Segment:
Mid-size family sedan and wagon, known for its standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system.
Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Mazda 626, Ford Mondeo, Holden Commodore (in Australian market).
Standout Features:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, boxer engine layout, comfortable ride, durable construction, practical wagon option.
Audience:
Families, individuals seeking reliable transportation with excellent all-weather capability, enthusiasts who appreciate Subaru's engineering.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed overhaul, timing belt replacement, cylinder head service, piston/ring installation, crankshaft/bearing service, oil pump, oil pan, cooling system, lubrication.
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection system (MPI), ignition system, emission control systems (EVAP, EGR), air intake, exhaust system, engine diagnostics.
Transmission Manual:
Service and overhaul of 5-speed manual transmissions (e.g., TZ102).
Transmission Automatic:
Service and overhaul of 4-speed automatic transmissions (e.g., 4EAT) including torque converter, valve body, hydraulic control, and electronic controls.
Drivetrain:
Front/Rear differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, wheel bearings, AWD system operation and service (Active AWD/VTD-AWD).
Suspension:
Front strut suspension, rear multi-link suspension, springs, shock absorbers, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, pump, hoses, tie rods, steering column.
Brakes:
Front vented discs, rear discs (or drums on some lower trims), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and diagnosis, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams for all circuits.
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, seat removal, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) components and service, body sealing.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system operation, sensors, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) component replacement, seatbelt mechanisms.
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides, OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) procedures.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, drive belt inspection and replacement.
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake caliper/rotor replacement, power steering pump replacement, HVAC compressor replacement.
Component Replacement:
Headlight/taillight bulb replacement, wiper blade replacement, battery replacement, alternator replacement, starter motor replacement, fuel pump replacement.
Diagnostics And Testing:
Testing of sensors (e.g., MAF, O2, Crankshaft Position), ignition coil testing, fuel pressure testing, battery voltage testing, ABS sensor testing.
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete, detailed wiring schematics for all electrical systems, including engine control, lighting, audio, and power accessories.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including diagnostic procedures and torque specifications.
Oil Change:
Every 10,000 km or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Timing Belt:
Replace every 100,000 km or 5 years. Critical component; failure leads to severe engine damage.
Spark Plugs:
Replace at 50,000 km (NGK Platinum recommended, e.g., PFR6B).
Engine Oil:
SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40, API SG/SH/SJ, ACEA A2/A3. Capacity approx. 4.5-5.0 liters with filter.
Coolant:
Subaru Super Coolant or equivalent (ethylene glycol based), mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Capacity approx. 6.5-7.5 liters.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4. Check reservoir level regularly.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-5 75W-90 gear oil. Capacity approx. 2.0 liters.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Subaru Genuine ATF-HP or equivalent DEXRON III compatible. Capacity approx. 3.5-4.0 liters (filter change).
Head Gaskets:
While less prone than earlier generations, coolant leaks from head gaskets can occur, particularly on higher mileage turbocharged models.
Oil Leaks:
Rear main crankshaft seal and valve cover gasket leaks are common with age.
ABS Sensors:
Front ABS sensor wiring can be susceptible to damage from road debris.
Suspension Wear:
Control arm bushings and sway bar links can wear over time, leading to knocking noises.
