Segment:
Mid-size Sedan / Crossover SUV
Usp:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive standard, Boxer engines, robust build quality, practicality and off-road capability (Outback)
Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Fusion, Nissan Altima (Legacy); Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Nissan Rogue (Outback)
Standard AWD:
Yes (Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive)
Engine Layout:
Horizontally-opposed Boxer engine
Target Audience:
Individuals and families seeking reliable, all-weather capable transportation with a focus on practicality and driver engagement.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, lubrication system, cooling system, turbocharged systems (if applicable)
Drivetrain:
Automatic Transmission (4-speed, 5-speed), Manual Transmission (5-speed, 6-speed), All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, differentials, driveshafts, CV joints
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS, EBD, Brake Assist), wheel alignment
Electrical:
ECU diagnostics, wiring diagrams, lighting systems, charging system, starting system, power accessories, body control modules (BCM), airbags (SRS), climate control electronics
Body And Trim:
Body panels, interior trim, exterior trim, doors, windows, seats, glass, seals, structural components
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes, tire rotations
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), pinpoint tests, component testing
Repair:
Engine component repair/replacement, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component repair, electrical component repair, body panel repair
Overhaul:
Engine rebuild procedures, transmission disassembly and reassembly
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of Subaru-specific special tools
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and torque specifications.
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Type:
5-speed Automatic Transmission (with SI-DRIVE)
Type:
5-speed Automatic Transmission (with SI-DRIVE)
Type:
6-speed Manual Transmission (2.5i models, less common)
Type:
5-speed Automatic Transmission (with SI-DRIVE)
Transmission Code Auto:
TG5A5K4ZAA (for 5-speed automatic)
System Type:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
Differential Type:
Active Torque Split AWD (automatic transmission) / Viscous coupling center differential (manual transmission)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Subaru ATF HP (or equivalent)
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
Subaru Gear Oil API GL-5 75W-90
Frontal Driver 2010 Legacy:
5 Stars
Frontal Passenger 2010 Legacy:
5 Stars
Side Driver 2010 Legacy:
5 Stars
Side Rear Passenger 2010 Legacy:
5 Stars
Rollover 2010 Outback:
4 Stars
Top Safety Pick 2010:
Yes (for both Legacy and Outback)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution
Traction Control:
Standard
Stability Control:
Standard Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC)
Airbags:
Front, Side-Curtain, Front-Seat Side Airbags (SRS)
Seatbelts:
3-point ELR seatbelts with pre-tensioners and load limiters
Child Anchors:
LATCH system (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children)
Head Unit:
Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with auxiliary input
Navigation:
Optional touch-screen navigation system with Bluetooth connectivity
Audio Controls:
Steering wheel mounted audio controls
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Backup Camera:
Optional on some trim levels
Bluetooth:
Optional with navigation system, allowing hands-free calling
Type:
Manual or automatic climate control depending on trim level
Oil Change Interval Normal Use:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first
Oil Change Interval Severe Use:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (driving in dusty conditions, towing, frequent short trips)
Service Intervals Filters
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 7,500 miles, replace as needed (typically every 15,000-30,000 miles)
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 7,500 miles, replace as needed (typically every 15,000-30,000 miles)
Service Intervals Spark Plugs
Spark Plug Replacement 2.5L:
Iridium-tipped, replace at 105,000 miles
Spark Plug Replacement Turbo/3.0L:
Iridium-tipped, replace at 105,000 miles
Service Intervals Coolant
Coolant Replacement:
Subaru Super Coolant (blue), first replacement at 137,500 miles or 11 years, then every 75,000 miles or 5 years
Service Intervals Transmission Fluid
Automatic Transmission Fluid Service:
Subaru recommends checking at 30,000 miles, replace as needed based on driving conditions; often serviced around 60,000-100,000 miles
Manual Transmission Fluid Service:
Replace at 30,000 miles, especially under severe use
Engine Oil Type 2.5L:
SAE 0W-20 (Synthetic)
Engine Oil Type Turbo/3.0L:
SAE 5W-30 (Synthetic recommended)
Engine Oil Capacity 2.5L:
4.8 US quarts (4.6 L) with filter
Engine Oil Capacity Turbo/3.0L:
5.1 US quarts (4.8 L) with filter
Fluid Specifications Brake
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Oil Consumption 2.5L Na:
Some models can experience increased oil consumption, especially at higher mileage. Monitor oil levels regularly.
Head Gaskets Ej25:
While less prevalent in this generation than earlier EJ engines, head gasket integrity should always be considered a potential maintenance item over the long term.
Cvt Issues:
N/A for 2010 models, as CVTs were not yet introduced in Legacy/Outback. 5-speed automatic and 5/6-speed manual transmissions are used.
Wheel Bearings:
Front wheel bearings can wear over time, leading to humming or grinding noises. Replacement is a common repair.
Exhaust Manifold Cracks:
Early 2.5L non-turbo models can be prone to exhaust manifold cracks, leading to exhaust leaks and ticking sounds.
Origin:
Japan, founded in 1953
Philosophy:
Engineering for safety, durability, and all-weather capability
Introduction:
First generation introduced in 1989 as a replacement for the Subaru Leone
Fifth Gen Start:
2010 marked the introduction of the fifth generation (BM/BR)
Origin:
Originally a trim level of the Legacy wagon, became a standalone model in 1995 (called Legacy Outback initially, then simply Outback)
Fifth Gen Outback Start:
2010 also saw the debut of the fifth generation Outback, built on the same platform as the Legacy
Manufacturing Location:
Gunma Plant, Japan