Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine overhaul, internal components (pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, camshafts, valves), timing belt/chain, cylinder heads, lubrication system, cooling system.
Engine Performance Tuning:
ECU tuning principles, fuel injection control, ignition timing, turbocharger operation and diagnosis, intercooler system.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel lines, fuel pressure regulator, evaporative emission control (EVAP) system.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, oxygen sensors, emissions controls.
Transmission Manual:
Clutch system, gear selection, internal transmission components, differential, driveshafts, maintenance and repair.
Transmission Automatic:
N/A (This manual specifically covers WRX STI manual transmissions)
All Wheel Drive System:
Center differential (Driver Controlled Center Differential - DCCD), viscous coupling, drivetrain components, maintenance and diagnosis.
Suspension System:
Front and rear struts, springs, control arms, bushings, sway bars, alignment specifications, and procedures.
Steering System:
Power steering pump, rack and pinion assembly, steering column, linkages, troubleshooting.
Brake System:
Brake calipers (including Brembo on STI), rotors, pads, ABS system, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, parking brake.
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting systems, ignition system.
Engine Control Module ECM:
ECU functions, sensor inputs and outputs, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor calibration, idle control.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass, interior trim, chassis components, corrosion protection.
HVAC System:
Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, controls, refrigerant handling and charging.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, seatbelts, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) diagnosis and repair.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, brake inspections, air filter replacement.
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Systematic diagnostic charts for common and uncommon issues, DTC interpretation, component testing procedures.
Engine Repair:
Complete engine rebuild procedures, head gasket replacement, piston ring installation, bearing replacement.
Transmission Overhaul:
Detailed steps for disassembling and reassembling the manual transmission, including gear replacement and synchro ring servicing.
Suspension Replacement:
Strut and shock absorber replacement, bushing renewal, steering component replacement.
Brake Service:
Pad and rotor replacement, caliper servicing, bleeding procedure for ABS-equipped vehicles.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring harness troubleshooting, component testing using multimeters and oscilloscopes, power and ground testing.
Turbocharger Maintenance:
Inspection, lubrication, and potential repair/replacement procedures for the turbocharger unit.
Dccd Adjustment And Repair:
Procedures for diagnosing and potentially adjusting or repairing the Driver Controlled Center Differential system.
Body Panel Repair:
Guidelines for the removal, installation, and adjustment of body panels, doors, and trim.
Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics and bodywork.
Diagnostic Tools:
Details required diagnostic tools, scan tool protocols (OBD-II), and specialized Subaru diagnostic equipment.
Torque Specifications:
Exact torque values for all critical fasteners, critical for engine assembly, suspension, and chassis components.
Clearances And Tolerances:
Specifications for engine bearing clearances, piston ring gaps, valve lash, and other critical mechanical tolerances.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed, color-coded wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, including engine control, body electrical, and chassis electronics.
Special Tools:
Lists and descriptions of Subaru-specific special tools required for certain repair procedures.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions (severe vs. normal).
Timing Belt Replacement:
105,000 miles or 7 years (refer to manual for specific EJ257 timing belt replacement details and associated components like water pump and idlers).
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30, API SJ or higher, ILSAC GF-3 or higher (e.g., Mobil 1 5W-30 Synthetic, Castrol Syntec 5W-30).
Coolant:
Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with long-life additives.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid:
75W-90 GL-5 Gear Oil (for manual transmission).
Rear Differential Fluid:
75W-90 GL-5 Gear Oil.
Engine Reliability:
Head gasket failures (though less common on EJ257 than earlier EJ25s), piston ring land failure due to detonation or inadequate fueling, turbocharger failures, oil leaks from seals.
Clutch Wear:
Clutch wear can be accelerated with aggressive driving or track use.
Suspension Component Wear:
Bushings and end links can wear over time, affecting handling.