Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder heads, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing belt, lubrication system, cooling system
Engine Management:
Fuel injection (MPI), ignition system, emissions control, engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics, sensor identification and testing
Transmission Manual:
Clutch system, gearbox disassembly and assembly, gear shift linkage, transmission fluid specifications
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission (4EAT) operation, torque converter, valve body, transmission control unit (TCU) diagnostics, fluid specifications
Drivetrain AWD:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, viscous coupling center differential, rear differential, drive shafts, CV joints
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear disc brakes (or drums on some early models), ABS system (if equipped), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures
Suspension:
Front struts and springs, rear multi-link suspension, shock absorbers, bushings, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, wheel alignment
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter), lighting systems, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, seats, HVAC system, glass replacement
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
OBD-II diagnostic codes, symptom-based troubleshooting charts, diagnostic tool usage
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid level checks, tire rotation, brake pad inspection
Engine Repairs:
Head gasket replacement, timing belt service, piston ring replacement, valve adjustment
Transmission Service:
Automatic transmission fluid and filter change, clutch replacement, manual transmission rebuild
Brake Service:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, brake caliper servicing, ABS sensor replacement
Suspension Repairs:
Strut and spring replacement, ball joint replacement, control arm bushing replacement
Electrical Diagnostics:
Circuit testing, component testing, wiring harness repair, starter and alternator testing
Air Conditioning Service:
Refrigerant handling, component replacement (compressor, condenser, evaporator), leak testing
Body Repair:
Dent repair, panel replacement, rust prevention and repair, glass installation
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls)
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, wiring diagrams, pinout data, sensor voltage charts
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque specifications for all critical fasteners
Special Tools:
Identification and use of Subaru-specific or recommended special tools
Engine Code And Type:
EJ253 (2.5L SOHC Naturally Aspirated)
Displacement:
2457 cc (2.5 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
99.5 mm x 79.0 mm
Horsepower:
165 hp @ 5,500 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
166 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm (approx.)
Valvetrain:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) 16-valve
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Turbocharged Engine Availability:
Yes, Forester S/TB and STI models (GT) featured the EJ205 2.0L Turbocharged engine, not covered by this general manual unless specified.
0 60 Mph Time:
Approx. 8.5 - 9.5 seconds (depending on transmission and conditions)
Engine Oil And Filter Change:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe driving conditions) or 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal driving conditions).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 105,000 miles or 7 years, whichever comes first (CRITICAL maintenance item for EJ engines).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 API SG or SH certified oil. Check dipstick for accurate capacity.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF HP (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid). Capacity approx. 3.5-4 quarts for change.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
SAE 75W-90 GL-5 gear oil. Capacity approx. 2.5 quarts.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid).
Head Gaskets:
Premature head gasket failure is a common concern on EJ series engines, especially on naturally aspirated models. The manual will detail diagnostic and replacement procedures.
Oil Leaks:
Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and rear main seals can occur.
Wheel Bearings:
Front wheel bearings can be prone to premature wear.
ABS Sensors:
ABS wheel speed sensors can fail, leading to ABS warning lights.
