What Makes a Subaru Different
Most engines stand their cylinders upright. A Subaru boxer lays them flat, in two opposing banks. That keeps the centre of gravity low but changes how some jobs are done, such as replacing spark plugs or chasing an oil leak.
Then there's the drivetrain. Most Subarus send power to all four wheels full-time, which is great on wet roads and gravel tracks, but it makes tyre matching and driveline fluids more important than on a front-drive car.
Boxer & AWD: What That Means for Maintenance
Matched tyres
All four tyres should be the same size and similar wear, because big differences can strain the AWD system.
CVT & diff fluids
Lineartronic CVTs and differentials have fluids worth checking at the intervals the book lists.
Oil level checks
Some boxer engines use a little oil between services, so checking the dipstick regularly is a good habit.
Spark plugs
Sideways-mounted plugs take more labour to reach, so they're best done right the first time.
Timing belt or chain
Older EJ engines use a timing belt with a set interval; newer FB and FA engines use a chain.
Cooling
Coolant condition and hoses matter, especially on older models in Perth heat.
Popular Subaru Models
Forester
The practical all-rounder. Routine servicing, CVT checks and tyre matching are the key items.
Outback
Tourer that often tows. Brakes, wheel bearings and driveline fluids get a close look.
XV / Crosstrek
City-friendly with light off-road ability. Mostly routine care and tyres.
WRX & STI
Turbo engines appreciate quality oil changed on time and healthy brakes.
Impreza
Reliable runabout that responds well to on-time servicing.
Liberty
Ageing examples benefit from cooling system and oil leak checks.
Subaru Servicing
New Subarus can be serviced here without affecting the warranty, as long as the manufacturer's schedule is followed using appropriate parts. We record each service and supply an itemised invoice.
Older Subarus get a sensible service based on age and kilometres, with particular attention to oil consumption, leaks and the cooling system.
See logbook servicing for more detail on your rights.
Subaru Repairs
Subaru Checks & Inspections
Looking at a used Forester or WRX? A pre-purchase inspection checks for coolant loss, oil leaks, CVT behaviour and mismatched tyres.
Before You Tow With an Outback
Check the towing limits in your handbook, set tyre pressures for the load, and book a quick brake and cooling check before a long haul in summer.
WRX STI, Levorg and Liberty
Explained Before Any Work Starts
“they did a thorough check on my car, also took time to explain everything, very professional, trustworthy and with fair prices!”
“They got me in on short notice, thoroughly checked everything over, and provided clear communication and transparency throughout the whole process. No pushiness, just honesty and great service.”
“After the initial inspection, everything was explained to me prior to the work being carried out. They didn't overcharge for unnecessary extras, which is a breath of fresh air in the auto service industry.”
Subaru FAQ
Why do I need to replace all four tyres on my Subaru?
On full-time AWD, noticeably different tyre diameters can make the drivetrain work against itself. Replacing all four, or matching tread depth closely, protects it.
Does my Subaru have a timing belt?
Older EJ-series engines do, with a set replacement interval. Newer FB and FA engines use a chain. We can confirm which one yours has from the build year.
Is some oil use normal on a Subaru?
A small amount of consumption can be normal on many engines. Check your dipstick regularly and let us know if you're topping up often.
Can you service my Subaru under warranty?
Yes. Each Subaru we service has its book interval completed and written up, which keeps the warranty position safe.
