Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, valve train, lubrication system, cooling system
Engine Fuel System:
Fuel injection, fuel pump, injectors, pressure regulator, EVAP system
Engine Ignition System:
Ignition coils, spark plugs, timing, ECU control
Engine Emissions Control:
Catalytic converter, O2 sensors, EGR system
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox, shift linkages, internal components, fluid specifications
Transmission Automatic:
Torque converter, valve body, planetary gears, hydraulic system, electronic control unit (ECU), fluid specifications
Drivetrain AWD:
Center differential, viscous coupling, driveshafts, rear differential, fluid specifications
Suspension Front:
MacPherson struts, control arms, sway bar, bushings, alignment specifications
Suspension Rear:
Multi-link independent suspension, trailing arms, springs, dampers, alignment specifications
Brakes Front:
Disc brakes, calipers, rotors, brake pads, ABS components
Brakes Rear:
Disc brakes (standard), calipers, rotors, brake pads, parking brake mechanism, ABS components
Steering System:
Power steering rack and pinion, pump, fluid specifications, tie rods, steering column
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter, fuses, relays, wiring harness routing
Lighting System:
Headlights, taillights, interior lights, bulb types, wiring
HVAC System:
Air conditioning, heater core, blower motor, climate control panel, refrigerant type
Body Exterior:
Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass, seals
Body Interior:
Seats, dashboard, trim panels, headliner, carpet, safety belts
Chassis Frame:
Frame structure, body mounting points, rust prevention
Wheels Tires:
Tire sizes, wheel specifications, bolt patterns, pressure recommendations
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Manual: 60,000 miles; Automatic: 30,000 miles (severe use) / 60,000 miles (normal use)
Brake Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
Timing Belt Replacement:
70,000-105,000 miles (refer to specific engine variant)
Diagnostics:
OBD-II scan, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation, sensor testing, component testing
Troubleshooting Guides:
System-specific symptom-based troubleshooting charts
Engine Rebuild:
Torque specifications, clearances, assembly procedures
Transmission Overhaul:
Component replacement, seal installation, calibration
Suspension Alignment:
Front and rear alignment angles, caster, camber, toe
Brake Service:
Pad replacement, rotor resurfacing/replacement, caliper service, bleeding procedures
Electrical Component Replacement:
Alternator, starter, power steering pump, HVAC blower motor
Body Panel Replacement:
Door replacement, fender replacement, tailgate repair
Interior Trim Removal:
Dashboard removal, door panel removal, center console removal
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds)
Oil Change Frequency:
3,750 miles / 6 months
Tire Rotation Frequency:
7,500 miles / 6 months
Brake Inspection Frequency:
Every 15,000 miles
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (Synthetic recommended)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant
Coolant Capacity:
6.7 US quarts (6.3 liters)
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron III or equivalent
Head Gaskets:
While less common on the EJ253 compared to earlier generations, head gasket leaks can still occur over time. Look for coolant loss or white smoke from the exhaust.
Wheel Bearings:
Front wheel bearings can be a wear item, especially with AWD and mileage. Listen for humming or grinding noises.
Cv Axles:
Front CV boots can tear, leading to grease loss and potential CV joint damage. Inspect for cracking or torn boots.
Exhaust Manifold Cracks:
Some EJ engines can develop cracks in the exhaust manifolds due to thermal cycling. Listen for exhaust leaks or ticking sounds.
Rear Differential Clunking:
Sometimes associated with worn bushings or minor play in the differential. Proper fluid changes are important.