Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, lubrication system, cooling system, timing belt/chain, fuel injection, emissions control.
Engine Management:
ECU (Engine Control Unit) diagnosis, sensor inputs (MAP, TPS, O2, MAF), actuator outputs (injectors, ignition coils), diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), EVAP system.
Transmission Manual:
Clutch system, gearbox assembly, gear shift mechanism, bearings, seals, maintenance procedures.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission assembly, hydraulic control, torque converter, shift solenoids, transmission fluid (ATF) specifications and servicing.
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system operation, center differential, rear differential, driveshafts, CV joints, propeller shaft.
Suspension:
Front suspension (MacPherson struts), rear suspension (multi-link or strut-based), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear disc brakes (or drums depending on trim), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and diagnosis, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, parking brake.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, power steering pump, fluid specifications, steering column, tie rods, wheel alignment.
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter motor, wiring harnesses, fuses, relays, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, door locks, horn.
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal and installation, door hardware, seat removal, dashboard components, HVAC system (heater, ventilation, air conditioning), interior trim, exterior trim.
Chassis And Frame:
Frame construction, mounting points, body rigidity, corrosion prevention.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS) diagnosis and component replacement, seatbelt mechanisms.
Preventive Maintenance:
Oil change intervals, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, timing belt inspection/replacement.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common symptoms (e.g., no-start, rough running, poor performance), DTC interpretation.
Component Removal Installation:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for replacing major and minor components (e.g., alternator, starter, fuel pump, radiator, brake calipers).
Engine Rebuild:
Torque specifications for cylinder head bolts, bearing caps, piston rings, and other critical engine components for overhaul.
Suspension Repair:
Strut replacement, bushing replacement, ball joint inspection and replacement, wheel bearing service.
Brake Service:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, brake caliper servicing, brake fluid flush and bleeding.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Using multimeters, interpreting wiring diagrams, diagnosing shorts, open circuits, and ground issues.
HVAC Service:
Refrigerant handling (if applicable to the manual's scope), component replacement (compressor, condenser, evaporator), leak detection.
Wheel Alignment:
Specifications for camber, caster, and toe angles for front and rear axles.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid changes to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures.
Diagnostic Tools Required:
Standard hand tools, torque wrenches, multimeter, OBD-II scanner (for DTC retrieval), specialized tools may be indicated for specific procedures.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months (severe driving) / 7,500 miles or 7.5 months (normal driving) with synthetic oil.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 15 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (copper core) / 60,000-100,000 miles (platinum/iridium - check for specific engine)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 105,000 miles or 105 months (critical for EJ engines)
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH/SJ, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific climate/engine variant)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF-HP or equivalent (Dexron III may be acceptable, but check for specific update)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil
Head Gaskets:
While less prevalent on the 2.2L and early 2.5L SOHC engines of this era compared to later generations, head gasket leaks can still occur. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.
Timing Belt Tensioner:
Failure of the timing belt tensioner or idler pulleys can lead to belt jump or breakage, requiring immediate attention. Manual covers inspection and replacement.
Catalytic Converter:
Over time, catalytic converters can become clogged, affecting performance and emissions. The manual provides diagnostic steps for emission control systems.