Timing belt driven (EJ253); Timing chain driven (EZ30D).
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission 2.5I:
5-speed manual transmission
Optional
Optional Transmission 2.5I:
4-speed automatic transmission
Transmission 3.0R:
5-speed automatic transmission (5EAT) with manual mode and paddle shifters
Features
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with viscous coupling center differential (manual) and electronically controlled multi-plate transfer clutch (automatic).
Gear Ratios 5Mt:
Refer to manual for specific ratios
Gear Ratios 4Eat:
Refer to manual for specific ratios
Gear Ratios 5Eat:
Refer to manual for specific ratios
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil API GL-5 75W-90 (or equivalent)
Transmission Fluid Type Automatic:
Subaru ATF-HP (High Performance) (or equivalent)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
4,745 mm (186.8 in)
Width:
1,770 mm (69.7 in)
Height:
1,605 mm (63.2 in) (without roof rails)
Wheelbase:
2,670 mm (105.1 in)
Ground Clearance:
210 mm (8.3 in)
Weights
Curb Weight 2.5I Mt:
1,515 kg (3,340 lbs)
Curb Weight 2.5I At:
1,540 kg (3,395 lbs)
Curb Weight 3.0R At:
1,610 kg (3,549 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle VIN plate or manual
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Driver Side:
5-star (2009 model year)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger Side:
5-star (2009 model year)
NHTSA Side Driver Seat:
5-star (2009 model year)
NHTSA Side Rear Seat:
5-star (2009 model year)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (Good ratings in front, side, and rear impact tests for applicable model years)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard Electronic Stability Control (VDC - Vehicle Dynamics Control)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Available AM/FM/CD stereo with MP3 playback, auxiliary input jack, optional SiriusXM satellite radio and subwoofer.
Navigation:
Optional in-dash GPS navigation system available on higher trim levels.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Wiper System:
Front intermittent wipers, rear wiper with washer.
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
Standard 3.5mm auxiliary audio input jack for connecting external music players.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3.75 months, or 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 7.5 months with synthetic oil and filter (check manual for specific conditions).
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
105,000 miles (168,000 km) or 105 months for EJ253 engine. Timing chain for EZ30D is designed for the life of the engine, but inspection is recommended.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 30 months
Transmission Fluid Change Interval Automatic:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 30 months
Spark Plug Replacement Interval Ej253:
105,000 miles (168,000 km) with iridium-tipped spark plugs.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Capacity 2.5I:
4.8 US quarts (4.5 L) with filter
Engine Oil Capacity 3.0R:
5.5 US quarts (5.2 L) with filter
Engine Oil Type:
0W-20 or 5W-30 API SN/SP certified synthetic oil recommended for most conditions.
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant.
Known Issues
Head Gaskets Ej25:
While the EJ253 in this generation is generally more robust than earlier versions, head gasket leaks can still occur, especially with higher mileage or improper maintenance.
Catalytic Converter Failures:
Some models may experience premature catalytic converter failure, often due to engine misfires or oil consumption.
Suspension Wear:
Front struts and bushings can wear over time, leading to noise and handling degradation.
Automatic Transmission Issues:
While generally reliable, the automatic transmissions can benefit from regular fluid changes to prevent wear.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Subaru All Wheel Drive:
Subaru has been a pioneer in standard All-Wheel Drive technology since the 1970s, distinguishing its vehicles in various segments.
Model Evolution
Outback Origin:
The Outback originated as a trim package on the Subaru Legacy station wagon, emphasizing increased ground clearance and rugged styling to create a more capable vehicle.
Fourth Generation Features:
The fourth generation (2005-2009) saw significant redesigns, including increased dimensions, improved safety, and the introduction of the more powerful 3.0L EZ30 boxer-six engine for higher trims.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Gunma Plant, Japan
Production Years:
2005-2009 for the fourth generation model
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
IIHS Recognition:
Consistently rated as a 'Top Safety Pick' by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) during its production run, highlighting its strong safety performance.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Generally received good to very good ratings from Consumer Reports for predicted reliability and owner satisfaction, particularly for models with the 3.0L engine.
Certifications
Emission Standards:
Compliant with EPA emission standards for the model year.
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