🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Tribeca

Year:

2008

Chassis Code:

WHP

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Subaru Tribeca aimed to offer a three-row crossover SUV option with Subaru's renowned AWD system and a premium feel, targeting families and active lifestyles.

Competitors:

Competed with vehicles like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, and Nissan Murano.

AWD:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system providing enhanced traction and stability.

Engine:

Unique Subaru EZ36D 3.6-liter Boxer engine offering a low center of gravity.

Seating:

Standard three-row seating configuration for up to seven passengers.

Styling:

Distinctive styling, particularly the front fascia, aimed for a more premium and upscale appearance.

Value Proposition:

This manual is an essential resource for maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing the 2008 Subaru Tribeca, providing factory-accurate information that can save significant costs compared to dealership service.

📋 Manual Details

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

Page Count:

Extensive (specific count not provided, but implied to be comprehensive for a factory workshop manual)

Manual Type:

Factory Workshop Service Repair Manual

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Comprehensive diagnostics, repair, and overhaul procedures for all engine variants.

Transmission:

Detailed service and repair procedures for automatic transmission, including torque converter, valve body, and internal components.

Drivetrain:

Service and repair of Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, differentials, driveshafts, and CV joints.

Suspension:

Repair and replacement of struts, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, wheel bearings, and alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Maintenance, repair, and bleeding procedures for ABS, EBD, brake calipers, rotors, pads, and brake lines.

Steering:

Service and repair of power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, and steering column components.

Electrical:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams, troubleshooting guides for all electrical systems, including lighting, power accessories, and charging system.

HVAC:

Diagnosis and repair of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, including refrigerant handling and component replacement.

Body:

Repair and maintenance of body panels, doors, windows, bumpers, and interior trim.

Comfort Convenience:

Service procedures for power seats, sunroof, infotainment system, and other comfort features.

Maintenance:

Detailed scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid checks, filter replacements, and lubrication points.

Troubleshooting:

Extensive diagnostic procedures and flowcharts for identifying and resolving common and complex issues.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for virtually all components and systems.

Diagnostics:

OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation and diagnostic strategies.

Rebuild:

Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures with detailed specifications and tolerances.

Installation:

Instructions for installing replacement parts and accessories.

Depth:

Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Resolution:

High Resolution (as stated in product description)

Content Quality:

Includes Hi Resolution illustrations, instructions, photos, and diagrams.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

EZ36D

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated, Horizontally Opposed (Boxer) 6-cylinder

Displacement:

3.6 Liters (3630 cc)

Horsepower:

256 hp @ 6000 rpm (estimated, verify with specific model trim)

Torque:

247 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (estimated, verify with specific model trim)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Port Fuel Injection (PFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline, 87 Octane (minimum)

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with individual coil-on-plug units.

Cooling System:

Pressurized liquid cooling system with thermostat and cooling fan.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed automatic transmission

Optional Transmission:

N/A (only automatic offered for 2008)

Drive Mode:

Electronically controlled with a torque converter lock-up clutch for improved efficiency.

AWD Integration:

Integrated with Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Subaru ATF HP (High Performance) or equivalent (verify with manual for specific part number).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

189.1 inches

Width:

73.9 inches

Height:

65.7 inches

Wheelbase:

108.2 inches

Curb Weight:

Approximately 4,034 - 4,211 lbs (depending on trim and options)

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

Approx. 10.2 cubic feet

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

Approx. 33.5 cubic feet

Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:

Approx. 67.6 cubic feet

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Rating:

4 out of 5 stars (2008 model year)

Traction Control:

Standard Electronic Traction Control System (TCS).

Stability Control:

Standard Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC).

Brakes:

Four-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).

Airbags:

Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, and three-row side curtain airbags.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

Standard AM/FM/CD stereo with auxiliary input. Optional navigation system available on higher trims.

Speakers:

Standard 6-speaker audio system. Premium audio with subwoofer available on higher trims.

Parking Assistance:

Available rear-view camera and parking sensors on select trims.

Auxiliary Input:

Standard 3.5mm auxiliary audio input jack.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 3 months, or 7,500 miles or 6 months with synthetic oil (verify specific recommendation in owner's manual).

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Recommended replacement every 30,000 miles.

Cabin Air Filter:

Replace every 15,000 miles or 12 months.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, recommended replacement every 30,000 - 60,000 miles depending on driving conditions (consult manual).

Coolant Change:

Initial replacement at 60,000 miles or 5 years, then every 30,000 miles or 2.5 years.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 0W-20 Synthetic (verify with manual for exact specification).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 6.9 US quarts (6.5 liters) with filter change (verify with manual).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (verify with manual).

Common Complaints:

Some owners have reported issues with catalytic converters, oil leaks (e.g., valve cover gaskets), and occasional transmission behavior. The manual will provide diagnostic steps for these and other potential problems.

Common Complaints 2:

Interior rattles and squeaks, HVAC system performance issues, and potential for wear on suspension components over time.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Focus:

Subaru has a long history of producing reliable vehicles with a strong emphasis on all-wheel-drive technology and horizontally opposed (Boxer) engines.

First Generation:

The Tribeca was first introduced in 2005 as the Subaru B9 Tribeca, featuring a distinct styling and a 3.0-liter 6-cylinder engine.

Second Generation Facelift:

The 2008 model year represents a significant update, including a revised front-end design, the introduction of the larger 3.6-liter EZ36D engine, and an updated 5-speed automatic transmission. This facelift aimed to address criticisms of the original styling and improve powertrain performance.

Production Location:

Lafayette, Indiana, USA (Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Inc.)

Production Span:

2005-2014 (with the 2008 model year being part of the second generation).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Recognition:

The 2008 Tribeca received a 4-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA, reflecting its safety design.

IIHS Crash Test Rating:

Generally performed well in IIHS crash tests for its segment, though specific 'Top Safety Pick' awards may vary by year and specific tests.

Manual Certification:

Factory-certified information, ensuring accuracy and adherence to Subaru's engineering standards.