2001 Subaru Outback Base, AutomaticFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Test Methods

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Subaru Outback, 2003 Subaru Legacy, and 2003 Subaru Baja. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. Preparations before test:
    1. Check that throttle valve opens fully.
    2. Check that engine oil level is correct.
    3. Check that coolant level is correct.
    4. Check that ATF level is correct.
    5. Check that differential gear oil level is correct.
    6. Increase ATF temperature to 50 to 80°C (122 to 176°F) by idling the engine for approx. 30 minutes (with select lever set to "N" or "P").
  2. Place the wheel chocks at the front and rear of all wheels and engage the parking brake.
  3. Move the manual linkage to ensure it operates properly, and shift the select lever to the "2" range.
  4. While forcibly depressing the foot brake pedal, gradually depress the accelerator pedal until the engine operates at full throttle.
    Fig 1: Gradually Depressing Accelerator Pedal To Full Throttle
    G02875718Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  5. When the engine speed is stabilized, record that speed quickly and release the accelerator pedal.
  6. Shift the select lever to "N" range, and cool down the engine by idling it for more than one minute.
  7. If the stall speed in "2" range is higher than specifications, low clutch slipping and 2-4 brake slipping may occur. To identify it, conduct the same test as above in "R" range.
  8. Perform the stall tests with the select lever in "D" range.
    NOTE: Do not continue the stall test for MORE THAN 5 SECONDS at a time (from closed throttle, fully open throttle to stall speed reading). Failure to follow this instruction causes the engine oil and ATF to deteriorate and the clutch and brake to be adversely affected.

    Be sure to cool down the engine for at least 1 minute after each stall test with the select lever set in the "P" or "N" range and with the idle speed lower than 1,200 rpm.

    If the stall speed is higher than the specified range, attempt to finish the stall test in as short a time as possible, in order to prevent the automatic transmission from sustaining damage.

    Stall speed (at sea level): 

    1. Except OUTBACK (2.5 L model):  2,100 - 2,600 rpm
    2. OUTBACK (2.5 L model):  2,200 - 2,700 rpm
    3. 3.0 L model:  2,000 - 2,500 rpm
Factory Service Tools

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.

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