Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
2002 Subaru Outback L.L.Bean Edition AWD F6-3.0LFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Control Assembly: Service and Repair
Control Unit
REMOVAL
1. AUTO A/C
1. Disconnect ground cable from battery.
2. Remove front cover (A).
3. Loosen 2 screws (B) to remove center panel (C).
4. Loosen screws to pull control unit slightly out of center console.
5. Disconnect connector to remove control unit.
2. MANUAL A/C
1. Disconnect ground cable from battery.
2. Remove front cover (A).
3. Loosen 2 screws (B) to remove center panel (C).
4. Set temperature control switch to "FULL HOT", and disconnect temperature control cable from heater unit.
5. Loosen screws to pull control unit slightly out of center console.
6. Disconnect connector from antenna cable to remove control unit.
INSTALLATION
1. AUTO A/C
Install in the reverse order of removal.
2. MANUAL A/C
1. Install in the reverse order of removal.
2. Before installation, set temperature control switch to "FULL HOT".
REMOVAL
1. AUTO A/C
1. Disconnect ground cable from battery.
2. Remove front cover (A).
3. Loosen 2 screws (B) to remove center panel (C).
4. Loosen screws to pull control unit slightly out of center console.
5. Disconnect connector to remove control unit.
2. MANUAL A/C
1. Disconnect ground cable from battery.
2. Remove front cover (A).
3. Loosen 2 screws (B) to remove center panel (C).
4. Set temperature control switch to "FULL HOT", and disconnect temperature control cable from heater unit.
5. Loosen screws to pull control unit slightly out of center console.
6. Disconnect connector from antenna cable to remove control unit.
INSTALLATION
1. AUTO A/C
Install in the reverse order of removal.
2. MANUAL A/C
1. Install in the reverse order of removal.
2. Before installation, set temperature control switch to "FULL HOT".
Factory Service Tools
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
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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.