Segment:
Mid-size Crossover SUV / Wagon
Key Competitors:
Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Nissan Rogue, Mazda CX-5.
Distinguishing Factors:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, horizontally-opposed 'Boxer' engines, excellent handling and ride comfort, practical cargo space, robust build quality.
Vehicle Philosophy:
Versatile wagon/SUV that blends car-like handling with all-weather capability and practical space.
Manual Value:
Essential for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics to maintain, diagnose, and repair the 2009 Subaru Legacy Outback effectively.
Engine:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emission control, starting, charging.
Transmission:
Automatic Transmission (4EAT, 5EAT) and Manual Transmission (5MT, 6MT) overhaul, diagnostics, and fluid services.
Drivetrain:
Front and rear differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, AWD system operation and repair.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications, shock absorbers, springs, bushings.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, column, alignment.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS, EBD, brake pads, rotors, calipers, lines, master cylinder, parking brake.
Electrical:
Charging system, starting system, battery, lighting, wipers, horn, power windows, mirrors, seats, locks, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system operation, diagnostics, refrigerant handling, climate control unit.
Body:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, interior trim, exterior trim, chassis structure.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, SRS components, seat belts, pretensioners, diagnostic procedures.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, fluid level checks, tire rotation, spark plug replacement, brake pad inspection.
Troubleshooting:
System-specific diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation.
Major Repairs:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake system bleeding, clutch replacement.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), live data interpretation, sensor testing, actuator testing.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams interpretation, continuity testing, voltage drop testing, signal tracing.
Depth:
Expert-level, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.
Transmission Type 2.5I:
5-Speed Manual Transmission (5MT)
Transmission Type 3.0R:
5-Speed Automatic Transmission (5EAT)
Transmission Type 2.5I Optional:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT)
AWD System:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with viscous coupling center differential (MT) or electronically controlled multi-plate transfer clutch (AT).
Transmission Fluid Spec 4Eat:
Subaru ATF HP (Dexron III/Mercon compatible)
Transmission Fluid Spec 5Eat:
Subaru ATF HP
Transmission Fluid Spec Manual:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star Driver and Passenger
NHTSA Side Impact:
5-Star Front and Rear Passengers
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Vsc:
Standard Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)
Airbags:
Standard front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, 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 in rear seats.
Head Unit Options:
Standard AM/FM/CD player with auxiliary input. Optional premium audio systems and subwoofer available. Some models may have optional navigation systems.
Display:
Multi-function display for climate, audio, and vehicle status information.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Power Adjustments:
Available power adjustable driver and passenger seats, power windows, power mirrors, power sunroof.
Auxiliary Input:
Standard 3.5mm auxiliary audio input jack.
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free connectivity and audio streaming on some trims/packages.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months (severe conditions) or 7,500 miles or 7.5 months (normal conditions), whichever comes first. Refer to manual for details.
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
At every oil change.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 15 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 15 months.
Spark Plug Replacement 2.5I:
105,000 miles ( iridium-tipped plugs).
Spark Plug Replacement 3.0R:
105,000 miles (iridium-tipped plugs).
Coolant Replacement:
First replacement at 7.5 years or 75,000 miles, then every 4 years or 45,000 miles thereafter.
Timing Belt Replacement:
N/A (This generation uses a timing chain).
Engine Oil Spec 2.5I:
SAE 0W-20 (API SN or ILSAC GF-5 compliant)
Engine Oil Spec 3.0R:
SAE 5W-30 (API SN or ILSAC GF-5 compliant)
Coolant Spec:
Subaru Super Coolant (or equivalent Subaru-approved P-OAT coolant).
Brake Fluid Spec:
SAE J1703 or FMVSS 116 DOT 3
Head Gaskets:
While less prevalent in the 2.5L SOHC engine compared to earlier DOHC versions, some instances may occur. The 3.0L H6 is generally more robust in this regard.
Suspension Wear:
Front sway bar links and rear trailing arm bushings can be common wear items due to vehicle weight and typical usage.
Automatic Transmission Concerns:
Some users report occasional hesitation or rough shifting with the 4EAT transmission; the 5EAT is generally smoother. Regular fluid changes are critical.
Wheel Bearings:
Can experience wear over time, particularly with high mileage or exposure to harsh conditions.
Brand Focus:
Subaru is renowned for its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system and boxer engines, emphasizing safety, reliability, and capability.
Third Generation:
The 2009 model year is part of the third generation (BP/BL) Legacy, which ran from 2003 to 2009. The Outback variant was introduced as a distinct model from the sedan/wagon Legacy in this generation.
Design Philosophy Third Gen:
A more refined and mature design compared to previous generations, offering increased interior space and improved aerodynamics.
Manufacturing Location:
Gunma Plant, Japan.