🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

XT

Model Variant:

XT6

Year:

1988

Chassis Code:

A8

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact/Mid-size Sports Coupe / Personal Luxury Coupe

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts seeking a unique, technologically advanced, and capable AWD vehicle for its era.

Competitors:

Considered against vehicles like the Toyota Celica, Nissan 300ZX, Mitsubishi Starion, Honda Prelude.

Design Philosophy:

Aerodynamic 'space-age' styling, driver-focused cockpit, advanced all-wheel-drive system.

Unique Selling Points:

Retractable headlights, digital dashboard (on some models), optional advanced AWD system (XT6).

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely Print, Digital (PDF) often available from specialized sellers

Estimated Page Count:

Over 1000 pages (typical for a comprehensive factory service manual)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Full disassembly, assembly, and overhaul procedures for the EA82 (XT) and ER27 (XT6) engines, including cylinder heads, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing belts, lubrication system, cooling system.

Engine Management:

Fuel injection systems (MPI), ignition systems, emissions control systems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor locations and specifications, ECU function.

Transmission:

Manual and Automatic transmission overhaul, repair, and adjustment procedures. Includes transfer case and AWD system specifics.

Drivetrain:

Front and rear differential repair, driveshafts, CV joints, wheel bearings.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension component replacement and adjustment (struts, shocks, control arms, bushings), alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake system repair (discs, pads, calipers, master cylinder, lines, parking brake), ABS system diagnosis and repair (if equipped).

Steering:

Power steering system repair (pump, rack, hoses), steering column and wheel service.

Electrical System:

Complete wiring diagrams, component locations, fuse box information, battery, charging system (alternator, starter), lighting systems, horn, wipers, power accessories.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system component diagnosis, repair, and refrigerant handling.

Body And Chassis:

Exterior panel removal and installation, interior trim, glass replacement, chassis lubrication points, structural information.

Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:

Detailed diagnostic procedures for all major systems, symptom-based troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble code interpretation.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt tensioning.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all vehicle components, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension and brake system repairs, electrical component replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnosis and resolution of common and uncommon vehicle problems.

Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine clearances, fluid capacities, diagnostic values, alignment settings.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle systems, including component identification and pinouts.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, as well as advanced electrical diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

If digital, typically PDF, often searchable text.

Print Quality:

Original factory manuals are typically high-quality prints with clear diagrams and text. Digital versions aim to replicate this clarity.

Print Binding:

Originals are often bound for durability (e.g., spiral-bound, hardback).

Print Paper:

Typically on sturdy, glossy or semi-gloss paper to withstand shop use and clearly display diagrams.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Xt Engine:

1.8L SOHC 4-cylinder (EA82)

Xt Engine Code:

EA82

Xt6 Engine:

2.7L SOHC 6-cylinder Boxer (ER27)

Xt6 Engine Code:

ER27

Xt Horsepower:

Approx. 100-115 hp (depending on variant and fuel injection)

Xt Torque:

Approx. 110-125 lb-ft

Xt6 Horsepower:

Approx. 155 hp

Xt6 Torque:

Approx. 160-165 lb-ft

Xt Fuel System:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) or Carbureted (less common for 1988 in major markets)

Xt6 Fuel System:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Recommended Fuel:

Unleaded Regular Octane (87 AKI recommended, consult manual for specifics)

🔧 Transmission

Xt Transmission Std:

5-speed Manual

Xt Transmission Opt:

4-speed Automatic (with lock-up torque converter)

Xt6 Transmission Std:

4-speed Automatic (with lock-up torque converter)

Xt6 Transmission Opt:

5-speed Manual

Drivetrain Type:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) standard on most models. Selectable 2WD/AWD on some early manual transmissions. XT6 typically features permanent AWD.

AWD System Details:

Viscous coupling center differential (on many models), selectable low-range gear (on some manual transmissions).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 174.8 inches (4440 mm)

Width:

Approx. 66.5 inches (1690 mm)

Height:

Approx. 50.6 inches (1285 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 97.2 inches (2470 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2,500 - 2,800 lbs (1134 - 1270 kg) depending on engine and transmission

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rating:

Not readily available or rated under modern NHTSA standards for this era.

AWD Stability:

All-wheel drive system enhances stability and traction in various conditions.

Seat Belts:

3-point front seat belts, 2-point rear lap belts.

Structural Reinforcement:

Designed with safety cage construction principles of the era.

💡 Technology Features

Dashboard Design:

Advanced for its time, featuring an optional digital dashboard with gauges and readouts.

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, often with multiple speakers. Upgrades may have been available.

Cruise Control:

Optional cruise control system available.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was optional on many XT models and standard on some XT6 variants.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by modern standards; primarily focused on vehicle operation and driver comfort.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 3-6 months (consult manual for specific recommendation and oil type).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Recommended every 60,000 - 90,000 miles or 5-7 years. **CRITICAL for boxer engines, failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.**

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically every 30,000 - 60,000 miles depending on plug type.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 is common. **Consult manual for exact viscosity and specification.**

Engine Oil Capacity:

XT (EA82): Approx. 4.2 US quarts (4.0 L) with filter. XT6 (ER27): Approx. 5.3 US quarts (5.0 L) with filter.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. **Use Japanese-spec coolant or equivalent.**

Transmission Fluid Type Mt:

API GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.

Transmission Fluid Type At:

Dexron II or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Timing Belt Wear:

Critical component; timely replacement is paramount to avoid catastrophic engine failure.

Head Gasket Leaks:

Can occur, especially on older engines, requiring significant labor to repair.

Rust And Corrosion:

Common for vehicles of this era, particularly in areas exposed to salt. Check wheel arches, rocker panels, and undercarriage.

Electrical Gremlins:

Older wiring harnesses and connections can degrade, leading to intermittent issues with various systems.

Suspension Bushings:

Worn rubber bushings in suspension and steering components are common, affecting handling and ride quality.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Focus:

Subaru is renowned for its horizontally-opposed boxer engines and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive systems, prioritizing engineering and capability.

Subaru Xt Debut:

The Subaru XT (Leone II Coupe/A-Series) debuted in 1985 as a radical departure in styling from previous Subaru models, aiming for a more premium and performance-oriented image.

Subaru Xt6 Introduction:

The XT6 was introduced for the 1988 model year, featuring the new and more powerful 2.7L ER27 boxer-six engine and revised AWD system, positioning it as the flagship performance coupe.

Production Years:

Subaru XT: 1985-1991 (though sales in some markets may have ended earlier). XT6: 1988-1991.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motor Trend Recognition:

The XT6 was often praised for its unique styling, comfortable ride, and capable AWD system, though its performance was generally considered adequate rather than exhilarating compared to some direct competitors.