Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses and relays, wiring diagrams, power distribution.
Body:
Body construction, exterior panels, doors, hood, tailgate, glass, seals, interior trim, seats, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system.
Engine overhaul, cylinder head repair, transmission overhaul (manual and automatic), brake component replacement, suspension component replacement, steering system repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, body panel repair.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common issues, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation and clearing, sensor testing, actuator testing, use of Subaru Select Monitor (SSM).
Component Replacement:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for replacing all major and minor components, including torque specifications.
Technical Depth
Depth:
Detailed diagnostic procedures, in-depth mechanical repair instructions, comprehensive wiring diagrams, component removal and installation, specifications for virtually every aspect of the vehicle.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
PDF
Searchability:
Fully searchable text for quick information retrieval.
Print Quality:
High-resolution scans/creation, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual.
91 AKI (for EZ30D - Premium unleaded recommended for optimal performance).
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type 1:
5-speed Manual
Transmission Model 1:
TY755V
Transmission Fluid Spec 1:
Subaru Extra MT Gear Oil (API GL-5, SAE 75W-90)
Optional
Transmission Type 2:
4-speed Automatic
Transmission Model 2:
4EAT (430LE)
Transmission Fluid Spec 2:
Subaru ATF HP (or equivalent Dexron III compatible)
Features
Drivetrain Layout:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with front engine, front-transverse mounting. AWD system varies slightly between manual (viscous center coupling) and automatic (electronically controlled variable transfer clutch) transmissions for optimal power distribution.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
187.4 inches (4760 mm)
Width:
70.1 inches (1780 mm)
Height:
63.0 inches (1600 mm)
Wheelbase:
104.0 inches (2642 mm)
Ground Clearance:
8.1 inches (206 mm)
Approach Angle:
Approx. 29 degrees
Departure Angle:
Approx. 23 degrees
Breakover Angle:
Approx. 21 degrees
Wheel Size:
17-inch alloy wheels standard
Tire Size Standard:
215/55R17
Bolt Pattern:
5x100 mm
Interior
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 100.7 cubic feet
Cargo
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:
Approx. 33.5 cubic feet
Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:
Approx. 67.4 cubic feet
Weights
Curb Weight 2.5L Auto:
Approx. 3417 lbs (1550 kg)
Curb Weight 3.0L Auto:
Approx. 3538 lbs (1605 kg)
Towing Capacity:
2,400 lbs (1089 kg) (when properly equipped with trailer brake controller)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5 Stars
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:
5 Stars
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Good
IIHS Side Impact Crash Test:
Good
IIHS Rear Impact Crash Test:
Good
Active Features
AWD:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive for enhanced traction and stability.
Vdc:
Vehicle Dynamics Control (Traction Control and Stability Control) standard on all models.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System.
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear side-curtain airbags (standard).
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters for all seating positions.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Available premium audio systems, often with CD player, MP3 compatibility, and auxiliary input. Some models feature Harman Kardon sound systems.
Navigation:
Optional factory-integrated navigation system.
Climate Control:
Manual or optional automatic climate control.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Keyless Entry:
Standard keyless entry system.
Power Liftgate:
Available on higher trim levels.
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
Standard auxiliary audio input jack.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (under severe driving conditions) OR 7,500 miles or 12 months (under normal driving conditions) - consult manual for specific conditions.
Engine Oil Type Ej253:
SAE 5W-30, API SG or higher, ILSAC GF-3 or higher (synthetic recommended).
Engine Oil Type Ez30D:
SAE 5W-30, API SG or higher, ILSAC GF-3 or higher (synthetic recommended).
Oil Filter Part Number Ej253:
15208AA031 (OEM) or equivalent (e.g., Wix 57055, Mann-Filter HU711/1x).
Oil Filter Part Number Ez30D:
15208AA100 (OEM) or equivalent (e.g., Wix 57712, Mann-Filter HU821x).
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent (Silicate-free, Ethylene Glycol-based).
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 7.0 quarts (6.6 liters) for 2.5L; Approx. 7.3 quarts (6.9 liters) for 3.0L.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (depending on plug type and condition, consult manual).
Transmission Fluid Change Interval Auto:
Every 30,000 miles (severe) or 60,000 miles (normal) - highly recommended to change.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval Manual:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles.
Differential Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000 miles.
Known Issues
Head Gaskets:
While less prevalent than in earlier generations, some EJ series engines (including EJ253) can still experience head gasket failures. Proper maintenance is crucial. (Note: The EZ30D is generally more robust in this regard).
Wheel Bearings:
Can be prone to premature wear, especially in vehicles used in harsh climates or with oversized tires.
Cv Joints:
Outer CV joint boots can tear, leading to contamination and wear of the joint itself.
Power Steering Pump:
Occasional reports of noisy or failing power steering pumps.
Ac Compressor Clutch:
Failure of the AC compressor clutch can occur, leading to loss of AC function.
Catalytic Converter:
Can become clogged or fail over time, affecting engine performance and emissions.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Subaru Legacy Introduction:
The Subaru Legacy was introduced in 1989 as a replacement for the Subaru Leone.
Subaru AWD Tradition:
Subaru has a long history of offering All-Wheel Drive, establishing its reputation for traction and capability.
Model Evolution
Outback Origin:
The Outback variant began as the 'Suspect' Outback Sport in 1995, based on the Legacy, offering increased ground clearance and rugged styling. It became a distinct model line in 1996.
Third Generation:
The 2008 model year belongs to the third generation of the Subaru Outback (BP chassis for wagon, BL for sedan), which ran from 2005 to 2009.
Mid Cycle Refresh:
The 2008 model year received a minor facelift and updates from the 2005-2007 models.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Gunma Plant, Japan.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
The 2008 Subaru Outback received the IIHS Top Safety Pick award for its excellent crash test performance.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Generally ranked as average to above-average for reliability by consumer reporting organizations, though specific model years and engines can vary.
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