🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Outback

Generation Designation:

Third Generation (BP/BL)

Production Years:

2005-2009

Chassis Codes:

BP (wagon), BL (sedan - though Outback primarily wagon)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size Crossover SUV / Station Wagon with standard AWD

Unique Selling Proposition:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Outback's raised ground clearance, wagon-like practicality with SUV styling.

Key Competitors:

Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra, Mazda CX-7

Vehicle Features Highlighted:

Standard AWD, boxer engines, spacious interior, durable build, higher ground clearance than many competitors.

📋 Manual Details

Regions Covered:

Global (primarily North America, Europe, Australia based on typical Subaru market distribution for this era)

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

2.5L Naturally Aspirated (EJ253), 3.0L H6 Naturally Aspirated (EZ30D), 2.5L Turbocharged (EJ255 - for XT models)

Transmission:

5-speed Manual, 4-speed Automatic (4EAT/430LE), 5-speed Automatic (5EAT/TG5A)

Drivetrain:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) System, differentials, driveshafts, CV joints

Brakes:

Front ventilated discs, Rear solid discs (standard), ABS, Brake assist

Suspension:

Front MacPherson struts with lower control arms, Rear multi-link independent suspension

Steering:

Hydraulic power steering

Electrical:

Charging system (alternator, battery), Ignition system, Lighting, Instrumentation, Power accessories, ECU and sensors, Body control modules, Immobilizer

HVAC:

Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, climate control systems

Body:

Body panels, doors, windows, sunroof, interior trim, chassis, structural components, collision repair information

Safety Systems:

Airbags (SRS), seatbelt systems

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid flushes, belt inspections and replacement, brake pad/rotor replacement, tire rotation

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor testing, circuit analysis

Repair:

Engine internal repairs (e.g., head gasket, timing belt/chain), transmission overhaul, brake system repairs, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair, body panel repair

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, resistance values, voltages

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical wiring schematics for all systems

Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostics and electrical troubleshooting

📊 Manual Specifications

PDF Quality:

High-resolution scans, text-searchable

Printability:

Printable pages

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Completeness:

Full Factory Service Manual, covering all aspects of service and repair

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2457 cc)

Engine 1 Configuration:

Naturally Aspirated, Horizontally Opposed (Boxer) 4-Cylinder

Engine 1 Code:

EJ253

Engine 1 Horsepower:

Approx. 170 hp @ 6000 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

Approx. 170 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Engine 2 Displacement:

3.0 Liters (2999 cc)

Engine 2 Configuration:

Naturally Aspirated, Horizontally Opposed (Boxer) 6-Cylinder

Engine 2 Code:

EZ30D

Engine 2 Horsepower:

Approx. 245 hp @ 6600 rpm

Engine 2 Torque:

Approx. 215 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm

Engine 3 Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2457 cc)

Engine 3 Configuration:

Turbocharged, Horizontally Opposed (Boxer) 4-Cylinder

Engine 3 Code:

EJ255

Engine 3 Horsepower:

Approx. 243 hp @ 5600 rpm

Engine 3 Torque:

Approx. 276 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum, 91 octane recommended for Turbo models)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type 1:

5-Speed Manual

Transmission Type 2:

4-Speed Automatic (4EAT/430LE)

Transmission Type 3:

5-Speed Automatic (5EAT/TG5A) - available on higher trims and 3.0L models

AWD System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on all models). Manual transmission uses a viscous coupling center differential; automatic transmissions typically use an electronically controlled multi-plate transfer clutch.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 104.0 inches (2640 mm)

Length:

Approx. 188.8 inches (4795 mm)

Width:

Approx. 70.1 inches (1780 mm)

Height:

Approx. 61.6 inches (1565 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 8.1 inches (206 mm)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:

Approx. 34.7 cubic feet (983 liters)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:

Approx. 71.5 cubic feet (2025 liters)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3400 - 3800 lbs (1540 - 1725 kg) depending on engine and trim

Towing Capacity:

Up to 2400 lbs (1090 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash:

5-Star (Driver and Passenger) - 2005-2009 models often received top ratings.

IIHS Frontal Offset:

Good (for models tested, typically 2005-2008)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

E Brake:

Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)

Brake Assist:

Brake Assist (BA) standard on later models

Airbags:

Frontal airbags, side airbags, side curtain airbags (optional or standard depending on trim and year)

Seatbelts:

3-point height-adjustable front seatbelts with pretensioners, LATCH child seat anchors

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM/CD stereo systems, with optional premium audio (e.g., McIntosh) on some trims. Aux input may be present on later models or via aftermarket adapters.

Navigation:

Optional factory navigation system available on higher trim levels.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control

Traction Control:

Traction Control System (TCS) and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) standard on later models or available on certain trims.

Bluetooth:

Not typically factory-equipped for hands-free calling or audio streaming during this period. Bluetooth was an emerging technology. Manual covers any factory integration if present.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months with severe driving, 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months with normal driving. Check manual for specifics.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 (API SG, SH, SJ, SL, or SM rated) - Check manual for exact specification based on engine.

Transmission Fluid Type Manual:

GL-5 Gear Oil (e.g., 75W-90)

Transmission Fluid Type Auto 4Sp:

Subaru ATF-HP or equivalent

Transmission Fluid Type Auto 5Sp:

Subaru ATF-HP or equivalent

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant

Timing Belt Replacement:

Not applicable for these engine variants (EJ253, EZ30D, EJ255) which use timing chains or are interference engines requiring belt replacement. The EJ253 uses a timing belt. Interval typically 105,000 miles (170,000 km) or 7 years. Crucial to verify for specific model year and engine. EZ30D and EJ255 have timing chains. Manual will detail this.

Head Gaskets:

While the EJ253 engines in this generation are generally more robust than earlier EJ series, head gasket leaks can still occur. The manual will cover inspection and replacement procedures.

Catalytic Converter:

Premature failure, especially in areas with emissions testing, can be a concern. The manual will include diagnostic steps.

Rear Wheel Bearings:

Can wear prematurely, leading to humming or grinding noises. Manual will cover replacement.

Ac Compressor Clutch:

Failure of the AC compressor clutch can affect cooling performance. Manual covers AC system diagnostics.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Philosophy:

Known for Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, horizontally opposed boxer engines, and a focus on durability and capability.

Previous Generation:

Second Generation (BG/BH, 1998-2004)

Next Generation:

Fourth Generation (BR/BM, 2010-2014)

Assembly Location:

Ota, Gunma, Japan (Main)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Subaru Outback often received good safety ratings from IIHS, contributing to its reputation.

Car And Driver 10Best:

The Outback has historically been recognized by automotive publications for its utility and value.