Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV / Station Wagon
Unique Selling Proposition:
Symmetrical AWD as standard, boxer engine, wagon-like practicality with SUV styling
Key Competitors:
Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra, Mazda Tribute
Core Features:
Standard AWD, boxer engine, raised ground clearance, spacious interior, good visibility
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and technicians to perform comprehensive maintenance and repairs, preserving vehicle integrity and value.
Primary Coverage:
Mechanical, Electrical, Body, Diagnostics, Maintenance
Secondary Coverage:
Troubleshooting, Specifications, Wiring Diagrams
Estimated Page Count:
1500-2500 (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals for this era and scope)
Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF for software versions), Print (OEM and aftermarket)
Engine:
EJ25 (2.5L SOHC & DOHC naturally aspirated and turbo), EJ20 (2.0L turbo for specific markets)
Transmission:
4-speed automatic (4EAT), 5-speed manual
Drivetrain:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, differentials, axles, driveshafts
Suspension:
Front MacPherson struts, rear multi-link independent suspension, stabilizer bars
Brakes:
Front vented discs, rear discs (some models may have rear drums), ABS system
Steering:
Power assisted rack and pinion
Electrical:
Charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting, instruments, accessories, body electrical, ECU, sensors
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning (HVAC) system components and operation
Body:
Exterior panels, interior trim, glass, doors, latches, seals
Chassis:
Frame, body structure, mounting points
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tune-ups
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, fault codes interpretation
Repair:
Engine disassembly/assembly, transmission overhaul, brake service, suspension component replacement, electrical system diagnostics and repair
Installation:
Component replacement procedures for all major systems
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical data, engine specifications
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical diagnostics and wiring diagrams.
Digital Format:
PDF (searchable text, printable pages, hyperlinked sections are common in high-quality digital manuals)
Print Quality:
High-resolution images, clear diagrams, sharp text (for quality print versions)
Binding:
Coil-bound or perfect-bound for durability in a workshop environment (for print versions)
Paper Type:
Heavy-duty paper stock, often glossy for diagrams, resistant to shop grime (for print versions)
Engine Code 1:
EJ251 (2.5L SOHC NA)
Engine Code 2:
EJ253 (2.5L DOHC NA - later models)
Engine Code 3:
EJ205 (2.0L DOHC Turbo - WRX/GT variants)
Horsepower Na:
Approx. 165-170 hp (EJ251/EJ253)
Torque Na:
Approx. 166-170 lb-ft (EJ251/EJ253)
Horsepower Turbo:
Approx. 210-227 hp (EJ205)
Torque Turbo:
Approx. 230-240 lb-ft (EJ205)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane for NA, 91+ octane recommended for Turbo)
Layout:
Horizontally-opposed (Boxer)
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2457 cc) or 2.0 Liters (1994 cc) for turbo variants
Type Standard:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Type Optional:
4-Speed Electronically Controlled Automatic Transmission (4EAT) with All-Wheel Drive lock
AWD Engagement:
Full-time Symmetrical AWD with viscous coupling center differential (manual) or electronically controlled hydraulic clutch (automatic)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil (Subaru Genuine Gear Oil recommended)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF HP (or equivalent DEXRON III/MERCON compatible fluid, check manual for specific recommendations)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 103.0 inches (2616 mm)
Length:
Approx. 175.0 - 177.0 inches (4445 - 4496 mm)
Width:
Approx. 67.5 - 67.9 inches (1715 - 1725 mm)
Height:
Approx. 63.0 - 65.0 inches (1600 - 1651 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 7.5 - 8.0 inches (190 - 203 mm)
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:
Approx. 31.0 - 33.0 cubic feet (878 - 934 L)
Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:
Approx. 60.0 - 64.0 cubic feet (1699 - 1812 L)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3100 - 3400 lbs (1406 - 1542 kg)
Towing Capacity:
Typically rated up to 2000 lbs (907 kg) with proper equipment
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4-star (1999-2002 models, may vary)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4-star (1999-2002 models, may vary)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags, availability varied)
ABS:
Standard on most trims, 4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Optional on some trims, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) not widely available on these early models
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard; optional side-impact airbags on some later models
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners, force limiters
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD players, optional premium audio systems with multiple speakers. Basic interfaces, no integrated navigation on most models.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims
Limited Electronic Aids:
ABS was the primary electronic safety aid. Traction control and stability control were not common during the early part of this generation.
Connectivity Features:
Limited to basic audio inputs. No Bluetooth or USB connectivity from the factory.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe conditions) / 7,500 miles or 7.5 months (normal conditions), but always consult the owner's manual for specific recommendation.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles, or as needed based on driving conditions
Spark Plug Replacement:
Iridium plugs typically 60,000 - 100,000 miles; platinum plugs 30,000 - 60,000 miles (refer to specific engine)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 105,000 miles or 7 years (for EJ25 DOHC engines with timing belts; some early models may vary, check for interference engine characteristics)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 - 4.8 quarts (4.3 - 4.5 L) with filter, for 2.5L engines. Check manual for exact capacity.
Engine Oil Type:
API SN or higher, ILSAC GF-5 or higher, SAE 5W-30 (check owner's manual for seasonal/climate variations)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant with corrosion inhibitors
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Head Gaskets:
Premature head gasket failure is a known issue, particularly on EJ25 DOHC naturally aspirated engines. Symptoms include coolant leaks, overheating, milky oil, or white exhaust smoke.
Catalytic Converter:
Can degrade over time, leading to reduced performance and check engine lights. Subaru recalled some for this.
Wheel Bearings:
Front wheel bearings can wear prematurely, leading to humming or grinding noises.
Automatic Transmission:
The 4EAT can be prone to wear and fluid leaks, especially if maintenance is neglected. Overheating can also be a factor.
Pcv Valve:
A clogged PCV valve can lead to oil leaks and increased crankcase pressure.
Subaru Philosophy:
Focus on AWD, boxer engines, safety, and durability. A reputation for practical and capable vehicles.
First Generation:
Launched in 1997 (JDM), 1998 (North America) as a compact SUV/wagon based on the Impreza platform.
Second Generation:
Introduced for the 2003 model year, featuring a larger and more refined chassis, updated engines, and a more SUV-like appearance.
Manufacturing Location:
Gunma Prefecture, Japan (Subaru's main manufacturing plant)
Model Years Covered By Manual:
1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005
