🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Outback

Year:

2010

Legacy Generation:

Fifth Generation (BM/BR)

Outback Generation:

Fourth Generation (BR)

Chassis Codes:

BM (Legacy Sedan), BR (Legacy Wagon & Outback)

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Mid-size sedan and crossover wagon, known for all-wheel drive capabilities and practicality.

Competitors Legacy:

Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Mazda Mazda6, Nissan Altima, Ford Fusion.

Competitors Outback:

Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Nissan Rogue, Mazda CX-5.

Subaru Core Values:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on most trims), Boxer engine, safety, durability.

Model Unique Selling Points:

Outback's increased ground clearance and rugged styling differentiating it from the Legacy sedan.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Regions:

North America

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanicals, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions control, engine performance diagnostics, ECU/PCM operation.

Transmission Systems:

Automatic transmission (4EAT/5EAT) and Manual transmission (5MT/6MT) diagnostics, repair, maintenance, fluid specifications, shift control.

Drivetrain Systems:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, front and rear differentials, drive shafts, CV joints, hub bearings.

Suspension Systems:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, coil springs, control arms, sway bars, steering knuckle, wheel alignment specifications.

Braking Systems:

Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), ABS, EBD, brake fluid specifications, caliper and rotor replacement, bleeding procedures.

Steering Systems:

Power steering system (hydraulic), steering column, steering rack, tie rods, power steering fluid.

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system, starter, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, mirrors, locks, wipers, horns, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.

HVAC Systems:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant, compressor, evaporator, condenser, blower motor, climate control diagnostics.

Body And Trim:

Exterior panels, interior trim, doors, hood, trunk/liftgate, bumpers, glass, weather stripping.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system (SRS), seat belts, pretensioners, diagnostic procedures for safety systems.

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes (coolant, brake, power steering, transmission, differential), spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, tire rotation.

Repair Procedures:

Engine component removal and installation (e.g., alternator, starter, water pump), transmission removal and installation, brake pad and rotor replacement, suspension component replacement, exhaust system repair, dashboard removal, door panel removal.

Diagnostic Procedures:

OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides, wiring diagram interpretation, sensor testing, actuator testing.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Detailed step-by-step troubleshooting for common and uncommon vehicle issues, electrical faults, engine performance problems, transmission shifting issues.

Technical Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine data, transmission data, electrical component resistance values, alignment angles.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive and detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, including power distribution, ground points, and circuit tracing.

Depth:

Factory-level diagnostic and repair procedures, including advanced diagnostics, component-level testing, and complete rebuild instructions where applicable.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Searchable text content for quick information retrieval.

Printable:

Printable pages for hard copy reference.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution for clear diagrams and illustrations.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Legacy Outback:

EJ253 (2.5L Naturally Aspirated Boxer)

Engine Displacement 2.5L:

2.5 liters (2457 cc)

Engine Type 2.5L:

Naturally Aspirated SOHC Flat-4 (Boxer)

Horsepower 2.5L Na:

170 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque 2.5L Na:

170 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine Code 3.6R:

EZ36D (3.6L Naturally Aspirated Boxer)

Engine Displacement 3.6R:

3.6 liters (3630 cc)

Engine Type 3.6R:

Naturally Aspirated DOHC Flat-6 (Boxer)

Horsepower 3.6R:

256 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque 3.6R:

247 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Compression Ratio 2.5L:

10.2:1

Bore X Stroke 2.5L:

99.5 mm x 79.0 mm

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Recommended Octane:

87 Octane (minimum)

🔧 Transmission

Legacy Transmission:

5-Speed Manual Transmission (5MT)

Outback Transmission Standard:

5-Speed Automatic Transmission (5EAT)

Legacy Transmission Optional:

5-Speed Automatic Transmission (5EAT)

Outback Transmission Optional:

None (5EAT standard for 2010 Outback)

AWD System:

Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on all trims)

5Eat Features:

Subaru's electronically controlled 5-speed automatic transmission with manual mode (Driver Shift Control).

Manual Transmission Features:

Standard 5-speed manual, potentially 6-speed for select higher trims/engines not explicitly detailed in base product info.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Subaru ATF-HP (refer to manual for exact part number and type)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Subaru 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (refer to manual for exact part number and type)

📐 Dimensions

Legacy Sedan Length:

Approximately 189.2 inches

Outback Length:

Approximately 188.4 inches

Outback Width:

Approximately 71.7 inches

Outback Height:

Approximately 65.4 inches

Outback Ground Clearance:

8.7 inches

Outback Cargo Volume Rear Seats Up:

Approximately 34.5 cubic feet

Outback Cargo Volume Rear Seats Down:

Approximately 71.3 cubic feet

Curb Weight Range:

Approximately 3300 - 3700 lbs (depending on trim and engine)

Towing Capacity Outback:

2700 lbs (with optional trailer hitch)

🛡️ Safety Features

IIHS Top Safety Pick 2010:

Yes (for both Legacy and Outback)

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:

5-Star (Driver and Passenger)

NHTSA Side Impact Rating:

5-Star (Front and Rear Passenger)

NHTSA Rollover Rating:

4-Star

Standard AWD:

Provides enhanced traction and stability.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System

Ebd:

Electronic Brake-force Distribution

Vsc:

Vehicle Stability Control (also known as Electronic Stability Control)

Airbags:

Front airbags, front side airbags, side curtain airbags.

Seatbelts:

3-point height-adjustable front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, rear 3-point seat belts.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System Options:

Base audio system with CD player, MP3 capability, and auxiliary input. Optional premium audio systems with subwoofer, Bluetooth, and satellite radio might be available depending on trim.

Navigation System:

Optional factory-integrated touch-screen navigation system.

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control.

Rear View Camera:

Optional on some trims, integrated with navigation or audio display.

Bluetooth:

Available Bluetooth hands-free connectivity on higher trims.

Usb Port:

Available USB port for audio device connectivity on some trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles with severe use, or 7,500 miles with synthetic oil and normal use (refer to manual for precise conditions and Subaru's recommended intervals).

Engine Oil Filter Replacement:

Replace at every oil change.

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or at 30,000 miles (more frequently in dusty conditions).

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or at 30,000 miles.

Spark Plug Replacement 2.5L:

Replace at 60,000 miles (iridium type).

Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace at 30,000 miles if used for heavy towing or severe conditions. Consult manual for standard interval.

Transmission Fluid Change Manual:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace at 30,000 miles if used for heavy towing or severe conditions. Consult manual for standard interval.

Coolant Replacement:

First change at 105,000 miles, then every 52,500 miles thereafter (Subaru Super Coolant).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 0W-20 Synthetic (preferred for fuel economy and cold-weather performance)

Engine Oil Capacity 2.5L:

4.8 US Quarts (with filter)

Engine Oil Capacity 3.6R:

6.9 US Quarts (with filter)

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent HOAT coolant.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Subaru Genuine ATF or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid.

Head Gasket Concern:

While Subaru's head gasket issues were more prevalent in earlier generations (pre-2005), some 2010 models, particularly the EJ253, may still experience head gasket leaks over time. The EJ253 used a different head gasket design than the problematic multi-layer steel (MLS) gaskets of older engines. This manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.

Catalytic Converter Premature Failure:

Some owners have reported premature failure of catalytic converters, often linked to engine misfires or oil consumption. The manual will cover diagnostic procedures for exhaust system issues.

Suspension Noise:

Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, often related to worn bushings, sway bar links, or strut mounts. Detailed inspection and replacement guides are included.

Cv Axle Boots:

Torn CV axle boots can lead to grease leakage and eventual axle failure. The manual provides replacement procedures for axles and boots.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Origins:

Founded in 1953, Fuji Heavy Industries (now Subaru Corporation) has a history in aviation and automotive manufacturing, known for its commitment to AWD and boxer engines.

Legacy Introduction:

First introduced in 1989 as a replacement for the Subaru Leone.

Outback Introduction:

Originally launched in 1995 as the 'Liberty Outback' in Australia and 'Legacy Outback' elsewhere, a more rugged, wagon-based variant of the Legacy.

Fifth Gen Legacy Debut:

The fifth generation Legacy (BM/BR) debuted for the 2010 model year, featuring a longer wheelbase and a larger overall size than previous generations. It was notably designed with the North American market as a primary focus.

Fourth Gen Outback Debut:

The fourth generation Outback (BR) shared its platform with the fifth generation Legacy, with distinct body styling, increased ride height, and standard roof rails.

Manufacturing Location:

Lafayette, Indiana, USA (for North American market models)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Awarded 'Top Safety Pick' by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for multiple years, including the 2010 model.

Kbb Best Resale Value:

Subaru models often receive recognition for strong residual values from publications like Kelley Blue Book (KBB).

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Consumer Reports often ranks Subaru vehicles favorably for reliability and owner satisfaction, though specific model year ratings should be consulted.