AWDfreak

I personally feel that a clutch-type LSD up front (such as a Cusco unit) would be more beneficial than a welded front differential. But that's just me.

I know it's got a decent amount of luxury features (and most impressive for the time period it was released). Just would like to add a few extras and then I'll be living the rest of my life comfortably with a comfortable and somewhat-fast Subaru

When I reach retirement age (I've got a long ways until that happens!), and become physically-incapable of shifting my own gears anymore, I want to drive a Subaru SVX! And then proceed to modify it and add some luxury features and have those mods look OEM.

Although it is also on cars101.com here's a PDF file of it here: http://www.subaru.com/content/downloads/pdf/maintsched/2006SchedCA.pdf As for wheeling a Tribeca, there are a few examples of the Subaru Tribeca driving off-road found on YouTube.

THIS Had a personal look at Primitive Racing's products on BAM (Bay Area Meet) 2011. The representative there was very kind and helpful to everyone. Heck, drove all the way from out-of-state just to showcase the products Their underbody products are the real deal (they even take them rally racing!) And the fact that their products exist means they care about the off-road and rally Subaru community.

That's actually a very nice solution. But as expected, Subaru's models will definitely pass the small overlap test with flying colors. As of lately, the 2013 Legacy and 2013 Outback have Top Safety Pick Plus ratings, because they passed the new IIHS Small Overlap test. http://www.iihs.org/ratings/tsp_current.aspx

Well, here's my contribution. This post copied and pasted from one of my previous posts on another forum. Sources include: cars101.com at http://www.cars101.com/subaru/crosstrek/crosstrek2013.html Subaru Digital Brochure at http://dbrochure.subaru.com/brochures/subaru.xv.crosstrek.2013/index.html?utm_source=com&utm_medium=cta&utm_campaign=rab Subaru Global specs list (overseas models) at http://www.subaru-global.com/13xv_rr_spec.html My own common sense and general knowledge about Subaru vehicles. Engine in the XV Crosstrek is the FB20, a DOHC timing belt non-turbo engine with no known differences from the regular Impreza (most likely none). Possible the cooling system may be upgraded, but unconfirmed. Subaru Symmetrical AWD types: As always manual uses Continuous AWD (50:50 F:R torque distribution), while the automatic option, the Lineartronic CVT, uses the Active AWD (60:40 F:R torque distribution). As far as I know, there may not be a viscous LSD (limited-slip differential) in the rear, although I would expect it to be standard. All-Weather Package is standard in North America, as there is no official "base model" available here. One odd fact is that even though the North American models are rated with a max towing capacity of 1500 lbs, the lowest towing capacity of overseas models available is at 2645.55 lbs (equipped with the weakest engine, the FB16 and Lineartronic CVT), which is quite baffling, as the FB20 overseas model (with a 6-speed manual instead, we don't get the 6-speed) can tow up to 3527.4 lbs. Off-road specs include Ground clearance: 8.7 inches Angle of approach: 18 degrees Breakover angle: 21.1 degrees Angle of departure: 27.7 degrees Fording depth: no official number, but most likely about the same as the ground clearance (8.7 inches) since Subarus tend to list the max wading depth just below the level of the undercarriage. 4 wheel anti-lock disc brakes, front vented, solid rear with brake pad return springs with EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution) and brake assist (applies max braking force if panic stop is detected). Discs measured are: front 11.6" ventilated disc rear 10.8" solid disc Differences between Impreza hatch and XV Crosstrek (plus speculation), the XV Crosstrek has: * Increased ground clearance due to suspension changes (8.7 inches versus 5.7 for regular Impreza, 5.9 for Impreza Sport), also results in improved approach, departure, and breakover angles for off-road use. * Larger wheels and tires (17 x 7.0 inch wheels for XV, Sport/Limited Impreza hatch use same-size, lower trim levels use smaller; 225/55R17 tires XV, 205/50R17 tires Sport/Limited Impreza hatch), results in improved overall ground clearance and ability to drive over obstacles. * Shorter wheelbase (103.7 inches versus 104.1 for regular Impreza), results in improved breakover angle compared to simply lifting suspension (and possibly due to packaging concerns). * Revised gear ratios (manual transmission final drive ratio is 4.444 versus 4.111 for regular Impreza, other ratios have been modified as well for the XV's manual transmission; Lineartronic CVT gets lower final drive ratio as well), to compensate for extra weight, and for heavy-duty uses such as towing. * Plastic body cladding protects paint throughout various portions of the body for off-road use. * Length, width, and height have all grown (175.2 inches for XV, 173.8 inches for hatch; 70.1 for XV, 68.5 for hatch; 63.6 inches for XV, 57.7 inches for hatch) * Increased weight (XV is roughly 200 lbs heavier than regular Impreza counterpart) * Larger fuel-tank (15.9 gallons for XV, 14.5 gallons for regular Impreza), likely done for increased weight and for the possibility of heavy-duty use (or should I say heavier use). * Larger brakes, likely done for increased weight and for the possibility of heavy-duty use (or should I say heavier use). * Marginally-less cargo space with seats up (22.3 cf XV, 22.4 cf Impreza hatch), I do not know how the XV has less. * Slightly-larger cargo space with seats down (51.9 cf XV, 49.7 cf Impreza hatch), I do not know how the XV has more. * Darker window tint (unknown tint values), results in improved privacy for changing clothes, especially useful for outdoor adventurers.

Motul is a top-tier Group IV motor oil brand, they offer very high-quality motor oils. So I know very well what you're talking about. They're the same brand that Subaru's factory race teams use, such as Subaru Rally Team USA, Subaru World Rally Team (when they still competed), Subaru's Japanese race team in Super GT, etc. However, they are CRAZY EXPENSIVE and what I consider overkill for those with a non-turbo Subaru. It's usually the turbocharged Subarus that get very picky with motor oil, pretty sure they run best with synthetic. Also, the turbo motors should have shorter oil-change intervals since they have higher stresses (such as possible higher operating temperatures) than the non-turbo motors. Non-turbo Subaru motors aren't as picky, so any good brand with proper certification and viscosity should be good. Non-turbo motors in general don't need to have short oil-change intervals, unless you'll be doing "severe duty" things.

Dam I should have spotted this thread earlier! I could have recommended a shop! Sorry to hear about your misfortunes. I have many issues on my Subaru myself, but haven't really gone through a nightmare like you did. As for shops (I know it's quite a late recommendation), I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND AutoHQ Motorsports in Redwood City for those who live west of the bay or within the South Bay and Peninsula. (They do performance work and normal maintenance/services) http://www.autoheadquarter.com/ http://www.yelp.com/biz/auto-headquarter-redwood-city Apparently a very Subaru-specialized place. Hope you sort out your issues.

I apologize, but I think I should post this since it still pertains to braking issues. In my MySubaru account (I have a 1999 Legacy Outback), there is a TSB, but unlikely to be related to this issue: Service Campaign Number WXQ74 "Subaru of America, Inc. has determined that your Subaru may experience reduced braking efficiency in extremely cold outside temperatures (approximately 20 degrees below zero Fahrenheit and colder.) In extremely cold ambient temperatures, your brake pedal may have increased pedal travel and reduced braking efficiency. This could result in additional stopping distances, which can result in an accident. Please contact your Subaru dealer and schedule a service appointment to replace the brake master cylinder unit on your vehicle. This repair will be performed at no charge to you. We regret any inconvenience this may cause, but we have taken this action in the interest of your safety and your continued satisfaction with your Subaru"

The BRZ has a "special" engine, the FA20 engine. I definitely want to drive one someday. Own one, don't know about that. Oh, and if it hasn't been posted already, information on the new Impreza-based Subaru XV (Crosstrek) Same FB20 engine (DOHC, timing chain) in the Impreza, but lifted to 8.6 inches of ground clearance and possibly a stiffer suspension than the Forester for a sportier driving experience. I hope the gear ratios are shorter than the regular Impreza.

Pretty sweet commercial for the new Subaru XV. If the XV comes to the USA, it will definitely take the place of my dying Outback once I kill the damn engine. It's got about 8.6 inches of ground clearance, is based off of the Impreza, and promises exactly what I've been looking for from a Subaru: exceptional off-road capability with sporty driving characteristics. Sure, it won't be powerful, but all that matters is that I KNOW it will be fun to drive with a manual transmission articles on the XV: http://content.usatoday.com/communities/driveon/post/2011/09/new-subaru-xv-aims-to-take-on-jeep-offroad/1 http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/2013-subaru-xv-crosstrek-first-drive-review http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/13/2012-subaru-xv-frankfurt-2011/ http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/suvs/1112_2013_subaru_xv_drive/ Photos: (won't let me link them here) http://www.autoblog.com/photos/2012-subaru-xv-frankfurt-2011/med/#photo-4439306/ http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/suvs/1112_2013_subaru_xv_drive/photo_14.html http://www.caranddriver.com/photos-11q4/434415/2013-subaru-xv-crosstrek-photo-434424

I wasn't sure if it was trustworthy so I checked its WOT (Web of Trust) scorecard.. http://www.mywot.com/en/scorecard/infodozer.com It's not too bad. It does have some information on parts and all, I'll give it that.

You can now get the original Owner's Manual on your computer as a pdf without having to get a MySubaru account: http://www.subaru.com/owners/resource-center/owners-manuals/index.html Mod Edit: Note - Owner's Manuals prior to 2000 are not available

It's not an actual Forester STI, but most likely the 2007 Subaru Forester Sports with STI stickers on it: http://www.cars101.com/subaru/forester/forester2007.html

Take heed to the bold, as I do believe my EJ25D is experiencing signs of bottom-end failure (sounds like rod knock or spun bearing) and I already had the head gaskets replaced many miles ago.

Subaru "requires" synthetic motor oil on the newer Subaru models. The Subaru-branded synthetic motor oil is Idemitsu motor oil, a pretty great brand of motor oil (even used in some Mazda motorsport teams!). Conventional motor oil is fine, but synthetic motor oil can only help you (longer OCI, more resilient, etc).

misfire indeed

Even though the EJ25D is a fragile engine... 1) STI high-flow air filter (P/N ST165464S000) or the not-as-safe option of a K&N drop-in air filter 2) Delta cams (might want to get some Cosworth engine parts like head gaskets while you're at it) 3) Bosal or some random upgraded muffler or exhaust 4) Borla unequal-length headers 5) STI short-throw shifter (P/N C1010FA001) w/ STI shifter bushing (P/N B0220FG300) 6) KYB GR-2 shocks with Eibach springs 7) Exedy Racing (Stage 1) Organic Clutch Kit That's what I presume you might like. Oh, and Primitive Racing has got lots of good Subaru products too http://www.get-primitive.com/

Sadly, the Tribeca is more of a 5+2 seating arrangement :-\ If Subaru made a minivan that had Symmetrical AWD, boxer engine, and option of manual transmission (or maybe shiftable automatic), I would definitely buy it for hauling tons of cargo later on in life Sadly, North America probably won't get such a thing :-\

The Subaru BOXER Diesel debuted in the late-cycle of the previous Subaru Legacy, so no chance of a diesel in that (unless it's an engine swap)

Go to Japan if you want the compact Subarus like the Pleo and Sambar... Other than that, Subaru wishes to remain competitive in the automotive industry, hence the changes to newer Subarus. I don't know what's wrong with the new Impreza. They managed to actually have it lose weight while making it larger on the inside, and making it more fuel efficient. The newer Subarus are changing along with the times, the same way the XT/Alcyone/Vortex was introduced in the 80's when manufacturers started introducing advanced technology. I'm fine with that, as the Subaru unique characteristics (Symmetrical AWD, BOXER Engine, top-notch safety) continue to evolve.

For your engine (the H6), I would actually recommend the black Subaru OEM oil filter, as it is literally one of the best-constructed oil filters on the market. Purolator (Classic) is their regular lineup of products. PureONE is their high-end lineup of products. Best place to get Purolators IMO is Pep Boys. If you live in Sunnyvale, the one next to the new Safeway sometimes doesn't have the Subaru-spec ones in stock, so sometimes I'll go to the Pep Boys at Stevens Creek near San Thomas Expressway. Most modern conventional up-to-date API-approved motor oils can last 5,000 to 7,000 miles fine. As for synthetic, unless you drive like a maniac or have severe-duty conditions, you can change it longer than a conventional oil.

Purolator is the only aftermarket oil filter that I know of that meets the Subaru-spec bypass valve. The one you're referring to is the "PureONE" lineup of oil filters, their top-of-the-line. I run the PL14460. I believe there are at least two part numbers that fit Subarus that have the correct pressure spec. EDIT: related thread http://www.subaruoutback.org/forums/66-problems-maintenance/21933-purolator-oil-filter-specs.html

I feel that you're better off importing the Subaru Boxer Diesel engine rather than swapping in a non-Subaru engine or converting your current Subaru engine to diesel. Regardless, it will be expensive. But yeah, unlikely North America will get the diesel Subarus