Detailed step-by-step instructions for complete vehicle disassembly and reassembly, including torque specifications.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive, factory-level detail for mechanics and advanced DIYers.
Illustrations:
Hundreds of detailed photos and illustrations guiding each procedure.
Target Audience
Users:
Do-it-yourself (DIY) enthusiasts and experienced professional mechanics.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Resolution:
High-resolution PDF for clear viewing and printing.
Print Quality
Layout:
Clear, organized layout with indexed sections for easy navigation.
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital Download - printable on demand)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code 1:
EJ253 (2.5L SOHC)
Engine Type 1:
2.5-liter SOHC 16-valve flat-four (Boxer)
Horsepower 1:
175 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 1:
169 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Optional Engine
Engine Code 2:
EZ30D (3.0L DOHC)
Engine Type 2:
3.0-liter DOHC 24-valve flat-six (Boxer) - often designated as '3.0R' or '25th Anniversary Edition'
Horsepower 2:
245 hp @ 6600 rpm
Torque 2:
217 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane recommended (higher octane may be recommended for 3.0L).
Engine Design
Layout:
Horizontally-opposed ('Boxer')
Drivetrain Layout:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on all trims)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type Standard:
4-speed automatic transmission (4EAT) or 5-speed manual transmission (5MT) depending on trim and engine.
Optional
Transmission Type Optional:
5-speed automatic transmission (5EAT) with paddle shifters (often on 3.0R models) or 6-speed manual transmission (6MT) for performance variants.
Features
AWD System:
Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, varying based on transmission type (e.g., viscous coupling limited-slip center differential for manual, electronically controlled multi-plate clutch for automatic).
Fluid Specifications
Automatic Transmission Fluid Atf:
Subaru ATF HP (or equivalent specification as per owner's manual/service manual, e.g., Dexron III/Mercon for older specs, but HP is generally specified for this era).
Manual Transmission Fluid Mtf:
Subaru EXTRA SYNTHETIC GEAR OIL API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (or equivalent).
Approx. 3400 - 3700 lbs (depending on engine and transmission).
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
5 Stars (for driver and passenger)
NHTSA Side Crash Rating:
5 Stars (for front and rear passengers)
IIHS Front Overlap Crash Test:
'Good' rating (for 2008 model year, typically)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Stability Control:
Standard Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, curtain airbags (front and rear).
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters for all seating positions, LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Available options typically include a 6-disc CD changer with AM/FM radio, optional subwoofer, and MP3 playback capability. Some trims might have auxiliary input.
Navigation System:
Optional factory navigation system available on higher trims.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Keyless Entry:
Available keyless entry and alarm system.
Connectivity
Bluetooth:
Generally not standard on most trims for this model year; aftermarket solutions are common.
Comfort Features
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control systems depending on trim level.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months for severe driving conditions, or 7,500 miles or 12 months for normal driving (refer to manual for exact details).
Engine Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000 miles or 12 months (more often in dusty conditions).
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 60,000 miles for iridium-tipped spark plugs (standard for this era).
Coolant Replacement:
Initial replacement at 30,000 miles or 36 months, then every 30,000 miles or 36 months thereafter (using Subaru Super Coolant).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type Capacity 2.5L:
SAE 5W-30 synthetic blend or full synthetic, approx. 4.8 US quarts (4.5 liters) with filter.
Engine Oil Type Capacity 3.0L:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 synthetic blend or full synthetic, approx. 6.9 US quarts (6.5 liters) with filter.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 compatible brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Genuine Subaru Power Steering Fluid or an equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid.
Known Issues
Head Gaskets:
While less prone than earlier generations, some EJ25 engines can still develop head gasket leaks. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.
Wheel Bearings:
Front wheel bearings can be a wear item, especially with heavy use or exposure to harsh conditions. Procedures for replacement will be included.
Cv Joints:
Front CV axle boots can degrade and tear, leading to joint failure. The manual covers inspection and replacement.
Catalytic Converter:
Some Subaru models of this era can experience premature catalytic converter failure. The manual provides diagnostic steps.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Subaru Legacy Heritage:
The Legacy is Subaru's long-standing mid-size offering, introduced globally in 1989 as a successor to the Subaru Leone. It has consistently emphasized its AWD capabilities and boxer engine architecture.
Model Evolution
Generation:
This 2008 model is part of the fourth generation (BP/BL) Legacy, produced from 2003 to 2009. It received a facelift for the 2007 model year, which likely influences the specific details covered in this manual.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in Gunma, Japan.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
The Subaru Legacy Outback has historically received 'Top Safety Pick' awards from the IIHS for its robust safety features and crashworthiness.
Ratings
Kbb Consumer Rating:
Generally well-regarded by consumers for reliability and AWD performance.