DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, Subaru owners seeking accurate part identification for maintenance and repair.
Competitive Analysis
Value Proposition:
Provides a cost-effective and accurate method for sourcing genuine or aftermarket replacement parts, saving time and preventing incorrect purchases.
Key Features
Manual Utility:
Enables precise part number lookup for ordering, aiding in the completion of DIY projects and ensuring vehicle operability. Crucial for maintaining the integrity of Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Content Focus:
Spare parts identification and ordering for DIY repairs
Page Count
Estimated Pages:
Extensive, typically hundreds of pages for a full parts catalog covering multiple trims and configurations.
Part identification and verification through detailed illustrations and part numbers. Facilitates parts ordering for DIY repairs and maintenance.
Technical Depth
Level Of Detail:
Highly detailed component illustrations showing exploded views with associated part numbers, prices, and potential labor estimates. Focuses on part interchangeability and correct application.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
Portable Document Format (PDF)
Print Quality
Printability:
Designed for digital access and searchability; printable pages for physical reference.
Approximately 175 hp (EJ253) to 243 hp (EJ255 Turbo) and 245 hp (EZ30D).
Torque Range:
Approximately 169 lb-ft (EJ253) to 236 lb-ft (EJ255 Turbo) and 217 lb-ft (EZ30D).
Fuel System
Injection Type:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI).
Engine Components
Common Parts Lookup:
Ignition coils, spark plugs (e.g., NGK Iridium), fuel injectors, oil filters (e.g., Subaru Part # 15208AA100), air filters, timing belt/chain components (depending on specific engine).
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Types:
5-speed Manual, 4-speed Automatic (with Sportshift on some trims).
Optional
Transmission Options:
5-speed Automatic (on 3.0L H6 models).
Features
Drivetrain:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) standard across all models.
Fluid Specs
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF HP (or equivalent meeting specifications).
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Body Styles:
5-door Wagon (Outback), 4-door Sedan (Legacy).
Ground Clearance:
Approximately 8.4 inches (Outback).
Cargo
Cargo Volume Wagon:
Approx. 32.1 cu ft (seats up), 67.6 cu ft (seats down).
Weights
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 3300 - 3700 lbs, depending on engine and transmission.
Towing Capacity:
Typically rated for 2700 lbs (with trailer brakes).
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
5-Star (for driver and front passenger).
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Generally good ratings, often a Top Pick for its class during its production run.
Active Features
Braking System:
4-wheel disc brakes with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System).
Stability Control:
Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) standard on most models.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front airbags, side-curtain airbags, front side-impact airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters, LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD players, optional premium audio systems from McIntosh on higher trims. Auxiliary input jack typically present.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation systems available on some trims.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control. No advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control were common on this generation.
Connectivity
Phone Integration:
Some models featured Bluetooth hands-free connectivity for mobile phones, requiring specific modules and components listed in the catalog.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,750 miles or 6 months, or 7,500 miles/12 months with synthetic oil, depending on driving conditions and oil used (refer to owner's manual for specifics).
Timing Belt Replacement:
For EJ253 and EJ255 engines (if equipped with a belt), typically around 105,000 miles or 105 months. EZ30D uses a timing chain. Crucial to verify for specific engine code.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 60,000 miles for Iridium plugs (e.g., Subaru Part # 22401AA730).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
0W-20 or 5W-30 synthetic motor oil recommended (check owner's manual for exact specification and viscosity based on temperature).
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent P-HOAT coolant.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Known Issues
Head Gaskets:
While less prevalent than on earlier generations, head gasket leaks can still occur, particularly on 2.5L naturally aspirated engines. The manual would list associated gasket part numbers for replacement.
Wheel Bearings:
Front wheel bearings can be a wear item; the parts catalog would provide part numbers for bearings and hubs.
Exhaust System:
Catalytic converters and mufflers are subject to corrosion and failure over time; the catalog lists replacement parts.
Suspension Components:
Sway bar links, bushings, and struts can wear; the catalog provides part numbers for all suspension and steering components.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Subaru Philosophy:
Known for its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, boxer engines, and focus on safety and reliability, often appealing to outdoorsy and adventurous consumers.
Model Evolution
Outback Concept:
The Outback originated as a more rugged, lifted version of the Legacy wagon, emphasizing increased ground clearance and all-weather capability, becoming its own distinct model line.
Production
Assembly Location:
Gunma Manufacturing Plant, Japan.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
IIHS Ratings:
Consistently ranked well in IIHS crash tests, earning 'Top Safety Pick' designations in many years.
Edmunds Reviews:
Praised for its AWD system, comfortable ride, and practicality as a family vehicle, often noted for value in its segment.