Segment:
Mid-size Crossover/Wagon
Target Audience:
Families, outdoor enthusiasts, individuals seeking AWD capability and practicality.
Key Competitors:
Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Mazda CX-5, Nissan Rogue
Distinguishing Features:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Boxer Engines, Elevated ground clearance, Spacious interior, Strong safety reputation.
Areas Covered:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Bodywork, Interior Components, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Maintenance, Repair, Specifications
Type:
Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual
Engine Systems:
2.5L Naturally Aspirated (EJ253), 2.5L Turbocharged (EJ255), 3.6L Naturally Aspirated (EZ36D), Engine Mechanical, Fuel & Emissions, Ignition, Cooling, Lubrication, Starting & Charging
Transmission Systems:
5-speed Manual Transmission (TY757), CVT Automatic Transmission (TR580), 5-speed Automatic Transmission (TG5C7CE), Drivetrain (All-Wheel Drive System, Differentials, Axles)
Chassis Systems:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System (Power Steering), Brake System (ABS, VDC), Wheel Alignment
Electrical Systems:
Body Electrical, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Chassis Control Module (CCM), HVAC Control, Audio System, Lighting, Wiper/Washer, SRS Airbag System, Security System, Instrument Cluster, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Wiring Diagrams
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil Change, Filter Replacement, Fluid Checks & Replenishment, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Replacement, Tire Rotation & Pressure Checks, Brake Pad/Rotor Replacement, Battery Maintenance
Repair Procedures:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild/Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake Caliper/Master Cylinder Service, Steering Rack Service, Electrical Component Diagnosis & Replacement, HVAC Component Service, Body Panel Repair & Replacement, Interior Trim Removal & Installation
Diagnostic Procedures:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II), Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Flowcharts, Sensor Testing, Actuator Testing, PCM Reprogramming/Initialization
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed wiring diagrams and diagnostic procedures.
Engine 1 Displacement:
2.5 Liters
Engine 1 Type:
Naturally Aspirated Boxer-4 (EJ253)
Engine 1 Horsepower Est:
170 hp @ 5600 rpm
Engine 1 Torque Est:
170 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Engine 2 Displacement:
2.5 Liters
Engine 2 Type:
Turbocharged Boxer-4 (EJ255)
Engine 2 Horsepower Est:
265 hp @ 5200 rpm
Engine 2 Torque Est:
250 lb-ft @ 2000-5200 rpm
Engine 3 Displacement:
3.6 Liters
Engine 3 Type:
Naturally Aspirated Boxer-6 (EZ36D)
Engine 3 Horsepower Est:
256 hp @ 6000 rpm
Engine 3 Torque Est:
247 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded (87 Octane Minimum for 2.5L NA, 91 Octane Recommended for 2.5L Turbo & 3.6L)
NHTSA Overall Rating Est:
5-Star (for applicable years)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for applicable years/configurations)
Active Safety Features:
Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist
Passive Safety Features:
Front Airbags, Front Side-Impact Airbags, Side Curtain Airbags (front and rear), Active Head Restraints, Front Seatbelt Pretensioners
Infotainment System Features:
Available touchscreen audio system, Bluetooth connectivity, USB input, Auxiliary audio jack. Higher trims may feature navigation and a premium audio system.
Driver Assistance Features:
Standard Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), Traction Control. Optional features on higher trims might include rearview camera, backup sensors.
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming, USB port for device charging and media playback, AUX input.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months (severe conditions) / 7,500 miles or 7.5 months (normal conditions), with synthetic oil.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 15 months (severe) / 30,000 miles or 30 months (normal).
Spark Plug Replacement:
105,000 miles (Iridium tipped spark plugs).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-20 Synthetic (API SN or higher, ILSAC GF-5 or higher)
Engine Oil Capacity 2.5L:
Approx. 4.8 US quarts (4.5 L) with filter
Engine Oil Capacity 3.6L:
Approx. 6.9 US quarts (6.5 L) with filter
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil (75W-90 GL-5) or equivalent
Transmission Fluid Cvt:
Subaru CVT Fluid (NS-2/NS-3 equivalent)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Subaru ATF-HP or equivalent (e.g., Dexron III/Mercon)
Common Problems:
Head Gasket Leaks (less common than older models but possible), CVT Transmission issues (potential shuddering or leaks), Suspension wear (control arm bushings, sway bar links), Oil Consumption (especially on earlier EJ engines), Catalytic Converter Issues (can become clogged).
IIHS Awards:
Consistently recognized by the IIHS for safety performance, often earning 'Top Safety Pick' status in relevant years.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Ratings vary by year and specific components, with strengths often in AWD capability and safety, while some years may show average or below-average reliability for certain systems (e.g., transmissions).
