Segment:
Mid-size Sedan and Wagon (Station Wagon)
Target Audience:
Families, performance enthusiasts, and those seeking a reliable AWD vehicle.
Key Competitors 1999:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Mazda 626, Nissan Altima, Ford Mondeo (depending on market).
Differentiator:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) across most trims, Boxer engine layout for a lower center of gravity.
Body Styles:
Sedan, Station Wagon (often referred to as Liberty Wagon or Outback Sport variant).
Performance Variants:
GT and GT-B trims offered turbocharged engines and sportier suspension for enhanced performance.
Engine:
All major engine variants, including EJ20, EJ22, EJ25 naturally aspirated and turbocharged models. Covers engine mechanicals, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, emissions control.
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmissions (4-speed, 5-speed). Includes overhaul, diagnostics, fluid specifications, and shift control systems.
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, including center differential, viscous coupling unit (VCU), driveshafts, and rear differential.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, bushings), alignment specifications, and troubleshooting.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake fluid specifications, pad and rotor replacement, caliper overhaul, and bleeding procedures.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack and pinion, fluid types, and troubleshooting.
Electrical:
Complete electrical schematics, wiring diagrams for all major systems (engine control, lighting, ignition, infotainment, comfort features), component testing, and diagnostic procedures.
Body:
Body construction, panel replacement, glass service, door and latch mechanisms, interior trim removal and installation, exterior trim, and collision repair information.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnostics, refrigerant handling, component replacement (compressor, condenser, evaporator), and control systems.
Restraints:
Airbag system operation, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) components, diagnosis, and replacement procedures.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, brake fluid flush, coolant replacement, and general upkeep procedures.
Diagnostics:
Systematic troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, component testing procedures, and fault finding for all major systems.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, overhaul, and reinstallation for virtually every system on the vehicle.
Troubleshooting:
Extensive troubleshooting flowcharts and symptom-based diagnostic trees.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, alignment data, diagnostic parameters, and technical data required for repairs.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive and detailed wiring schematics for all vehicle systems.
Level:
Professional Technician Grade
Detail:
Covers everything from basic fluid checks and filter changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, complex electrical diagnostics, and bodywork procedures.
Diagnostic Tools:
References required diagnostic tools and procedures for modern electronic systems, including scan tools and multimeters.
Engine Code Common:
EJ20, EJ22, EJ25
Layout:
Horizontally-opposed (Boxer) 4-cylinder
Displacement Common Na:
2.0L, 2.2L, 2.5L
Displacement Common Turbo:
2.0L (EJ205, EJ207), 2.5L (EJ255 variants)
Horsepower Na Range:
125 - 165 hp
Horsepower Turbo Range:
210 - 280 hp (depending on market and trim)
Torque Na Range:
135 - 150 lb-ft
Torque Turbo Range:
200 - 250 lb-ft (depending on market and trim)
Injection:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Required Octane:
87-91 octane (91+ recommended for turbocharged models)
Oil Change Recommendation:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), using synthetic oil.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (platinum-tipped plugs) or 105,000 miles (iridium-tipped plugs, if applicable).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months.
Transmission Fluid Change Auto:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months (under severe conditions, more frequently).
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Every 60,000 miles or 48 months.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30, API SG or SH, ILSAC GF-2 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity and API service classification)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 liters (4.8 US qt) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant or equivalent (blue ethylene glycol-based)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or equivalent DEXRON III/MERCON ATF
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
Subaru Genuine ATF HP or equivalent DEXRON III/MERCON
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
SAE 75W-90 GL-5 gear oil
Head Gaskets:
While less prone than earlier generations, Subaru head gasket leaks can still occur, particularly on EJ25 engines. The manual details inspection and replacement procedures.
Cv Axles:
Wear on CV boots can lead to joint damage due to the AWD system's operation under various conditions. The manual covers CV joint inspection and replacement.
Crankshaft Seals:
Front and rear crankshaft seals can develop leaks over time. Manual provides procedures for replacement.
Catalytic Converter:
Can become clogged or fail, impacting performance and emissions. Manual covers diagnosis and replacement.
Oxygen Sensors:
Can degrade over time, affecting fuel economy and emissions. Manual details testing and replacement.