🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Legacy Outback

Year:

2009

Chassis Code:

BP (Wagon), BL (Sedan - though Outback is typically wagon)

Platform:

Subaru Global Platform (predecessor to current generation)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size crossover SUV / Station Wagon.

Usp:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, robust build, practicality, good off-road capability for its class.

Competitors:

Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Mazda CX-5, Nissan X-Trail/Rogue.

All Wheel Drive:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive across all trims.

Ground Clearance:

Elevated ground clearance compared to standard cars, offering better capability.

Cargo Space:

Versatile cargo area with folding rear seats.

Interior Practicality:

Spacious interior for passengers and luggage.

📋 Manual Details

All Models:

Yes

All Engines:

Yes

Estimated Pages:

2000+

Type:

Official Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete diagnosis, repair, and overhaul procedures for all gasoline engines.

Transmission:

Detailed coverage of both automatic and manual transmissions, including overhaul and diagnostics.

Drivetrain:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, differentials, axles, driveshafts, and wheel bearings.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, alignment, springs, shock absorbers, bushings.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column.

Brakes:

Brake system hydraulics, ABS, EBD, brake pads, rotors, calipers, parking brake.

Electrical System:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting, accessories.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel repair, interior trim, doors, glass, underbody protection, frame.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair.

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, injectors, fuel tank, evaporative emission control (EVAP).

Exhaust System:

Catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, oxygen sensors.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, cooling fans.

Emissions Control:

All emissions-related components and diagnostic procedures.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tire rotations, brake inspections.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides for all systems.

Component Removal Installation:

Step-by-step instructions for removing and reinstalling all major and minor components.

Engine Rebuild:

Detailed overhaul procedures, including torque specifications and clearances.

Transmission Rebuild:

Complete rebuild instructions for automatic and manual transmissions.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Pinpoint testing, component testing, and wiring harness repair.

Bodywork Repair:

Dent removal, panel replacement, rust repair techniques.

HVAC Service:

Refrigerant handling, system evacuation, component replacement.

Wheel Alignment:

Specifications and procedures for proper wheel alignment.

Data And Specs:

Torque specifications, fluid capacities, wear limits, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic DIY maintenance to advanced dealer-level diagnostics and repairs.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Text-searchable for quick information retrieval.

Printability:

Printable pages for on-hand use.

Quality:

High-resolution scans for clear diagrams and text.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

EJ253 (2.5L SOHC)

Engine Type:

Horizontally-opposed (Boxer) 4-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)

Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2457 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

99.5 mm x 79.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.7:1

Horsepower:

170 HP @ 5600 RPM

Torque:

170 lb-ft @ 4400 RPM

Engine Code:

EZ30D (3.0L H6)

Engine Type:

Horizontally-opposed (Boxer) 6-cylinder, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft)

Displacement:

3.0 Liters (2999 cc)

Horsepower:

245 HP @ 6600 RPM

Torque:

215 lb-ft @ 4200 RPM

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Recommended Fuel:

87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline

ECU:

Engine Control Unit (ECU) with OBD-II diagnostics.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission (for 2.5L engine, not all trims)

Type:

5-speed Automatic Transmission (for 3.0L H6 engine)

AWD Integration:

Integrated with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system (Variable Valve Timing for automatic transmissions).

Atf Type:

Subaru ATF HP (or equivalent DEXRON-III/MERCON)

Capacity Quarts:

Approximately 4.5 quarts (pan drain and refill).

Mtf Type:

Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil (or equivalent 75W-90 GL-5)

Capacity Quarts:

Approximately 2.2 quarts.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

189.0 inches

Width:

70.1 inches

Height:

61.6 inches

Wheelbase:

104.0 inches

Ground Clearance:

8.1 inches

Passenger Volume:

98.6 cu ft

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

34.7 cu ft

Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:

75.1 cu ft

Curb Weight Approx:

3400-3700 lbs (depending on engine and trim)

Towing Capacity:

2400 lbs (with trailer brake controller)

Wheel Size:

17-inch alloy wheels standard on most trims.

Tire Size:

215/55R17 standard on most trims.

Bolt Pattern:

5x100mm

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Driver:

5 Stars

NHTSA Frontal Crash Passenger:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Crash Driver:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Crash Passenger:

5 Stars

NHTSA Rollover Rating:

4 Stars

IIHS Crashworthiness:

Good in most categories (Frontal Offset, Side Impact, Roof Strength).

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System.

Ebd:

Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution.

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control System (TCS).

Vsc:

Standard Vehicle Stability Control (VSC).

Airbags:

Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-curtain 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.

Rollover Protection:

Reinforced chassis and pillar construction for enhanced rollover protection.

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

Base models feature a single-CD player with AM/FM stereo, auxiliary input. Higher trims offer premium audio systems and in-dash CD changers.

Display:

Basic digital display for radio and climate controls. No large touchscreens or advanced infotainment systems found in modern vehicles.

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control.

Tire Pressure Monitoring:

Available as an option on some trims.

Auxiliary Input:

Standard 3.5mm auxiliary audio input for connecting external devices.

Bluetooth:

Optional Bluetooth hands-free phone system available on higher trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months for severe driving; 7,500 miles or 7.5 months for normal driving.

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles; replace as needed.

Cabin Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles; replace as needed.

Spark Plugs:

Replace at 105,000 miles (Iridium).

Coolant Replacement:

Replace at 30,000 miles or 30 months, then every 15,000 miles or 15 months thereafter.

Brake Fluid:

Replace every 30,000 miles or 30 months.

Transmission Fluid Auto:

Replace at 30,000 miles for severe conditions, or check condition for normal driving.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

Replace at 30,000 miles for severe conditions, or check condition for normal driving.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 0W-20 Synthetic (preferred) or SAE 5W-30.

Engine Oil Capacity:

4.5 quarts (2.5L), 4.8 quarts (3.0L H6) with filter.

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent P-OAT coolant.

Power Steering Fluid:

Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid (or equivalent ATF DEXRON-III).

Head Gaskets:

While not as prevalent as in earlier generations, some EJ25 engines can develop coolant leaks from head gaskets. The 2009 models might be less susceptible but it's a known Subaru concern.

Catalytic Converter:

Premature failure can occur, especially if there are misfires or oil consumption issues. Requires diagnosis to confirm.

Oxygen Sensors:

Can fail over time, leading to check engine lights and poor fuel economy.

Wheel Bearings:

Can become noisy or develop play with mileage, especially in harsh environments.

Cv Axle Boots:

Tearing of the CV joint boots can lead to grease loss and eventual joint failure. Regular inspection is recommended.

Suspension Bushings:

Worn bushings can lead to clunking noises and degraded handling.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Focus:

Subaru has a long-standing reputation for building durable and capable vehicles, particularly known for its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system and horizontally-opposed (Boxer) engines.

Legacy Outback Origin:

The Outback began as a trim level of the Subaru Legacy wagon in the early 1990s, offering increased ground clearance and rugged styling. It evolved into a distinct model line, emphasizing its crossover-like capabilities.

Generation Third:

The 2009 model year represents the final year of the third generation (BP/BL) Legacy Outback, which was introduced for the 2005 model year.

Manufacturing Location:

Gunma Prefecture, Japan.

Third Gen Production:

2005-2009.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Often recognized by the IIHS for its safety performance in its segment.

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Generally received good to above-average reliability ratings from Consumer Reports during its production run.