Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, overhaul, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing belt, oil pump, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel injection system, exhaust system.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starter motor, alternator, battery, engine control unit (ECU), sensors (crankshaft position, camshaft position, oxygen, MAP, IAT), fuel pump control, emissions control systems.
Transmission:
Manual Transmission (MT) and Automatic Transmission (AT) overhaul, fluid changes, internal components, shifting mechanisms, torque converter, valve body (AT), transmission control unit (TCU).
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, viscous coupling unit, center differential, front and rear drive axles, CV joints, wheel bearings, propeller shaft.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, control arms, stabilizer bars, bushings, wheel alignment specifications, steering system.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, caliper overhaul, rotor replacement, parking brake system, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) components and diagnostics.
Steering:
Power steering system, hydraulic pump, steering rack, steering column, tie rod ends, steering angle sensor (if applicable).
Electrical Body:
Exterior and interior lighting, power windows, power locks, mirrors, windshield wipers and washers, horn, fuse box diagrams, relay locations, body control module (BCM).
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant type and capacity, compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, climate control panel, diagnostics.
Body Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, hood, tailgate, bumpers, interior trim, chassis lubrication, rust prevention.
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), OBD-II system, symptom-based troubleshooting, wiring diagrams, component testing procedures.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, cabin air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid level checks and top-offs, tire rotation and pressure checks, brake pad inspection.
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, head gasket replacement, timing belt replacement, brake system overhaul, suspension component replacement, fuel pump replacement, exhaust system repair.
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing virtually all serviceable components, from sensors and actuators to larger assemblies like alternators, starters, and AC compressors.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical system wiring diagrams for all major circuits, including engine control, lighting, power accessories, and safety systems.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Systematic troubleshooting flowcharts and guides to help diagnose and resolve common and uncommon vehicle problems based on symptoms.
Torque Specifications:
Essential torque values for all critical fasteners, ensuring proper assembly and preventing component damage.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic owner maintenance tasks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures for complex electronic systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 3 months under severe conditions.
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 105,000 miles (168,000 km) (Iridium type).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 105,000 miles (168,000 km) or 7 years, whichever comes first. Includes idler pulleys and tensioner. **Crucial maintenance item.**
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.
Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months (under normal conditions). More frequently under severe use.
Differential Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months (front and rear).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG, SH, SJ, SL or ILSAC GF-2, GF-3 energy-conserving 5W-30 or 10W-30
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter
Coolant Type:
Subaru Genuine Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent; mix 50/50 with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil
Transmission Fluid Type Automatic:
Subaru Genuine ATF HP (or equivalent)
Brake Fluid Type:
FMVSS No. 116 DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III/Mercon ATF
Head Gaskets:
While less prone than some earlier models, head gasket seepage can still occur, especially with high mileage or improper cooling system maintenance. The EJ253 is generally more robust than the EJ25D.
Timing Belt Tensioner:
The timing belt tensioner can fail, leading to belt slippage or breakage. Replacement at recommended intervals is critical.
Rear Wheel Bearings:
Rear wheel bearings can wear out prematurely, causing noise and play.
Cv Joints:
Front CV joint boots can tear, leading to grease loss and eventual joint failure. Regular inspection is recommended.
Evap System Leaks:
Leaks in the Evaporative Emission Control (EVAP) system can cause Check Engine Lights (CEL) due to stored DTCs like P0442.