Segment:
Mid-size sedan and wagon, known for its standard All-Wheel Drive and practical nature.
Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Mazda 626, Ford Taurus.
Standard AWD:
Subaru's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive was a key differentiator, offering enhanced traction and stability.
Boxer Engine:
Distinctive horizontally opposed 'boxer' engines provided a lower center of gravity for improved handling.
Practicality:
Offered as both a sedan and a wagon, catering to different utility needs.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, diagnosis, repair of all engine components (e.g., cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing belt)
Engine Management:
Fuel injection systems, ignition systems, emissions control, ECU diagnostics, sensor testing
Transmission Manual:
Disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of manual transmissions (e.g., clutch, gears, synchronizers)
Transmission Automatic:
Diagnosis, fluid service, repair procedures for automatic transmissions, torque converter operation
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system operation, differential service, CV joint repair, driveshaft maintenance
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, bushings, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering rack, tie rods, steering column
Brakes:
Disc brake systems (front and rear), ABS operation and diagnosis, hydraulic systems, parking brake
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system, lighting, fuses, relays
Body Interior:
Door mechanisms, upholstery, interior trim, glass replacement, body panel removal and installation
Body Exterior:
Bumpers, fenders, hood, trunk lid, door panels, body panel alignment, rust repair considerations
HVAC:
Air conditioning system diagnosis and repair, heating system, climate control components
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, common problems and solutions
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major vehicle systems and components
Rebuilding:
Detailed instructions for engine and transmission rebuilding
Installation:
Procedures for installing replacement parts and accessories
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications, fluid capacities, electrical values, engine timing
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced diagnostics and troubleshooting.
Engine Type 1:
2.2L Naturally Aspirated Flat-4 (EJ22)
Horsepower 1:
130 hp @ 5600 rpm (approx.)
Torque 1:
137 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (approx.)
Engine Type 2:
2.5L Naturally Aspirated Flat-4 (EJ25)
Horsepower 2:
165 hp @ 5600 rpm (approx.)
Torque 2:
177 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)
Engine Type 3:
2.5L Turbocharged Flat-4 (EJ25D - SOHC, EJ25TT - DOHC Turbo)
Horsepower 3:
215 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx. for GT/GT-B Turbo models)
Torque 3:
236 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (approx. for GT/GT-B Turbo models)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (consult manual for exact spec).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Recommended every 60,000-100,000 miles or 5-7 years. Crucial for EJ series engines to prevent catastrophic failure.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on plug type).
Engine Oil:
5W-30 or 10W-30 API certified synthetic or conventional oil (consult manual for specific viscosity and API rating recommendations).
Coolant:
Subaru Blue Super Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Subaru ATF-HP or Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid (verify with manual).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (verify with manual).
Differential Fluid:
API GL-5 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (verify with manual).
Head Gaskets:
Later EJ25 engines (especially early DOHC EJ25D) were prone to head gasket leaks. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.
Automatic Transmission Failures:
Some models may experience premature wear or failure of automatic transmissions, particularly with hard use or inadequate fluid maintenance.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gaskets and rear main seals can develop leaks over time.
Exhaust Manifold Cracks:
Exhaust manifold cracks can occur, leading to exhaust leaks and a ticking noise.