airbags, glass

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspections and replacement, brake pad replacement, tire rotations

Repair Procedures:

Engine component repair/replacement, transmission overhaul, brake caliper repair, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair, HVAC component repair

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides for common issues, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), using scan tools

Installation Procedures:

Component removal and installation, timing belt replacement, accessory belt replacement, seal replacement

Specifications And Torques:

Detailed torque specifications for all fasteners, component clearances, fluid capacities, technical specifications

Depth Of Information:

Comprehensive; covers everything from basic routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable (depending on original scan quality)

Print Quality Recommendation:

High-resolution, suitable for printing essential sections or the entire manual.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

EJ253 (2.5L SOHC)

Engine Code 2:

EJ25D (2.5L DOHC - less common for 2002, but possible early production)

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Flat-Four ('Boxer')

Displacement Liters:

2.5

Bore X Stroke Mm:

99.5 mm x 79.0 mm (approximate, check manual for exact)

Horsepower Ps Approx:

165 hp @ 5600 rpm (EJ253)

Torque Lb-Ft Approx:

166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (EJ253)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)

ECU Type:

Subaru ECU (specific model number in manual)

Timing Belt:

Interference engine; critical maintenance item, replacement interval typically 60,000-105,000 miles or 5-7 years. Manual provides specific procedure and torque specs.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT)

Optional Transmission:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

AWD System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with either viscous coupling limited-slip center differential (for automatic) or mechanical center differential (for manual).

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

Subaru ATF-HP (or equivalent DEXRON III/MERCON for some earlier models - confirm with manual)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 7.8 US quarts (7.4 liters) for a drain and fill. Overhaul capacity is higher.

Transmission Service Interval:

Automatic transmission fluid change typically recommended every 30,000-45,000 miles, especially under severe use. Manual provides detailed procedure.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Inches:

104.3

Length Inches:

186.6

Width Inches:

69.7

Height Inches:

63.0

Ground Clearance Inches:

8.1 (approx.)

Curb Weight Lbs Approx:

3400 - 3600 lbs (depending on trim and transmission)

Cargo Volume Cu Ft Behind Rear Seats:

39.4

Cargo Volume Cu Ft With Rear Seats Folded:

72.5

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

4 Stars (2002 Model Year Data)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

4 Stars (2002 Model Year Data)

IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:

Good (for vehicles of this design era)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

AWD:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive for enhanced traction and stability.

Airbags:

Frontal airbags for driver and passenger. Side airbags may be optional on some trims.

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants, LATCH system for child seats.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with CD player. Premium sound system with amplifier and subwoofer may be optional on higher trims.

Climate Control:

Manual or Automatic Climate Control (optional) depending on trim level.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Traction Control:

Traction Control System (TCS) may be optional on some models, integrated with the AWD system.

Auxiliary Inputs:

Likely no factory auxiliary input; aftermarket solutions may be available, covered in manual's electrical section for modifications.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles for conventional oil, or 5,000-7,500 miles for synthetic oil. Consult manual for exact recommendations based on driving conditions.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (typically every 30,000 miles).

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect annually, replace as needed (typically every 15,000-30,000 miles).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically 60,000 miles for standard spark plugs, 100,000 miles for platinum or iridium plugs (confirm type in manual).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 (API SJ or higher). Synthetic recommended for improved performance and longevity. Manual specifies exact API rating and viscosity.

Coolant Type:

Subaru Genuine Coolant (blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant (typically 50/50 mix with distilled water).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or equivalent.

Head Gaskets:

While more prevalent in earlier EJ engines, head gasket leaks can occur on this generation. Early detection and repair are crucial. Manual provides diagnostic and repair procedures.

Oil Consumption:

Some EJ engines can exhibit moderate oil consumption. Regular checking of oil level is advised. Manual details oil capacity and checking procedure.

Rear Main Seal Leaks:

Rear main seal leaks can occur. Manual covers diagnosis and replacement procedures.

Wheel Bearing Wear:

Wheel bearings can wear over time, especially with AWD systems and potential off-road use. Manual details replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru History:

Subaru, part of Fuji Heavy Industries, has a long history of producing reliable vehicles, known for their boxer engines and AWD systems, especially in rally racing and adverse weather conditions.

Legacy Outback Origin:

The Outback variant originated from the Legacy station wagon, featuring increased ground clearance, unique body cladding, and a more rugged suspension to appeal to the growing SUV market while retaining car-like handling.

Third Generation Development:

The third generation (BH/BG) debuted in 1998 (for 1999 model year) and continued through 2004. It offered a more refined interior and exterior compared to its predecessor, with the Outback becoming a distinct model line within the Legacy family.

Production Location:

Mainly manufactured in Japan (Gunma Plant).

Model Production Years:

1999-2004 for this generation, with 2002 being a mid-cycle model.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Segment Awards:

Subaru Outback often received accolades for its blend of car-like comfort and SUV capability, praised for its standard AWD and versatility by automotive publications.