Brake system diagnosis, hydraulic components (master cylinder, lines, calipers, wheel cylinders), power assist (booster), ABS, EBD, Traction Control System (TCS)
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension, rear suspension, steering system diagnosis, power steering, wheel alignment
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, interior/exterior controls, power accessories, body control module (BCM), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams
HVAC Systems:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis, components (compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor), refrigerant systems
5-Speed Automatic Transmission (AT) with SI-DRIVE and Paddle Shifters
Features
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (Variable torque distribution
AWD System Manual:
Viscous coupling limited-slip center differential
AWD System Automatic:
Electronically controlled multi-plate transfer clutch (Active AWD)
Fluid Specifications
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF HP (or equivalent)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Subaru GEAR OIL API GL-5 SAE 75W-90
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 189.2 inches (4805 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.1 inches (1780 mm)
Height:
Approx. 65.7 inches (1670 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 107.1 inches (2720 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 8.1 inches (206 mm)
Interior
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 101.7 cubic feet (2880 Liters)
Cargo
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:
Approx. 34.5 cubic feet (977 Liters)
Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:
Approx. 70.9 cubic feet (2008 Liters)
Weights
Curb Weight 2.5I Mt:
Approx. 3,400 lbs (1542 kg)
Curb Weight 2.5I At:
Approx. 3,450 lbs (1565 kg)
Curb Weight 3.6R At:
Approx. 3,700 lbs (1678 kg)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 2,400 lbs (1089 kg) with optional towing package
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
4 out of 5 stars (for the 2009-2011 models)
IIHS Front Crash Test:
Good (for the 2009-2011 models)
IIHS Side Crash Test:
Good (for the 2009-2011 models)
IIHS Rear Crash Protection:
Good (for the 2009-2011 models)
Active Features
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard Electronic Stability Control (VDC - Vehicle Dynamics Control)
Anti Lock Brakes:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Brake Assist:
Standard Brake Assist (BA)
Electronic Brake Force Distribution:
Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags (front and rear)
Seatbelts:
3-point height-adjustable front seat belts with pretensioners, rear 3-point seat belts
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System Options:
Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system, optional SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming (on select trims/packages)
Display Screens:
Central multi-function display for trip computer, fuel economy, climate control, and audio information. Optional navigation system with larger touchscreen.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control
Rearview Camera:
Optional rearview camera integrated into display.
Keyless Entry Start:
Optional keyless entry and push-button start system.
Connectivity
Usb Ports:
Optional USB input for audio devices.
Bluetooth:
Available Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming on higher trims.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe driving conditions) / Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal driving conditions) - check owner's manual for specifics.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months (severe) / Every 30,000 miles or 24 months (normal)
Spark Plug Replacement 2.5I:
Every 60,000 miles (platinum or iridium tipped)
Engine Coolant Replacement:
Initial change at 30,000 miles/24 months, then every 30,000 miles/24 months thereafter (Subaru Super Coolant)
Approx. 4.8 US quarts (4.5 Liters) with filter change
Engine Oil Capacity 3.6R:
Approx. 6.9 US quarts (6.5 Liters) with filter change
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron III or equivalent
Known Issues
Head Gasket Leaks:
Less common in the EJ253 (compared to earlier EJ series), but still a potential concern for aging vehicles. Early detection is key.
Oxygen Sensor Failure:
Common on many vehicles of this era; can affect fuel economy and emissions.
Cv Axle Boots:
Tearing of CV joint boots can lead to joint failure if not addressed promptly.
Catalytic Converter Issues:
Can become clogged or fail over time, impacting performance and emissions.
Suspension Components:
Wear and tear on bushings, ball joints, and struts are common with mileage.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Subaru Heritage:
Founded in 1953, Subaru is the automotive division of Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries). Known for its commitment to All-Wheel Drive technology and boxer engines.
Model Evolution
Outback Origin:
The Outback was originally a trim level of the Subaru Legacy station wagon, introduced in 1995. Its success led to it becoming a distinct model line.
Fifth Generation Transition:
The 2009 model year marked the beginning of the Fifth Generation Subaru Legacy and the independent Subaru Outback model. This generation saw a significant redesign, including a larger platform and updated styling.
Production
Production Location:
Gunma Plant, Japan
Production Period Fifth Gen:
2009-2014
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Often achieved Top Safety Pick status from the IIHS in these model years for its crash test performance.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Consistently received good or above-average ratings for predicted reliability and owner satisfaction from publications like Consumer Reports in this era.
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