Market Position:
The Subaru B9 Tribeca was Subaru's first foray into the mid-size three-row crossover SUV segment, aiming to compete with established players like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, and Ford Explorer. It was positioned as a premium, family-oriented vehicle with Subaru's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and boxer engine.
Competitive Analysis:
While offering a unique boxer engine and standard AWD, the B9 Tribeca faced stiff competition. Its distinctive styling was polarizing, and its third-row seating and cargo space were considered less accommodating than some rivals. Despite these factors, it appealed to buyers seeking Subaru's reliability and AWD prowess in a larger package.
Key Features:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, 3.0L EZ30D Boxer Engine, Optional Third-Row Seating, Unique Interior Design, High Safety Ratings for its era.
Coverage Areas:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Body, Interior, Exterior, Diagnostics, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Wiring Diagrams, Specifications, Torque Values, Wear Limits
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Engine Systems:
3.0L EZ30D H6 Boxer Engine: Engine Mechanical, Lubrication System, Cooling System, Fuel System, Ignition System, Emission Control System, Engine Control Module (ECM) Diagnostics and Repair
Drivetrain Systems:
5-Speed Automatic Transmission (5EAT), Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) System: Drivetrain Assembly, Differential Assemblies (Front, Center, Rear), Driveshafts, Axles, Transfer Case Components
Suspension Steering Brakes:
Front MacPherson Struts, Rear Multi-link Suspension, Power Rack and Pinion Steering, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake System Components (Rotors, Pads, Calipers, Lines)
Electrical Body HVAC:
Power Distribution, Lighting System, Starting and Charging System, Ignition System, Instrumentation, Audio System, Climate Control (HVAC), Power Windows/Locks/Mirrors, Body Panels, Doors, Exterior Trim, Interior Trim, Chassis Electrical Components
Major Procedures:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Drivetrain Component Replacement, Suspension and Steering Component Repair, Brake System Service, Electrical System Diagnostics and Repair, HVAC System Service, Body Panel Alignment and Repair, Interior Component Installation/Removal, Routine Maintenance Procedures, Troubleshooting Guides, Component Disassembly and Assembly
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive step-by-step procedures with detailed explanations, pictorial diagrams, exploded views, torque specifications, wear limits, and troubleshooting charts. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete rebuilds.
Length:
191.1 inches (4854 mm)
Width:
74.4 inches (1890 mm)
Height:
66.1 inches (1679 mm)
Wheelbase:
108.7 inches (2761 mm)
Ground Clearance:
8.1 inches (206 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4,200 - 4,400 lbs (1905 - 2000 kg)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approx. 10.2 cu ft (289 L)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approx. 37.7 cu ft (1068 L)
Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:
Approx. 77.1 cu ft (2183 L)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
5-Star (Driver and Passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact Rating:
5-Star (Driver and Passenger)
IIHS Moderate Overlap Frontal Offset:
Good
Active Safety Features:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Traction Control System (TCS), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)
Passive Safety Features:
Front Airbags, Front Side-Impact Airbags, Side Curtain Airbags (First and Second Rows), Three-Point Seatbelts with Pretensioners and Load Limiters, Active Head Restraints
Infotainment System:
Optional navigation system, AM/FM/CD audio system, available rear-seat entertainment system.
Driver Assistance Features:
Standard Symmetrical AWD, ABS, EBD, BA, TCS, VSC.
Connectivity Options:
Auxiliary audio input jack.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under severe driving conditions), or 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months (under normal driving conditions). Refer to the manual for specific severe vs. normal definitions.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km)
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), replace every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or as per manual recommendation for severe use.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30, API SN/SP or ILSAC GF-5/GF-6
Engine Oil Capacity:
7.0 US quarts (6.6 liters) with filter change
Coolant Specification:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant
Transmission Fluid Specification:
Subaru ATF-HP
Differential Fluid Specification:
GL-5 Hypoid Gear Oil (Front and Rear), Refer to manual for specific viscosity
Known Issues:
Premature wear of suspension components (struts, bushings), potential for coolant leaks from the oil cooler, occasional transmission shudder, infotainment system glitches (less common on early models), catalytic converter issues.
Brand Heritage:
Subaru, a division of Fuji Heavy Industries, has a long history of producing reliable vehicles, particularly known for its horizontally opposed boxer engines and its pioneering use of All-Wheel Drive in passenger cars. This heritage emphasized durability, capability, and a unique driving experience.
Model Evolution:
The B9 Tribeca debuted for the 2006 model year. It was a significant departure for Subaru, marking its entry into the growing three-row crossover SUV market. The original design featured a distinctive ' સુબારુ ' aircraft-inspired grille. For the 2008 model year, it received a substantial refresh, including a revised grille, updated interior, and an increase in engine displacement to 3.6 liters (EZ36D), addressing some of the criticisms of the original model. The B9 Tribeca was ultimately replaced by the Subaru Tribeca in 2008.
Production Years:
2005-2007 (as B9 Tribeca)
Manufacturing Location:
Lafayette, Indiana, USA
