Segment:
Compact Car / Performance Compact
Usp:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on most trims), rally-inspired performance (WRX/STI variants)
Competitors:
Honda Civic Si, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (closest performance rival), Volkswagen GTI, Mazdaspeed3
Design Philosophy:
Robust, practical, and performance-oriented, often with aggressive styling for WRX/STI models
Target Demographic:
Enthusiasts, drivers seeking all-weather capability and performance
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, lubrication system, cooling system, timing belt/chain, seals, gaskets
Engine Performance:
Fuel delivery, ignition system, emissions control, turbocharging (for WRX/STI models), variable valve timing (VVT)
Transmission Manual:
Clutch system, gear shifting mechanisms, internal components, fluid specifications, service procedures
Transmission Automatic:
Torque converter, planetary gears, hydraulic control, solenoids, fluid specifications, service procedures
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, center differential, rear differential, driveshafts, CV joints, wheel bearings
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, control arms, sway bars, bushings, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, alignment specifications
Brakes:
Brake system components (discs, pads, calipers, master cylinder, ABS), hydraulic lines, bleeding procedures, parking brake
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting system, power windows, mirrors, locks, wipers, horn
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal/installation, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, chassis lubrication, corrosion prevention
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant, compressor, evaporator, heater core, controls
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, seat belt pre-tensioners, SRS wiring
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks/changes, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical testing, mechanical testing
Component Repair And Replacement:
Detailed steps for replacing all major and minor components
Rebuilding Procedures:
Engine and transmission rebuilding specifications and procedures
Technical Specifications Data:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, diagnostic parameters
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring schematics for all systems
Depth:
Comprehensive (Factory Level)
Detail Level:
Includes detailed disassembly, assembly, and diagnostic procedures with illustrations and schematics
Engine Code Naturally Aspirated:
EJ253 (2.5L SOHC)
Engine Code Turbocharged:
EJ255 (WRX) / EJ257 (STI)
Displacement Naturally Aspirated:
2457 cc (2.5 Liters)
Displacement Turbocharged:
2457 cc (2.5 Liters)
Horsepower Naturally Aspirated:
Approx. 173 hp @ 5600 rpm (varies slightly by market/trim)
Torque Naturally Aspirated:
Approx. 166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Horsepower Wrx:
Approx. 227 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque Wrx:
Approx. 236 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm
Horsepower Sti:
Approx. 300 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque Sti:
Approx. 300 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane recommended for WRX/STI)
Injection Type:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Forced Induction:
Intercooled Turbocharger (WRX/STI models)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe conditions) / 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal conditions)
Engine Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 60,000 miles (NGK Platinum/Iridium Recommended)
Timing Belt:
Replace every 105,000 miles or 7 years (for EJ253/EJ255/EJ257 with timing belt)
Engine Oil Type:
5W-30 Synthetic (API SG, SH, SJ, SL or SM)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.7 US quarts (with filter)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent (50/50 mix)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 or GL-5 Gear Oil (e.g., Subaru Extra-S, or equivalent)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Subaru ATF-HP (High Performance) or equivalent
Differential Fluid Front Rear:
API GL-5 Gear Oil (SAE 75W-90)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Head Gaskets:
Premature failure of head gaskets (especially on EJ25 SOHC engines), though less common than previous generations. Manual would cover diagnosis and replacement.
Clutch Wear:
Can experience faster clutch wear under aggressive driving conditions. Manual covers clutch inspection and replacement.
Turbocharger Issues:
Oil starvation or contamination can lead to turbo failure on WRX/STI models. Manual details lubrication and inspection.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear on suspension bushings can lead to noise and handling issues. Manual covers inspection and replacement of bushings.