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.
2008 Subaru Outback Base, AutomaticFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Service Data
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Subaru Outback and 2006 Subaru Legacy. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
SERVICE DATA
| Drive pinion bearing preload (at companion flange bolt hole) | N (kgf, lb) | T-type | 18.1 - 38.8 (1.8 - 4.0, 4.1 - 8.7) | |
| VA-type | 12.7 - 32.4 (1.3 - 3.3, 2.9 - 7.3) | |||
| Side gear backlash | mm (in) | T-type | 0.10 - 0.20 (0.0039 - 0.0079) | |
| VA1-type only | 0.05 - 0.15 (0.0020 - 0.0059) | |||
| Side bearing standard width | mm (in) | 20.00 (0.7874) | ||
| Hypoid driven gear to drive pinion backlash | mm (in) | T-type | 0.10 - 0.20 (0.0039 - 0.0079) | |
| VA-type | 0.10 - 0.15 (0.0039 - 0.0059) | |||
| Hypoid driven gear runout on its back surface | mm (in) | T-type only | 0.05 (0.0020) | |
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:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
