2001 Subaru Outback Base, StandardFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Front Vehicle Speed Sensor: Removal

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. Set the vehicle on a lift.
  2. Disconnect the ground cable from battery.
    Fig 1: Disconnecting Ground Cable From Battery
    G02875779Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  3. Remove the air cleaner case. (2.5 L model)

    < Ref. to REMOVAL , Air Cleaner Case.>

  4. Remove air intake chamber. (3.0 L model)

    < Ref. to REMOVAL , Air Intake Chamber.>

  5. Disconnect the transmission connector.
    Fig 2: Disconnecting Transmission Connector
    G02875780Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  6. Remove the pitching stopper. < Ref. to REMOVAL , Transmission Mounting System.>
  7. Remove the transmission connector from stay.
  8. Lift-up the vehicle.
  9. Clean the transmission exterior.
  10. Drain the ATF completely.
    NOTE: Tighten the ATF drain plug after draining the ATF.

    Replace the gasket with a new one.

    1. Tightening torque:  25 N.m (2.5 kgf-m, 18.1 ft-lb)
      Fig 3: Draining ATF Completely
      G02875781Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  11. Remove the front, center, rear exhaust pipes and muffler.

    2.5 L model 

    1. < Ref. to REMOVAL , Front Exhaust Pipe>, < Ref. to REMOVAL , Rear Exhaust Pipe> and < Ref. to REMOVAL , Muffler.>

    3.0 L model 

    1. < Ref. to REMOVAL , Front Exhaust Pipe>, < Ref. to REMOVAL , Rear Exhaust Pipe> and <Ref. to REMOVAL , Muffler.>
  12. Remove the shield cover.
  13. Remove the propeller shaft.
  14. Place the transmission jack under transmission.
    NOTE: Make sure that the support plates of transmission jack don't touch the crossmember.
  15. Remove the transmission rear crossmember bolts.
    Fig 4: Removing Transmission Rear Crossmember Bolts
    G02875782Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  16. Lower the AT jack.
    NOTE: Do not separate the AT jack and transmission.
  17. Remove the oil cooler inlet and outlet pipe.
    NOTE: When removing the outlet pipe, be careful not to lose balls and springs used with retaining screws.
  18. Remove the front torque converter turbine speed sensor.
    Fig 5: Removing Front Torque Converter Turbine Speed Sensor
    G02875783Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  19. Remove the rear vehicle speed sensor.
    Fig 6: Removing Rear Vehicle Speed Sensor
    G02875784Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  20. Remove the oil pan.
  21. Disconnect the duty solenoid connector and ATF temperature sensor. Remove the connectors from clip and disconnect the connector.
    Fig 7: Removing Connectors From Clip
    G02875785Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  22. Remove the harness assembly.
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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.