Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine overhaul, timing components, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system, emission control systems.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starter, alternator, sensors, ECU diagnostics and wiring diagrams.
Transmission Manual:
Clutch system, gear shifting mechanisms, gearbox overhaul, driveshafts.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission disassembly, assembly, torque converter, valve body, hydraulic circuits, electronic controls, fluid maintenance.
Drivetrain:
All-wheel drive system components, differential units, axles, CV joints.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, wheel bearings, steering knuckle.
Brakes:
Brake system diagnosis, disc and drum brake overhaul, hydraulic lines, ABS components, parking brake.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, rack and pinion, tie rod ends.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, lighting system, starting system, instrument cluster, power windows, door locks, horns, wiper systems.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, bumpers, doors, hood, trunk, chassis lubrication, rust prevention.
HVAC System:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, refrigerant handling, blower motor, climate control unit.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator.
Emission Control:
Catalytic converters, oxygen sensors, EGR system, PCV system, evaporative emission control (EVAP).
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections, lubrication.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common problems, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for virtually every component and system.
Rebuild Overhaul:
Detailed instructions for complete engine, transmission, and differential rebuilds.
Installation Replacement:
Procedures for replacing components such as alternators, starters, brake pads, suspension parts, sensors.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, alignment specifications, diagnostic parameters, fluid capacities, tolerances.
Depth Level:
Expertly detailed for both DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians. Covers everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on using OBD-II scanners and Subaru-specific diagnostic tools where applicable.
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5-Star
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Driver:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:
5-Star
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4-Star
IIHS Front Crash Rating:
Good
IIHS Side Crash Rating:
Good
IIHS Rear Crash Rating:
Good
IIHS Roof Strength Rating:
Good
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC)
Airbags Front:
Dual-stage front airbags
Airbags Side Curtain:
Standard front and rear side curtain airbags
Airbags Front Seat Mounted:
Standard front seat-mounted side-impact airbags
Head Restraints:
Active front head restraints
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe duty) or 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal duty, synthetic oil recommended)
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement 2.5I:
Every 60,000 miles
Spark Plug Replacement 3.0R:
Every 105,000 miles (Iridium)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Not applicable - uses a timing chain
Engine Oil Type 2.5I:
SAE 0W-20 Synthetic (preferred)
Engine Oil Capacity 2.5I:
4.8 US quarts (4.5 liters) with filter
Engine Oil Type 3.0R:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic
Engine Oil Capacity 3.0R:
5.8 US quarts (5.5 liters) with filter
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-5 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Subaru ATF-HP (High Performance) Automatic Transmission Fluid
Power Steering Fluid:
Subaru Genuine ATF or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid
Head Gasket Leaks:
Less prevalent than previous generations, but still a potential concern on the EJ253, particularly if overheated or poorly maintained. Look for external coolant leaks or coolant in oil/exhaust.
Catalytic Converter Failure:
Can occur due to age, misfires, or oil consumption. Symptoms include reduced power, check engine light, and sulfurous smell.
Wheel Bearing Wear:
Common on AWD vehicles, especially in areas with road salt. Grinding or humming noise from a particular wheel corner.
Automatic Transmission Issues:
Some reports of shuddering or hesitation, often related to fluid degradation or valve body issues. Regular fluid changes are critical.
HVAC Blend Door Actuators:
Can fail, causing improper air temperature or vent selection.