🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Legacy Outback

Model Variant:

Outback

Years Covered:

2010, 2011, 2012, 2013

Chassis Code Generation:

BR (Fifth Generation)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size Crossover SUV / Station Wagon

Positioning:

The Subaru Outback is positioned as a versatile, all-weather, all-wheel-drive vehicle offering SUV-like capabilities with the driving dynamics and comfort of a car. It caters to active lifestyles and those seeking a capable vehicle for diverse conditions.

Competitors:

Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Nissan Rogue, Mazda CX-5, Volkswagen Tiguan.

Key Differentiators:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, horizontally opposed 'Boxer' engines, higher ground clearance than most competitors, reputation for safety and durability.

Standard AWD:

All Subaru Outback models from this generation come standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, providing enhanced traction and stability.

Ground Clearance:

Offers a competitive ground clearance (typically around 8.7 inches or 221 mm), allowing for better obstacle clearance and off-road capability.

Safety Focus:

Subaru's strong emphasis on safety is a hallmark, with high ratings in crash tests and advanced safety features.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

North America

Regional Variants Covered:

Likely covers specifications and procedures common to most global Outback models of this generation, with potential minor regional differences noted.

Estimated Page Count:

3000+

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanicals, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine performance tuning.

Transmission:

Automatic Transmission (4-Speed, 5-Speed) and Manual Transmission (6-Speed) diagnostics, repair, overhaul, and fluid specifications.

Drivetrain:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, differentials (front, rear, center coupling), driveshafts, CV joints, wheel bearings.

Suspension:

Front struts and control arms, rear multi-link suspension, coil springs, shock absorbers, bushings, wheel alignment procedures and specifications.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes (including ABS and Electronic Brake-force Distribution - EBD), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, rotor and pad replacement.

Steering:

Power steering system (hydraulic), steering rack, tie rods, steering column, alignment specifications.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, glass, interior trim, seats, airbags, HVAC system, power windows, locks, mirrors.

Comfort And Convenience:

Climate control (manual and automatic), audio system, power accessories, cruise control, keyless entry.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system (SRS), seatbelt pre-tensioners, ABS, traction control (TCS), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC).

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and replacements, brake inspections.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides for common problems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, diagnostic procedures for various systems using scan tools.

Repair:

Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, including engine teardown, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake system repairs, and electrical system troubleshooting.

Component Replacement:

Instructions for replacing specific parts such as water pumps, alternators, starters, fuel injectors, radiators, CV axles, brake calipers, and more.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, including power distribution, ground points, and component connections.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.

Depth:

Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF for efficient information retrieval.

Quality:

High-resolution digital reproduction of original factory documentation, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

EJ253 (2.5i models)

Engine Type 1:

2.5L Naturally Aspirated SOHC Flat-4 (Boxer) Engine

Displacement 1:

2457 cc (2.5 Liters)

Horsepower 1:

Approx. 170 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque 1:

Approx. 170 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine Code 2:

EZ36D (3.6R models)

Engine Type 2:

3.6L Naturally Aspirated DOHC Flat-6 (Boxer) Engine

Displacement 2:

3630 cc (3.6 Liters)

Horsepower 2:

Approx. 256 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque 2:

Approx. 247 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Fuel Delivery 1:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI)

Fuel Delivery 2:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI)

Required Fuel:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum recommended for 2.5L, 87 octane minimum recommended for 3.6L)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type 2.5I:

6-speed Manual Transmission (MT)

Transmission Type 2.5I Optional:

5-speed Automatic Transmission (AT)

Transmission Type 3.6R:

5-speed Automatic Transmission (AT)

AWD System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with active torque distribution (mechanical center differential on MT, electronically controlled active transfer clutch on AT).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Subaru Genuine ATF HP (for 5-speed AT) or equivalent specification.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Subaru Genuine Gear Oil (75W-90 GL-5) or equivalent specification.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 187.2 inches (4755 mm)

Width:

Approximately 70.1 inches (1780 mm)

Height:

Approximately 66.1 inches (1679 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 107.9 inches (2740 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approximately 8.7 inches (221 mm)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:

Approximately 34.5 cubic feet (977 liters)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:

Approximately 70.1 cubic feet (1985 liters)

Curb Weight 2.5I Mt:

Approx. 3459 lbs (1569 kg)

Curb Weight 2.5I At:

Approx. 3505 lbs (1590 kg)

Curb Weight 3.6R At:

Approx. 3657 lbs (1659 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

IIHS Crash Test Ratings:

Generally achieved high safety ratings from IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) for this generation, often 'Top Safety Pick' or 'Top Safety Pick+', depending on specific equipment and testing cycles.

NHTSA Crash Test Ratings:

Also typically performed well in NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) crash tests.

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control System (TCS).

Stability Control:

Standard Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with Active All-Wheel Drive integration.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

Ebs:

Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) integrated with ABS.

Brake Assist:

Brake Assist System (BAS) often included.

Airbags:

Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags (front and rear), driver's knee airbag (may vary by trim).

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters for front seats, three-point seatbelts for rear seats.

Child Seat Anchors:

Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system.

Driver Assistance Suite:

Availability of EyeSight driver assist technology on some later models/trims (though more prominent in later generations, early versions might exist).

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with auxiliary input. Higher trims may feature upgraded sound systems (e.g., Harman Kardon), Bluetooth, and satellite radio.

Navigation System:

Optional factory-installed GPS navigation system, typically integrated into a central touchscreen display.

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control.

Rear View Camera:

Available rear-view camera system on certain trims, often integrated with the navigation display.

Bluetooth:

Available Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio streaming connectivity on higher trim levels.

Usb Port:

USB port for media playback and device charging, often integrated into the center console or audio unit.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) for severe driving conditions or 7,500 miles (12,000 km) for normal driving conditions, using synthetic oil. Consult the manual for specific recommendations.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement 2.5I:

Platinum spark plugs typically last up to 100,000 miles (160,000 km).

Spark Plug Replacement 3.6R:

Iridium spark plugs typically last up to 100,000 miles (160,000 km).

Transmission Fluid Change At:

Check manual; often recommended at intervals like 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) depending on usage.

Coolant Replacement:

Subaru Super Coolant; initial replacement around 105,000 miles (168,000 km) or 10 years, then every 52,500 miles (84,000 km) or 5 years thereafter.

Engine Oil Capacity 2.5L:

Approx. 4.8 US quarts (4.5 liters) with filter change (check manual for exact spec).

Engine Oil Capacity 3.6L:

Approx. 6.9 US quarts (6.5 liters) with filter change (check manual for exact spec).

Engine Oil Viscosity 2.5L:

0W-20 synthetic recommended.

Engine Oil Viscosity 3.6L:

5W-30 or 0W-30 recommended (check manual for specific climate recommendations).

Head Gasket Leaks:

While less common on EJ253 engines compared to older iterations, head gasket issues can still occur and are a known potential repair. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.

Cv Axle Wear:

Due to its nature as an all-wheel-drive vehicle with higher ground clearance, front CV axles can experience wear, especially under heavy use. The manual covers inspection and replacement.

Brake Pad And Rotor Wear:

Normal wear and tear items, but the manual provides detailed specs for replacements and related maintenance.

Suspension Component Wear:

Bushings and struts can wear over time, affecting ride quality and alignment. The manual is crucial for diagnosing and replacing these parts.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Heritage:

Subaru, part of the Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries), has a long history of producing innovative vehicles, particularly known for its commitment to boxer engines and All-Wheel Drive technology.

Outback Origin:

The Outback began as a more rugged, lifted version of the Subaru Legacy station wagon in the early 1990s and evolved into its own distinct model line, emphasizing its crossover capabilities.

Generation Br:

The 2010-2013 models represent the fifth generation (BR) of the Subaru Outback, marking a significant redesign from the previous generation, featuring a longer wheelbase, increased interior space, and more refined styling.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily manufactured in Gunma, Japan, with some assembly possibly occurring in other Subaru facilities worldwide.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Awards:

The 2010-2013 Subaru Outback generation consistently received accolades for safety, including multiple IIHS 'Top Safety Pick' awards.

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Often received good to excellent ratings from organizations like Consumer Reports for reliability and owner satisfaction, especially in its performance in adverse weather.