Includes procedures for removing and installing exterior body panels, interior trim pieces, and glass components.
HVAC Service:
Details for A/C system service, heater core replacement, blower motor diagnosis, and refrigerant handling.
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and electrical schematics.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive color-coded wiring diagrams for all major electrical systems, including engine control, body electronics, and lighting.
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional premium audio systems available on higher trims. Manual covers basic operation and fuse locations.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models. Manual details operation and troubleshooting.
Connectivity
Remote Keyless Entry:
Available on many trims. Manual covers system operation and key fob programming.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months, or 7,500 miles/7.5 months with synthetic oil (refer to manual for exact conditions)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 15 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (NGK BKR6E-11 or equivalent recommended)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 105,000 miles or 105 months (for EJ253 engine with belt-driven camshafts)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Capacity W Filter:
4.8 US quarts (4.5 Liters) for 2.5L SOHC
Engine Oil Viscosity:
5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual based on temperature)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant
Coolant Capacity:
7.0 US quarts (6.6 Liters)
Known Issues
Head Gaskets:
While less prone than earlier generations, monitor for coolant leaks or milky oil as an indicator of potential head gasket seepage. Manual provides inspection procedures.
Awt Transmission Issues:
Some automatic transmissions may exhibit delayed engagement or shifting issues. Manual details diagnostic checks and fluid service for resolution.
Cv Axle Boots:
Front CV joint boots can be prone to tearing, leading to grease loss and potential joint damage. Manual covers replacement procedures.
Rear Wheel Bearings:
Can develop noise or play over time. Manual provides bearing replacement steps.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Founding Year:
1953 (Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd.)
Key Philosophies:
Engineering excellence, focus on safety, driver engagement, symmetrical AWD technology.
Model Evolution
Generation Start Year:
1990
2002 Generation:
Third Generation (2000-2004)
Production
Manufacturing Plant:
Gunma Prefecture, Japan
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Generally positive reliability and owner satisfaction ratings from publications like Consumer Reports for this era of Subaru.
Jd Power Dependability:
Subaru often ranked well in J.D. Power dependability studies during this period for overall quality and reliability.