Vehicle Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV
Target Audience:
Families, outdoor enthusiasts, individuals seeking a versatile and capable all-wheel-drive vehicle.
Key Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra, Jeep Cherokee.
All Wheel Drive:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system for enhanced traction and stability in various conditions.
Ground Clearance:
Above-average ground clearance for its class, enabling light off-road capability.
Practicality:
Spacious interior, versatile cargo area, and good visibility.
Safety:
Reputation for safety, with a focus on Subaru's engineering and AWD system.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, emissions control, cooling system, lubrication system.
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission diagnostics, repair, overhaul, and fluid specifications.
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, differentials (front and rear), driveshafts, CV joints, propeller shaft.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, springs, control arms, sway bars, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, steering column, tie rods, wheel alignment.
Brakes:
Brake system diagnostics, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake pads, rotors, calipers, master cylinder, brake fluid specifications.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, ignition system, power windows, power locks, wipers, horn, interior and exterior electrical components, wiring diagrams.
Body:
Body exterior panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, interior trim, glass, seals, body repair and corrosion protection.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling, blower motor, heater core, AC compressor.
Safety:
Airbag system, seat belts, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) components and diagnostics.
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), troubleshooting charts and procedures.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), lubrication, tune-ups, battery testing, brake inspection.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, overhaul, and adjustment for all major vehicle systems.
Replacement:
Replacement procedures for wear items like belts, hoses, spark plugs, filters, and major components.
Adjustment:
Procedures for adjusting brakes, parking brake, clutch, and other mechanical linkages.
Disassembly:
Component disassembly and reassembly instructions for engine, transmission, suspension, and more.
Testing:
Component testing procedures using multimeters, scan tools, and specialized equipment.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for critical fasteners, clearances, and tolerances.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance and fluid changes to complex engine and transmission overhauls, electrical system diagnostics, and body repairs.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (whichever comes first)
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
If equipped, check every 15,000 miles, replace as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (iridium type) or 30,000 miles (platinum type)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Not applicable (Subaru EJ series engines in this era use a timing belt).
Timing Belt Replacement Correct:
Every 105,000 miles or 7 years (whichever comes first) for the timing belt.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
Transmission Fluid Change:
Manual: Check every 15,000 miles. Automatic: Every 30,000 miles or consult manual for severe use. Subaru recommends their specific fluids.
Coolant:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, extended-life coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Head Gaskets:
While not as prevalent as in later generations of EJ engines, head gasket leaks can occur. The SOHC EJ251 is generally more reliable than the DOHC EJ25D found in some earlier Subarus.
Crankshaft Position Sensor:
Failure can lead to stalling or no-start conditions.
Wheel Bearings:
Can wear out prematurely, especially with constant AWD use and potential for off-road driving.
Cv Boots:
Tearing of CV joint boots can lead to lubricant loss and joint damage.
Radiator Plastic Tanks:
Plastic tanks on the radiator can become brittle and crack over time.