Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV
Target Audience:
Families, outdoor enthusiasts, individuals seeking AWD capability and practicality.
Key Competitors:
Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Mazda Tribute, Nissan Xterra.
Defining Feature:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system.
Body Style:
Station Wagon/SUV hybrid design.
Practicality:
Spacious interior, ample cargo volume, high ground clearance for its class.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanicals (EJ253, EJ255), fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, engine control system (ECU/ECM).
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual transmission (clutch, gearbox, driveshafts), Automatic transmission (torque converter, valve body, planetary gears), differential systems, transfer case, AWD system.
Chassis Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension systems (struts, control arms, bushings), steering system (rack and pinion, power steering), wheel bearings, hubs.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes, calipers, pads, rotors), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), parking brake.
Electrical Electronics:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, instrument cluster, body control module (BCM).
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, climate control, refrigerant system, blower motor, condenser, evaporator.
Body Interior:
Exterior body panels, doors, windows, sunroof, interior trim, seats, airbags, body sealant and undercoating.
Maintenance Inspections:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid level checks, filter replacements, belt inspections, brake pad/rotor checks, tire rotations.
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhaul, transmission repair, suspension component replacement, brake caliper overhaul, starter/alternator replacement, body panel repair.
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical system diagnostics, engine performance issues, transmission shifting problems.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Use of multimeters, oscilloscope use for signal analysis, wiring harness testing, sensor circuit testing.
Specifications Tolerances:
Torque specifications for critical fasteners, engine clearances, valve lash adjustments, suspension alignment angles.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes and inspections to full engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and body repairs.
Transmission Type Standard:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT)
AWD System Type:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (variable torque distribution for auto, direct coupling for manual)
Automatic Transmission Modes:
Includes 'Snow/Gravel' mode for improved traction in low-grip conditions.
Length:
Approx. 178.0 inches (4520 mm)
Width:
Approx. 69.7 inches (1770 mm)
Height:
Approx. 63.0 inches (1600 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 103.0 inches (2615 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 7.5 inches (190 mm)
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:
Approx. 31.4 cu ft (889 L)
Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:
Approx. 68.5 cu ft (1940 L)
Curb Weight Manual:
Approx. 3230 lbs (1465 kg)
Curb Weight Automatic:
Approx. 3300 lbs (1497 kg)
Towing Capacity:
2400 lbs (1088 kg) (with proper trailer brakes)
NHTSA Rollover Rating 2003:
4 out of 5 stars
IIHS Frontal Offset Score:
Good (for 2003/2004 models)
IIHS Side Impact Score:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
AWD:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive for enhanced traction and stability.
Airbags Front:
Standard front driver and passenger airbags.
Airbags Side:
Optional front side-impact airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners.
Child Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player with optional premium audio system (e.g., Rockford Fosgate).
Display Type:
Basic LCD screen for radio and climate control information.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control on most trims.
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS) on some models, works in conjunction with AWD.
Auxiliary Input:
Some models may feature an auxiliary audio input jack.
Remote Keyless Entry:
Available on higher trim levels.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months (severe conditions) / 7,500 miles or 7.5 months (normal conditions), check manual for specifics.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 15 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 15 months.
Spark Plug Replacement Na:
Typically around 60,000 miles (Iridium spark plugs).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Not applicable, utilizes a timing chain.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30, API Certified (check specific year/engine for exact viscosity)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.8 US quarts (4.5 L) with filter (EJ253/EJ255)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Subaru Genuine ATF HP or DEXRON III/MERCON compatible (verify manual)
Differential Fluid Front:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil
Differential Fluid Rear:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (Viscous coupling unit requires specific procedure)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid
Head Gaskets:
While less prevalent than in earlier EJ engines, head gasket seepage can occur. Manual will detail inspection and replacement.
Oil Consumption:
Some models may experience moderate oil consumption. Manual covers checking and top-off procedures.
Rear Differential Noise:
Potential for bearing noise in the rear differential. Manual details inspection and bearing replacement.
Awt Transmission Behavior:
Occasional rough shifting or delayed engagement can occur. Manual provides diagnostic steps.