🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Legacy Outback

Year:

2004

Chassis Code:

BP (Wagon), BL (Sedan)

Engine Code Primary:

EJ253 (2.5L SOHC)

Engine Code Optional:

EJ255 (2.5L Turbocharged DOHC - GT models)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size Crossover/Wagon, known for its All-Wheel Drive system and versatility.

Competitors:

Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra, Chevrolet Equinox (though Outback is more wagon-like than some SUV competitors).

Standard AWD:

Subaru's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is standard across all trims, enhancing traction and stability.

Ground Clearance:

Higher ground clearance compared to standard sedans, offering better capability in inclement weather and light off-road situations.

Practicality:

Spacious interior for its class, versatile cargo area, and roof rails for additional carrying capacity.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Full Service, Repair, Workshop

Estimated Pages:

Approx. 2500-3000+ (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals of this era)

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, emissions, turbocharged systems (if applicable)

Transmission:

Manual transmission (5-speed), automatic transmission (4-speed), clutch, driveline, axles, differentials

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (front and rear disc, ABS, parking brake)

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, ignition, instrument cluster, body control modules, comfort and convenience systems, power accessories, wiring diagrams

Body:

Exterior body panels, interior trim, glass, doors, windows, locks, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), safety systems (airbags, seat belts)

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt replacement

Repair:

Engine overhaul, transmission repair/rebuild, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, steering system service, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, body panel repair

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical circuit diagnosis

Diagnostics:

On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) system, sensor testing, actuator testing, ECU/ECM diagnosis

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

Quality:

High-resolution, searchable PDF. Likely includes printable pages.

Printability:

Designed for home printing of specific sections or the entire manual.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Description:

2.5L (2457cc) Naturally Aspirated SOHC EJ253 Boxer-4 Engine

Bore X Stroke:

99.5 mm x 79.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.7:1

Horsepower Est:

165-175 hp @ 5600-6000 rpm

Torque Est:

166-170 lb-ft @ 3600-4000 rpm

Description:

2.5L (2457cc) Turbocharged DOHC EJ255 Boxer-4 Engine (GT models)

Horsepower Est:

250 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque Est:

250 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm

Type:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended for non-turbo, premium recommended for turbo)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Type:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission with OD (Overdrive) and Grade Logic Control

AWD Integration:

Integrated with Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. Manual transmission typically features viscous coupling center differential; automatic transmission features electronically controlled active AWD.

📐 Dimensions

Length Est:

4655 mm (183.3 inches) for Wagon

Width Est:

1770 mm (69.7 inches)

Height Est:

1570 mm (61.8 inches) for Wagon

Wheelbase Est:

2670 mm (105.1 inches)

Ground Clearance Est:

Approx. 8.4 inches (213 mm)

Cargo Volume Est Wagon:

Approx. 32.1 cu ft (seats up), 67.6 cu ft (seats down)

Curb Weight Est:

1500-1650 kg (3300-3640 lbs) depending on trim and transmission

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Driver:

Good (2004 model year testing)

NHTSA Front Passenger:

Good (2004 model year testing)

IIHS Front Offset:

Good (2004 model year testing)

AWD:

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

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on all models.

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCS) on some models.

Airbags:

Frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags (standard on most trims).

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters for front occupants.

💡 Technology Features

System:

Basic AM/FM/CD player with auxiliary input on some models. Optional premium audio systems may be present.

Features:

Primarily focused on mechanical safety systems like AWD and ABS. No advanced electronic driver assistance systems like adaptive cruise control or lane keeping assist were standard or widely available.

Features:

Limited to optional satellite radio integration on higher trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months (severe driving) / 7,500 miles or 7.5 months (normal driving), using synthetic oil highly recommended for boxer engines.

Air Filter:

Replace every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on plug type, iridium recommended).

Coolant:

Flush and replace every 30,000 miles or 3 years.

Transmission Fluid:

Automatic: Check periodically, replace every 30,000-60,000 miles. Manual: Replace fluid every 60,000 miles.

Engine Oil:

SAE 5W-30, API SG/SH/SJ or ILSAC GF-2/GF-3 rated (synthetic recommended).

Coolant:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent - 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Transmission Fluid Auto:

Subaru ATF-HP or Dexron III/Mercon equivalent.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

SAE 75W-90 GL-5 Gear Oil.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Head Gaskets:

While less prevalent than in earlier generations, head gasket leaks can still occur on EJ25 engines, especially if overheated or maintenance is neglected. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.

Catalytic Converter:

Can degrade over time, potentially causing reduced engine performance and check engine lights. The manual covers diagnosis.

Suspension Components:

Wear on bushings, ball joints, and sway bar links is common due to mileage and driving conditions. Detailed procedures for inspection and replacement are in the manual.

Cv Axles:

The boots can tear, leading to grease leakage and eventual CV joint failure. The manual provides replacement instructions.

📚 Vehicle History

Focus:

Subaru is renowned for its horizontally opposed ('boxer') engines and standard All-Wheel Drive systems, emphasizing performance and safety.

Generation:

This 2004 model represents the third generation of the Subaru Outback, which was introduced as a distinct model from the Legacy sedan in 2005 (though the 2004 model still carried the Legacy Outback name).

Design Philosophy:

Built on the Legacy platform but with increased ride height, cladding, and a wagon-like body style to create a more rugged, versatile vehicle.

Manufacturing Location:

Gunma Plant, Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Year Awards:

Subaru Outback models often received positive reviews from automotive publications for their all-weather capability and practicality. While specific 2004 awards might be niche, the model line consistently performed well in segment comparisons for its unique strengths.