Segment:
Compact/Subcompact Sedan and Wagon, known for rally heritage and AWD capability
Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mitsubishi Lancer, Mazda3
All Wheel Drive:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system for superior traction
Performance Engines:
Durable Boxer engines, including turbocharged variants for performance models (WRX)
Reliability:
Reputation for robust engineering and long-term durability
Target Audience:
Do-it-yourself mechanics and professional technicians
Engine:
Detailed diagnosis, repair, and overhaul for all gasoline engines (EJ20, EJ25 variations)
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmissions: diagnosis, overhaul, clutch, torque converter, gearboxes
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, differentials (front, rear, center), driveshafts, CV joints
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, struts, springs, control arms, alignment specifications
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS, discs, pads, calipers, lines, bleeding procedures
Steering:
Power steering system, rack and pinion, steering column, linkages
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting, accessories, fuses, relays
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system diagnosis and repair
Body:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, glass, seals, interior trim, collision repair information
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), troubleshooting charts
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, fluid checks, filter replacements, spark plugs, belts
Repair:
Component removal, installation, and adjustment for all major systems
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues
Overhaul:
Detailed instructions for complete engine, transmission, and differential rebuilds
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all fasteners and critical components
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of Subaru-specific tools required for repairs
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds and advanced diagnostics
Engine Code Standard:
EJ253 (2.5L Naturally Aspirated)
Engine Code Performance:
EJ205 (2.0L Turbocharged - WRX)
Horsepower 2.5L:
165 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque 2.5L:
166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Horsepower 2.0L Turbo:
227 hp @ 5600 rpm (WRX)
Torque 2.0L Turbo:
250 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (WRX)
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane recommended, 91+ for WRX)
Configuration:
Horizontally-opposed (Boxer) 4-cylinder
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed Manual
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic
AWD Coupling:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with viscous coupling center differential
Automatic Fluid Type:
Subaru ATF HP (or Dexron III equivalent)
Manual Fluid Type:
Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil API GL-5 75W-90
NHTSA Front Impact:
4/5 Stars (Driver/Passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact:
4/5 Stars (Front/Rear)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on most trims
Airbags:
Front airbags, optional side airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage construction
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (whichever comes first), or 7,500 miles/6 months with synthetic oil and filter.
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed.
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace annually or every 15,000 miles.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 60,000 miles (Iridium type).
Timing Belt:
90,000 miles or 7 years (critical replacement interval for EJ25 and EJ20 engines).
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter (EJ253), 4.8 US quarts (4.5 L) with filter (EJ205)
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 5W-30 (API SJ or higher)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent; mixture ratio 50/50 with distilled water.
Head Gaskets:
Common issue on EJ25 engines, particularly earlier revisions. Manual details inspection and replacement procedures.
Turbo Wear:
Potential for turbocharger wear/failure on WRX models if not properly maintained; manual covers turbo diagnostics and replacement.
Clutch Wear:
Can experience premature clutch wear, especially in performance driving; manual provides clutch replacement steps.
Radiator Leaks:
Plastic tanks on radiators can become brittle and leak over time.
Previous Generation Award:
While the 2003 model didn't win specific awards, its predecessor (GC/GF chassis) was highly regarded in motorsport and tuner communities.
Consumer Reports Rating Early:
Mixed ratings during its initial years, with praise for AWD but some concerns about reliability in specific areas like head gaskets.
