Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV
Key Selling Points:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) standard, practicality, good visibility, reliable engineering
Competitors 2003 2004:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Mazda Tribute, Nissan Xterra
Drivetrain:
Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system standard on all trims
Body Style:
Five-door wagon/SUV body
Ground Clearance:
Generally good for its class, aiding in light off-road capability
Main Coverage:
Complete factory service and repair
Additional Coverage:
Electrical systems, diagnostics, body repairs, specifications
Estimated Pages:
Hundreds (downloadable and printable)
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Downloadable Digital Format (likely PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine, transmission (automatic and manual), driveline, exhaust
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (ABS, hydraulic, parking), wheels, tires
Electrical:
Lighting, instruments, audio, power windows, central locking, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, glass, seals, bumpers
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system components and operation
Diagnostics:
OBD-II troubleshooting, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), component testing
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and complex faults
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of Subaru-specific service tools
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid types, electrical values
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic fluid changes to full engine/transmission rebuilds)
Engine Code And Type:
EJ253 (2.5L SOHC naturally aspirated Boxer-4)
Displacement:
2457 cc (2.5 Liters)
Horsepower Est:
165 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque Est:
166 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm
Injection Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Requirement:
Unleaded Regular Gasoline (87 octane recommended)
Coolant Capacity Est:
7.1 US quarts (6.7 Liters)
ECU Type:
ECU (Engine Control Unit) with specific Subaru calibration
Transmission Type Std:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT)
Transmission Type Opt:
5-speed Manual Transmission
AWD Integration:
Integrated with Subaru's Symmetrical AWD system (viscous coupling center differential for automatic, RWD-biased with viscous coupling for manual)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF HP or equivalent Dexron-III/Mercon (verify with manual)
Automatic Transmission Capacity Est:
Approx. 3.4 US quarts (3.2 Liters) for fluid change
Length Est:
175.0 inches (4445 mm)
Width Est:
67.9 inches (1725 mm)
Height Est:
63.2 inches (1605 mm)
Wheelbase Est:
103.0 inches (2615 mm)
Curb Weight Est Kg:
1450-1550 kg (depending on transmission and trim)
Cargo Volume Rear Seats Up Est:
32.1 cubic feet (909 Liters)
Cargo Volume Rear Seats Down Est:
67.7 cubic feet (1917 Liters)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Driver Est:
5-star (Good)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Passenger Est:
5-star (Good)
IIHS Frontal Offset Rating Est:
Acceptable (may vary by specific test date)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags Front:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional front side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners for all occupants
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player; optional premium audio systems available
Speakers:
4-6 speaker systems depending on trim level
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims
All Wheel Drive:
Standard Symmetrical AWD system is a key technological feature providing enhanced traction and stability.
Auxiliary Input:
Not typically standard, but aftermarket solutions are common
Oil And Filter Change:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months (severe service) / 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months (normal service) - consult manual for specifics
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 (if equipped)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) (Iridium-tipped plugs)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months (Subaru Super Coolant)
Engine Oil Viscosity:
5W-30 (API SG, SH, or SJ)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron-II or Dexron-III
Head Gaskets:
While less prevalent in the SG generation compared to earlier models, head gasket leaks can still occur. Early detection and proper repair are crucial.
Wheel Bearings:
Front wheel bearings can be a wear item and may develop noise or play over time.
Cv Axle Boots:
Torn CV axle boots can lead to premature wear and failure of the CV joints due to contamination.
Radiator Leaks:
Plastic end tanks on the radiator can degrade and leak over time.
Subaru Specialty:
Known for boxer engines and standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
Generation Start:
First generation (SF) introduced in 1997
Generation For 2003 2004:
Second generation (SG), launched for the 2003 model year with significant styling and platform updates
Manufacturing Location:
Gunma, Japan (Subaru's primary manufacturing facility)
