Front and Rear Suspension, Steering system (power steering), Wheel alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Front and Rear Brakes (disc brakes), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), VDC (Vehicle Dynamics Control), parking brake system.
Electrical Electronics:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), instrument panel, power windows, power seats, mirrors, audio system, climate control system, body control modules (BCM).
Body Interior:
Body panels, doors, bumpers, glass, interior trim, seats, airbags, body sealing, structural components.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system components, operation, diagnosis, and repair.
Procedures Included
Maintenance:
Recommended service intervals for oil changes, fluid flushes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, brake pad inspection, tire rotation, and belt inspection.
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation (OBD-II), symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair Rebuild:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major vehicle components, including engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair, and body panel repair.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair and maintenance procedures.
Technical Specifications Data:
Torque specifications for critical fasteners, fluid capacities, electrical wiring diagrams, component locations, diagnostic data, and performance specifications.
Technical Depth
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive factory-level detail covering everything from basic fluid checks and tire pressure to complex engine management diagnostics, transmission rebuilds, and structural body repairs.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Searchability:
Searchable text content for quick information retrieval.
Print Quality
Print Quality:
High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or sections.
Yes (Both models consistently received Top Safety Pick awards during these years)
NHTSA Overall Rating 2012 2013:
5-Star (Typically achieved across various crash test categories)
Active Features
Active Safety Systems:
Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA).
Passive Features
Passive Safety Features:
Advanced front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags (front and rear), front knee airbags, Active front head restraints, front pre-tensioner seatbelts.
Outback Specific
Outback Ground Clearance:
8.7 inches (221 mm) - Significant for SUV-like capability.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Subaru's infotainment system typically featured a touch-screen display with AM/FM/CD/MP3, auxiliary audio input, USB port, Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming. Higher trims may offer navigation.
Driver Assistance
Available Driver Assistance:
Optional features included a rearview camera, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), and in higher trims, the EyeSight driver assistance system (though EyeSight was more prominent in later model years, availability should be verified by trim).
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity, USB audio interface, auxiliary audio input jack.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (severe driving) / 7,500 miles or 12 months (normal driving), using synthetic oil. Always consult the manual for exact recommendations.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Approximately every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Approximately every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
100,000 miles for Iridium-tipped spark plugs (typical for this era).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 0W-20 synthetic engine oil (API SN or ILSAC GF-5 compliant).
Coolant Spec:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life OAT coolant.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Known Issues
Common Issues Head Gaskets:
While Subaru improved head gasket design in later generations, early models (prior to this generation's full impact) sometimes had issues. The EJ253 in this era is generally more robust, but the manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures if needed.
Common Issues Cvt Lineartronic:
CVTs require specific maintenance. Irregular fluid changes or using incorrect fluid can lead to premature wear. The manual will cover correct procedures.
Common Issues Suspension:
Wear in sway bar links, bushings, and struts can occur over time, especially with higher mileage or aggressive driving. Alignment checks are crucial.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Subaru Founding:
Founded in 1953, a division of Fuji Heavy Industries (now Subaru Corporation).
Subaru AWD Pioneer:
Pioneered All-Wheel Drive technology in passenger cars, becoming a core brand identity.
Model Evolution Legacy
Legacy Introduction:
First introduced in 1989 as a replacement for the Subaru Leone.
Model Evolution Outback
Outback Introduction:
Originally introduced in 1994 as the 'Outback Sport' and later the 'Outback', a more rugged, lifted version of the Legacy wagon.
Generation Bm Br Introduction
Bm Br Generation Debut:
The fifth generation (BM/BR) debuted for the 2010 model year, with the 2012-2013 models representing a mid-cycle refresh with styling updates and powertrain enhancements.
Production Locations
Assembly Plant:
Lafayette, Indiana, USA (Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Inc. - SIA)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Safety Awards:
Consistent recognition as IIHS Top Safety Picks and high NHTSA ratings highlight the vehicles' safety design.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Consumer Reports often rated these models well for predicted reliability and owner satisfaction, particularly highlighting their AWD capabilities and safety.
Certifications
Emissions Standards:
Compliance with EPA and CARB emissions standards for the respective model years.