Positioning:
The 2009 Subaru Outback solidified its place as a capable, all-wheel-drive crossover wagon appealing to families and outdoor enthusiasts seeking versatility and standard safety features. It bridged the gap between traditional wagons and SUVs.
Competitors:
Key competitors included the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Edge, and Nissan Murano, though the Outback's standard AWD and wagon-like utility offered a distinct value proposition.
Distinguishing Features:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Boxer engine for a low center of gravity, spacious interior, good cargo capacity, and enhanced ground clearance compared to many competitors.
Value Proposition:
This officially licensed software manual provides factory-level accuracy for all maintenance, repair, and diagnostic procedures, ensuring correct service and maximizing the longevity and performance of the 2009 Subaru Outback.
Powertrain:
Engine (2.5L Naturally Aspirated & Turbocharged), Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Drivetrain (Symmetrical AWD)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS, EBD, Brake Assist), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Body Control Modules (BCM), Powertrain Control Modules (PCM), Lighting, HVAC Controls, Audio System, Instrument Cluster, SRS (Airbag) System, Immobilizer
Body:
Exterior Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Liftgate, Bumpers, Glass, Interior Trim, Seats
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), Inspection Procedures
Repair:
Engine Mechanical (timing belt, cylinder head, pistons), Fuel System (injectors, pump), Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Transmission Repair (overhaul, clutch replacement), Brake System Repair (rotors, pads, calipers), Suspension Component Replacement (struts, ball joints), Steering Rack Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, Body Panel Repair and Replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Flowcharts, OBD-II Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Specific Component Testing Procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Engine 1:
2.5L EJ253 SOHC Naturally Aspirated Flat-4 Boxer
Engine 2:
2.5L EJ255 DOHC Turbocharged Flat-4 Boxer (GT models)
Horsepower 2.5I:
170 hp @ 5,800 rpm
Torque 2.5I:
170 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm
Horsepower 2.5Gt:
243 hp @ 5,200 rpm
Torque 2.5Gt:
283 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane (91 octane recommended for 2.5GT)
Bore X Stroke Ej253:
99.5 mm x 79.0 mm
Compression Ratio Ej253:
10.0:1
Bore X Stroke Ej255:
99.5 mm x 79.0 mm
Compression Ratio Ej255:
8.4:1
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
105,000 miles or 105 months (Critical item for EJ engines)
Transmission 2.5I:
5-speed Manual Transmission (5MT)
Transmission Optional 2.5I And Gt:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT)
Drivetrain Type:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) - standard on all trims
AWD System Manual:
Viscous-coupling limited-slip center differential (VCD)
AWD System Automatic:
Active All-Wheel Drive (Electronically controlled multi-plate clutch)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Subaru ATF HP (or equivalent)
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil
NHTSA Overall Rating:
4/5 Stars (for models equipped with side curtain airbags)
IIHS Rating:
Good (Frontal Offset, Side Impact) - varies slightly by specific test configuration
Active Safety:
Standard Symmetrical AWD, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA)
Passive Safety:
Front Airbags, Front Side-Impact Airbags, Front and Rear Side Curtain Airbags (optional/standard on higher trims), Active Front Head Restraints, Crumple Zones
Infotainment System:
Factory CD/MP3 player with auxiliary input, optional navigation system available. Basic but functional audio controls.
Driver Assistance Features:
ABS, EBD, Brake Assist. Limited advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) compared to modern vehicles.
Connectivity Options:
Auxiliary audio input jack.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe conditions) / 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal conditions) - consult manual for specific driving conditions.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (NGK Platinum or Iridium recommended)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-20 (API SG or higher for 2.5i, check manual for turbo)
Engine Oil Capacity Ej253:
4.8 US quarts (4.5 liters) with filter
Engine Oil Capacity Ej255:
5.0 US quarts (4.7 liters) with filter
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Issues:
Head gasket leaks (less common than older EJ engines but still possible), automatic transmission shifting issues, potential for oil leaks from seals, catalytic converter issues on higher mileage vehicles.
Subaru Heritage:
Subaru, a division of Fuji Heavy Industries, has a long history of producing reliable vehicles, particularly known for its pioneering use of All-Wheel Drive in passenger cars.
Outback Evolution:
The 2009 model represents the third generation of the Subaru Outback (2005-2009), which saw a significant redesign increasing its size and utility, moving it further into the crossover segment.
Production Location:
Lafayette, Indiana, USA (Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Inc. - SIA)
Production Years:
2005-2009 (for this generation)
