2002 Subaru Outback Sport New
From Olden Timey Wiki
{highlights: stiff cornering, braking abilities, takeoff}
{considerations: gas mileage, oem tires, crossbars, condensor}
{known problems and solutions: noise, o2 sensor, heat shields, visibility}
{modifications: rear wing, ezpass mounting, front screen}
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Parts
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Maintenance
Wipers
Replace your wiper blades at least every 12 months. The elements and roadway contaminants cause them to slowly deteriorate.
Driver side wiper for an 02 Impreza is 22 inches, passenger side 17inches (??) and rear X (??).
Oil, Filter
4.5 quarts seems about right. Don't be stingy as you will burn a small amount, usually in the 1500-3000mi region. (This holds especially true when you've been doing long-haul driving and/or traveling at high speeds.)
Do not forget to reinstall the crush ring on the oil pan plug as you may have accidentally drained it out with the oil. Oil may leak out if you do not replace the ring.. Technically you are recommended to replace the crush ring every oil change.
Air Filter
The air filter box is secured with a retaining bolt(10mm) and clips together at the bottom of the housing. Should the car sound extremely loud when accelerating you've probably installed it wrong. .
Tires, Tyres
The OEM Tires are Bridgestone Potenza RE92, which, quite frankly suck. A good replacement seems to be Avon Tech M550 A/S's (205/55/R16) (Editors personal experience).
Manufacturer air pressure recommendations are 32lbs Front, 29lbs Rear.
Purchase a quality tire-iron as the tools shipped from the factory are notoriously crappy. You will thank me for this in the future as you catch your first flat. A 12in tire iron is not your friend on the highway, especially if the lugs(19mm) have been air-tightened.
Towing
Towing a AWD car with 2 wheels on the ground will damage your vehicle.
You must either flatbed or tow with all 4wheels on the ground. Most towing companies will provide a flatbed wrecker upon request only.
Similarly, attempting to perform emissions checks with the wrong equipment can also cause similar damage.
Modifications
Stereo
{Issues, how to upgrade, wiring harnesses,http://www.crutchfield.com/S-9SmxOMdmH6G/cgi-bin/prodview.asp?i=120708901}
Front grille screen
To prevent against radiator and/or AC condensor damage resulting from thrown rocks you may want to consider buying or building a screen to protect the cooling systems.
(The dealer cost to replace AC condensor, evacuate and re-fill the refrigerant is approximately $600 US as of 2005.)
The Chilton Subaru Repair Manual (1985-1996) states that non-factory 'bug screens' installed in front of the condensor are considered obstructions.
Prodrive also now sells a Grille Kit which looks pretty nice.
Issues
Knock sensor death
{What the knock sensor is, check engine condition, replacement, issues related to, ecu reset, part #}
Window Squeak
You may notice significant power window squeak, probably due to the slow deterioration of the seals.
This seems to be best treated by applying a rubber/uv protectant to the foam rubber seals of the front windows.
First open the door and locate the seal (upper and side of the window) .
Then use a cloth treated with your solution to freshen up the foam rubber. Be certain to clean/coat the insides of the seals.
Heat shield rattle
{The issue, solutions}
Parking lights won't go off
I washed my car and now the lights won't turn off!
Tips
The wagon provides somewhat poor side and rear visibility so you'll definately want to get into the habit of turning your head before changing lanes.
Automatic transmission: D=Overdrive,3=..,2=..,1=.. 3 provides 50/50 Front/rear differential.
Parts, Accessories
- Impreza All-Weather Floor Mats
- K&N Air Filter Replacement 33-2154
- Wheel locks
- Fram Oil Filter Replacement #PH3593A.
- Michelin Wiper Blades
- Rear spoiler - (E7210FE600VI)..
Links
- North America Subaru Impreza Owners Club
- techinfo.subaru.com
- rally.subaru.com
- endwrench.com A Publication for Professional Subaru Repair Technicians
- i-club.com
