Vehicle Segment:
Compact Crossover/Wagon
Competitors 2002:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Mazda Tribute, Nissan Xterra.
All Wheel Drive:
Standard Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system.
Practicality:
Increased ground clearance and rugged styling compared to standard Impreza, offering enhanced versatility.
Engine Options:
Primarily offered with the 2.5L naturally aspirated Boxer engine.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valves, timing components, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel delivery.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, sensors (MAP, TPS, O2, Crankshaft Position, Camshaft Position), starter, alternator, ECU components.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual Transmission (5-speed), Automatic Transmission (4-speed), transfer case, drive shafts, CV axles, differential components.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (typical for Outback trim), brake master cylinder, brake booster, lines, calipers, pads, shoes.
Suspension Steering:
Front MacPherson struts, rear multi-link suspension, control arms, sway bars, steering rack, power steering components.
Body Chassis:
Exterior body panels (fenders, hood, doors, bumpers, tailgate), interior trim, chassis components, frame structure, roof rails.
Electrical Accessories:
Lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), wipers, horn, power windows, mirrors, locks, audio system components, HVAC controls.
Identification:
Part number identification, exploded diagrams for assembly reference, superseded part number cross-referencing.
Replacement:
Lists all necessary parts for component replacement across all covered systems.
Detail Level:
Component-level part identification and cross-referencing. Does not typically include repair procedures or diagnostic steps.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Boxer-4
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2457 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
99.5 mm x 79.0 mm
Valve Train:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) with 16 valves (4 valves per cylinder)
Horsepower:
165 hp @ 5,600 rpm
Torque:
166 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Regular (87 Octane)
Oil Capacity:
4.5 US Quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter change
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
SAE 5W-30
Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Drivetrain:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
Fluid Type:
Subaru ATF HP (or equivalent)
Fluid Type:
Subaru 75W-90 GL-5 Gear Oil
NHTSA Frontal Driver:
★★★★☆
NHTSA Frontal Passenger:
★★★★☆
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (2002 models tested)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Available (often bundled with higher trims)
Airbags:
Dual front airbags, front side-impact airbags (optional).
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters for front occupants.
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD player, optional cassette player, up to 6 speakers.
Controls:
Manual HVAC controls, basic radio controls on dashboard.
Features:
Limited by 2002 standards. Primarily ABS. No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control or lane keeping assist.
Auxiliary Input:
Typically not standard; may be an aftermarket addition.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 - 7,500 miles (depending on driving conditions and oil type used, consult owner's manual for specifics).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 60,000 - 100,000 miles for iridium type spark plugs.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial: Every 105,000 miles or 105 months. This is an interference engine; failure can cause catastrophic damage.
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent OAT/HOAT coolant, pre-diluted 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Head Gaskets:
While less common on the EJ253 than earlier EJ series, head gasket leaks can still occur. Monitor for coolant loss or white smoke.
Radiator Leaks:
Plastic end tanks on radiators can become brittle and leak over time.
Cv Axles:
Dust boots can tear, leading to premature wear and failure of CV joints. The Outback Sport's higher stance may increase stress.
Wheel Bearings:
Can wear out, particularly with increased ride height and potential off-pavement use. Listen for humming or grinding noises.
Catalytic Converter:
Can become clogged over time, affecting engine performance and emissions.
Subaru Identity:
Subaru is renowned for its horizontally opposed Boxer engines and its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, offering enhanced traction and stability.
Impreza Generations:
The 2002 Impreza represents the second generation (GD/GG), with the Outback Sport variant being a distinct body style for the North American market, offering increased ride height and SUV-like styling cues.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Production Years Gen2:
2000-2007 (Globally), 2002-2007 (North America for Impreza Outback Sport)
Subaru Awards General:
Subaru models often receive recognition for their all-wheel-drive capability, safety, and longevity.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Varies by model year and specific components, but generally positioned as average to above average for the era.
