Segment:
Mid-size sedan and wagon, AWD focused.
Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Maxima, Ford Mondeo, Holden Commodore.
Unique Selling Points:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on most models), boxer engines, refined ride and handling, practical wagon variant (Liberty Outback).
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine management (ECU), manual transmission, automatic transmission, clutch, driveline, axles, differentials.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS, discs, drums), wheels, tires.
Electrical:
Lighting system, instrumentation, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system, power windows, power locks, wipers, horn, audio system, diagnostic connectors (OBD-II).
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, airbags, climate control (HVAC), dashboard, interior trim, exterior trim, bumpers, glass replacement.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, brake pad replacement, fluid flushes (coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), belt inspection and replacement.
Repair And Overhaul:
Engine disassembly and reassembly, cylinder head service, transmission overhaul, brake caliper rebuild, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair.
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common faults, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation, wiring diagrams for troubleshooting electrical issues, component testing procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed specifications, torque values, and diagnostic flowcharts.
Engine 2 5I Ej253:
Naturally Aspirated Flat-4 Boxer, 2.5 Liters, 16-Valve DOHC, Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection. Power: Approx. 165-175 hp @ 5600-6000 rpm. Torque: Approx. 162-166 lb-ft @ 3500-4000 rpm.
Engine 3 0R Ez30D:
Naturally Aspirated Flat-6 Boxer, 3.0 Liters, 24-Valve DOHC, Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection. Power: Approx. 205-210 hp @ 6000 rpm. Torque: Approx. 201-207 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (91 RON recommended)
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Multi-Point Injection (MPI)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (Subaru Super Coolant or equivalent)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (TZ1A4, TZ1A5)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (4EAT-G, 4EAT-ML, 5EAT)
Drivetrain:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on most models, variable torque split)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Subaru ATF-HP or Dexron III/Mercon
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
75W-90 GL-5 Gear Oil
Ancap Rating:
4 Stars (for some models and configurations)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (standard on most models)
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) often standard with AWD
Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Control (VDC - Vehicle Dynamics Control) available on higher trims
Airbags:
Front airbags, side airbags (optional on some models)
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pre-tensioners
Audio System:
Factory fitted CD player with AM/FM radio, often with cassette deck in early models. Optional premium audio systems with multiple speakers and amplifier.
Navigation:
Rarely factory fitted on this generation, some aftermarket units may have been installed.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
All Wheel Drive:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, a defining feature of Subaru vehicles.
Bluetooth:
Not available from the factory on this generation. Aftermarket solutions are common.
Oil And Filter Change:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first)
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Replace every 30,000 miles.
Cabin Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Replace every 15,000-30,000 miles.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 60,000 miles for platinum plugs, 100,000 miles for iridium plugs (if fitted).
Timing Belt Engine Ej25:
Replace every 60,000 miles or 5 years (critical maintenance item)
Engine Oil Capacity 2 5L:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change, SAE 5W-30 Synthetic recommended
Engine Oil Capacity 3 0L:
5.7 US quarts (5.4 liters) with filter change, SAE 5W-30 Synthetic recommended
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 7.0-7.5 US quarts (6.6-7.1 liters) for 2.5L, Approx. 8.5 US quarts (8.0 liters) for 3.0L
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Head Gaskets:
While less prevalent than on earlier EJ engines, Subaru EJ25 engines can still be prone to head gasket failures, especially if consistently overheated or improperly maintained. Early detection of coolant loss or white smoke is crucial.
Automatic Transmission Sluggishness:
Some models may exhibit occasional hesitant shifting or a slight delay in engagement. Regular fluid changes can help mitigate this.
Exhaust Manifold Cracks:
Cracks in the exhaust manifold can occur due to thermal cycling, leading to exhaust leaks and a characteristic ticking sound.
Ac Compressor Failures:
Failures of the AC compressor can occur, often related to clutch issues or internal leaks.
Cvt Issues:
While this generation primarily used traditional automatics and manuals, some later models or specific markets might have introduced early forms of CVTs which could have their own unique issues. This manual primarily covers traditional transmissions.
Manufacturer:
Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries)
Generation:
Second Generation (Second Generation JDM/Global Generation).
Redesigns:
The 1998-2003 Liberty represents a significant update from the previous generation, featuring a more modern design, improved chassis, and updated engine options. It introduced the 'BP' wagon chassis code.
Production Start Year:
1998
Production End Year:
2003
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan (Gunma Prefecture)
Car And Driver:
Frequently appeared on Car and Driver's Ten Best lists in its class during its production run, praised for its AWD system and driving dynamics.
Kbb Consumer Ratings:
Generally received positive consumer ratings for reliability, AWD capability, and practicality, especially the wagon variant.
Safety Certifications:
Compliant with all relevant federal motor vehicle safety standards for its production years.
