Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV / Station Wagon
Target Audience:
Families, outdoor enthusiasts, individuals seeking AWD capability and versatility
Key Competitors:
Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Mazda CX-5 (at the time)
All Wheel Drive:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, a hallmark of Subaru vehicles
Ground Clearance:
Higher ground clearance than typical sedans or hatchbacks, enhancing off-road capability and all-weather performance
Cargo Space:
Versatile cargo area with folding rear seats, suitable for outdoor gear and larger items
Safety:
Reputation for safety, often earning high crash test ratings
Engine Type:
Horizontally opposed (Boxer) engines, contributing to a lower center of gravity and improved handling
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder heads, pistons, crankshaft, lubrication system, cooling system, timing belts/chains, valve train
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection system, ignition system, emissions control, exhaust system, engine diagnostics
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox, internal components, fluid changes, repairs
Transmission Automatic:
Torque converter, transmission control module, hydraulic system, fluid changes, rebuild procedures
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, front and rear differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, wheel bearings
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, shock absorbers, control arms, sway bars, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, alignment
Brakes:
Brake system components (discs, pads, calipers, lines, master cylinder), ABS, EBD, parking brake, fluid specifications, bleeding procedures
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, power windows, locks, mirrors, wipers, horn
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, seats, dashboard, headliner, door mechanisms, weatherstripping
Climate Control:
HVAC system, air conditioning, heater core, blower motor, refrigerant, diagnostic procedures
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, SRS components, seat belt mechanisms, safety sensor diagnostics
Electronics And Audio:
Audio system, navigation system (if equipped), instrument cluster, warning lights, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Maintenance Tasks:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, transmission fluid changes, belt inspections/replacements, battery checks
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake caliper replacement, differential service, starter/alternator replacement, HVAC component repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnosis, electrical circuit diagrams, DTC interpretation, sensor testing
Specifications And Tolerances:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine clearances, alignment angles, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all systems, including power distribution, grounds, and component connections
Depth:
Full factory-level repair and diagnostic information
Level Of Detail:
Step-by-step instructions, detailed illustrations, exploded views, torque values, special tool requirements
Length:
Approximately 186.2 inches
Width:
Approximately 70.1 inches
Height:
Approximately 63.6 inches
Wheelbase:
Approximately 104.3 inches
Ground Clearance:
Approximately 8.1 inches
Passenger Volume:
Approximately 99.0 cubic feet
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:
Approximately 31.3 cubic feet
Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:
Approximately 67.0 cubic feet
Curb Weight Approx:
3300 - 3500 lbs (depending on trim and transmission)
Towing Capacity:
2400 lbs (with optional trailer brake controller and specific tow package)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months (severe conditions) / Every 7,500 miles or 7.5 months (normal conditions) - refer to owner's manual for specifics.
Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 API SG or higher (recommended for EJ253), SAE 5W-30 API SG or higher (for EJ25 Turbo GT)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.7 US quarts (with filter) for 2.5L SOHC, Approx. 4.8 US quarts (with filter) for 2.5L DOHC Turbo
Service Intervals Filters
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Subaru 15208AA03A (or equivalent aftermarket)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 15 months
Service Intervals Coolant
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life antifreeze
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 7.3 US quarts
Service Intervals Timing Belt
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
105,000 miles or 105 months (critical for interference engines)
Service Intervals Spark Plugs
Spark Plug Type:
Iridium type (e.g., NGK ILFR5B-11S)
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Every 60,000 miles
Head Gaskets:
While less common than in earlier generations, head gasket leaks can still occur, particularly in higher mileage vehicles.
Catalytic Converter:
Premature failure of the catalytic converter can occur due to engine issues or fuel quality.
Wheel Bearings:
Front wheel bearings are known to wear out, leading to humming or grinding noises.
Cv Joints:
The front CV joint boots can tear, leading to lubrication loss and eventual joint failure.
Automatic Transmission Sluggishness:
Some owners report occasional sluggishness or delayed shifts, which can sometimes be addressed with a transmission fluid flush and filter change.
Cabin Air Filter:
Cabin air filter replacement is often overlooked but crucial for HVAC performance and air quality.