Segment:
Mid-size sedan and wagon
Target Audience:
Individuals and families seeking reliable, capable, and safe transportation, particularly in varied weather conditions.
Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Mazda6, Ford Mondeo, Nissan Maxima
Defining Attributes:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on most trims), Boxer engine configuration, robust build quality
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, differentials, driveshafts, CV joints
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (4-speed), Manual transmission (5-speed)
Suspension:
Front struts, rear struts, control arms, bushings, anti-roll bars
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, steering column
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear disc brakes, ABS system, parking brake
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, ECUs
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, exterior trim, chassis components
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heating system, ventilation
Fuel System Details:
Fuel pump, injectors, fuel filter replacement, fuel pressure testing
Ignition System Details:
Spark plugs, ignition coils, distributor (if applicable), timing advance
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks and changes
Repair:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake component replacement, suspension repair, electrical diagnostics and repair, bodywork repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation (OBD-II)
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, clearances, tolerances, electrical values
Engine Diagnostics:
Compression testing, cylinder leak-down testing, sensor testing (e.g., O2, MAF, TPS)
Transmission Diagnosis:
Checking fluid levels and condition, troubleshooting shift issues, internal component diagnosis
Brake System Repair:
Pad and rotor replacement, caliper overhaul, brake line flushing, ABS modulator testing
Electrical Component Testing:
Alternator output, starter motor draw, battery testing, diagnosing shorts and open circuits
Depth:
Comprehensive: from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Engine Code:
EJ253 (2.5L SOHC), EJ20 (2.0L SOHC/DOHC - less common in export markets), EZ30D (3.0L H6 DOHC)
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (approx. 2498 cc) for the most common engine
Configuration:
Horizontally Opposed (Boxer) 4-cylinder (most common) or 6-cylinder
Horsepower:
Approx. 165-175 hp for 2.5L SOHC, up to 217 hp for 3.0L H6
Torque:
Approx. 156-162 lb-ft for 2.5L SOHC, up to 207 lb-ft for 3.0L H6
Injection:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Timing Drive:
Timing belt (EJ series)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2650 mm (104.3 inches)
Length:
Sedan: Approx. 4705 mm (185.2 inches), Wagon: Approx. 4755 mm (187.2 inches)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1400-1600 kg (3086-3527 lbs) depending on configuration
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model, typically around 1900-2000 kg
Trunk Volume:
Sedan: Approx. 0.44 cubic meters (15.5 cu ft)
Cargo Volume Wagon:
Wagon: Approx. 0.88 cubic meters (31.0 cu ft) with rear seats up
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 90,000 - 105,000 miles or 7-10 years (critical for EJ engines)
Coolant Flush:
Every 45,000 miles or 4 years
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API SN or SP) or 10W-30 depending on climate
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter for 2.5L
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, ethylene glycol based
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Head Gaskets:
Susceptible to external oil leaks from head gaskets, less prone to internal coolant leaks than earlier generations.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear of control arm and sway bar bushings leading to clunks and imprecise handling.
Wheel Bearings:
Front wheel bearings can wear out, causing humming or grinding noises.
Cv Joints:
Front CV joint boots can tear, leading to joint failure if not addressed.
