🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Subaru Model: Legacy Outback Year: 2008 Body Style: Station Wagon / Crossover Codes Chassis Codes: BL***** (Sedan variants, though less common for Outback designation), BP***** (Wagon variants) 👋 Introduction Market Position Target Audience: Professional mechanics and knowledgeable DIY enthusiasts. Purpose: To provide comprehensive, manufacturer-approved service and repair information for the 2008 Subaru Legacy Outback. Competitive Analysis Value Proposition: Offers OEM-level detail for accurate diagnostics and repairs, crucial for maintaining vehicle integrity and performance. Key Features Advantage Over Generic Manuals: Contains specific torque values, wiring schematics, and factory-recommended procedures not found in aftermarket guides. Benefit For Owners: Empowers owners to perform routine maintenance and complex repairs with confidence, saving on labor costs. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Covered Models: 2008 Subaru Legacy Outback (all variants including different engine options) Page Count Page Count: Estimated 2000-3000+ pages (typical for FSM of this era) Manual Type Manual Type: Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format File Format: PDF Compatibility: All Versions of Windows & Mac Required Software: Adobe PDF Reader, WinRAR 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Systems: 2.5L SOHC, 2.5L DOHC Turbo (H4DOTC), 3.0L DOHC (H6DO) - includes diagnosis, repair, overhaul, timing, cooling, lubrication, fuel, ignition, emissions Transmission Systems: Manual & Automatic Transmissions - diagnosis, repair, overhaul, fluid specifications, operation Chassis Systems: Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (ABS, EBD), Wheel Hubs, Driveshafts, Differential Body Systems: Body Exterior & Interior Components, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Seats, Glass, Trim, Bumpers, Body Repair Electrical Systems: Wiring Diagrams, Power Distribution, Lighting (Exterior/Interior), Instrumentation, HVAC Controls, Audio System, SRS (Airbag) System, Keyless Entry, Immobilizer Mechanism Function: Detailed explanations of how various systems and components operate, including HVAC, power accessories, cruise control, etc. Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, lubrication Disassembly Reassembly: Step-by-step instructions for removing, repairing, and reinstalling all major components and systems. Inspection: Visual inspection guidelines, wear limits, and diagnostic checks for all vehicle components. Component Identification: Clear identification of parts, connectors, and sensors within various systems. Troubleshooting: Diagnostic flowcharts and procedures for identifying and resolving common and uncommon vehicle problems. Unit Repair: Detailed instructions for repairing individual components and units rather than just replacement. Technical Depth Diagnostic Capabilities: Advanced diagnostics, including OBD-II code interpretation, sensor data analysis, and actuator testing. Repair Scope: Comprehensive coverage from basic fluid services to major engine and transmission overhauls, including bodywork and electrical repairs. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format PDF Quality: High-resolution, searchable text with clear diagrams and illustrations. Printable Pages: Yes, designed for printing individual sections or the entire manual. Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital PDF format) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital PDF format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Options: 2.5L SOHC EJ253, 2.5L DOHC Turbo EJ255 (H4DOTC), 3.0L DOHC EZ30D (H6DO) Performance 2.5L Sohc (Ej253) Approximate Horsepower: 170 HP @ 5600 RPM 2.5L Sohc (Ej253) Approximate Torque: 170 lb-ft @ 4000 RPM 2.5L DOHc Turbo (Ej255) Approximate Horsepower: 243 HP @ 5200 RPM 2.5L DOHc Turbo (Ej255) Approximate Torque: 250 lb-ft @ 2800 RPM 3.0L DOHc (Ez30D) Approximate Horsepower: 245 HP @ 6600 RPM 3.0L DOHc (Ez30D) Approximate Torque: 217 lb-ft @ 4200 RPM Fuel System Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (Premium for Turbo and 3.0L recommended/required) Injection Type: Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) Engine Design Configuration: Horizontally Opposed ('Boxer') Engine Drive Type: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission Type: 5-Speed Manual (for 2.5L SOHC and 2.5L Turbo) Optional Optional Transmission Type: 4-Speed Automatic (4EAT) (for 2.5L SOHC and 3.0L DOHC), 5-Speed Automatic (5EAT) (for 3.0L DOHC and 2.5L Turbo models, often with paddle shifters) Features AWD System: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with viscous center differential (manual) or electronically controlled multi-plate transfer clutch (automatic). Fluid Specifications Automatic Transmission Fluid Type: Subaru ATF HP (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid, check specific model/year for exact spec) Manual Transmission Fluid Type: API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 189.1 inches Width: Approx. 70.1 inches Height: Approx. 61.6 inches Wheelbase: Approx. 104.0 inches Ground Clearance: Approx. 8.1 inches Weights Curb Weight Range: Approx. 3300 - 3600 lbs (varies by engine and transmission) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Driver Impact: 5-Star (for 2008 model year, typical for this generation) NHTSA Front Passenger Impact: 5-Star (for 2008 model year, typical for this generation) IIHS Moderate Overlap Frontal Offset: Good (for 2008 model year, typical for this generation) Active Features Active Safety Features: All-Wheel Drive, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) Passive Features Passive Safety Features: Front Airbags (driver/passenger), Side Curtain Airbags, Front Side Impact Airbags, Active Head Restraints 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Infotainment System: Standard AM/FM/CD audio system, optional 6-CD changer, optional navigation system, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity (often optional). Driver Assistance Driver Assistance Features: Cruise...
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium for Turbo and 3.0L recommended/required)
Injection Type:
Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine Design
Configuration:
Horizontally Opposed ('Boxer') Engine
Drive Type:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual (for 2.5L SOHC and 2.5L Turbo)
Optional
Optional Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic (4EAT) (for 2.5L SOHC and 3.0L DOHC), 5-Speed Automatic (5EAT) (for 3.0L DOHC and 2.5L Turbo models, often with paddle shifters)
Features
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with viscous center differential (manual) or electronically controlled multi-plate transfer clutch (automatic).
Fluid Specifications
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Subaru ATF HP (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid, check specific model/year for exact spec)
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 189.1 inches
Width:
Approx. 70.1 inches
Height:
Approx. 61.6 inches
Wheelbase:
Approx. 104.0 inches
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 8.1 inches
Weights
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 3300 - 3600 lbs (varies by engine and transmission)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Driver Impact:
5-Star (for 2008 model year, typical for this generation)
NHTSA Front Passenger Impact:
5-Star (for 2008 model year, typical for this generation)
IIHS Moderate Overlap Frontal Offset:
Good (for 2008 model year, typical for this generation)
Active Features
Active Safety Features:
All-Wheel Drive, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)
Passive Features
Passive Safety Features:
Front Airbags (driver/passenger), Side Curtain Airbags, Front Side Impact Airbags, Active Head Restraints
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Standard AM/FM/CD audio system, optional 6-CD changer, optional navigation system, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity (often optional).
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, optional rearview camera (on some trims/packages).
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
Auxiliary audio input, optional USB port, optional Bluetooth.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months, or 7,500 miles or 7.5 months with synthetic oil (consult manual for specific details).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or 30 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 15 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
30,000 miles for standard, 60,000 miles for iridium (check specific plug type).
Timing Belt Replacement:
105,000 miles or 105 months (for vehicles equipped with timing belt, check specific engine - EJ253 SOHC may have a belt, DOHC engines typically have chains or shorter interval belts).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type And Capacity:
5W-30 Synthetic (approx. 4.8-5.1 quarts for 2.5L, 5.3 quarts for 3.0L - consult manual for exact fill).
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent Subaru Long Life Coolant (LLC), 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Known Issues
Common Issues:
Head gasket leaks (especially on earlier EJ25 engines, less common but possible on this generation), oil consumption (particularly with turbo models), suspension component wear (bushings, ball joints), potential for catalytic converter failure.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Subaru Brand Focus:
Known for Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, horizontally opposed engines, and a focus on safety and durability.
Model Evolution
Legacy Outback Introduction:
The Outback began as a trim level of the Subaru Legacy in the mid-1990s, evolving into a distinct model known for its increased ride height and ruggedized styling, bridging the gap between a wagon and an SUV.
2008 Model Year Generation:
This 2008 model represents the third generation of the Outback, based on the fourth generation Legacy platform (BP chassis for wagons).
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Safety Awards:
The 2008 Subaru Legacy Outback consistently received high safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA for its generation, reflecting Subaru's commitment to occupant protection.