🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Impreza Outback Sport

Year:

2002

Chassis Code:

GD

Body Style:

Hatchback

Market Segment:

Compact SUV/Crossover

Product Code Indicator:

IPL

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2002 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport occupied a niche in the compact segment, blending AWD capability with a slightly more rugged, wagon-like appearance, differentiating itself from traditional sedans and hatchbacks.

Key Competitors:

Competed against vehicles like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, and potentially higher-trim versions of the Subaru Forester.

Defining Features:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard), increased ride height over standard Impreza models, unique body cladding, and a more utilitarian aesthetic.

Purpose Of Parts Manual:

Essential for accurate identification and sourcing of replacement parts, crucial for DIY repairs or professional workshops to ensure the correct components are ordered and installed.

📋 Manual Details

Parts Catalog Coverage:

Comprehensive listing of all genuine Subaru Impreza Outback Sport parts for the 2002 model year, including diagrams and part numbers.

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 500-700 pages (typical for this era's parts catalogs)

Manual Type:

Illustrated Parts List (IPL) / Parts Catalog

Language:

English

Format:

Likely Digital (PDF, scanned document) given product description, but could also be original printed manual.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine And Drivetrain Components:

Engine block, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, intake manifold, exhaust system, cooling system, fuel system, oil system, transmission, differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, AWD components.

Suspension And Steering:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, sway bars, steering rack, tie rods, power steering components.

Brakes And Wheels:

Brake calipers, rotors, pads, lines, master cylinder, ABS components, wheel hubs, lug nuts, wheels.

Electrical And Lighting:

Wiring harnesses, battery, alternator, starter, fuses, relays, headlights, taillights, interior lighting, sensors, ECUs.

Body And Interior:

Body panels (fenders, doors, hood, trunk lid), bumpers, grille, mirrors, glass, interior trim, seats, dashboard components, airbags, HVAC controls, audio system components.

Identification Of Parts:

Detailed illustrations with corresponding part numbers for accurate identification and ordering.

Assembly And Disassembly Order:

Implied by exploded diagrams, showing the order and relationship of parts in various assemblies.

Component Interchangeability:

May indicate superseded part numbers, helping identify compatible replacements.

Technical Depth:

Component-level detail for parts ordering and identification; does not typically include diagnostic or repair procedures but is essential for repair accuracy.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital File Format:

PDF (most likely), potentially scanned image files.

Print Quality Requirement:

High-resolution scans for clear diagrams and legible part numbers are crucial.

Binding Type Original:

Stapled or perfect bound (for original printed versions).

Paper Type Original:

Durable paper stock suitable for workshop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Flat-Four (Boxer)

Engine Code:

EJ253

Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2457 cc)

Horsepower:

165 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque:

166 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended)

Bore X Stroke:

99.5 mm x 79.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.7:1

Valvetrain:

DOHC, 16 valves (4 valves per cylinder)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

4-Speed Automatic

Transmission Type Optional:

5-Speed Manual

AWD System:

Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on all configurations)

Differential Type:

Front and Rear Helical Limited-Slip Differentials (standard on AWD models)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

177.0 inches (4496 mm)

Width:

66.9 inches (1700 mm)

Height:

56.7 inches (1440 mm) - standard Impreza, Outback Sport may be slightly higher due to suspension tuning.

Wheelbase:

99.9 inches (2535 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 6.5-7.0 inches (Outback Sport specific)

Curb Weight Manual:

Approx. 3045 lbs (1381 kg)

Curb Weight Automatic:

Approx. 3140 lbs (1424 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test:

4 Stars (Driver and Passenger)

NHTSA Side Impact Test:

4 Stars (Front and Rear Passenger)

Active Safety Features:

Standard All-Wheel Drive, Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags (driver and passenger), Side airbags (optional), Crumple zones, Side impact protection beams, Height-adjustable front seatbelts, Pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Base model typically featured a single-CD player with AM/FM radio. Higher trims might have offered a premium audio system or CD changer.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by modern standards. Primary driver assistance was the standard Symmetrical AWD system and ABS. Cruise control was a common feature.

Connectivity Options:

Very basic by today's standards. Typically no Bluetooth or USB connectivity. Auxiliary input jacks may have been available on some audio units.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (severe conditions) / 7,500 miles or 12 months (normal conditions) with synthetic oil. Check manual for specifics.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles, or as needed based on driving conditions.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-20,000 miles or once a year.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately 60,000 miles for platinum-tipped plugs.

Timing Belt Replacement:

75,000-105,000 miles or 7-10 years (critical for EJ engines; check specific model documentation).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 (API SG or higher recommended)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.8 US quarts (4.5 Liters) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent silicate-free antifreeze.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Subaru ATF HP or Dexron III/Mercon compatible (verify specific type).

Transmission Fluid Manual:

SAE 75W-90 GL-5 Gear Oil.

Differential Fluid:

SAE 75W-90 GL-5 Gear Oil.

Common Issues Engine:

Head gasket leaks (especially on earlier EJ25 engines, though less prevalent on the 2.5i models of this generation), oil consumption, camshaft seal leaks.

Common Issues Suspension:

Worn control arm bushings, premature rear wheel bearing failure, strut mount wear.

Common Issues Electrical:

Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF) issues, oxygen sensor failures, headlight switch problems.

Common Issues Chassis:

Rusted exhaust components, fuel filler neck rust, door lock actuator failure.

Benefit Of Ipl:

Ensures correct part numbers are used, preventing costly installation errors and ensuring compatibility with the specific vehicle configuration.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Heritage:

Subaru, known for its pioneering use of All-Wheel Drive in passenger cars and its distinctive Boxer engine architecture, has a long history of producing reliable and capable vehicles, particularly in challenging climates.

Impreza Generations:

The 2002 model year marks the introduction of the second generation (GD) Impreza. The Outback Sport variant, introduced in earlier generations, continued as a lifestyle-oriented version of the Impreza platform, emphasizing AWD and increased utility.

Production Plant:

Gunma Plant, Japan

Production Years:

2002-2007 for the second generation Impreza.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awarded For:

Subaru vehicles, including the Impreza, are often recognized for their All-Wheel Drive capability, safety, and reliability, particularly by consumer reporting agencies and automotive publications focusing on adverse weather performance.

Consumer Ratings General:

The 2002 Impreza models generally received positive reviews for their handling, AWD performance, and value, though some reported issues with build quality and interior materials.