Segment:
Mid-size Crossover SUV / Station Wagon
Unique Selling Proposition:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) as standard, robust build, wagon practicality with SUV-like ground clearance
Key Competitors:
Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra, Mazda CX-5 (early models)
Powertrain Philosophy:
Horizontally opposed 'Boxer' engines for lower center of gravity and improved handling
Drivetrain Advantage:
Subaru's renowned Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system provides superior traction and stability in various weather conditions.
Build Quality:
Generally praised for solid construction and durability
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Drivetrain (AWD System)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Front & Rear), Wheels & Tires
Body:
Exterior Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Glass, Interior Trim, Seating
Electrical:
Lighting System, Instrumentation, Audio System, Climate Control System, Power Accessories, SRS (Airbag) System, Engine Control Module (ECM) & Related Sensors, Transmission Control Module (TCM)
Routine Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks & Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspection & Replacement
Diagnostic & Repair:
Troubleshooting Fault Codes, Engine Overhaul, Transmission Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Overhaul, Electrical Component Diagnosis & Replacement, HVAC System Repair
Component Installation:
Engine & Transmission Removal/Installation, Suspension & Steering Component Installation, Body Panel Replacement, Interior Trim Installation
Diagnostic Tools:
OBD-II Scanner Usage, Subaru Select Monitor (SSM) Procedures (if applicable to software)
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring schematics for all systems
Exploded Views:
Detailed diagrams showing component relationships and part identification
File Type:
Database Software (likely .exe or installer for proprietary software)
Searchable:
Yes (via software interface)
Printable:
Yes (likely, with printing capabilities within the software)
Platform Compatibility:
Windows OS (typical for this era of software)
Image Resolution:
High-resolution diagrams and illustrations
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper:
N/A (Digital Download)
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT)
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on all trims)
Automatic Transmission Modes:
Includes 'Snow' and 'Power' modes for adaptive driving
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
5-Star Driver, 4-Star Passenger
NHTSA Side Crash Test:
5-Star Front, 5-Star Rear
IIHS Front Offset Test:
Good
IIHS Side Impact Test:
Good
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Ebd:
Electronic Brake-force Distribution
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Front Dual-Stage Airbags, Front Side-Impact Airbags, Side Curtain Airbags (may vary by trim)
Seatbelts:
3-Point Height-Adjustable Front Seatbelts with Pre-tensioners and Load Limiters
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD player, with optional premium audio systems available (e.g., Rockford Fosgate).
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control systems with cabin air filtration.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Tire Pressure Monitoring:
Optional Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) may be present.
Auxiliary Input:
May include an auxiliary audio input jack on some models/trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months (severe driving) or 7,500 miles or 7.5 months (normal driving) - consult manual for specific conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 15 months
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 15 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (NGK Iridium recommended)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 miles (automatic transmission, severe duty) or 45,000 miles (normal duty). Manual transmission fluid inspection every 30,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-20 or 5W-30 (API Service SG, SH, SJ, SL or SM)
Engine Oil Capacity Quarts:
4.8 US quarts (with filter)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Genuine Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III/Mercon ATF
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Subaru Genuine ATF-HP
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
Subaru Genuine Manual Transmission Fluid or equivalent API GL-4 SAE 75W-90
Head Gaskets:
While less prevalent than on earlier EJ25 engines, head gasket leaks can still occur. Early detection and proper repair are crucial.
Catalytic Converter:
Can become clogged over time, especially with oil consumption or misfires. Check for exhaust restrictions and engine codes.
Cv Axles:
Protective boots can tear, leading to CV joint wear and failure. Inspect regularly.
Suspension Components:
Struts, bushings, and ball joints can wear with mileage, leading to noise and handling degradation. The manual provides detailed inspection procedures.
Rear Wheel Bearings:
Can develop noise or play, often requiring replacement.
Founding:
Founded in 1953, Subaru is the automotive division of Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries).
Specialization:
Known for its pioneering use of the Boxer engine and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system.
Introduction:
The Outback was originally introduced as a sub-model of the Subaru Legacy in 1995 (as the 'Legacy Outback'). It became a distinct model line in 2005.
Generation 2005:
The 2005 model year marks the beginning of the third generation (BP chassis) for the Outback, clearly separating it from the Legacy sedan and wagon.
Manufacturing Plant:
Gunma Manufacturing Plant, Japan
Production Years Generation:
2005-2009 (Third Generation)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Subaru vehicles, including the Outback, consistently received good safety ratings from the IIHS.
Car And Driver Editors Choice:
The Outback has often been recognized by automotive publications for its versatility and capability.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings for this generation were generally average to above average.