Segment:
Mid-size Sedan/Wagon, known for AWD capability and practicality
Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Taurus, Mazda 626
Unique Selling Points:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) across most trims, horizontally-opposed 'Boxer' engine architecture, durable reputation
Primary Users:
Owners performing self-maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops, automotive enthusiasts
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, ignition system, emissions control, engine electrical
Transmission Systems:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission, drivetrain, driveshafts, axles, differentials
Chassis Systems:
Suspension, steering system, wheels, tires, braking system (ABS included)
Electrical Systems:
Body electrical, lighting, instruments, audio system, power accessories, wiring diagrams, multiplex systems
Body Systems:
Body construction, exterior trim, interior trim, climate control system, safety systems (airbags)
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tune-ups, belt replacements
Repair Procedures:
Component removal and installation, major overhauls, diagnostic troubleshooting, wiring repairs, body panel repairs
Diagnostic Procedures:
Step-by-step troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation
Specification Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, performance test data
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Engine Code And Type:
EJ22 (2.2L SOHC Flat-4/Boxer), EJ25D (2.5L DOHC Flat-4/Boxer with Phase II redesign)
Horsepower Ej22:
130 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque Ej22:
137 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Horsepower Ej25D:
165 hp @ 5700 rpm
Torque Ej25D:
162 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific temperature ranges)
ECU Type:
ECU (Engine Control Unit) with diagnostic connector (OBD-I based for early models, evolving towards OBD-II)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (Variable torque distribution for manual, viscous coupling center differential for automatic)
Fluid Specifications Automatic
Atf Type:
Subaru ATF or Dexron III compatible fluid
Fluid Specifications Manual
Gear Oil Type:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90
Rear Differential Oil:
API GL-5, SAE 80W-90
NHTSA Crash Test Front Driver:
4/5 stars (1995 model year ratings may vary)
NHTSA Crash Test Front Passenger:
4/5 stars (1995 model year ratings may vary)
Braking System Standard:
Front ventilated discs, rear solid discs
Braking System Optional:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some trims
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seat belts, pretensioners for front seats
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette player, optional CD player on higher trims. Basic 4 or 6 speaker systems.
Climate Control:
Manual air conditioning and heating controls standard. Automatic climate control was rare for this generation.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on select models and trims.
Navigation System:
Not available from factory.
Availability:
Standard on most trims, optional on base models.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (severe use) / 7,500 miles or 12 months (normal use), consult manual for specific conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles, or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 30,000-60,000 miles depending on plug type (standard vs. iridium/platinum).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial: Every 90,000 miles or 7 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage on interference engines (EJ25D is interference, EJ22 is generally non-interference but replacement is still critical).
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 5.7 US quarts (5.4 liters)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter, for EJ22/EJ25D
Head Gaskets:
Common failure point on EJ25D engines due to coolant leaks leading to overheating and potential engine damage. Early EJ22 engines are less prone, but still susceptible with age.
Cooling System Leaks:
Degradation of hoses, radiators, and water pump seals over time. Early detection and replacement are key to preventing head gasket issues.
Idle Air Control Valve:
Can become clogged or fail, leading to rough idling or stalling.
Oxygen Sensors:
Can fail with age, impacting fuel economy and emissions.
Maintenance Parts Catalogs
Part Number Oil Filter:
Subaru: 15208AA031 or equivalent aftermarket (e.g., Wix 57137, Fram PH7317)
Part Number Air Filter:
Subaru: 16546AA020 or equivalent aftermarket (e.g., Wix 49506, Fram CA3546)
Subaru Origin:
Fuji Heavy Industries, founded in 1953, known for its aviation heritage and pioneering boxer engines and AWD systems.
Legacy Introduction Year:
1990
Generation 1995:
Second Generation (Second Facelift/Revision)
Key Updates 1995:
Refined styling, updated interior, introduction of the EJ25D DOHC engine, improved safety features, Outback variant introduced.
Manufacturing Location:
Gunma Plant, Japan
