2001 Subaru Outback VDCFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Fuel Tank: Removal

  1. Set vehicle on the lift.
  2. Release fuel pressure. See RELEASING OF FUEL PRESSURE  , OPERATION, Fuel.
  3. Drain fuel from fuel tank. See DRAINING FUEL  , OPERATION, Fuel.
  4. Remove holder clip which secures fuel tank cord on bracket.
    Fig 1: Removing Holder Clip
    G02112892
  5. Disconnect connector of fuel tank cord to rear harness.
    Fig 2: Disconnecting Connector Of Fuel Tank Cord
    G02112893
  6. Push grommet which holds fuel tank cord on service hole cover into body side.
    Fig 3: Installing Fuel Tank Cord Grommet
    G02112894
  7. Separate quick connector of fuel delivery (A) and return hose (B). See REMOVAL  Fuel Delivery, Return and Evaporation Lines.
    Fig 4: Separating Quick Connector
    G02112895
  8. Remove parking brake cable.
    1. Remove console box console. See REMOVAL , Console Box.
    2. Remove parking brake bracket and disconnect parking brake cable from equalizer.
      Fig 5: Removing Parking Brake Bracket & Cable
      G02112896
  9. Remove trunk trim. (Sedan model). See REMOVAL , Trunk Trim.
  10. Remove rear quarter lower trim. (Wagon model). See WAGON , REMOVAL, Rear Quarter Trim.
  11. Remove pipe protector.
    Fig 6: Removing Pipe Protector
    G02112897
  12. Separate quick connector of evaporation pipe (A). See REMOVAL  Fuel Delivery, Return and Evaporation Lines.
    Fig 7: Separating Quick Connector Of Evaporation Pipe (A)
    G02112898
  13. Remove wheel nuts from rear wheels.
  14. Lift-up the vehicle.
  15. Remove rear wheel.
  16. Remove front side fuel tank cover.
    Fig 8: Removing Front Side Fuel Tank Cover
    G02112899
  17. Remove rear exhaust pipe and muffler.
    NOTE: To facilitate removal, apply a coat of SUBARU CRC to matching area of rubber cushions in advance.
    1. SUBARU CRC (Part No. 004301003) 
    1. Separate rear exhaust pipe from front exhaust pipe.
      Fig 9: Separating Rear Exhaust Pipe From Front Exhaust Pipe
      G02112900
    2. Remove left and right rubber cushions.
      CAUTION: Be careful not to pull down muffler.
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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.