Model guide · 2nd generation (BE/BH)
2000–2004 Subaru Outback
The 2000–2004 Outback is a raised wagon or sedan with full-time all-wheel drive on every car. Owners choose it for snow and dirt-road confidence, and many seek out the smooth 3.0-liter six-cylinder H6 models.
7.3–7.9 in
Ground clearance, by version
165–212 hp
Horsepower, by engine
2,000 lb
Towing capacity
2.5 / 3.0 liters
Four-cylinder or six-cylinder
Engines and transmissions
Tap one to see only what applies to it.
Capability2
All-wheel drive on every Outback
Every 2000–2004 Outback has full-time all-wheel drive. From 2001 a limited-slip rear differential came standard, which helps the car keep moving when one rear wheel loses grip on ice or mud.
H6-3.0 six-cylinder with timing chains
This car has the 3.0-liter six-cylinder boxer, rated at 212 hp and 210 lb-ft, with a 4-speed automatic. Its camshafts run on timing chains, so there is no belt to replace. EPA lists premium fuel.
Safety2
Vehicle Dynamics Control
This car's record lists stability control. In these years only the H6-3.0 VDC models had it: Vehicle Dynamics Control uses the brakes, throttle and engine management to keep the car on its line, paired with VTD all-wheel drive.
Dual front airbags and four-wheel ABS
Every Outback of these years has dual front airbags and four-channel anti-lock brakes. From 2001 the passenger airbag deploys in two stages, and child-seat anchors were added to the rear seat.
Space1
Heated seats and the All-Weather Package
This car's record lists heated front seats. Subaru's All-Weather Package paired them with heated side mirrors and a windshield wiper de-icer, and for 2003 Subaru made the package standard on the Outback.
Tech1
McIntosh premium audio
This car is an H6-3.0 VDC, which came with a McIntosh premium audio system tuned for the car. From 2003, these models also got an in-dash 6-disc CD changer.
Good to know3
Timing belt due at 105,000 miles
The 2.5-liter four-cylinder uses a timing belt. Subaru's schedule calls for a new belt at 105,000 miles. Ask us whether this car's records show it has been done.
2.5-liter coolant service program
Subaru ran a service program for 1999–2002 2.5-liter engines that added its Cooling System Conditioner to address possible small external coolant leaks at the head gaskets. Ask us what this car's records show.
Passenger airbag inflator recalls
Subaru recalled 2003 and 2004 Outbacks to replace the front passenger airbag inflator (NHTSA 16V358 and related campaigns), then replaced some of those parts again in 2020. The repair is free. Ask us for this car's recall history.
Specs are the manufacturer's figures for this generation. Equipment varies by trim and year, so ask us about anything that matters to you on a specific car.