Segment:
Compact car, known for its standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, performance tuning community, general vehicle owners seeking detailed repair information
Key Competitors:
Mitsubishi Lancer, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra
Subaru Advantage:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, horizontally-opposed 'boxer' engine layout
Driving Dynamics:
Agile handling due to low center of gravity from boxer engine and AWD
Performance Variants:
Introduction of the iconic WRX (World Rally eXperimental) model in later years of this generation, although base models are covered here.
Reliability:
Generally considered reliable, but head gasket issues can be a common concern on certain EJ engines.
Engine Mechanical:
Full engine overhaul, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, timing belt/chain, lubrication system, cooling system
Engine Fuel System:
Fuel injection (EFI), fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, EVAP system
Engine Ignition System:
Ignition coils, spark plugs, wiring, ECU control
Engine Emissions Control:
Catalytic converter, EGR system, oxygen sensors, PCV system
Transmission Manual:
Clutch assembly, gearbox overhaul, gear selection, driveline components
Transmission Automatic:
Hydraulic system, valve body, torque converter, gear shifts, TCU control
Drivetrain AWD:
Center differential, viscous coupling unit, rear differential, front axle, driveshafts
Suspension:
Front struts, rear shocks, control arms, bushings, springs, anti-roll bars
Steering:
Power steering rack and pump, steering column, linkage, wheel alignment specifications
Brakes:
Disc brake system (front/rear), ABS system (if equipped), parking brake, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, calipers
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter, lighting system, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal/installation, structural components, doors, windows, interior trim, bumpers
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, climate controls
Safety Systems:
Seat belts, airbags (early systems, typically driver/passenger deployed).
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil change, filter replacement, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement, brake pad replacement
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Systematic diagnostic flowcharts, common fault codes, symptoms and causes, electrical troubleshooting guides
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuild, transmission repair, suspension component replacement, brake caliper overhaul, electrical component repair
Installation Procedures:
Component removal and installation for all major systems
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of Subaru-specific special tools for complex procedures
Tightening Specifications:
Torque values for all critical fasteners
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical system diagnostics and wiring diagrams
Diagnostic Focus:
Detailed diagnostic procedures for engine performance, drivability, electrical faults, and HVAC issues
Rebuild Instructions:
Step-by-step instructions for major component rebuilds
Engine Displacement Common:
2.2 Liters (EJ22)
Engine Layout:
Horizontally-opposed (Boxer), SOHC and DOHC configurations
Engine Aspirated:
Naturally Aspirated (Turbocharged variants like WRX/STi exist, but this FSM primarily covers NA)
Horsepower Ej22:
Approximately 130-135 hp (depending on exact spec and market)
Torque Ej22:
Approximately 135-140 lb-ft (depending on exact spec and market)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating specified in manual)
Fuel Pump Type:
In-tank electric fuel pump
Manual Transmission:
5-speed Manual (e.g., MY11, MG11 series)
Automatic Transmission:
4-speed Electronically Controlled Automatic (4EAT series)
Drivetrain Configuration:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) standard on most models
AWD System Details:
Viscous coupling center differential (mechanical AWD on some base models)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-5 Gear Oil (specific viscosity like 75W-90 recommended)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF HP (or equivalent Dexron/Mercon compatible fluid with proper checks)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first (for conventional oil)
Engine Oil Type Spec:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific ambient temperature recommendations)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Recommended every 60,000 to 100,000 miles or 5-7 years (critical interval for interference engines)
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 24,000 miles or 24 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 30,000 - 60,000 miles depending on spark plug type (copper vs. platinum)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or equivalent Dexron/Mercon ATF
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Head Gaskets:
Common failure point on EJ series engines, often due to material degradation. Manual provides repair procedures.
Oil Leaks:
Can occur from valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and front/rear main seals.
Automatic Transmission Shifting:
Occasional harsh shifting or delayed engagement can occur, often related to fluid and filter service or valve body issues.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings and struts can wear over time, leading to noise and degraded handling.
Oxygen Sensors:
Can fail with age, affecting fuel economy and emissions.