Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV
Key Selling Points:
Standard All-Wheel Drive, practicality, good visibility, comfortable ride
Key Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Xterra, Ford Escape
Standard AWD:
Subaru's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system provides enhanced traction and stability.
Horizontally Opposed Engine:
Low center of gravity contributes to balanced handling and stability.
Engine Coverage:
EJ253 (2.5L SOHC), EJ255 (2.5L DOHC Turbo - XT models)
Transmission Coverage:
4-speed Automatic (4EAT), 5-speed Manual
Drivetrain Coverage:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Body Style Coverage:
5-Door SUV/Wagon
Estimated Page Count:
1500+
Type:
Full Service Repair Manual
Purpose:
Repair, Maintenance, Rebuilding, Refurbishment, Restoration
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, component testing, torque specifications, timing belt replacement, cylinder head service
Engine Management:
ECU operation, sensor diagnostics, fuel injection system, ignition system, emissions control (EVAP, EGR)
Transmission Manual:
Clutch system, gearshift mechanism, gearbox overhaul, lubrication
Transmission Automatic:
Valve body operation, torque converter, planetary gear sets, hydraulic control, fluid cooler service, troubleshooting
Drivetrain:
Front and rear differential, driveshafts, universal joints, center differential, AWD system operation
Suspension:
Front struts, rear shocks, control arms, bushings, sway bars, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, rack and pinion, tie rod ends, steering column
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, ABS operation, hydraulic circuits, rotor and pad replacement, parking brake
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starter, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays
Climate Control:
Air conditioning system (refrigerant, compressor, evaporator, condenser), heater core, blower motor
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, door mechanisms, glass replacement, seat mechanisms
Diagnostics:
OBD-II system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), troubleshooting flowcharts for common problems
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, differential fluid changes
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, head gasket replacement, timing belt replacement
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for various symptoms (e.g., poor performance, starting issues, noise diagnosis)
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step guides for replacing radiators, alternators, starters, fuel pumps, sensors, etc.
Adjustments:
Wheel alignment, parking brake adjustment, throttle cable adjustment (where applicable)
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
NHTSA Frontal Crash Driver:
5-Star
NHTSA Frontal Crash Passenger:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:
4-Star
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good
Electronic Brakeforce Distribution Ebdf:
Standard
Traction Control System TCS:
Standard
Electronic Stability Control Esc:
Standard (Vehicle Dynamics Control - VDC)
Airbags Front:
Dual-stage front airbags
Airbags Side:
Front side-impact airbags
Airbags Curtain:
Optional front and rear side-curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (whichever comes first) under severe driving conditions, or 7,500 miles/6 months under normal conditions. Consult manual for specific details.
Engine Oil Type Spec:
SAE 5W-30 API SG, SH, SJ or higher. Consult manual for viscosity based on temperature.
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
105,000 miles or 7 years, whichever comes first. Crucial for EJ engines.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Initial 7,500 miles or 6 months, then every 30,000 miles or 2 years thereafter.
Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:
Every 30,000 miles under severe conditions, or 60,000 miles under normal conditions. Use genuine Subaru ATF HP.
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years. Use SAE 75W-90 GL-5 gear oil.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF (Dexron II or equivalent, consult manual for exact spec, often specific Subaru fluid is recommended)
Transfer Case Fluid Type:
SAE 75W-90 API GL-5
Rear Differential Fluid Type:
SAE 75W-90 API GL-5
Head Gaskets:
While less prevalent than in earlier generations, Subaru head gasket issues can still occur, particularly on the EJ253. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.
Catalytic Converter:
Premature failure can occur, often due to oil consumption or misfires. Manual provides diagnostic steps.
Cv Axles:
Boots can tear, leading to joint failure. Manual covers inspection and replacement.
Wheel Bearings:
Can become noisy over time. Manual covers testing and replacement.
Turbo Issues Xt Models:
Turbocharger may require rebuild or replacement due to wear or oil starvation if maintenance is neglected.
Subaru Philosophy:
Known for AWD, boxer engines, durability, and a strong enthusiast following.
First Generation:
Introduced in 1997, based on the Impreza platform.
Second Generation Sg:
Launched in 2002 (model year 2003 in some markets), featuring a larger body, revised styling, and improved interior.
Mid Cycle Refresh:
The 2005 model year represents a mid-cycle refresh for the SG generation, with updated styling (grille, headlights, bumpers) and interior refinements.
Manufacturing Location:
Gunma Plant, Japan
Production Years For Sg:
2002-2008