🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Justy

Year:

1989

Chassis Code:

KA (FWD), KS (4WD)

Generation Code:

Second Generation (K82, K92)

Generation Years:

1987-1994

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Subcompact Hatchback

Target Audience:

Economical urban commuters, entry-level car buyers, those seeking a compact and efficient vehicle.

Key Competitors:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Mitsubishi Mirage, Ford Festiva.

Value Proposition:

Affordable pricing, fuel efficiency, compact size for urban maneuverability, available 4WD for enhanced traction.

Design Philosophy:

Simple, functional design with an emphasis on practicality and affordability.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

1989 Subaru Justy (all variants including 4WD)

Total Pages:

850

Type:

Factory Service Manual

Content Source:

OEM Dealer Technician Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Printed

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Management:

Diagnosis, repair, and overhaul of the engine and its associated systems (fuel, ignition, cooling, lubrication).

Transmission:

Repair and maintenance for both manual and automatic transmissions, including 4WD system operation.

Drivetrain:

Service procedures for front-wheel drive and four-wheel drive systems, including differentials and driveshafts.

Suspension Steering:

Detailed instructions for suspension components, steering gear, and alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Service and repair of hydraulic brake systems, including disc and drum brakes, parking brake.

Electrical System:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component testing, and diagnostic procedures for all electrical systems.

Body Chassis:

Body panel repair, structural information, exterior trim, and interior component service.

HVAC:

Diagnosis and repair of the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.

Routine Maintenance:

Tune-ups, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, belt adjustments.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides.

Engine Repair:

Engine assembly/disassembly, cylinder head service, piston and connecting rod replacement, crankshaft service.

Transmission Repair:

Clutch service, transmission gear replacement, hydraulic system diagnosis for automatic transmissions.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Component testing using multimeters, oscilloscope usage, troubleshooting of lighting, starting, charging, and accessory circuits.

Brake Service:

Brake pad/shoe replacement, caliper/wheel cylinder overhaul, brake fluid bleeding, parking brake adjustment.

Depth:

Complete, from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed component specifications and torque values.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

N/A (Printed Manual)

Print Quality:

High-quality printing suitable for workshop use.

Binding:

Stapled or perfect bound, designed for durability.

Paper Quality:

Durable paper stock suitable for automotive workshop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

EF10

Engine Type:

Inline 3-cylinder, SOHC

Displacement:

993 cc (1.0 Liter)

Bore X Stroke:

72.0 mm x 81.6 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.5:1

Horsepower:

50 PS (49 hp) @ 5600 rpm (approx.)

Torque:

72 Nm (53 lb-ft) @ 3600 rpm (approx.)

Fuel Delivery:

Carburetor (Single-point or multi-point injection on later variants/markets)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Regular)

Oil Capacity:

3.3 Liters (3.5 US Quarts) with filter

Coolant Capacity:

4.2 Liters (4.4 US Quarts)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual

Transmission Type:

3-speed Automatic (with selectable 4WD on some models)

4Wd System:

Electronic 4WD system with driver-selectable modes (2WD/4WD/4WD Low on some models).

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron II or equivalent

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 3,720 mm (146.5 in)

Width:

Approx. 1,570 mm (61.8 in)

Height:

Approx. 1,420 mm (55.9 in) (FWD) / 1,440 mm (56.7 in) (4WD)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2,300 mm (90.6 in)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 160 mm (6.3 in) (varies with model)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 780 kg - 870 kg (1720 lbs - 1918 lbs) (depending on configuration)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 1230 kg (2712 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

Limited data available for this era; generally considered basic safety for its class and time.

Braking System:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was a rare option, if available at all for 1989.

Steering System:

Power steering was typically optional.

Seat Belts:

Standard front seat belts; rear seat belts often standard as well.

Airbags:

Driver airbag was not a standard feature on most 1989 Justy models.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic AM/FM radio, often with a cassette player. Speaker count typically 2 or 4.

Dashboard Features:

Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer (optional), fuel level, engine temperature. Warning lights for oil pressure, battery, etc.

Cruise Control:

Optional on higher trim levels or later models.

ABS:

Rarely equipped, typically only on select export models or higher trims if available.

Connectivity Options:

None (designed before widespread consumer electronics integration).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, whichever comes first (consult manual for specific recommendation).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (check manual for specific type and gap).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Critical: Every 60,000 miles or 5 years (interference engine design).

Engine Oil Specification:

API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for temperature range).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Engine Reliability:

Generally reliable for its class, but can suffer from carburetor issues, oil leaks, and potential head gasket failures if overheated. Timing belt replacement is critical to prevent catastrophic engine damage.

Drivetrain Durability:

4WD system is generally robust, but CV joints and prop shaft U-joints can wear over time. Clutch wear is typical for manual transmissions.

Electrical Issues:

Corrosion on electrical connectors, particularly in the engine bay and grounding points, can cause intermittent faults. Alternator and starter motor are common wear items.

Suspension Wear:

Struts, ball joints, and bushings can wear, leading to noise and handling issues, especially on higher-mileage vehicles.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Heritage:

Subaru, a division of Fuji Heavy Industries, has a history dating back to aircraft manufacturing and is known for its boxer engines and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive systems.

Justy First Generation:

The first generation Justy (K52/K62) was introduced in 1984 and was a global model sold under various names (e.g., Subaru Rex in Japan).

Justy Second Generation:

The second generation (K82/K92) launched in 1987, offering updated styling and features, including the iconic selectable 4WD system for a subcompact.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily Japan.

Production Period Second Gen:

1987-1994

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Historical Recognition:

While the Justy itself may not have specific major awards, Subaru as a brand has been recognized for reliability and value over the years.

Consumer Reviews Era:

Praised for its fuel economy and the unique availability of 4WD in its segment. Criticisms often focused on its modest power output and basic interior.