Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size Crossover SUV / Station Wagon
Target Audience:
Owners seeking to perform DIY maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops.
Key Competitors:
Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Mazda Tribute, Nissan Xterra.
Vehicle Usp:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive standard, Boxer engine, wagon-like utility with SUV ground clearance.
Primary Benefit:
Provides official, detailed repair and maintenance information directly from the manufacturer, enabling accurate and efficient vehicle upkeep.
Information Source:
Official Subaru licensed product, ensuring accuracy and completeness of technical data.
Engine Management:
Engine diagnostics, fuel system, ignition system, emission controls, engine mechanicals (disassembly, inspection, assembly).
Transmission Drivetrain:
Automatic and Manual transmission repair, clutch system, driveshafts, differentials, AWD system.
Brakes:
Front and Rear brake system diagnosis, repair, ABS system, parking brake.
Suspension Steering:
Front and Rear suspension components, steering system diagnosis and repair, power steering.
Electrical Lighting:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, exterior and interior lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system components, diagnosis, and repair.
Body Exterior:
Body panel repair, doors, windows, bumpers, exterior trim, glass replacement.
Body Interior:
Interior trim, seats, dashboard, upholstery, carpeting, headliner.
Body Chassis:
Frame, chassis components, exhaust system, fuel tank and lines.
Comfort Convenience:
Power windows, power locks, remote keyless entry, sunroof, cruise control.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, belt replacements, brake pad replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical circuit diagnostics.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation across all major systems.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, component dimensions, electrical system voltages.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, electrical system diagnosis, and bodywork.
Diagnostic Capability:
Detailed diagnostic procedures, wiring diagrams, component testing, and common fault analysis.
Repair Methodology:
Official factory repair methods and procedures, utilizing specialized tools where applicable.
Software Type:
Proprietary Digital Manual Software (likely self-executable or PDF-based with indexing)
Searchability:
High (typical for software-based manuals with indexed content)
Printer Friendly:
Likely printable pages, but format may vary depending on software implementation.
Illustration Quality:
High-resolution diagrams, schematics, and photographic illustrations.
Estimated Page Count:
1500-2500 pages (typical for a complete factory service manual)
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Software)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Software)
Transmission Type Std:
4-Speed Automatic (4EAT)
Transmission Type Opt:
5-Speed Manual
Drivetrain:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronically Controlled, Adaptive Shift Control
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF-HP (Genuine Subaru)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-5 75W-90 (API Classification)
NHTSA Frontal Driver Impact:
5-Star
NHTSA Frontal Passenger Impact:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Impact Driver:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:
5-Star
IIHS Frontal Offset Rating:
Good
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Good
Braking System:
4-Wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS) on some trims/options
Airbags Front:
Dual Front Supplemental Airbags
Airbags Side:
Available Front Side-Impact Airbags
Seatbelts:
3-Point Height-Adjustable Front Seatbelts with Pretensioners and Load Limiters, 3-Point Rear Seatbelts
Child Safety Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) System
Audio System:
Base AM/FM/CD player, optional premium audio system with subwoofer.
Navigation:
Optional dealer-installed or factory navigation system available on some models.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Limited Slip Differential:
Available electronically controlled limited-slip rear differential on select models (e.g., Outback VDC).
Keyless Entry:
Available Remote Keyless Entry system.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first (severe conditions); Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal conditions).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 105,000 miles (Platinum or Iridium recommended).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 105,000 miles or 7 years, whichever comes first.
Coolant Flush Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years (Super Coolant, Genuine Subaru).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API Service SG, SH, or SJ)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.7 US quarts (4.4 liters) with filter change
Engine Coolant:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent long-life coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II or equivalent
Head Gaskets:
While not as prevalent as in earlier EJ25 engines, some 2003 models may still experience head gasket leaks over time. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.
Catalytic Converter:
Can become clogged or fail over time, affecting performance and emissions. Manual covers diagnosis and replacement.
Wheel Bearings:
Can wear out, causing noise and vibration. Manual provides replacement procedures.
Suspension Components:
Struts, ball joints, and bushings can wear, impacting ride quality. Manual details inspection and replacement.
Automatic Transmission Reliability:
Generally reliable, but proper fluid maintenance is critical. Manual covers maintenance and potential troubleshooting for shifting issues.