Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV
Key Selling Points:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard), practicality, Subaru boxer engine, good visibility, reputation for reliability.
Key Competitors 2002:
Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Mazda Tribute, Nissan Xterra.
Standard AWD:
Subaru's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system was standard across all trims, a significant differentiator.
Boxer Engine Layout:
Flat-four 'boxer' engine provides a lower center of gravity for improved handling and stability.
Practicality:
Spacious interior for its class, versatile cargo area, and good ground clearance for light off-road use.
Engine:
Engine mechanical, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system, ignition system, emission control system, engine electrical, engine management (ECU)
Transmission:
Manual transmission (MT) and automatic transmission (AT) diagnosis, repair, overhaul, fluid specifications
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, differentials, driveshafts, axles, wheel bearings
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, springs, shock absorbers, control arms, sway bars, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, tie rods, steering column, alignment
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum configurations), ABS system, hydraulic lines, calipers, rotors, pads, parking brake
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting system, power windows, power locks, mirrors, wipers, horn, battery, charging system, starting system
Body:
Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass, interior trim, weatherstripping
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant, compressor, evaporator, condenser, blower motor, controls
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, seat belts
Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake caliper overhaul, starter motor replacement, alternator replacement, radiator replacement, fuel pump replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting for common issues, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) explanations and correction
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine clearances, alignment angles, fluid capacities, tire pressures
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical diagnostics and body repairs
Digital Format Details:
If PDF, typically high-resolution scans of original factory documents, often searchable text with hyperlinked sections for easy navigation.
Print Quality Details:
For physical copies, expect professional printing on durable paper, clear diagrams, and legible text.
Binding Type Details:
Physical manuals are typically coil-bound or perfect-bound for durability and ease of use on a workbench.
Paper Type Details:
Heavy-duty paper stock designed to withstand grease and workshop environments.
Transmission Type Na:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT)
Transmission Type Manual:
5-Speed Manual Transmission (5MT) - Often standard on base models or optional
Transmission Type Turbo Auto:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT) on XT models
AWD Integration Auto:
Variable torque distribution based on conditions (electronically controlled)
AWD Integration Manual:
Viscous coupling center differential with limited-slip rear differential
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Good (for 2002 models)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Good (for 2002 models)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:
Acceptable (for models tested)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (standard)
Airbags:
Front driver and passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, pretensioners for front seats
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (consult manual for exact recommendation).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for EJ-series engines. Interval typically 60,000-105,000 miles or 5-7 years. Failure results in catastrophic engine damage.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Automatic: Every 30,000-60,000 miles. Manual: Check and replace as needed, often at higher mileage (e.g., 60,000+ miles).
Engine Oil Type Na:
API SG/SH/SJ, ILSAC GF-2/GF-3, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on temperature).
Engine Oil Type Turbo:
API SG/SH/SJ, ILSAC GF-2/GF-3, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (synthetic recommended for turbocharged engines).
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with Subaru additive. Never use plain water or mixed coolants.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Subaru ATF-HP (High Performance) or equivalent Dexron-III compatible fluid. Incorrect fluid can damage the transmission.
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (Subaru Extra-S or equivalent).
Head Gaskets:
While not as prevalent as on some EJ25 DOHC engines, SOHC EJ253 engines can still experience head gasket leaks, particularly externally.
Rear Main Seal:
Common leak point on many Subarus of this era, often requiring transmission removal to replace.
Cv Axle Boots:
Front and rear CV axle boots are prone to tearing, leading to grease loss and eventual CV joint failure.
Exhaust Flange Gaskets:
Cracked exhaust manifold or downpipe gaskets can cause ticking noises and exhaust leaks.
Mass Airflow Sensor Dirty:
Can lead to rough idle, stalling, and poor performance. Cleaning is often a temporary fix before replacement.