🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

RX

Chassis Codes:

Various, potentially including variations based on engine and market, common Subaru codes of the era include AM, AL, AT.

Engine Codes:

EA81, EA82 (Naturally Aspirated and Turbocharged variants).

Model Years:

1984-1994

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Subcompact/Compact performance car, known for its rally heritage and all-wheel-drive capabilities (though RWD variants might exist).

Competitors:

Likely competed with vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf GTI, Ford Escort RS Turbo, Honda Civic Si, and other sporty compacts of the era.

Subaru Strengths:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (available on some variants), boxer engine layout, robust build quality, reputation for durability.

Performance Orientation:

The 'RX' designation often implies a performance-oriented model, potentially with turbocharged engines and sport-tuned suspension.

📋 Manual Details

Geographic Markets:

Global, with specific regional adaptations likely detailed within the manual.

Vehicle Variants:

Includes coverage for various RX models, likely encompassing different engine options (naturally aspirated and turbocharged) and body styles if applicable (e.g., coupe, sedan, wagon).

Estimated Pages:

Likely over 1000 pages, reflecting the comprehensive nature of factory service manuals.

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine disassembly, assembly, component inspection, troubleshooting, timing belt/chain, valve train, piston/ring installation, crankshaft, cylinder head procedures.

Engine Management:

Fuel injection (EFI), ignition system, emissions control systems, sensor testing, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), ECU functions.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch operation, transmission disassembly, assembly, gear inspection, synchronizer repair, shifting mechanisms.

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission operation, hydraulic circuits, torque converter, valve body repair, transmission fluid changes, shift control.

Drivetrain:

Front wheel drive axles, rear differential (if applicable), driveshaft, CV joints, wheel bearings.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, steering knuckle, alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, wheel alignment procedures.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), brake fluid specifications, caliper and wheel cylinder service, parking brake system, ABS (if equipped).

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator, regulator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system components, refrigerant handling, compressor, evaporator, condenser service.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, glass replacement, chassis lubrication, corrosion protection.

Scheduled Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, timing belt replacement intervals.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical diagnostics, engine performance issues, drivability problems.

Repair And Rebuild:

Step-by-step instructions for component overhaul and replacement, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake system repairs.

Diagnostics:

Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) interpretation, use of diagnostic tools, sensor and actuator testing procedures.

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Use of wiring diagrams, continuity testing, voltage drop testing, circuit diagnosis.

Specifications And Tolerances:

Torque values, clearance specifications, fluid capacities, engine component clearances, wheel alignment angles.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid changes and inspections to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, detailed electrical diagnostics, and body repair.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable for efficient information retrieval.

Resolution:

High resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual.

Digital Format Notes:

N/A (Digital download)

Digital Format Notes:

N/A (Digital download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Horizontally opposed (Boxer) 4-cylinder

Displacement:

1.8L (1795cc) EA81, 1.8L (1781cc) EA82

Aspiration:

Naturally Aspirated and Turbocharged (likely designated 'RX Turbo' or similar).

Horsepower Na:

Typically in the 70-90 hp range for naturally aspirated variants.

Horsepower Turbo:

Likely in the 100-130 hp range for turbocharged variants.

Torque Na:

Estimated 90-100 lb-ft for naturally aspirated variants.

Torque Turbo:

Estimated 120-140 lb-ft for turbocharged variants.

Injection Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) for most models, some earlier or base models might have carburetor options, but RX variants typically feature EFI.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Timing Drive:

Timing Belt (EA81 and EA82)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type:

3-speed or 4-speed Automatic Transmission

Drivetrain Options:

Available in Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD).

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-5 Gear Oil (e.g., 75W-90)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron II or equivalent (refer to manual for exact specification).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Varies by body style, typically around 97-100 inches.

Length:

Varies by body style, typically around 160-170 inches.

Width:

Varies by body style, typically around 64-66 inches.

Height:

Varies by body style, typically around 54-56 inches.

Curb Weight:

Approximately 2200-2600 lbs depending on configuration.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Limited official NHTSA/IIHS ratings available for this specific era and model due to testing standards of the time. The manual will likely detail structural information and safety systems.

Braking System:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes standard. Optional front and rear disc brakes on higher trims or performance models. ABS was not common in this era for this model.

Restraints:

Seat belts (lap and shoulder belts).

Chassis Design:

Unibody construction designed for torsional rigidity and crash energy management, characteristic of Subaru's engineering.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player. Optional upgraded stereo systems might have been available.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System was not a common feature on most RX models of this era.

Exterior Features:

Halogen headlights, power mirrors (manual adjustment common), body-colored or black trim depending on trim level.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (consult manual for exact recommended interval).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial service item, typically every 60,000-90,000 miles or 5-7 years. Failure can cause severe engine damage (interference engine).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Around 30,000-60,000 miles depending on spark plug type (copper vs. platinum).

Engine Oil Type:

10W-30 or 10W-40 synthetic or conventional oil recommended (check manual for specific viscosity and API rating).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (e.g., Subaru Super Coolant or equivalent meeting Subaru specifications).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Engine:

Head gasket leaks (especially on turbo models), oil leaks, potential for oil consumption with age, ignition system component wear (coils, plug wires).

Suspension:

Worn bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends; strut and shock absorber wear.

Electrical:

Corrosion on connectors, aging wiring harnesses, alternator and starter motor wear.

Rust:

Prone to rust, especially in areas exposed to road salt (rocker panels, wheel wells, chassis components).

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Legacy:

Subaru has a long history of producing reliable and capable vehicles, with a strong foundation in aircraft engineering that influenced their early automotive designs.

Subaru Rx Lineage:

The Subaru RX was part of Subaru's range of compact cars, building on the reputation established by earlier models like the Leone. It served as a precursor to later models like the Impreza.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Japan.

Production Period Notes:

Covering a significant span from the mid-80s to the mid-90s, indicating a successful model run with potential updates and facelifts within this period.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Historical Recognition:

While specific awards for the RX model might not be widely documented, Subaru as a brand was recognized for its all-wheel-drive technology and durability during this period.