🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Outback

Model Variant:

Legacy Outback

Year:

2009-2011

Chassis Code:

BP/BL (Third Generation, specifically the latter half/facelift)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size Crossover/Station Wagon, often positioned as a more practical and all-weather alternative to traditional sedans and SUVs.

Key Competitors:

Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Nissan Murano, Volkswagen Passat Alltrack (depending on market).

Defining Characteristics:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, elevated ground clearance, Subaru boxer engine, reputation for safety and durability.

Ideal Owner:

Individuals and families seeking a versatile vehicle for everyday use, outdoor activities, and varying weather conditions.

📋 Manual Details

Overall Coverage:

Comprehensive factory service and repair for all systems and components.

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (typically 2000+ pages for factory manuals of this era).

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

Downloadable PDF (suitable for computer, tablet, smartphone)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, ignition system.

Drivetrain:

Manual transmission, automatic transmission (including Lineartronic CVT for later models), all-wheel drive system (Symmetrical AWD), differentials, driveshafts, axles.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, power steering system, steering column.

Brakes:

Brake system diagnostics, hydraulic components, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), parking brake.

Electrical Electronics:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting systems, body control modules, instrument cluster, audio system, navigation system, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), wiring diagrams.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system components, controls, refrigerant handling.

Body Chassis:

Body construction, interior trim, exterior panels, doors, glass, bumpers, chassis components.

Safety Restraint:

Airbag systems, seat belts, SRS module.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt replacement.

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides, specific component testing procedures.

Repair Rebuild:

Engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair.

Installation Adjustment:

Component installation (e.g., alternators, starters), alignment procedures, clutch adjustment.

Depth:

Factory-level detail, including torque specifications, component removal and installation sequences, diagnostic flowcharts, and wiring diagrams.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Text-searchable (allows for quick finding of specific information).

Resolution:

High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or sections.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Download)

Licensing Model:

One-time purchase, no expiry dates, unlimited use.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

EJ253 (2.5L SOHC NA)

Engine Displacement 1:

2.5 Liters

Engine Configuration 1:

Horizontally-opposed (Boxer), 4-cylinder

Horsepower 1:

Approximately 170 hp @ 5800 rpm

Torque 1:

Approximately 170 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel Induction 1:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Engine Type 1:

Naturally Aspirated

Engine Code 2:

EZ30D (3.0L DOHC NA)

Engine Displacement 2:

3.0 Liters

Engine Configuration 2:

Horizontally-opposed (Boxer), 6-cylinder

Horsepower 2:

Approximately 245 hp @ 6600 rpm

Torque 2:

Approximately 215 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm

Fuel Induction 2:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Engine Type 2:

Naturally Aspirated

Recommended Fuel:

87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline (for 2.5L), 89 Octane Premium Unleaded Gasoline recommended for 3.0L for optimal performance.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Std:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type Opt:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT)

Transmission Type Opt Cv:

For later 2011 models, Lineartronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) might be available on some trims, though more common on 2012+ models.

AWD System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with viscous coupling center differential (manual) or electronically controlled multi-plate transfer clutch (automatic).

Manual Trans Fluid:

Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil 75W-90 or equivalent API GL-5.

Automatic Trans Fluid:

Subaru ATF-HP (High Performance) or equivalent.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 187.6 inches (4765 mm)

Width:

Approx. 70.1 inches (1780 mm)

Height:

Approx. 61.4 inches (1560 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 104.3 inches (2650 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 8.1 inches (206 mm)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:

Approx. 34.7 cu ft (983 L)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:

Approx. 70.6 cu ft (2000 L)

Curb Weight Approx:

3400-3600 lbs (1542-1633 kg) depending on engine and transmission.

🛡️ Safety Features

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Generally awarded IIHS Top Safety Pick for these model years, reflecting strong performance in crash tests.

NHTSA Ratings:

Frontal, side, and rollover ratings typically performed by NHTSA, with Subaru models generally scoring well.

Standard Active Safety:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist.

Standard Passive Safety:

Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags (front and rear), active front head restraints, front seat belt pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard CD player with AM/FM radio, auxiliary input. Optional premium audio systems available with subwoofer and amplifier. Bluetooth connectivity was not standard on all trims.

Navigation:

Optional factory-installed touchscreen navigation system available on higher trims.

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control.

Traction Control:

Traction Control System (TCS) and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) standard on most models.

Usb Port:

Not typically standard; some aftermarket integration might be possible.

Remote Keyless Entry:

Standard on most trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months, or 7,500 miles or 7.5 months for synthetic oil under normal driving conditions (refer to manual for severe conditions).

Air Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 15,000 miles or 15 months, or more frequently in dusty conditions.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 15,000 miles or 15 months.

Spark Plug Replacement:

105,000 miles for Iridium-tipped spark plugs (standard on these models).

Timing Belt Or Chain:

These models utilize a timing chain for the EJ253 and EZ30D engines, which does not require periodic replacement like a timing belt.

Engine Oil Capacity 2.5L:

4.8 US quarts (4.5 L) with filter. Recommended oil: 5W-30, API SN or newer, ILSAC GF-5 or newer.

Engine Oil Capacity 3.0L:

5.8 US quarts (5.5 L) with filter. Recommended oil: 5W-30, API SN or newer, ILSAC GF-5 or newer.

Coolant:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant. Capacity approx. 7.1 US quarts (6.7 L).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Head Gasket Leaks:

While less prevalent than in earlier Subaru generations, head gasket leaks can still occur on the EJ253 engine, particularly as mileage increases. Early detection is key.

Catalytic Converter Issues:

Premature failure of catalytic converters can sometimes occur due to engine misfires or oil consumption.

Suspension Wear:

Sway bar links, bushings, and struts can wear over time due to road conditions and vehicle usage, impacting ride quality and handling.

Automatic Transmission Care:

Regular fluid changes for the 4EAT transmission are crucial for longevity. Some models may experience solenoid issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Philosophy:

Subaru, a division of Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries), is known for its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive systems, horizontally-opposed boxer engines, and commitment to safety and reliability.

Outback Origin:

The Outback originated as a rugged, lifted version of the Subaru Legacy station wagon in the early 1990s. It established the crossover utility vehicle (CUV) segment.

Third Gen Legacy Outback:

The third generation (BP/BL chassis) was introduced for the 2005 model year, with a significant facelift for the 2008 model year that included updated styling, interior refinements, and powertrain improvements, carrying through to 2011.

Manufacturing Location:

Gunma Plant, Subaru Corporation, Japan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Awards:

Subaru vehicles, including the Outback, have consistently received high safety ratings from organizations like the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for this generation.

Consumer Satisfaction:

Subaru generally enjoys strong consumer satisfaction ratings for reliability and owner loyalty.

Emissions Standards:

Meets EPA and CARB emissions standards for its model years.