Model Variant:
DL, GL, GL-10, RX, Loyale (some overlapping and transitional models)
Production Years Covered:
1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994
Chassis Codes:
A4 (sedan), A6 (station wagon), AM (BRAT/Brat)
Segment:
Compact/Subcompact Economy Cars and SUVs (Station Wagon variants)
Key Attributes:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard or optional on most models), durability, reliability, off-road capability for their class
Competitors:
Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, Nissan Sentra, Mazda 323, Mitsubishi Mirage
Distinctive Features:
Subaru's boxer engine configuration, optional/standard AWD, rugged build
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, enthusiasts, owners seeking to maintain older vehicles
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, component inspection, timing belt replacement, cooling system, lubrication system
Engine Management:
Fuel injection systems (MPFI, SPFI), ignition systems, emissions control, diagnosis and troubleshooting
Transmission:
Manual transmission overhaul and repair, automatic transmission overhaul and repair, clutch system, transfer case
Drivetrain:
Front and rear differentials, CV joints, drive shafts, four-wheel-drive system operation and repair
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (and rear discs on some models), parking brake system, hydraulic system diagnosis
Suspension Steering:
Front independent suspension (MacPherson strut), rear suspension, power steering system, alignment specifications
Electrical System:
Charging system, starting system, battery, lighting, instrumentation, wiring diagrams, component testing
Body Chassis:
Body panel repair, frame specifications, interior trim removal, door/window mechanisms, glass replacement
Heating Ac:
HVAC system components, refrigerant handling, diagnosis and repair
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes (oil, coolant, transmission, differential), filter replacements, spark plug service
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common drivability issues, electrical faults, mechanical problems, using diagnostic codes
Repair Overhaul:
Step-by-step instructions for major component repairs, engine rebuilds, transmission rebuilds, brake caliper replacement
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic flowcharts and procedures for various systems, including OBD-I (on later models) interpretation
Technical Data Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, measurements, engine timing settings, diagnostic voltage readings
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical schematics
Engine Family:
EA Series (EA71, EA81, EA82)
Engine Configurations:
Horizontally-opposed 4-cylinder (Boxer)
Engine Displacements:
1.6L (1595cc), 1.8L (1769cc), 2.0L (1994cc, turbocharged)
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 70-125 HP (naturally aspirated), 135 HP (turbocharged RX)
Torque Range:
Approx. 80-105 lb-ft (naturally aspirated), 145 lb-ft (turbocharged RX)
Fuel Delivery:
Carbureted (early models), Single Point Fuel Injection (SPFI), Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI) (later models)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Timing Drive:
Timing Belt
Transmission Types:
4-speed Manual, 5-speed Manual, 3-speed Automatic, 4-speed Automatic
Transfer Case:
Dual Range 4WD (Part-time on some models), Full-time 4WD with viscous coupling center differential (on later AWD models)
Clutch Type:
Dry single plate (manual transmissions)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (refer to manual for exact spec and capacity)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II/III equivalent (refer to manual for exact spec and capacity)
Transfer Case Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (refer to manual for exact spec and capacity)
Differential Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (refer to manual for exact spec and capacity)
Body Styles:
2-door Coupe, 4-door Sedan, 5-door Station Wagon, 2-door Coupe Utility (BRAT/Brat)
Wheelbase Range:
Approx. 96.2 - 96.5 inches
Length Range:
Approx. 160 - 175 inches (depending on body style)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 2,100 - 2,800 lbs (depending on model and drivetrain)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (refer to manual for specific engine/oil type)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles or 5-7 years (critical interval due to interference engine design on EA82)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for specific temperature range and oil capacity)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze (typically 50/50 mix with distilled water). Color may vary by manufacturer. Refer to manual for capacity.
Engine Common Problems:
Head gasket leaks (especially EA82), carburetor issues (early models), timing belt failure (if not replaced), oil leaks from seals
Drivetrain Common Problems:
CV joint wear, differential seal leaks, manual transmission synchro wear
Electrical Common Problems:
Alternator issues, ignition coil failure, wiring harness degradation (corrosion), fuel pump failure
Suspension Steering Common Problems:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, strut mounts, power steering pump leaks
Timing Belt Part Number Example:
Subaru P/N 13028AA080 (This is an example and can vary by exact engine. Always verify with VIN.)
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Subaru P/N 15208AA001 (e.g., Fram PH7317, Wix 51515 - verify fitment)
Subaru Origins:
Founded in 1953, originally Fuji Heavy Industries, with roots in aircraft manufacturing.
L Series Development:
Evolved from the Subaru Leone, representing Subaru's entry into the compact car market with unique AWD capabilities.
Generational Changes:
Key updates include adoption of fuel injection, more advanced AWD systems, styling revisions, and interior upgrades throughout the production run.
Transition To Loyale:
In 1990, the L-Series was rebadged as the Subaru Loyale, continuing with minor updates until 1994.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (Ota, Gunma Prefecture)
Off Road Capabilities:
Praised in period reviews for its AWD system's capability relative to other compact cars/wagons, enabling light off-roading and superior traction in adverse weather.
Durability Reputation:
Gained a reputation for being durable and long-lasting, especially those with naturally aspirated engines and manual transmissions.
Fuel Economy:
Competitive for its class and era, with AWD models slightly less economical than FWD counterparts. Specific MPG figures vary by engine and drivetrain.
