Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, timing belt, pistons, rings, connecting rods, crankshaft, camshafts, cylinder heads, valve train
Engine Management:
Fuel injection system, ignition system, emission control systems, sensors (MAF, O2, TPS, etc.), ECU diagnostics and testing
Transmission Manual:
Clutch system, gearbox assembly, internal components, shift mechanism, torque specifications
Transmission Automatic:
ATF system, valve body, torque converter, planetary gear sets, electronic control unit (TCU), diagnostic procedures
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, center differential, rear differential, driveshafts, CV joints, wheel bearings
Suspension:
Front suspension (MacPherson struts), rear multi-link suspension, springs, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications
Brakes:
Brake system components (master cylinder, calipers, rotors, pads), ABS system, hydraulic circuits, bleeding procedures, parking brake
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, alignment specifications
Electrical System:
12V battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system, horn, wipers, power accessories
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, locks, seats, dashboard, trim panels, HVAC system, body sealing, rust prevention
HVAC:
Air conditioning system (refrigerant, compressor, evaporator, condenser), heater core, blower motor, climate control system
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, SRS module, seat belt pre-tensioners, SRS wiring diagrams
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter change, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, differential fluid change
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step troubleshooting flowcharts, symptom-based diagnostics, OBD-II code interpretation and resolution
Component Replacement:
Removal and installation procedures for all major and minor components
Engine Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for complete engine overhaul, including torques and clearances
Transmission Overhaul:
Procedures for complete transmission disassembly and reassembly
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, troubleshooting shorts, opens, and high resistance
Bodywork Repair:
Panel replacement, dent repair, welding procedures, seam sealing
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete rebuilds and advanced diagnostics)
Diagrams And Illustrations:
Detailed step-by-step diagrams, exploded views, and schematics
Specifications And Tolerances:
Precise torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, and diagnostic parameters
NHTSA Front Driver Side Impact:
5 Stars
NHTSA Front Passenger Side Impact:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Driver Front Seat:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Passenger Front Seat:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Driver Rear Seat:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Passenger Rear Seat:
5 Stars
IIHS Moderate Overlap Frontal Offset:
Good
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Available (often with automatic transmission models)
Airbags Front:
Standard dual front airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional front side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
Front pretensioner seatbelts, three-point rear seatbelts
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe conditions), 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal conditions) - refer to specific market manual
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API SG or higher)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.2 liters) with filter change
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Approximately 105,000 miles or 105 months (critical maintenance item)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Gear oil API GL-5 SAE 75W-90 (check manual for specific PN)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Subaru ATF-HP (Genuine Subaru or equivalent)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent silicate-free long-life coolant
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Head Gaskets:
While less prevalent than in earlier EJ engines, some EJ253 engines may still experience coolant leaks from head gaskets over time. The manual will detail inspection and replacement.
Wheel Bearings:
Front and rear wheel bearings can wear out, leading to noise. Manual covers diagnosis and replacement.
Cv Boots:
Torn CV boots can lead to joint failure. Manual provides replacement procedures.
Automatic Transmission Control:
Early 4-speed automatics can sometimes exhibit delayed engagement or shifting issues, often related to fluid quality or solenoid issues. Manual offers diagnostic steps.
Exhaust Flange Gaskets:
Cracked exhaust manifold or up-pipe gaskets can cause exhaust leaks and ticking noises, particularly on turbocharged models, but also can occur on naturally aspirated ones. Manual covers replacement.