2008 Subaru Outback Base, AutomaticFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Select Lever: Removal

  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 up the vehicle.
  5. Remove the rear exhaust pipe and muffler.
    • SOHC model

      < Refer to REMOVAL , Rear Exhaust Pipe. > , < Refer to REMOVAL , Muffler. >

    • DOHC turbo model

      < Refer to REMOVAL , Rear Exhaust Pipe. > < Refer 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 Adjusting Nut And Arm Assembly
    G05666107Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  8. Raise the claw of clamp to remove the cable.
    Fig 3: Identifying Claw
    G05666108Courtesy 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 Of Bracket
    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.
Factory Service Tools

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.

Disclosure: Verified tool recommendations may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.

Shop Manual-Ready ToolsCompare Repair QuoteQuote Shield Pro

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.