Segment:
Compact Car / Small SUV (depending on AWD implementation)
Target Audience:
Owners, DIY enthusiasts, and professional mechanics seeking to maintain or repair Subaru DL/GL models.
Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Mazda 323, Volkswagen Golf, American Motors Eagle (for AWD variants)
Distinguishing Factors:
Subaru's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system (optional on many models), horizontally-opposed 'Boxer' engines, robust and practical design, excellent traction in adverse conditions
Brand Heritage:
Subaru, a division of Fuji Heavy Industries, has a long history of engineering innovation, particularly in AWD technology and aircraft manufacturing.
Covered Years:
1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994
Estimated Page Count:
1500+ (estimated, typical for comprehensive factory manuals of this era)
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Mechanical:
Engine mechanical, transmission, drivetrain, steering, suspension, braking system, chassis, exhaust system
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition, charging system, starting system, instrumentation, power accessories, diagnosis
Body:
Body construction, interior trim, exterior trim, glass, seals, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)
Diagnostics Tools:
Guidance on using basic hand tools and multimeter for electrical diagnostics. Specific Subaru diagnostic tools of the era may be mentioned.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, inspections
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, steering system repair, electrical component repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs - if applicable for the era), symptom-based diagnostics, electrical circuit diagnosis
Engine Tuning:
Ignition timing adjustment, carburetor adjustment, fuel mixture settings (for EFI).
Wheel Alignment:
Specifications and procedures for front and rear wheel alignment.
Air Conditioning:
Service and repair procedures for the HVAC system, including refrigerant handling (as per regulations of the time).
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level repair, maintenance, and diagnostic procedures for all major vehicle systems
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for critical fasteners throughout the vehicle.
Clearances And Tolerances:
Precise measurements for engine, transmission, and chassis components to ensure proper assembly and function.
Troubleshooting Charts:
Organized charts correlating symptoms to potential causes and remedies.
Scope:
Covers both minor maintenance tasks and major component overhauls.
PDF Quality:
High-resolution, searchable text with clear diagrams and images
Diagrams And Illustrations:
Detailed exploded views, schematics, and step-by-step illustrations
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Engine Type:
Horizontally-Opposed (Boxer) 4-Cylinder
Displacement:
1.8L (EA81/EA82 engines) and potentially 2.7L EA82T Turbo for specific performance variants
Horsepower:
Approximately 73-97 HP for naturally aspirated 1.8L, higher for turbo variants
Torque:
Approximately 94-110 lb-ft for naturally aspirated 1.8L
Induction:
Carbureted (early models) or Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) (later models, especially with turbo)
Common Codes:
EA81, EA82, EA82T (Turbo)
Drive Type:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) standard, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) optional
Transmission Types:
4-speed Manual, 5-speed Manual, 3-speed Automatic, 4-speed Automatic
AWD Modes:
Full-time AWD with viscous coupling center differential (on certain models) or driver-selectable AWD (e.g., 4WD high/low range on some wagons)
Crash Test Data:
Limited official crash test data available from this era, focus on passive safety features of the time.
Braking:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (some later models or higher trims may have rear discs). Power assist standard.
Restraints:
Seat belts (3-point front, 2-point rear), crumple zones, reinforced passenger cage.
Oil Change:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (refer to manual for exact specification)
Timing Belt:
Crucial for Boxer engines. Replacement interval typically around 60,000 miles or 5 years (refer to manual for specific engine).
Engine Oil:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for specific temperature ranges and certifications)
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water. Specific Subaru coolant or equivalent meeting ASTM D3306.
Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II for automatic transmissions, GL-4 gear oil for manual transmissions (refer to manual for specific weights and capacities)
Common Wear Items:
Spark plugs, spark plug wires, distributor cap and rotor, CV joints, wheel bearings, exhaust system components, cooling system hoses, radiator, head gaskets (less common on naturally aspirated EA81/EA82 but can occur with age/overheating).
Carburetor Tuning:
Carbureted models may require periodic adjustment and cleaning for optimal performance and fuel economy.
Rust Prevention:
Concern in rust-belt regions. Body panels, frame rails, and suspension components are susceptible.
Example Oil Filter:
Mann Filter W910/4, Bosch 3300 (refer to manual or cross-reference for exact compatibility)
Reputation:
Praised for durability, all-weather capability, and practicality. Often cited as a reliable choice for budget-conscious buyers and those prioritizing AWD.
Consumer Reports Mentions:
Likely received favorable mentions for reliability and AWD performance in contemporary reviews and consumer surveys.
