Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine overhaul, assembly, disassembly, timing belt replacement, piston/ring service, cylinder head service, valve train, lubrication system, cooling system
Engine Management:
Fuel injection (EFI), ignition system, emission control systems (EVAP, EGR), sensors, actuators, engine control module (ECM) diagnosis and repair, OBD-II diagnostics
Transmission Manual:
5-speed manual transmission (TY757) service, clutch system, gear selection, component inspection
Transmission Automatic:
4-speed automatic transmission (4EAT) service, torque converter, valve body, gear sets, electronic control, fluid and filter replacement
Drivetrain:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, front and rear differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, wheel bearings, viscous coupling unit
Suspension:
Front MacPherson strut with lower A-arm, rear multi-link independent suspension, springs, shock absorbers, bushings, control arms, sway bars, alignment specifications
Brakes:
Front vented disc brakes, rear solid disc brakes (or vented on XT), ABS system, brake fluid specifications, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, calipers, parking brake
Steering:
Hydraulic power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, power steering pump, fluid specifications
Body Exterior:
Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, liftgate, bumpers, glass replacement, rust prevention, corrosion control, paint codes
Body Interior:
Dashboard removal, seat removal and installation, interior trim panels, headliner, carpeting, HVAC ducting
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter), lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior lights), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams
HVAC System:
Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, climate control unit, refrigerant type and charge, diagnosis
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS), seat belt operation, pre-tensioners, crash sensor locations
Preventive Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, brake fluid flush, coolant flush, transmission fluid service, differential fluid service, fuel filter replacement, tire rotation and pressure checks
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Step-by-step diagnostic charts for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting, use of diagnostic scan tools (OBD-II), electrical circuit testing
Repair And Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation for all major vehicle systems
Component Replacement:
Specific procedures for replacing items like alternators, starters, fuel pumps, radiators, water pumps, exhaust systems, and catalytic converters
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of Subaru-specific special tools required for certain repair procedures
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electrical diagnostics and bodywork
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5 Stars (2005 Model Year)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5 Stars (2005 Model Year)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:
5 Stars (2005 Model Year)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:
5 Stars (2005 Model Year)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Driver:
5 Stars (2005 Model Year)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:
5 Stars (2005 Model Year)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:
Good (2005 Model Year)
IIHS Side Impact Crash Rating:
Good (2005 Model Year)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Electronic Stability Control:
Available Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC)
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear side-curtain airbags (on select models)
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for all occupants, LATCH child seat anchors
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months for severe conditions, or 7,500 miles/7.5 months for normal conditions (refer to owner's manual for specific details)
Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (for most engines, check manual for exact specification)
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Subaru: 15208AA03A or equivalent aftermarket (e.g., Wix 57356)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent P-HOAT coolant
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 6.3 - 7.2 quarts (depending on engine and radiator size)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific)
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil
Differential Fluid Type Front:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil
Differential Fluid Type Rear:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil
Head Gasket Leaks:
While less common on EJ253/EJ255 than earlier generations, still a potential concern. Manual covers diagnosis and replacement procedures.
Timing Belt Wear:
Routine replacement is crucial for EJ253 and EJ255 engines. Manual provides detailed replacement steps.
Turbocharger Issues Xt:
Turbocharger on the 2.5XT can be sensitive to oil maintenance. Manual details inspection and repair.
Automatic Transmission Issues:
Potential for wear in older 4EAT units, particularly concerning fluid longevity. Manual covers diagnostic and repair procedures.
Scheduled Maintenance Items
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Every 105,000 miles or 105 months (EJ253, EJ255). Manual details replacement of belt, tensioner, and idlers.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Approx. 60,000 miles (NGK Platinum or Iridium plugs recommended)