Segment:
Mid-size Sedan/Wagon
Positioning:
Known for its standard All-Wheel Drive system, reliable boxer engines, and practical design.
Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Malibu.
AWD:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive offered on most configurations, enhancing traction and handling.
Engine Type:
Horizontally opposed (Boxer) engines, contributing to a lower center of gravity.
Body Styles:
Offered in sedan and wagon (often referred to as 'Outback Sport' or 'Grand Wagon' in some markets) body styles.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, valve train, pistons, crankshaft, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system, ignition system, emissions control.
Engine Management:
ECU diagnosis, sensor data, actuator control, troubleshooting P-codes and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Transmission Manual:
Clutch system, gearbox overhaul, gear shift mechanism, service specifications.
Transmission Automatic:
Transmission overhaul, valve body, torque converter, transmission control module (TCM), fluid specifications, troubleshooting.
Drivetrain:
Front and rear differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, AWD system operation and maintenance.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, troubleshooting.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, brake fluid, calipers, pads, rotors, ABS system (if equipped), parking brake.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, diagnostic connectors.
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, seats, airbags, HVAC system, door mechanisms, glass replacement.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks: oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspections and replacements, spark plug replacement.
Repair:
Component replacement and repair: engine components, transmission, suspension parts, brake system components, electrical modules, body panels.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and uncommon faults across all vehicle systems, including DTC interpretation.
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic flowcharts, testing procedures for sensors and actuators, scan tool usage guidance.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values, alignment data.
Depth:
Comprehensive, factory-level detail covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced diagnostics.
Engine Options:
2.2L EJ22 (SOHC), 2.5L EJ25 (SOHC and DOHC), 2.0L EJ20 (turbocharged variants, e.g., GT/STI versions, though less common in base US models).
Ej22 Horsepower:
Approx. 135 hp @ 5500 rpm
Ej22 Torque:
Approx. 140 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Ej25 Sohc Horsepower:
Approx. 165 hp @ 5600 rpm
Ej25 Sohc Torque:
Approx. 166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Ej25 DOHc Horsepower:
Approx. 175 hp @ 6000 rpm
Ej25 DOHc Torque:
Approx. 175 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Injection Type:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Configuration:
SOHC (Single Overhead Cam) or DOHC (Double Overhead Cam), 4 valves per cylinder.
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic Transmission with Lock-up Torque Converter
AWD Coupling:
Manual transmission features viscous coupling center differential. Automatic transmission features electronically controlled active transfer clutch.
Manual Trans Fluid Spec:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (hypoid gear oil)
Automatic Trans Fluid Spec:
Subaru ATF-HP or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
4/5 stars (for 2000 model)
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
4/5 stars (for 2000 model)
ABS:
Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on most models.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seatbelts, driver's seatbelt pretensioner.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months (whichever comes first) for severe driving conditions; 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months for normal conditions (refer to manual for precise details).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Recommended every 105,000 miles (168,000 km) or 7 years for EJ25 engines. EJ22 engines use a timing chain, generally considered maintenance-free.
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or at least every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for platinum-tipped plugs, or 60,000-100,000 miles for iridium plugs if equipped.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30, API SH or higher, ILSAC GF-2 or higher (consult owner's manual for exact specification and viscosity based on temperature).
Coolant Type:
Subaru Genuine Super Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid
Head Gasket Leaks:
While the EJ25 SOHC engine in this generation is generally more robust than some earlier iterations, head gasket leaks can still occur, particularly in higher mileage vehicles. The DOHC engine is also susceptible. Monitoring coolant levels and checking for coolant in oil are key checks.
Oil Consumption:
Some EJ25 engines, especially those with higher mileage, may exhibit increased oil consumption. Regular oil level checks are crucial.
Awt Failure:
The viscous center coupling in the manual transmission AWD system can wear out over time, leading to a less effective AWD performance. Automatic transmission AWD clutches can also wear.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings and struts/shocks are typical wear items on any vehicle of this age and mileage, impacting ride quality and handling.
Subaru Identity:
Subaru, a division of Subaru Corporation, is known for its distinctive horizontally opposed ('boxer') engines and its pioneering use of All-Wheel Drive (AWD) in passenger cars.
Third Generation:
The 2000 model year marks the beginning of the third generation (2000-2004) of the Subaru Legacy, introducing a new platform, refined styling, and updated powertrains.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in Gunma, Japan.
Global Availability:
Sold globally in various configurations and engine sizes, including turbocharged variants in performance-oriented models.