Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, Subaru enthusiasts
Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, Nissan Rogue, Ford Escape
Differentiators:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD), Boxer engine, excellent visibility, practical cargo space, reputation for durability and safety
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, valve train, timing system, lubrication system, cooling system
Engine Management:
Fuel injection system, ignition system, emissions control, ECU diagnostics, sensors and actuators
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox assembly, gears, bearings, shift mechanisms, transfer case
Transmission Automatic:
Torque converter, planetary gear sets, hydraulic control system, valve body, electronic control unit (ECU), transmission fluid
Drivetrain:
Front and rear differentials, drive shafts, CV joints, AWD system operation
Suspension:
Front strut assembly, rear multi-link suspension, control arms, bushings, springs, shock absorbers
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, tie rod ends, steering gear
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system, brake lines, master cylinder, calipers, brake fluid
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter motor, lighting system, horn, wipers, power windows, power locks, mirrors
Body And Trim:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, hood, tailgate, glass, weather stripping
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater, blower motor, climate control unit, refrigerant
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, seat belts, SRS module
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tire rotation
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, fault code interpretation, diagnostic procedures for all major systems
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation
Overhaul:
Complete engine overhaul procedures, transmission rebuilds, differential servicing
Adjustment:
Valve adjustments, clutch adjustments, brake adjustments
Calibration:
ABS sensor calibration, steering angle sensor calibration
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-star driver, 4-star passenger
NHTSA Side Impact:
5-star driver, 5-star rear passenger
IIHS Front Crashworthiness:
Good
IIHS Side Impact Crashworthiness:
Good
Braking System:
4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Electronic Traction Control System (TCS)
Stability Control:
Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags (optional on some trims)
Seatbelts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters for all seating positions
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months, or 7,500 miles/7.5 months if using synthetic oil and driving under normal conditions (refer to manual for details)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 15 months
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 15 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 105,000 miles (Platinum or Iridium)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API SN or newer)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.8 US quarts (4.5 liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Subaru ATF-HP (High Performance) or equivalent
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Subaru High-Performance Power Steering Fluid or Pentosin CHF 11S (check manual for exact specification)
Head Gaskets:
While less common than in earlier generations, head gasket leaks can still occur. Early detection is key.
Catalytic Converter:
Can become clogged over time, leading to reduced performance and check engine lights.
Wheel Bearings:
Can develop noise and wear over time, especially with heavy use or exposure to harsh conditions.
Cv Axle Boots:
Tearing of CV joint boots can lead to grease loss and eventual joint failure. Regular inspection is recommended.
Rear Differential Leaks:
Potential for minor leaks from the rear differential seal over time.