🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Legacy Outback

Year:

2002

Generation Code:

Second Generation (BH/BE)

Chassis Code:

BH9

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Crossover SUV / Mid-size Wagon with AWD focus

Target Audience:

Families, outdoor enthusiasts, individuals seeking all-weather capability and Subaru's reputation for durability and AWD.

Key Competitors 2002:

Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Mazda Tribute, Nissan Xterra.

Subaru Advantage:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, boxer engine, wagon-like utility with SUV ground clearance, strong safety reputation.

Distinguishing Features:

Standard AWD across all trims, elevated ride height compared to standard Legacy, increased cargo space, durable interior materials, robust powertrain options.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

North America

Total Pages:

3000+

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Type Detail:

Factory-based workshop manual, providing detailed OEM-level repair and maintenance information.

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Comprehensive coverage of EJ25, EJ251 (2.5L SOHC NA), EJ253 (2.5L SOHC NA), EJ25D (2.5L DOHC NA - less common for 2002 Outback but may be present in broader manuals), EJ20 (2.0L - less common for US Outback but relevant for global variants/comparisons), turbo variants (EJ205/EJ20T - less common for 2002 Outback but potentially covered for higher performance trims or variations).

Transmission:

Detailed coverage for 4-speed automatic (TZ1A series) and 5-speed manual transmissions (TY754 series), including troubleshooting, repair, and overhaul procedures.

Drivetrain:

Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system (mechanical AWD and VTD AWD), differentials (front, rear, center), driveshafts, axles, and related components.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems, including MacPherson struts, coil springs, control arms, stabilizer bars, bushings, and shock absorbers. Includes diagnosis and replacement procedures.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brake systems, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), hydraulic lines, calipers, rotors, pads, and parking brake. Includes bleeding procedures and component replacement.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, and related components. Includes diagnosis and repair.

Cooling System:

Radiator, coolant hoses, water pump, thermostat, cooling fans, and heater core. Includes flush and fill procedures and leak diagnosis.

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel lines, fuel tank, and evaporative emission control (EVAP) system.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converters, mufflers, pipes, and oxygen sensors.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting system, ignition system, and all electrical accessories.

Climate Control:

HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system, including compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, refrigerant circuits, and controls.

Body And Trim:

Exterior panels, doors, windows, seals, interior trim panels, seats, headliner, and body hardware. Includes removal and installation procedures.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system, seat belts, and ABS system.

Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, spark plug replacement, air filter service, fuel filter replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant replacement, transmission fluid service, differential fluid changes, timing belt replacement (critical for EJ engines).

Repair:

Engine component repair (e.g., head gasket replacement, piston/ring service), transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake system repairs, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, body panel repair.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues across all major systems, including symptom-based troubleshooting guides and fault code explanations (OBD-II).

Diagnostics:

Detailed diagnostic trees, electrical circuit testing, sensor testing, and component resistance/voltage checks.

Rebuilding:

Engine and transmission rebuilding procedures, including torque specifications, clearances, and assembly instructions.

Installation:

Component installation guides for major parts and systems.

Depth:

Comprehensive from basic scheduled maintenance to advanced diagnostics, engine/transmission overhauls, and complete vehicle teardown and reassembly.

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on using OBD-II scanners, multimeters, and specialized Subaru diagnostic equipment (where applicable).

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed, color-coded wiring diagrams for all electrical systems.

Torque Specifications:

Extensive list of torque specifications for all critical fasteners across the vehicle.

Clearances And Tolerances:

Specifications for engine component clearances, bearing tolerances, and other critical measurements for rebuilding.

📊 Manual Specifications

PDF Quality:

High-resolution, searchable PDF with printable pages.

Print Recommendation:

Designed for optimal viewing and printing on standard office equipment. Clear text and images.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

EJ251

Engine Type:

2.5L SOHC 16-valve Boxer (Flat) 4-Cylinder

Horsepower Hp:

165 hp @ 5,600 rpm (approximate, may vary slightly by region/emissions)

Torque Lb Ft:

166 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm (approximate)

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane recommended

Bore X Stroke:

99.5 mm x 79.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.3:1

Valve Train:

SOHC with Hydraulic Valve Adjusters (auto-tensioners)

Timing Belt:

Yes, recommended replacement every 100,000 miles or 10 years.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (TZ1A series)

Type:

5-Speed Manual Transmission (TY754 series) - Less common on Outback models for North America in this year.

AWD System Type:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (mechanical AWD on manual, Variable Torque Distribution AWD on automatic).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4,680 mm (184.3 in)

Width:

1,765 mm (69.5 in)

Height:

1,570 mm (61.8 in) - standard ride height

Wheelbase:

2,630 mm (103.5 in)

Ground Clearance:

200 mm (7.9 in)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 1,500-1,600 kg (3,300-3,500 lbs), depending on transmission and options.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test:

5-Star (driver), 4-Star (passenger) - Based on available data for similar models/years.

IIHS Side Impact:

Good - Based on available data for similar models/years.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).

AWD:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive for enhanced traction and stability.

Airbags:

Frontal airbags for driver and passenger, optional side airbags.

Seat Belts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for all seating positions.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/CD stereo system, with optional cassette. Speaker configurations vary by trim level.

ABS:

Standard ABS for enhanced braking control.

AWD:

Primary driver assistance feature enhancing stability and traction in various conditions.

Auxiliary Inputs:

Typically not equipped with standard auxiliary inputs or USB ports; aftermarket solutions may be required.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months (severe conditions) / 7,500 miles or 7.5 months (normal conditions), using synthetic or high-mileage oil recommended.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 100,000 miles or 10 years, including tensioner and idler pulleys, and water pump replacement.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Platinum-tipped spark plugs typically last 100,000 miles. Check manual for exact interval.

Engine Oil:

SAE 5W-30, API SJ or higher. Capacity: 4.5 US quarts (with filter).

Coolant:

Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent, a 50/50 mixture of antifreeze and distilled water. Capacity: Approx. 7.5 US quarts.

Transmission Fluid Auto:

Subaru ATF HP (High Performance) or Dexron III compatible. Capacity: 3.6 US quarts (drain and fill).

Transmission Fluid Manual:

Subaru Gear Oil G-30 or API GL-5, SAE 75W-90. Capacity: 2.7 US quarts.

Differential Fluid Front:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90. Capacity: 0.9 US quarts.

Differential Fluid Rear:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90. Capacity: 1.2 US quarts.

Head Gaskets:

While not as prevalent as later generations, early EJ25 engines can be prone to head gasket leaks. The manual covers diagnosis and replacement procedures.

Idling Issues:

Can sometimes suffer from rough idling due to EGR system issues, intake leaks, or fouled spark plugs. Manual provides troubleshooting.

O2 Sensors:

Oxygen sensors can wear out, affecting fuel economy and emissions. Manual details testing and replacement.

Wheel Bearings:

Can wear out over time, particularly if exposed to harsh conditions. Manual details inspection and replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru History:

Subaru, a division of Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries), has a long history dating back to 1953. Known for its engineering prowess, particularly with boxer engines and AWD systems.

Legacy Outback Origin:

Introduced in 1995 as the 'Outback Sport' based on the Legacy wagon, becoming a distinct model to offer increased ride height and rugged styling, differentiating itself from typical station wagons and early SUVs.

Second Generation Features:

The second generation (BH/BE) refined the concept with more powerful engines, improved interiors, and updated styling. The Outback variant specifically received a suspension lift and body cladding for its adventurous image.

Production Years For Bh Outback:

1999-2004

Manufacturing Location:

Gunma Prefecture, Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver તિહાસ:

The Outback, in its various generations, has frequently appeared on Car and Driver's '10Best' lists and has been recognized for its utility and value.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Generally rated as average to above average for reliability by consumer organizations, with specific areas like head gaskets being noted for potential concern.