2010 Subaru Outback LimitedFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Front Differential Assembly: Removal

  1. Remove the transmission assembly from the vehicle. Ref. to REMOVAL , Automatic Transmission Assembly.
  2. Remove the air breather hose. Ref. to REMOVAL , Air Breather Hose.
  3. Remove the oil pan and control valve body. Ref. to REMOVAL , Control Valve Body.
  4. Remove the transmission harness. Ref. to REMOVAL , Transmission Harness.
  5. Remove the extension case. Ref. to REMOVAL , Extension Case.
  6. Remove the rear drive shaft. Ref. to REMOVAL , Rear Drive Shaft.
  7. Remove the transfer clutch assembly. Ref. to REMOVAL , Transfer Clutch.
  8. Remove the transfer reduction driven gear assembly. Ref. to REMOVAL , Transfer Reduction Driven Gear.
  9. Remove the intermediate case. Ref. to REMOVAL , Intermediate Case.
  10. Remove the forward clutch assembly. Ref. to REMOVAL , Forward Clutch Assembly.
  11. Remove the reduction driven gear. Ref. to REMOVAL , Reduction Driven Gear.
  12. Remove the transmission case. Ref. to REMOVAL , Transmission Case.
  13. Remove the primary pulley, secondary pulley and variator chain. Ref. to REMOVAL , Primary Pulley and Secondary Pulley.
  14. Remove the drive pinion shaft assembly. Ref. to REMOVAL , Drive Pinion Shaft Assembly.
  15. Remove the lock plates on both sides.
    Fig 1: Identifying Lock Plate
    G06654707Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
  16. Remove the differential side retainers using ST.

    ST 18658AA020 WRENCH COMPL RETAINER

    NOTE:
    • Support the differential case assembly by hand to avoid damaging the retainer mounting hole of the converter case.
    • When keeping the retainers aside, use labels etc. to avoid confusing the left and right.
Factory Service Tools

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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.

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