2008 Subaru Outback Base, AutomaticFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Select Lever: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 Subaru Outback and 2007 Subaru Legacy. 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 the battery.
  3. Shift the select lever to "N" range.
  4. Lift the vehicle.
  5. Remove the rear exhaust pipe and muffler.
    • SOHC MODEL <Ref. to REMOVAL , Rear Exhaust Pipe .> <Ref. to REMOVAL , Muffler .>
    • DOHC turbo model <Ref. to REMOVAL , Rear Exhaust Pipe .> <Ref. to REMOVAL , Muffler .>
    • DOHC 3.0 L model <Ref. to REMOVAL , Rear Exhaust Pipe .> <Ref. to REMOVAL , Muffler .>
  6. Remove the heat shield cover.
    Fig 1: Identifying Heat Shield Cover
    G05019661Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  7. Remove the cable from arm assembly.
    Fig 2: Identifying Arm Assembly
    G05341796Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  8. Raise the claw of clamp to remove the cable.
    Fig 3: Identifying Claw Of Clamp
    G05341797Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  9. Lower the vehicle.
  10. Remove the console box. <Ref. to REMOVAL , Console Box .>
  11. Remove the center console. <Ref. to REMOVAL , Center Console .>
  12. Remove the harness clips from the bracket.
    Fig 4: Identifying Harness Clips
    G05019664Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  13. Disconnect the connectors, and then remove the four bolts to take out the select lever assembly from vehicle body.
    Fig 5: Locating Select Lever Assembly Bolts
    G05019665Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
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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.