Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing system, lubrication system, cooling system
Engine Management:
Fuel injection system (ECU control, injectors, fuel pump, regulator), ignition system (spark plugs, coils), emissions control system (catalytic converter, EVAP), turbocharger system (operation, wastegate, blow-off valve), intercooler system
Transmission Drivetrain:
6-speed manual transmission (TY856), clutch system, propeller shaft, differentials (front, center DCC - Driver Controlled Center Differential, rear), drive axles, hubs
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (calipers, rotors, pads), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), parking brake system, brake fluid specifications
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension (struts, springs, control arms, bushings), power steering system (hydraulic pump, rack and pinion), wheel alignment specifications
Electrical Electronics:
Battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses and relays, wiring diagrams, ECUs (Engine Control Unit, Transmission Control Unit, Body Control Module), sensors (MAF, MAP, O2, etc.), immobilizer system
Body Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, exterior trim, chassis components, subframes, crash structures
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system (compressor, evaporator, condenser, refrigerant, cabin filter)
Safety Restraints:
Airbag system, seatbelt systems, pre-tensioners
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), spark plug replacement, fluid level checks and top-offs, tire rotation and pressure checks
Engine Repair:
Timing belt/chain service, head gasket replacement, piston ring replacement, valve stem seal replacement, turbocharger rebuild/replacement, fuel injector cleaning/replacement
Transmission Service:
Clutch replacement, transmission fluid change, differential fluid change, manual gearbox rebuild
Brake Service:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, brake caliper overhaul, brake fluid bleeding, ABS component diagnosis and replacement
Suspension Steering Repair:
Shock absorber/strut replacement, bushing replacement, ball joint replacement, tie rod end replacement, power steering pump/rack repair
Electrical Diagnosis:
Troubleshooting electrical faults using wiring diagrams, sensor testing, ECU diagnostics, starter/alternator testing
HVAC Service:
Refrigerant recharging, AC compressor replacement, heater core replacement, blower motor replacement
Bodywork Repair:
Panel replacement, door hinge adjustment, bumper repair, interior trim removal/installation
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides, common problem diagnosis
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs
Diagnostic Depth:
Comprehensive diagnostic procedures, including data stream analysis and sensor testing with specifications.
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for complete engine and transmission rebuilds with torque specifications and clearances.
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete, detailed wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, including color codes and connector pinouts.
Torque Specifications:
Extensive list of torque specifications for all critical fasteners throughout the vehicle.
Tolerances Clearances:
Precise specifications for component clearances and tolerances required during engine and transmission rebuilds.
Engine Type Sti:
EJ257 - 2.5-liter turbocharged horizontally opposed (Boxer) four-cylinder
Engine Type Non Sti:
EJ204 (2.0L NA), EJ253 (2.5L NA) - common Subaru engines for the era
Horsepower Sti:
305 hp @ 6000 rpm (varies slightly by market/tuning)
Torque Sti:
290 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (varies slightly by market/tuning)
Horsepower Non Sti:
Approx. 170-175 hp for 2.5L NA, 155 hp for 2.0L NA (typical)
Torque Non Sti:
Approx. 166 lb-ft for 2.5L NA, 145 lb-ft for 2.0L NA (typical)
Fuel Induction:
Multi-point sequential fuel injection (both turbo and non-turbo variants)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded (91 octane or higher recommended for STI)
Pistons Sti:
Forged pistons (STI)
Connecting Rods Sti:
Forged connecting rods (STI)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months for severe driving, or 7,500 miles/12 months for normal driving (consult manual for specifics).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months, or as needed based on conditions.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement Sti:
Around 60,000 miles for iridium-tipped spark plugs (check manual for exact spec and type).
Timing Belt Replacement:
This generation uses a timing chain on most engines, but the manual will detail any specific maintenance requirements for the timing system.
Engine Oil Specification:
0W-30 or 5W-30 Synthetic engine oil meeting API SN/SM or ILSAC GF-5 standards (check manual for specific viscosity and API requirements).
Engine Oil Capacity Sti:
Approx. 5.5 quarts (5.2 liters) with filter change.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (ensure meeting relevant standards).
Power Steering Fluid Specification:
ATF Dexron II/III or Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid.
Engine Internal Wear:
Piston ring land wear in some EJ257 engines, leading to oil consumption and potential ringland failure if not addressed. Regular oil checks are crucial.
Clutch Wear:
Clutch wear can be accelerated by aggressive driving, as expected for a performance vehicle.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear in suspension bushings can lead to vague handling and noise over time.
Turbocharger Reliability:
While robust, the turbocharger requires proper maintenance (regular oil changes, avoiding heat soak) for longevity.