Segment:
Compact/Subcompact Sedans and Wagons (historically).
Unique Selling Proposition:
Subaru's early reputation for reliability, durability, and capable 4-wheel drive (on select models).
Competitors:
Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, Nissan Sentra, Mazda 323.
Engine Layout:
Horizontally opposed (Boxer) engines, providing a lower center of gravity.
Drivetrain Options:
Available with front-wheel drive (FWD) and full-time/selectable 4-wheel drive (4WD).
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly procedures for all engine variants (EA71, EA81, EA82).
Engine Management:
Fuel injection (MPFI, SPFI), ignition system, emissions control, diagnostics, and component testing.
Transmission Manual:
Service and repair for 4-speed and 5-speed manual transmissions, including clutch operation.
Transmission Automatic:
Service and repair for 3-speed and 4-speed automatic transmissions, including hydraulic control and torque converter.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive and Subaru's legendary 4-wheel drive system (Symmetrical AWD), including differentials, CV joints, and prop shafts.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems (MacPherson struts, independent rear suspension), shock absorbers, springs, bushings, and alignment specifications.
Steering:
Manual steering and power steering systems, including steering column, rack and pinion, and hydraulic components.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (some models may have rear discs), hydraulic system, parking brake, ABS (optional on later models).
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting, instruments, switches, relays, fuses, and wiring diagrams.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass, interior trim, seat removal, and frame specifications.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair.
Preventive Maintenance:
Detailed schedules for oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, belt inspections, and tune-ups.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, including symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair And Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation.
Component Testing:
Specifications and procedures for testing various electrical and mechanical components using multimeters and specialized tools.
Torque Specifications:
Accurate torque values for all critical fasteners, ensuring proper assembly and preventing component failure.
Wheel Alignment:
Specifications for camber, caster, and toe adjustments, crucial for tire wear and handling.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls.
Diagnostics:
Advanced diagnostic information, including troubleshooting charts and pinpoint tests for electrical and mechanical faults.
Diagrams:
Detailed exploded views, assembly diagrams, and comprehensive electrical wiring schematics.
Engine Option 1:
1.8L EA81 SOHC 4-cylinder Boxer
Engine Option 1 Power:
~73 hp @ 4800 rpm
Engine Option 1 Torque:
~90 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm
Engine Option 2:
1.8L EA82 SOHC/DOHC 4-cylinder Boxer (some turbocharged variants available)
Engine Option 2 Power:
~90-100 hp (naturally aspirated), ~115 hp (turbocharged)
Engine Option 2 Torque:
~100-105 lb-ft (naturally aspirated), ~130 lb-ft (turbocharged)
Engine Option 3:
1.6L EA71 SOHC 4-cylinder Boxer (early models)
Engine Option 3 Power:
~71 hp @ 5200 rpm
Engine Option 3 Torque:
~82 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Fuel Induction:
Carburetor (early models) or Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI) / Single-Point Fuel Injection (SPFI) on later models.
Emission Controls:
Catalytic converter, EGR system, and other emissions control technologies as mandated by regulations.
Transmission Type Standard:
4-speed manual transmission
Transmission Type Optional 1:
5-speed manual transmission
Transmission Type Optional 2:
3-speed automatic transmission
Transmission Type Optional 3:
4-speed automatic transmission
Drivetrain Coupling:
Manual transmissions often featured a clutch-activated 4WD system or full-time AWD. Automatic transmissions typically came with full-time AWD.
Body Styles:
2-door Coupe, 4-door Sedan, 5-door Station Wagon.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 96.5 inches (2450 mm)
Length:
Approximately 162-175 inches (4115-4445 mm), varies by body style.
Width:
Approximately 64.2-65.6 inches (1630-1665 mm).
Height:
Approximately 53.5-56.5 inches (1360-1435 mm), varies by body style.
Curb Weight:
Approximately 2000-2400 lbs (907-1089 kg), varies by model and drivetrain.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model, typically around 3000-3400 lbs (1361-1542 kg).
Crash Test Performance:
Minimal official crash test data readily available for this era, but generally considered reasonably safe for its time.
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Some later models offered optional ABS.
Drivetrain Stability:
Subaru's Symmetrical AWD system provided enhanced traction and stability in various conditions.
Seat Belts:
Standard 3-point front seat belts, lap belts in rear.
Head Restraints:
Standard front head restraints.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Consult manual for specific recommendations based on driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km), or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km), depending on plug type.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for EA82 engines. Typically every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4-5 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended for most conditions. Consult manual for precise viscosity based on temperature.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.0-4.5 quarts (3.8-4.3 liters) with filter change for most EA81/EA82 engines.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Use Subaru-specific coolant if available.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II or equivalent automatic transmission fluid.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II or equivalent.
Engine Reliability:
Generally reliable, but head gasket leaks (especially on EA82), timing belt failures (if not replaced), and carburetor issues can occur.
Rust Corrosion:
Susceptible to rust, particularly in the rocker panels, wheel wells, and underbody, common for vehicles of this age.
Electrical System Aging:
Older wiring harnesses, connectors, and components may degrade, leading to intermittent electrical issues.
Cv Joint Wear:
CV joints on 4WD models can wear out, causing clicking noises during turns.
