Segment:
Mid-size sedan and wagon, known for its all-wheel-drive capability and practical design.
Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Mazda 626, Mitsubishi Galant.
Distinguishing Features:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) on most models, horizontally opposed 'Boxer' engines, good reliability, and practicality.
Powertrain:
Engine, fuel, ignition, exhaust, cooling, lubrication, transmission, drivetrain
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (front disc, rear drum/disc), wheels, tires
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, body electrical, engine control, transmission control
Body And Frame:
Body construction, panels, doors, windows, interior trim, bumpers, chassis components
Comfort And Convenience:
HVAC, audio system, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), seats
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, spark plug replacement, belt inspection
Engine Repair:
Overhaul, cylinder head removal/installation, piston/ring replacement, bearing service, timing belt replacement, sensor replacement
Transmission Repair:
Clutch replacement, automatic transmission overhaul, gear installation, linkage adjustment, fluid service
Brake Service:
Pad/shoe replacement, rotor/drum resurfacing/replacement, caliper/wheel cylinder overhaul, bleeding, parking brake adjustment
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Shock/strut replacement, ball joint/tie rod end replacement, power steering pump/rack service, wheel bearing replacement
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Wiring diagrams, diagnostic procedures for starting, charging, lighting, ECU, and sensor faults
HVAC Service:
Refrigerant handling, compressor replacement, evaporator/condenser service, blower motor replacement, system diagnostics
Body Repair:
Panel replacement, door hinge adjustment, glass replacement, trim installation
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical diagnostics and troubleshooting.
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT)
AWD System:
Full-time Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with viscous coupling center differential.
Transfer Case:
Integrated with transmission, AWD system
NHTSA Side Impact:
Information not readily available for this specific model year, but generally performed well for its era.
ABS:
Available (standard on some higher trims, optional on others)
Traction Control:
Not typically available on 1995 models.
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Airbags (standard on most models)
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts
Crumple Zones:
Designed with front and rear crumple zones.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (whichever comes first) under normal driving conditions, 2,500 miles or 3 months under severe conditions.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 - 90,000 miles or 4-5 years (critical for EJ25D DOHC engine).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles depending on plug type (copper vs. platinum).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to owner's manual for specific climate recommendations)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 L) with filter for EJ22, 4.8 quarts (4.6 L) for EJ25D.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Subaru ATF (ATF-HP or equivalent)
Power Steering Fluid:
Subaru Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III ATF
Head Gaskets:
While not as prevalent as in later EJ engines, some EJ25D engines can experience head gasket leaks. Internal coolant leaks are a common symptom.
Timing Belt:
Critical to replace at recommended intervals. Failure can lead to catastrophic engine damage, especially on the DOHC EJ25D.
Oxygen Sensors:
Can become fouled or fail over time, leading to check engine lights and poor fuel economy.
Cv Axle Boots:
Common wear item, especially with AWD vehicles. Torn boots can lead to premature CV joint failure.
Suspension Wear:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, and struts can wear out over time, affecting ride quality and handling.