Segment:
Mid-size Crossover/Wagon
Usp:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, wagon-like utility with SUV ground clearance, horizontally opposed 'Boxer' engines.
Key Competitors:
Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra, Chevrolet Equinox.
Design Philosophy:
Rugged yet refined, practical all-weather capability, balanced handling.
Powertrain Emphasis:
Focus on Subaru's signature Boxer engine and Symmetrical AWD for enhanced traction and stability.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine electrical, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system, lubrication system, ignition system, emission control systems.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission, clutch, driveshafts, differentials, all-wheel drive system (Symmetrical AWD).
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS, EBD), wheels, tires, chassis components.
Electrical Electronics:
Body electrical systems, lighting, instruments and gauges, power windows, locks, mirrors, audio system, climate control electronics, engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics, immobilizer system.
Body Interior:
Body construction, exterior panels, doors, windows, roof, interior trim, seats, airbags, body seals, corrosion protection.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant replacement, belt inspection/replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), component testing, wiring diagrams, sensor diagnostics, ECM diagnosis.
Repair:
Component removal and installation, engine overhauls, transmission rebuilds, suspension component replacement, brake caliper replacement, steering rack replacement, body panel repair.
Specifications Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, component dimensions, timing procedures.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive Factory Level (covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including diagnostics and electrical schematics).
Engine Displacement Na:
2.5 Liters (2498cc)
Engine Type Na:
DOHC 16-valve horizontally opposed (Boxer) 4-cylinder
Horsepower Na:
Approx. 165-175 hp @ 5600-6000 rpm (varies slightly)
Torque Na:
Approx. 166-170 lb-ft @ 3600-4000 rpm (varies slightly)
Engine Displacement Turbo:
2.5 Liters (2457cc)
Engine Type Turbo:
DOHC 16-valve turbocharged horizontally opposed (Boxer) 4-cylinder
Horsepower Turbo:
Approx. 243-250 hp @ 5600 rpm (XT models)
Torque Turbo:
Approx. 247-250 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (XT models)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port fuel injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Recommended Octane Na:
87 Octane
Recommended Octane Turbo:
91 Octane or higher
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4 out of 5 stars (for 2005 models)
IIHS Front Crash Rating:
Good
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Good
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags Front:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Airbags Side:
Available front side-impact airbags, available front and rear side-curtain airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point height-adjustable front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters, 3-point rear seatbelts.
Child Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD player. Optional premium audio systems may be available. Aux input typically found on later models or aftermarket.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on some higher trim levels.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Bluetooth:
Not typically factory-equipped for audio streaming or hands-free calling in these model years. Aftermarket solutions are common.
System Type:
Manual climate control or optional automatic climate control with cabin air filtration.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (severe driving conditions) / 7,500 miles or 12 months (normal driving conditions) - consult manual for specifics.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Iridium-tipped spark plugs: Every 105,000 miles.
Timing Belt Replacement:
N/A (This generation uses a timing chain).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-20 (preferred) or 5W-30. API Certified.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.4 US quarts (4.2 liters) with filter for 2.5L NA engine.
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent; typically a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-5 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Subaru ATF-HP (High Performance) or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon.
Differential Fluid:
API GL-5 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (Front and Rear differentials).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Head Gaskets:
While less prevalent than in earlier generations, head gasket leaks can still occur. Symptoms include coolant loss, overheating, or white smoke from exhaust.
Wheel Bearings:
Front wheel bearings can wear out, leading to humming or grinding noises that change with speed and steering input.
Cv Axle Boots:
Torn CV axle boots can lead to loss of grease and contamination, eventually requiring CV axle replacement.
Rear Differential Leaks:
Small leaks from the rear differential seal can occur over time.
Catalytic Converter:
Catalytic converters can become clogged or fail, leading to reduced engine performance and check engine lights.
Subaru Identity:
Subaru, a division of Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries), is known for its engineering prowess, particularly with Boxer engines and its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, often catering to outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking reliable all-weather capability.
Legacy Outback Origin:
The Outback originated as a trim package on the Subaru Legacy station wagon, introduced in 1995 as the 'Sus Legacy Outback'. It was later spun off as its own distinct model, characterized by increased ground clearance, body cladding, and a more rugged appearance, effectively creating the crossover segment.
Third Generation:
The 2005-2007 models represent the third generation of the Subaru Outback (chassis code BP/BPE). This generation featured a more refined exterior design, improved interior quality, and updated powertrains compared to its predecessor.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Gunma, Japan.
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
The Outback consistently performed well in IIHS crash tests, often earning 'Good' ratings in front and side impacts.
Car And Driver Best SUVs:
Subaru Outback was often featured in 'Car and Driver's 10Best' lists for its category due to its practicality and performance.
Consumer Reports:
Generally received average to above-average reliability ratings from Consumer Reports, with specific model years and components having better track records than others.