Segment:
Mid-size Crossover/Station Wagon
Usp:
Standard All-Wheel Drive (Symmetrical AWD), robust build, practical cargo space, lifted ride height for light off-road capability.
Key Competitors:
Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra, Audi Allroad.
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is a core Subaru feature, providing enhanced traction and stability in various weather conditions.
Ground Clearance:
Higher ground clearance than standard wagons, offering improved capability on unpaved roads and moderate obstacles.
Engine Layout:
Horizontally opposed 'Boxer' engine design, contributing to a lower center of gravity.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, component diagnostics, timing belt replacement, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel delivery, emissions control.
Engine Performance:
ECU diagnostics, sensor data interpretation, ignition system, fuel injection mapping.
Transmission Automatic:
Operation, diagnostics, fluid service, valve body repair, torque converter service.
Transmission Manual:
Clutch system, gearbox overhaul, shifter linkage adjustment.
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, differentials (front, rear, center), driveshafts, CV joints, wheel bearings.
Suspension:
Front struts, rear shocks, control arms, bushings, anti-roll bars, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, rack and pinion assembly, steering column, tie rods.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system diagnostics, brake fluid specifications, caliper service, rotor replacement.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, lighting system, charging system, starting system, battery service.
Climate Control:
HVAC system operation, refrigerant handling, blower motor, A/C compressor diagnostics.
Body And Interior:
Door mechanisms, glass replacement, seat removal, trim panel installation, body panel repair.
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
OBD-II diagnostic codes, troubleshooting flowcharts, specific component testing.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tune-ups.
Repair:
Component replacement (e.g., alternator, starter, water pump), engine rebuilds, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, strut replacement.
Diagnostics:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, electrical testing with multimeters, scan tool usage.
Troubleshooting:
System-specific troubleshooting guides, symptom-based repair advice.
Installation:
Installation procedures for common accessories and replacement parts (e.g., spark plugs, brake pads).
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic routine maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostics and electrical system troubleshooting.
Type:
4-speed automatic transmission (4EAT)
Type:
5-speed manual transmission
AWD Integration Auto:
Viscous coupling center differential with electronic control unit for torque distribution.
AWD Integration Manual:
Viscous coupling center differential with open front and rear differentials.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Subaru ATF HP (Genuine Subaru Fluid) or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
GL-5 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
Good
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
Good
NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:
Good
NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:
Good
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:
Good
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags Front:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional front side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point height-adjustable front seatbelts with pretensioners, rear 3-point seatbelts.
Child Seats:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system in rear seats.
Oil Change Interval Gasoline:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, under severe driving conditions. Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months under normal conditions (check manual for specific conditions).
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km)
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.
Timing Belt Replacement:
105,000 miles (168,000 km) or 105 months, whichever comes first.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km)
Coolant Flush Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.
Engine Oil Type And Capacity:
5W-30 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic; 4.7 US quarts (4.4 liters) with filter change.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Genuine Subaru Power Steering Fluid or Dexron II/III ATF.
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life antifreeze.
Head Gaskets:
While not as prevalent as in earlier generations, some EJ25 engines can still experience head gasket failures, particularly if maintenance is neglected. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.
Timing Belt Tensioner:
The automatic tensioner for the timing belt can fail, leading to belt slippage or failure. The manual covers inspection and replacement.
Rear Main Seal:
Leaking rear main crankshaft seal is a common, albeit labor-intensive, repair. The manual outlines the process for replacement.
Automatic Transmission Issues:
Early 4EAT transmissions can sometimes develop issues with solenoids or the valve body. Proper fluid maintenance is crucial, and the manual provides diagnostic steps.
Suspension Wear:
Worn control arm bushings and sway bar links are common due to age and mileage. The manual provides replacement procedures and torque specs.
Manufacturer Origin:
Japan
Brand Specialty:
Known for Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Boxer engines, and rally heritage.
Generation:
Second Generation Legacy (BH/BE) - introduced in 1998.
Outback Introduction:
The Outback variant was introduced in 1995 as a more rugged, lifted version of the Legacy wagon.
Model Year Updates 2002:
The 2002 model year falls within the second generation, which received a mid-cycle refresh for 2000 with updated styling and features.
Production Start Year Legacy:
1989
Production Start Year Outback:
1995
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan (Gunma Plant)