2000 Legacy Outback wagon, SOHC 2.5, 4EAT

 

On http://www.partsamerica.com, when selecting the vehicle/engine type, I get two choices for the engine:

 

H4 2.5 Liter FI

EJ252 2458 cc VIN 6

-or-

H4 2.5 Liter FI

EJ251 2458 cc

 

 

How can I tell which type is the right answer? What's the diff between an EJ251 and an EJ252? Is this the series I and II 2.5's I've been reading about? Does this mean that some 2000 OB's came with the DOHC 2.5?

Well....according to that information, it looks like things changed half way through. Look at your vin #, and see if it matches the VIN 6 thing.

Well....according to that information, it looks like things changed half way through. Look at your vin #, and see if it matches the VIN 6 thing.

 

 

Good tip there - Thanks

also, the EJ model should be cast onto the engine near the front under the manifolds.

EJ251 and EJ252 were phase II and III of that engine, both SOHC. IIhad the external HG leak, and III was supposed to have cured it. Jury is out on that last bit, though. Call a local dealership and give them your VIN. They will be able to confirm the engine type for you. Actually, subaru.com should also be able to help you on that.

The VIN breakdown sheet that I got from techinfo.subaru.com shows a single option for the engine code, and it's a "6", which matches my VIN. Guess that clears that up. I'm glad to hear that the head gasket problem should be cured on this engine.

 

Thanks -

So I'm wondering the same thing.. I'm not actually in front of the engine now to look at the engine code or vin, but what would I do with those to figure out if its an EJ252 or EJ251? Its a 2000 Legacy GT wagon, and what I read EJ252 was only made for yeah 2000 year. There were plenty of external leaks throughout its life but the gaskets lasted 200k miles before they blew and the coolant got into the oil. I'm curious what physical differences there are between the 251/252/253. If I ever have three in front of me I'll make a detailed write up for everyone.