Why Does Subaru Use the BOXER® Engine Design?
The horizontally opposed layout of the SUBARU BOXER® engine allows the engine to sit relatively low in the vehicle. This helps contribute to a lower center of gravity, which can support stability and balanced handling.
The opposing movement of the pistons also helps naturally counteract certain engine vibrations. Rather than arranging the cylinders vertically or at an angle, the BOXER engine positions opposing cylinders on either side of the crankshaft, creating the distinctive flat engine layout Subaru is known for.
How Does the SUBARU BOXER Engine Work with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive?
In many Subaru vehicles, the BOXER engine is paired with Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. The horizontally opposed engine can be positioned in line with the vehicle's drivetrain, contributing to the balanced, symmetrical layout of the system.
These technologies serve different purposes. The BOXER engine describes the design and orientation of the engine, while Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is the drivetrain system that delivers power to the wheels. Together, they are two of the engineering features closely associated with Subaru vehicles.
Are All SUBARU BOXER Engines the Same?
No. Subaru uses different versions of the BOXER engine depending on the vehicle and its performance requirements. Depending on the model and model year, Subaru vehicles may use different engine displacements and may feature naturally aspirated or turbocharged BOXER engines.
Because Subaru engine specifications can change as new models and model years are introduced, drivers should check the specifications for the individual Subaru they are considering rather than assuming every BOXER engine produces the same horsepower or uses the same configuration.
How Do You Maintain a SUBARU BOXER Engine?
Like any vehicle engine, a SUBARU BOXER engine requires routine maintenance according to the schedule specified for the particular vehicle. Important maintenance can include engine oil and filter changes, inspections, fluid checks, and replacement of other maintenance items at their recommended intervals.
Using the correct engine oil and keeping up with scheduled maintenance are important parts of caring for your Subaru. Visit our Subaru Oil & Fluids resource to learn more about Subaru engine oil and fluid maintenance, or visit the Adventure Subaru Service Center for professional Subaru maintenance in Fayetteville.
Genuine Subaru Parts for Your BOXER Engine
When your Subaru needs maintenance or replacement components, Adventure Subaru offers Genuine Subaru Parts designed for Subaru vehicles. Our parts and service teams can help identify the appropriate components for your specific Subaru model, model year, and engine.
Have Questions About Your Subaru?
The team at Adventure Subaru in Fayetteville is here to help with Subaru maintenance, Genuine Subaru Parts, and questions about your vehicle. Schedule service, visit our parts center, or get directions to Adventure Subaru.
Schedule Service Visit Parts Center Get Directions SUBARU BOXER® Engine FAQs
What is a SUBARU BOXER engine?
A SUBARU BOXER engine is a horizontally opposed engine in which opposing pistons move horizontally rather than vertically. The movement resembles the opposing punches of a boxer, which gives the engine its name.
Why does Subaru use a horizontally opposed engine?
The flat layout allows the engine to be positioned relatively low in the vehicle, helping contribute to a lower center of gravity. The opposing movement of the pistons also helps naturally counteract certain engine vibrations.
Is a BOXER engine the same as all-wheel drive?
No. BOXER refers to the horizontally opposed design of the engine. All-wheel drive refers to the drivetrain system that delivers power to the wheels. Many Subaru vehicles combine a SUBARU BOXER engine with Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.
Are all SUBARU BOXER engines the same?
No. Subaru uses different BOXER engine configurations depending on the vehicle and model year. Engine displacement, horsepower, and whether an engine is naturally aspirated or turbocharged can vary by model.
Do SUBARU BOXER engines require special maintenance?
Subaru owners should follow the maintenance schedule specified for their particular vehicle, including recommended engine oil and filter changes, inspections, fluid maintenance, and other scheduled services.
Where can I have my Subaru serviced in Northwest Arkansas?
Adventure Subaru provides Subaru maintenance and repair at our service center in Fayetteville, serving Subaru owners from Bentonville, Rogers, Springdale, Bella Vista, and throughout Northwest Arkansas.
