Segment:
Mid-size sedan (Legacy), Mid-size crossover wagon (Outback)
Differentiation:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive standard on all trims, boxer engine configuration, higher ground clearance (Outback)
Competitors Legacy:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Mazda6, Nissan Altima, Ford Fusion
Competitors Outback:
Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Mazda CX-5, Nissan Rogue
AWD Standard:
Subaru's renowned Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system is standard across all trims for enhanced traction and stability.
Boxer Engine:
Horizontally opposed (boxer) engine provides a lower center of gravity for improved handling and balance.
Ground Clearance Outback:
The Outback offers elevated ground clearance (typically 8.7 inches) for light off-road capability and adverse weather conditions.
Safety Focus:
Subaru's emphasis on safety, with strong chassis design and advanced safety features.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder heads, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing system (belts/chains), lubrication, cooling
Engine Performance:
Fuel delivery, ignition system, emissions control, engine diagnostics, turbocharging (if applicable)
Transmission Automatic:
Valve body, torque converter, planetary gear sets, transmission control module (TCM), fluid service
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox, shifting mechanisms, fluid service
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, front/rear differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, wheel bearings
Suspension:
Front suspension (struts, control arms, anti-roll bar), rear suspension (multi-link), springs, shock absorbers, alignment
Brakes:
Brake system components (master cylinder, calipers, rotors, pads), ABS, EBD, parking brake
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic or electric), steering column, tie rods, steering rack
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, accessories, wiring diagrams
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, locks, seats, trim, HVAC system, body control module (BCM)
Climate Control:
HVAC components, refrigerant system, climate control module, diagnostic procedures
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, seatbelt pre-tensioners, SRS module, related sensors and wiring
Driver Assistance:
SI-DRIVE system, cruise control, potentially adaptive cruise control (ACC) diagnostics
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical system diagnostics
Repair:
Component removal and installation, engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostics, sensor testing, actuator testing, wiring harness continuity checks
Specifications:
Torque specifications, fluid capacities, diagnostic parameters, electrical data
Depth:
Comprehensive: from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including complex electrical diagnostics and bodywork
Engine Code Legacy Base:
EJ253
Engine Type Legacy Base:
2.5L Naturally Aspirated SOHC EJ253 Boxer-4
Engine Code Legacy Gt:
EJ255
Engine Type Legacy Gt:
2.5L Turbocharged DOHC EJ255 Boxer-4
Engine Code Outback Base:
EJ253
Engine Type Outback Base:
2.5L Naturally Aspirated SOHC EJ253 Boxer-4
Engine Code Outback Xt:
EJ255
Engine Type Outback Xt:
2.5L Turbocharged DOHC EJ255 Boxer-4
Engine Code Outback 3.6R:
EZ36D
Engine Type Outback 3.6R:
3.6L Naturally Aspirated DOHC EZ36D Boxer-6
Horsepower 2.5L Na:
170 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque 2.5L Na:
170 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Horsepower 2.5L Turbo:
265 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque 2.5L Turbo:
258 lb-ft @ 2000-5200 rpm
Horsepower 3.6L Na:
256 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 3.6L Na:
247 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Fuel Induction:
Sequential multi-port fuel injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended for NA, 91 octane recommended for Turbo)
Legacy Transmission Base:
6-speed Manual Transmission (for 2.5i trims)
Legacy Transmission Option:
5-speed Automatic Transmission (for 2.5i trims)
Legacy Gt Transmission:
6-speed Manual Transmission
Outback Transmission Base:
6-speed Manual Transmission (for 2.5i trims)
Outback Transmission Option:
CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with manual mode (for 2.5i trims)
Outback Xt Transmission:
5-speed Automatic Transmission
Outback 3.6R Transmission:
5-speed Automatic Transmission
AWD Type:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with Variable Torque Distribution (VTD) for automatics, or viscous coupling for manuals.
Cvt Features:
Paddle shifters, manual mode with simulated gear steps (on some trims).
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for most 2012 models)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
5-Star (Driver and Passenger)
NHTSA Side Crash Rating:
5-Star (Front and Rear Seat)
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4-Star (Outback)
Active Safety Systems:
Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags, front seatbelt pretensioners, active front head restraints
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system
Audio System:
Standard CD player with MP3 capability, auxiliary audio input, available SiriusXM Satellite Radio, available subwoofer and amplifier.
Navigation:
Optional touch-screen GPS navigation system with voice control.
Bluetooth:
Available Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Si Drive:
Subaru Intelligent Drive allows drivers to select between 'Intelligent', 'Sport', and 'Sport Sharp' modes, altering engine and transmission response for different driving conditions.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronically controlled cruise control.
Keyless Entry:
Standard remote keyless entry, available proximity key with push-button start.
Usb Port:
Available USB port for charging and audio playback.
Auxiliary Input:
Standard 3.5mm auxiliary audio input jack.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (severe driving) / 7,500 miles or 12 months (normal driving), whichever comes first. Check manual for specific conditions.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months (severe driving) / 30,000 miles or 24 months (normal driving).
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement 2.5L:
105,000 miles (iridium tipped plugs)
Spark Plug Replacement 3.6L:
105,000 miles (iridium tipped plugs)
Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:
Check condition every 30,000 miles; replace as needed, typically around 60,000-100,000 miles.
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Check condition, replace as needed, typically around 60,000 miles.
Coolant Replacement:
Initial at 105,000 miles or 5 years, then every 52,500 miles or 5 years thereafter.
Engine Oil 2.5L:
SAE 0W-20, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified (e.g., Subaru Extra Protection 0W-20)
Engine Oil 3.6L:
SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified.
Coolant:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue), or equivalent phosphate-based HOAT coolant.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF HP (Green Bottle)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
SAE 75W-90 API GL-5 Gear Oil (e.g., Subaru Extra Gear Oil)
Differential Fluid Front Rear:
SAE 75W-90 API GL-5 Gear Oil
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Head Gasket Failure:
While improved over earlier generations, head gasket leaks (coolant into oil or vice versa) can still occur, particularly on the EJ253 engine. Manual will detail inspection and replacement.
Cv Axle Wear:
Front CV boots are susceptible to tearing, leading to grease loss and potential joint failure. The manual will cover inspection and replacement.
Wheel Bearing Noise:
Rear wheel bearings can sometimes develop noise and require replacement. Manual will guide diagnosis and replacement procedures.
Evaporative Emissions System Leaks:
Loose or damaged fuel filler cap, or EVAP system component failures can trigger check engine lights. Manual will provide diagnostic paths.
Automatic Transmission Performance:
Occasional reports of rough shifting or delayed engagement, potentially related to valve body or TCM issues. Manual covers diagnostic procedures.
Ac Compressor Failure:
Rare, but AC compressor failures can occur. Manual will cover system evacuation, repair, and recharging.
Subaru Origin:
Founded in 1953, known for its aviation background and early adoption of All-Wheel Drive technology.
Legacy Introduction:
First introduced in 1989 as a replacement for the Subaru Leone, aiming for a more premium and refined market segment.
Outback Introduction:
Introduced in 1994 (initially as the Legacy Outback) to capitalize on the growing SUV/crossover market, blending car-like comfort with SUV utility.
Fifth Generation Debut:
The 2012 models represent the fifth generation (2010-2014) of the Legacy and the third generation (2010-2014) of the Outback, both sharing a common platform.
Production Plant:
Lafayette, Indiana, USA (for North American market)