Market Position:
The Subaru Legacy Outback, during its 1999-2004 generation, was positioned as a versatile, all-wheel-drive crossover wagon, blending the comfort and amenities of a mid-size car with the utility and go-anywhere capability of a compact SUV. It appealed to outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking a capable yet comfortable vehicle for varied climates and road conditions.
Competitors:
Competitors included vehicles like the Audi Allroad Quattro, Volvo V70 Cross Country, and higher-trim versions of mainstream wagons and compact SUVs such as the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V (though the Outback offered more car-like driving dynamics).
Key Features:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, elevated ride height, ruggedized exterior styling (cladding, roof rails), comfortable interior, horizontally opposed (Boxer) engine for a lower center of gravity.
Countries Of Sale:
Primarily North America, but likely covers global specifications for this generation.
Page Count:
Hundreds of pages (specific count not provided in product info, but characteristic of factory service manuals).
Manual Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual / Workshop Manual
Format:
Downloadable (likely PDF)
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, ignition system, emission control systems, engine diagnostics and troubleshooting.
Transmission Systems:
Automatic transmission (4EAT, 5EAT variants) and Manual transmission (5MT) service, diagnostics, and repair.
Drivetrain Systems:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, differentials (front and rear), driveshafts, CV joints, wheel bearings.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, sway bars), steering rack, power steering system, wheel alignment specifications.
Braking Systems:
Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), ABS system, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, component replacement.
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting, power windows, mirrors, door locks, horn, wiper/washer system, audio system, wiring diagrams for all circuits.
Body Interior:
Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, seat removal, door mechanisms, glass replacement, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), climate control.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad replacement, tire rotation.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor testing, component testing procedures.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major mechanical and electrical components, including engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension and brake overhaul, bodywork repairs.
Assembly Disassembly:
Complete instructions for disassembling and reassembling all vehicle systems and components.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls and advanced diagnostics.
Engine Options:
2.5L EJ25 SOHC and DOHC Boxer-4 (Naturally Aspirated).
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 165-175 hp (depending on specific engine variant and year).
Torque Range:
Approximately 166-180 lb-ft (depending on specific engine variant and year).
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Sequential Port Injection.
Engine Layout:
Horizontally opposed (Boxer) 4-cylinder.
Bore X Stroke:
99.5 mm x 79.0 mm (for 2.5L).
Compression Ratio:
Approx. 9.4:1 to 10.0:1 (depending on variant).
Valvetrain:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) or DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) with 4 valves per cylinder.
Engine Control:
ECU (Engine Control Unit) with diagnostic capabilities.
Transmission Options:
5-speed Manual Transmission (5MT)
Transmission Options:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT) or later 5-speed Automatic (5EAT on some later models of this generation).
AWD System Type:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with viscous coupling center differential (manual) or electronically controlled multi-plate clutch (automatic).
Automatic Transmission Modes:
Typically includes 'Power' and 'Snow' modes for adaptive shift control.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 104.3 inches (2649 mm)
Length:
Approx. 186.0 inches (4724 mm)
Width:
Approx. 69.3 inches (1760 mm)
Height:
Approx. 59.3 inches (1506 mm) (standard), higher with roof rails/suspension for Outback trim.
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 6.5 inches (165 mm) (Outback models).
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,300 - 3,500 lbs (1497 - 1588 kg), varies by trim and transmission.
Cargo Volume Rear Seats Up:
Approx. 31.8 cu ft (0.90 m³)
Cargo Volume Rear Seats Down:
Approx. 66.7 cu ft (1.89 m³)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4 Stars (1999-2001 models, dependent on testing protocols of the era).
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4 Stars (1999-2001 models).
Active Safety Features:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), standard All-Wheel Drive for enhanced traction.
Passive Safety Features:
Dual front airbags, front seatbelt pretensioners, side-impact door beams, reinforced chassis construction.
Infotainment System:
Basic AM/FM/CD stereo systems with optional premium sound. No integrated navigation or complex infotainment screens of modern vehicles.
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited to optional ABS. No electronic stability control or advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS).
Connectivity Options:
Typically only basic auxiliary inputs or cassette adapters for aftermarket audio devices.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first (severe service); 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months (normal service), using synthetic oil is recommended for longer intervals.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months, or as needed based on driving conditions.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
If equipped, every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for iridium-tipped plugs, or earlier for standard plugs (check specific plug type).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical: Every 105,000 miles (168,000 km) or 7 years, whichever comes first. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 API Certified (check manual for specific API classification). Synthetic oil is highly recommended.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter.
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Subaru ATF HP (High Performance) or Dexron III compatible fluid. Check manual for specific interchangeability.
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Dexron II or III ATF.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Head Gaskets:
While not as prevalent as in some earlier Subaru generations, head gasket leaks can occur, particularly on higher-mileage DOHC engines. Symptoms include coolant loss, white smoke from exhaust, or oil in coolant.
Crankshaft Seals:
Front and rear crankshaft seals are known to leak over time, requiring replacement.
Suspension Components:
Worn front control arm bushings, sway bar links, and rear trailing arm bushings can lead to noise and degraded handling.
Wheel Bearings:
Front wheel bearings can be a wear item, especially with heavy use or exposure to harsh conditions.
Exhaust Manifold Cracks:
Exhaust manifold cracks can occur, leading to exhaust leaks and a ticking sound on startup.
Automatic Transmission Behavior:
Some 4EAT transmissions can develop delayed engagement or harsh shifts, potentially related to solenoid issues or fluid degradation.
Brand Heritage Points:
Subaru has a long history of producing rugged, capable vehicles, particularly known for its pioneering use of All-Wheel Drive technology in passenger cars.
Generation Timeline:
The 1999-2004 model represents the second generation of the Subaru Outback (BH chassis), which evolved from the Legacy wagon platform. It received a significant redesign from its predecessor, adopting a more distinct identity as a crossover utility vehicle.
Production Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan (Gunma Plant).
Industry Recognitions:
The Subaru Outback has historically been well-regarded for its all-weather capability and utility, often receiving praise from automotive publications for its value and suitability for active lifestyles.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Consumer Reports ratings for this era were often mixed, reflecting some reliability concerns balanced against strong performance in areas like traction and cargo capacity. Specific ratings would vary by year and specific test parameters.
