Strut/shock replacement, ball joint replacement, tie rod end replacement, power steering pump service.
Bodywork Repair:
Door hinge adjustment, panel alignment, bumper replacement, glass installation.
HVAC Repair:
AC compressor replacement, evaporator service, heater core replacement, blend door actuator repair.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized Subaru tools required for specific repairs.
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic procedures, including OBD-II code interpretation and component testing.
Specifications:
Extensive technical specifications for all components and systems.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
PDF
Searchability:
Searchable text for quick information retrieval.
Print Quality
Image Quality:
High-resolution diagrams and illustrations.
Text Clarity:
Clear, easy-to-read text formatting.
Binding Type
Binding:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Paper Type
Paper:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code 1:
EJ253
Engine Type 1:
2.5L Naturally Aspirated Boxer-4
Displacement 1:
2457 cc
Bore X Stroke 1:
99.5 mm x 79.0 mm
Compression Ratio 1:
9.7:1
Horsepower 1:
165 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque 1:
166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Secondary Engine
Engine Code 2:
EJ22E
Engine Type 2:
2.2L Naturally Aspirated Boxer-4
Displacement 2:
2212 cc
Horsepower 2:
137 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque 2:
145 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)
Engine Management
ECU Type:
Subaru Select Monitor (SSM) compatible
Timing
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Every 60,000 to 100,000 miles (check manual for specific interval based on conditions)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type 1:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Optional
Type 2:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (with Electronically Controlled Active Transmission)
Features
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system integrated with both transmission types.
Fluid Specifications Automatic
Fluid Type:
Subaru ATF HP or equivalent
Fluid Capacity Automatic
Capacity:
Approximately 6.8 US quarts (6.4 liters)
Fluid Specifications Manual
Fluid Type:
Subaru Gear Oil API GL-5 75W-90
Fluid Capacity Manual
Capacity:
Approximately 2.1 US quarts (2.0 liters)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior Sedan
Length:
187.8 inches (4770 mm)
Width:
68.7 inches (1745 mm)
Height:
55.3 inches (1405 mm)
Wheelbase:
104.3 inches (2650 mm)
Exterior Wagon
Length:
187.8 inches (4770 mm)
Width:
68.7 inches (1745 mm)
Height:
56.1 inches (1425 mm)
Wheelbase:
104.3 inches (2650 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight Min:
3140 lbs (1424 kg) (2.2L Manual Sedan)
Curb Weight Max:
3435 lbs (1558 kg) (2.5L Automatic GT Wagon)
Tires Wheels
Wheel Size Standard:
15-inch steel wheels
Wheel Size Optional:
16-inch alloy wheels (GT trims)
Bolt Pattern:
5x100 mm
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
Good (4-door sedan)
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
Good (4-door sedan)
IIHS Front Offset Impact:
Acceptable
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
AWD:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive for enhanced traction and stability.
Passive Features
Airbags Front:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional cassette player. Speaker configurations vary by trim.
Climate Control:
Manual climate control or optional automatic climate control system.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims, electronically controlled.
Traction Control:
Available on some higher trims, often integrated with AWD system.
Connectivity
OBD Ii:
On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD-II) compliant for emissions and system monitoring.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe duty); 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal duty) - consult manual for specifics.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months (if equipped)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 API SG, SH, SJ, or higher
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.7 US quarts (4.4 liters) with filter (2.5L); 4.0 US quarts (3.8 liters) with filter (2.2L)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Subaru PSF or Dexron II/III ATF
Known Issues
Head Gaskets:
Premature head gasket failure, especially on early EJ25 engines, is a known concern. The manual details procedures for inspection and replacement.
Automatic Transmission:
Some reports of transmission solenoid failures or torque converter issues. Manual covers diagnostic procedures.
Suspension Wear:
Wear on bushings and ball joints can occur over time, especially with higher mileage. Manual provides replacement guides.
Evaporative Emissions System:
Canister purge valve or hoses can fail, leading to EVAP codes. Manual details diagnostic steps.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Manufacturer:
Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries)
Founding Year:
1953
Model Evolution
Generation:
Second Generation (1994-1999 - BD/BG/BK chassis) was replaced by the third generation in 2000. This manual covers the transitional year into the third generation (BE/BH chassis).
Design Changes:
Introduction of a more aerodynamic and rounded design compared to the previous generation.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Gunma Prefecture, Japan
Production Years:
1994-1999 (BD/BG/BK); 2000-2004 (BE/BH)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
AWD System Recognition:
Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system is consistently praised for its effectiveness in various weather conditions.
Safety Awards:
Models from this era often received good safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA for their class.
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