Production Years Covered:
1984-1994
Platform:
Subaru FF-1 Star / Subaru Leone Generation 3
Chassis Codes:
AB1, AB2, AG1, AG2, AH1, AH2, AM1, AM2, AL1, AL2, AJ1, AJ2, AK1, AK2, AP1, AP2
Engine Codes:
EA71, EA81, EA82
Segment:
Compact/Subcompact car, known for its ruggedness, all-wheel-drive capabilities (optional), and practicality.
Competitors:
Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, Nissan Sentra, Mazda 323, Ford Escort.
Distinguishing Features:
Subaru's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system (on many models), horizontally opposed 'Boxer' engines, durable construction, and functional interior design.
Owner Profile:
Owners seeking a reliable, practical, and often all-weather capable vehicle for daily commuting or light-duty use. Enthusiasts who appreciate Subaru's engineering and character.
Vehicle Variants Covered:
All models, including sedan, coupe, station wagon, and BRAT (Brat Recreational All-Terrain vehicle)
Geographic Markets:
North America (USA & Canada) primarily, with potential for global applicability of core mechanicals.
Estimated Pages:
Over 1500 pages (typical for complete factory service manuals of this era)
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual (Factory Original)
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Engine:
Engine mechanicals, tuning, diagnostics, fuel system (carbureted and fuel injected), ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, emissions control systems.
Transmission:
Manual transmissions (3-speed automatic, 4-speed automatic, 5-speed manual), clutch system, driveshafts, differentials, AWD system (for applicable models).
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (some models), hydraulic system, parking brake, ABS troubleshooting (where applicable).
Steering Suspension:
Power steering system, rack and pinion steering, front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, wheel alignment specifications.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams for all systems, starter motor, alternator, battery, lighting system, instrumentation, power windows, door locks, HVAC controls, radio.
Body Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, exterior trim, glass replacement, chassis lubrication, rust prevention.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system operation, heating system, ventilation, blower motor, refrigerant charging procedures.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt adjustments, fluid checks and replacements, lubrication points.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical failures, including symptom-based diagnostic trees.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for engine, transmission, drivetrain, braking system, suspension, steering, and electrical components. Includes overhaul and rebuild instructions.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, diagnostic specifications (e.g., ignition timing, compression ratios), alignment specifications, fluid capacities, and wear limits.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced diagnostics and component-level repair.
Engine 1 Displacement:
1.8L (1769cc)
Engine 1 Configuration:
EA71: 1.8L SOHC Horizontally Opposed 4-Cylinder (Carbureted)
Engine 2 Displacement:
1.8L (1781cc)
Engine 2 Configuration:
EA81: 1.8L SOHC Horizontally Opposed 4-Cylinder (Carbureted and SPFI)
Engine 3 Displacement:
1.8L (1781cc)
Engine 3 Configuration:
EA82: 1.8L SOHC/DOHC Horizontally Opposed 4-Cylinder (Carbureted and SPFI/MPFI)
Engine 1 Horsepower:
Approx. 71 hp @ 4800 rpm (Carbureted)
Engine 1 Torque:
Approx. 92 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (Carbureted)
Engine 2 Horsepower:
Approx. 73-80 hp @ 4800 rpm (Carbureted); Approx. 85 hp @ 4800 rpm (SPFI)
Engine 2 Torque:
Approx. 95-98 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (Carbureted); Approx. 98 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (SPFI)
Engine 3 Horsepower:
Approx. 80-88 hp @ 5200 rpm (Carbureted); Approx. 90-95 hp @ 5200 rpm (SPFI/MPFI)
Engine 3 Torque:
Approx. 97-103 lb-ft @ 3200-3600 rpm (Carbureted/SPFI/MPFI)
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (Hitachi, Nikki) or Single-Point Fuel Injection (SPFI) or Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI) depending on model and year.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended, higher for turbocharged variants if applicable in this market).
Transmission 1:
4-speed Manual (often standard on base models)
Transmission 2:
3-speed Automatic (optional)
Transmission 3:
4-speed Automatic (later models)
Transmission 4:
5-speed Manual (optional on some models)
Drivetrain:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) standard, Full-Time All-Wheel Drive (AWD) optional or standard on specific trims/models.
Length:
Varies by body style, e.g., Sedan: ~164 inches, Station Wagon: ~170 inches, BRAT: ~157 inches.
Width:
Varies by body style, e.g., ~64 inches
Height:
Varies by body style, e.g., Sedan: ~53 inches, Station Wagon: ~56 inches.
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2200-2600 lbs depending on body style, engine, and drivetrain.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 3200-3600 lbs.
NHTSA Ratings:
Specific NHTSA crash test data for this era may be limited; generally considered a safe vehicle for its time but lacking modern safety features.
Braking System:
Front disc, rear drum brakes. Some higher trims may have optional front and rear disc brakes.
Drivetrain Stability:
Optional All-Wheel Drive enhances traction and stability in slippery conditions.
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts, 2-point rear lap belts (later models may have 3-point rear belts).
Airbags:
Driver airbag became standard towards the end of the production run (around 1990-1994).
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH system not standard; older models may have tether anchors.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (whichever comes first) for conventional oil. Refer to manual for synthetic oil recommendations if applicable.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months, or more frequently under dusty conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles. Specific plug types and gap settings are critical.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles or 5 years (crucial for interference engines if equipped).
Engine Oil:
API SG/SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for climate-specific recommendations and viscosity). Capacity: Approx. 4.5-5.0 quarts with filter.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil. Capacity: Approx. 2.0-2.5 quarts.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron-III (or equivalent) ATF. Capacity: Approx. 4.0-4.5 quarts for fluid change.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water). Capacity: Approx. 6.0-7.0 quarts.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Engine Common Problems:
Head gasket leaks (especially on EA82), carburetor issues (stalling, rough idle), oil leaks from boxer engine seals, timing belt failure leading to catastrophic engine damage (if not replaced on schedule).
Drivetrain Common Problems:
Clutch wear, U-joint wear on driveshafts, differential bearing noise, transfer case issues on AWD models.
Suspension Common Problems:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, strut mounts, and control arm bushings. Rust on suspension components in corrosive climates.
Electrical Common Problems:
Alternator failure, starter motor issues, corrosion in wiring harness connectors, door lock actuator failures, faulty window regulators.
Subaru Legacy Connection:
The Subaru Omega is essentially the North American market designation for the Subaru Leone generation 3, which preceded the Subaru Legacy.
Generation Transition:
This manual covers the final generation of the Subaru Leone platform, which was later succeeded by the Subaru Legacy in 1990 for the 1990 model year.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Market Introduction:
The Subaru Leone was first introduced globally in 1971. The third generation (covered by this manual) ran from 1984 to 1994 in North America.
Off Road Capability:
The BRAT model, in particular, gained recognition for its surprising off-road capability due to its compact size and available AWD.
Reliability:
Generally considered a reliable vehicle for its era, known for its longevity when properly maintained. The boxer engine's design contributes to its robust nature.
Safety Certifications:
While specific awards for this model may not be widely documented, Subaru's consistent emphasis on safety in its designs of this period is notable.
