Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive contributes to enhanced traction and stability.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, available curtain airbags (depending on trim/body style).
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters for front seats.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory fitted AM/FM/CD stereo with optional premium sound system and subwoofer.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on higher trims.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Traction Control:
Available on some models, especially automatic transmission variants.
Connectivity
Bluetooth:
Not standard; aftermarket integration common.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (severe conditions), 7,500 miles or 12 months (normal conditions), consult manual for specifics.
Timing Belt Replace:
105,000 miles or 105 months for EJ253 (NA) models. Turbocharged models (EJ205/EJ255/EJ257) use a timing chain or belt; consult manual for specific engine. This manual covers belt replacement procedure.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 API SG or higher (NA), SAE 5W-30 API SG or higher (Turbo/STI, often synthetic recommended).
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, ethylene glycol-based coolant.
Transmission Fluid Mt:
SAE 75W-90 GL-5 gear oil (manual transmission).
Transmission Fluid At:
Subaru ATF-HP or equivalent.
Differential Fluid:
SAE 75W-90 GL-5 gear oil (front and rear differentials).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Known Issues
Head Gaskets:
Early EJ series engines (prior to certain internal revisions) were prone to head gasket leaks. Manual provides inspection and replacement procedures.
Oil Consumption:
Some turbocharged engines may exhibit higher oil consumption; proper monitoring is advised.
Clutch Wear:
Performance variants and aggressive driving can lead to premature clutch wear.
Turbo Failure:
Turbochargers can fail due to lubrication issues or excessive heat. Manual details inspection and replacement.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Origin:
Fuji Heavy Industries (now Subaru Corporation), Japan. Known for aviation engineering and horizontally-opposed engines.
Model Evolution
Generation:
Second Generation (2002-2007)
Styling Update:
Minor styling refresh for 2005, including new front fascia and headlights, particularly on WRX/STI models.
Performance Variants:
The WRX became a dedicated performance model, and the STI (Subaru Tecnica International) represented the top-tier, homologation-special variant.
Production
Assembly Location:
Gunma Plant, Japan
Production Years Gen2:
2002-2007
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Performance Awards:
WRX and STI models frequently recognized for performance and handling by automotive publications.
Safety Ratings:
Achieved good safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA for its generation.
Certifications
Certification:
Factory Certified Service Manual adherence to automotive repair industry standards.