Segment:
Mid-size Crossover/Wagon, known for its AWD system and utility
Competitors:
Toyota Camry/Avalon (wagon variants), Ford Explorer, Jeep Cherokee, Mitsubishi Montero Sport
Defining Features:
Standard Symmetrical AWD, Boxer Engine, Wagon/SUV Hybrid Design
Primary Users:
DIY Mechanics, Independent Repair Shops, Subaru Enthusiasts
Engine:
2.5L EJ25D SOHC & DOHC, Turbocharged EJ22T (if applicable to specific markets/trims)
Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic (4EAT), 5-Speed Manual
Drivetrain:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) System
Suspension:
Front MacPherson Struts, Rear Multi-link Independent
Brakes:
Front Ventilated Discs, Rear Solid Discs (ABS systems covered)
Steering:
Power Assisted Rack and Pinion
Electrical:
Engine Control Module (ECM), Ignition, Lighting, Instrumentation, Body Electrical, HVAC
Bodywork:
Exterior Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Windows, Seats
Routine Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks/Changes, Spark Plugs, Belts
Engine Repair:
Head Gasket Replacement, Timing Belt Service, Valve Adjustments, Piston/Ring Replacement
Transmission Service:
Fluid Changes, Seal Replacements, Clutch Replacement (Manual), Valve Body Diagnosis (Automatic)
Suspension And Steering:
Strut/Shock Replacement, Bushing Replacement, Wheel Alignment Procedures
Brake System Repair:
Pad/Rotor Replacement, Caliper Rebuild, Brake Line Replacement, ABS Module Service
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring Diagrams, Component Testing, Troubleshooting Common Faults
Body And Interior:
Door Panel Removal, Trim Piece Installation, Seat Adjustment/Replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Flowcharts, Symptom-Based Repair Guides
Depth:
Comprehensive rebuild procedures, detailed diagnostic trees, specific torque specifications, electrical schematics
Engine Code And Type:
EJ25D (2.5L SOHC Naturally Aspirated Boxer-4), EJ25D DOHC (higher performance variant)
Horsepower Ej25D Sohc:
165 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque Ej25D Sohc:
155 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Horsepower Ej25D DOHc:
167 hp @ 5700 rpm
Torque Ej25D DOHc:
162 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Induction:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (or equivalent P-HOAT) - Blue
Spark Plug Type:
NGK PFR5G-11
Replacement Interval:
105,000 miles / 7 years (whichever comes first)
Type Usdm:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT)
Type Usdm:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
AWD System Type:
Active All-Wheel Drive (viscous coupling center differential for Manual, electronically controlled clutch for Automatic)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF (Dexron III equivalent)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-5 75W-90 Gear Oil
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
4-Star (1998 Model Year)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
4-Star (1998 Model Year)
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable (Variable by Year/Configuration)
ABS:
Standard (4-Wheel Anti-lock Braking System)
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point front and rear seat belts
Oil Change Interval:
3,750 miles / 6 months (severe conditions) or 7,500 miles / 12 months (normal conditions)
Engine Air Filter:
15,000 miles / 12 months
Cabin Air Filter:
N/A (Not standard on all trims)
Engine Oil Type Viscosity:
SAE 5W-30 (API SH or higher)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.7 US quarts (4.4 liters) with filter change
Coolant Capacity:
7.7 US quarts (7.3 liters)
Common Problem 1:
Head Gasket Failure (EJ25D engine is particularly susceptible due to design)
Common Problem 2:
Camshaft Seal Leaks
Common Problem 3:
Oil Pan Gasket Leaks
Common Problem 4:
Coolant Leaks (radiator, hoses)
Common Problem 5:
Automatic Transmission Slipping/Harsh Shifting (especially with age/mileage)
