Engine Mechanical:
Detailed disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair of EJ20, EJ202, EJ204, EJ251, EJ253 engines (including piston, connecting rod, crankshaft, cylinder head, valves, timing belt/chain systems)
Engine Management:
ECU operation, sensor diagnostics (MAP, MAF, TPS, O2, CKP, CMP), fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control systems (catalytic converter, EGR, PCV), EVAP
Transmission Manual:
Disassembly, inspection, repair, and overhaul of 5-speed and 6-speed (WRX) manual transmissions, clutch system, shift linkages
Transmission Automatic:
Operation, diagnosis, and repair of 4-speed automatic transmissions (e.g., 4EAT/TZ1A), hydraulic control systems, torque converter
Drivetrain:
Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system operation, center differential, rear differential, driveshafts, CV joints, wheel bearings
Suspension:
Front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link suspension, springs, dampers, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications
Steering:
Rack and pinion steering system, power steering pump, fluid, steering column, intermediate shaft
Brakes:
Front ventilated discs, rear discs, ABS system (operation and diagnosis), brake lines, master cylinder, calipers, pads, rotors, parking brake
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, fuse box locations, relay functions, battery, charging system (alternator, starter), lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, mirrors, locks, wipers, horn
HVAC:
Air conditioning system (refrigerant, compressor, condenser, evaporator), heater core, blower motor, climate controls, cabin air filter replacement
Body Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, bumper systems, frame structure, corrosion protection
Interior Trim:
Dashboard removal, seat removal and installation, headliner, door panels, center console
Safety Restraints:
Airbag system components and diagnosis, seatbelt operation and replacement
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil and filter changes, fluid level checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, fuel filter replacement, coolant flush and replacement, brake fluid flush, timing belt replacement, cabin air filter replacement
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuilds, head gasket replacement, clutch replacement, transmission overhaul, brake caliper/rotor replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, A/C system servicing
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting charts, OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor testing, circuit testing, common fault diagnosis
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, detailed electrical system diagnostics, and body repair
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe duty), or 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal duty) - consult manual for specifics
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Every 60,000 miles or 4 years (for EJ251 engine) - CRITICAL maintenance item
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on spark plug type (refer to manual)
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30 API SG/SH/SJ certified
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change (EJ251)
Coolant Specification:
Subaru Genuine Coolant or equivalent (Ethylene Glycol based, 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-5 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (Subaru Extra-S recommended)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Subaru Genuine ATF HP or equivalent
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Issues Ej251:
Head gasket leaks (often oil or coolant), piston ring land failure (cracking on piston tops, especially in high-performance applications or if poorly maintained), radiator leaks, AC compressor failures
Common Issues AWD:
Clunking or binding in drivetrain (differential issues, driveshaft U-joints), wheel bearing wear
Common Issues General:
Rust on fenders and rocker panels, interior rattles, ABS sensor failures