Introduction
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Market Position
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Segment:
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Compact Crossover SUV
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Target Audience:
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Families, outdoor enthusiasts, individuals seeking AWD capability and practicality
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Competitive Analysis
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Key Competitors:
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Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan X-Trail (Rogue), Mazda CX-5, Ford Escape
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Key Features
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AWD Standard:
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Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive standard across all trims
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Ground Clearance:
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Above-average ground clearance for its class, enhancing off-road capability
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Practicality:
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Spacious interior, versatile cargo area, good visibility
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Manual Coverage
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Systems Covered
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Powertrain:
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Engine mechanical, engine performance, fuel system, cooling system, lubrication system, ignition system, exhaust system, transmission (automatic and manual), drivetrain (AWD system)
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Chassis:
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Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (hydraulic, ABS, parking brake), wheels and tires
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Electrical:
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Body electrical systems, lighting, instruments and gauges, power accessories, audio system, HVAC controls, engine control module (ECM), transmission control module (TCM), safety systems (SRS, VDC)
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Body:
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Body structure, exterior trim, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, HVAC system (including components)
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Procedures Included
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Maintenance:
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Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and replacements, tune-ups
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Diagnostics:
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Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical circuit testing, component testing
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Repair:
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Component removal and installation, engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair
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Troubleshooting:
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Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues
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Technical Depth
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Depth:
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Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed wiring diagrams and specifications.
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Transmission
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Standard
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Transmission Type:
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4-speed automatic transmission (4EAT)
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Optional
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Transmission Type:
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6-speed manual transmission
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Features
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AWD System:
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Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on all trims)
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Automatic Transmission Control:
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Electronically controlled with adaptive shift control
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Manual Transmission Features:
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Standard clutch actuation, dual-mass flywheel
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Fluid Specifications
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Automatic Transmission Fluid:
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Subaru ATF-HP (High Performance) or equivalent
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Fluid Capacity
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Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:
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Approximately 3.5 US Quarts (3.3 Liters) for a drain and fill
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Manual Transmission Fluid Capacity:
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Approximately 2.0 US Quarts (1.9 Liters)
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Safety Features
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Ratings
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NHTSA Overall Rating:
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5-Star (for 2012 models tested)
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IIHS Top Safety Pick:
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Yes
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Active Features
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Vehicle Dynamics Control:
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Standard Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) system
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Traction Control:
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Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
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ABS:
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Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
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Electronic Brake Force Distribution:
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Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
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Passive Features
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Airbags:
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Frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags, curtain airbags (front and rear)
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Seatbelts:
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3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
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Child Seat Anchors:
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LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system
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Child Safety Locks:
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Rear door child safety locks
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Maintenance
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Service Intervals
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Oil Change Interval:
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Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic 0W-20 oil)
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Air Filter Replacement:
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Every 15,000 miles or 12 months (or sooner if driving in dusty conditions)
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Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
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Every 7,500 miles or 6 months
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Coolant Replacement:
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First replacement at 105,000 miles or 7 years, then every 52,500 miles or 5 years thereafter.
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Transmission Fluid Replacement Automatic:
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Every 30,000 miles for severe driving conditions, otherwise refer to manual (often considered 'lifetime' by some, but regular changes are recommended).
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Transmission Fluid Replacement Manual:
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Every 60,000 miles
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Spark Plug Replacement:
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Every 105,000 miles (Iridium type)
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Fluid Specifications
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Brake Fluid Type:
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DOT 3 or DOT 4
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Power Steering Fluid Type:
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Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or equivalent DEXRON III type ATF
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Known Issues
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Head Gaskets:
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While less common in the EJ253 compared to earlier EJ series engines, internal coolant leaks due to head gasket failure can occur. The manual provides procedures for diagnosis and repair.
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Oil Consumption:
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Some EJ series engines can experience higher-than-average oil consumption. The manual details diagnostic procedures for oil consumption issues.
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Automatic Transmission Performance:
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Occasional reports of harsh shifting or slipping. The manual covers transmission diagnostics and adjustments.
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Cvt Issues:
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N/A for this model year (CVT introduced later).
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