Segment:
Compact car, often marketed for its All-Wheel Drive (AWD) capability
Competitors 1993:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mitsubishi Lancer, Nissan Sentra, Ford Escort
Drivetrain Emphasis:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) on most variants, a significant differentiator
Body Styles:
Available as a 2-door coupe, 4-door sedan, and a 5-door wagon (Outback Sport in later years)
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, diagnosis, repair, timing belt, lubrication system, cooling system
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (MPI), fuel pump, injectors, fuel lines, evaporative emissions control (EVAP)
Ignition System:
Ignition coils, spark plugs, distributor (if applicable), ignition timing
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox (5-speed), drive shafts, differentials (front and rear)
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission (4-speed), torque converter, transmission fluid cooler, control system
Suspension Front:
MacPherson struts, control arms, anti-roll bar, springs, shock absorbers
Suspension Rear:
Multi-link independent suspension, trailing arms, lateral links, springs, shock absorbers
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear disc or drum brakes, anti-lock braking system (ABS) if equipped, brake fluid, master cylinder, calipers, lines
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting system, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams
Climate Control:
HVAC system, air conditioning (A/C) system, heater core, blower motor, refrigerant
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, chassis components
Safety Systems:
Seat belts, airbags (if equipped), SRS system diagnosis
Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement, tire rotation
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for engine control unit (ECU), common fault finding
Repair:
Engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component repair, steering system repair
Adjustment:
Valve adjustment (if applicable), clutch adjustment, parking brake adjustment
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step guides for diagnosing various symptoms (e.g., starting problems, poor performance, strange noises)
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics for all major systems
Depth:
In-depth mechanical and electrical repair, full component overhauls, advanced diagnostics
Engine Oil And Filter:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months
Timing Belt:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years (critical replacement item for EJ engines)
Spark Plugs:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km)
Coolant Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific climate recommendations)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Genuine Coolant or equivalent (typically ethylene glycol-based, blue color)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (gear oil)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ATF Dexron-II or equivalent
Head Gaskets:
While EJ20/EJ18 are generally robust, early models can be susceptible to blown head gaskets if overheated or neglected; the manual will guide on inspection and replacement.
Timing Belt Tensioner:
Failure of the tensioner or idler pulleys can lead to premature belt failure; manual covers inspection and replacement procedures.
Oil Leaks:
Common leak points include valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and front crankshaft seal. The manual details specific procedures for sealing these areas.
Catalytic Converter:
Can become clogged over time, affecting performance. Manual provides diagnostic steps.
