Era Context:
Subaru's transition to a more robust, all-wheel-drive focused brand. These models represented a significant step forward in Subaru's engineering and market presence, particularly in North America and colder climates.
Competitors:
Competed with other compact and mid-size Japanese and American sedans and wagons, offering a unique AWD advantage. Competitors included Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, Nissan Sentra, Ford Escort, Chevrolet Cavalier.
Distinguishing Features:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on many models), boxer engine layout, durable construction, practical wagon and sedan body styles, often praised for reliability and all-weather capability.
Value For Owners:
Essential for DIY enthusiasts and independent repair shops to maintain, diagnose, and repair these robust vehicles. Provides detailed procedures, specifications, and troubleshooting guidance that can significantly reduce repair costs and ensure proper vehicle function.
Covered Models:
Subaru DL, GL, RX, GL10, Loyale
Covered Model Years:
1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989
Estimated Page Count:
Hundreds (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Engine:
Complete overhaul, diagnostics, timing belt replacement, ignition system, fuel system (carbureted and fuel injected), cooling system, lubrication system, emissions control
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission service, repair, diagnostics, clutch replacement, gearshift linkage adjustment, AWD system engagement (full-time and part-time)
Drivetrain:
Front and rear differential service, driveshaft and U-joint maintenance, wheel hub and bearing service
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, bushings), steering system overhaul, alignment specifications
Brakes:
Front disc brake service (calipers, rotors, pads), rear drum brake service (shoes, drums, wheel cylinders), parking brake adjustment, brake fluid flush and bleeding procedures, ABS diagnostics (if equipped on later models)
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, starter motor, alternator, battery service, lighting systems, instrumentation, ignition system components, fuse and relay identification and testing
Bodywork:
Panel removal and installation, door and window mechanisms, interior trim, glass replacement, rust prevention and repair guidance
HVAC:
Heating and air conditioning system service, component replacement, refrigerant handling (if applicable)
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, air filter service, coolant system maintenance, chassis lubrication
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common symptoms, electrical system troubleshooting flowcharts, engine performance issues
Repair:
Component disassembly, rebuilding, and reassembly for all major systems
Adjustment:
Carburetor adjustments, ignition timing, brake adjustments, clutch pedal free play, parking brake
Installation:
Guidance on component replacement and accessory installation
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications
Compatibility:
PC & Mac Compatible (Windows 95, 98, 2000, NT, XP, Vista, Windows 7 & 8, etc.)
Searchability:
Likely searchable PDF text (depending on scan quality)
Quality Description:
High-quality PDF with clear illustrations, diagrams, and text
Binding Type:
Digital Download (not applicable)
Paper Type:
Digital Download (not applicable)
Engine Type:
Horizontally Opposed (Boxer), 4-Cylinder
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1781 cc)
Valve Train:
Overhead Cam (OHC) or Dual Overhead Cam (DOHC) depending on variant (e.g., EA82T for turbocharged)
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 90-115 hp (non-turbo), 135-140 hp (turbocharged EA82T)
Torque Range:
Approximately 101-115 lb-ft (non-turbo), 145 lb-ft (turbocharged EA82T)
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (early models) or Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) (later models, single or multi-point)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition (Distributorless ignition on some later models)
Cooling Type:
Liquid-Cooled
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type:
3-Speed or 4-Speed Automatic Transmission with Lock-up Torque Converter
AWD Engagement:
Full-time AWD with viscous coupling center differential on many models; some manual transmissions featured a part-time 4WD system with a lockable center differential.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-5 75W-90 Gear Oil (check manual for specific capacity)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF-HP or equivalent Dexron II/III type fluid (check manual for specific capacity)
Body Styles:
2-door Coupe, 4-door Sedan, 5-door Wagon
Wheelbase:
Approx. 96.9 inches (2461 mm)
Length:
Approx. 167.1-174.8 inches (4244-4440 mm) depending on body style
Width:
Approx. 64.2-65.0 inches (1631-1651 mm)
Height:
Approx. 55.5-58.1 inches (1410-1476 mm) depending on body style
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 2300-2800 lbs (1043-1270 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model, typically around 3500-3900 lbs
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
4x140mm
Standard Tire Size:
175/70R13, 185/70R13, 185/70R14 (depending on trim and model year)
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette player, optional premium sound systems on higher trims. Limited digital integration.
Driver Assistance Features:
Primarily reliant on the All-Wheel Drive system for enhanced traction and stability. No modern electronic driver aids like traction control (except AWD itself) or stability control.
Connectivity Features:
No modern connectivity features such as Bluetooth, USB, or Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Aftermarket head unit installation is common for modern audio.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months (depending on driving conditions and oil type used). Check manual for exact recommendation.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Typically every 60,000 miles or 5 years. Crucial due to interference engine design.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000-30,000 miles, depending on spark plug type (copper vs. platinum).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG or higher, 10W-30 or 10W-40 viscosity (check manual for specific recommendation).
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water (typically green coolant).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Common Problems:
Head gasket leaks (especially on older EA81/EA82 engines), timing belt failure if not replaced on schedule, carburetor issues, rust on body panels (especially wheel wells and rockers), rear main seal leaks, aging electrical components.
Suspension Wear:
Worn bushings, ball joints, and strut mounts are common due to age and mileage.
Subaru Identity:
Subaru's history is rooted in aviation, influencing their engineering with boxer engines and symmetrical AWD. The brand gained a reputation for reliability, practicality, and off-road/all-weather capability.
Transition To AWD:
These models marked Subaru's widespread adoption and popularization of All-Wheel Drive in passenger cars, differentiating them from competitors who primarily offered front-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive platforms.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan by Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries).
Key Trim Levels:
DL (Base), GL (Higher Trim/Luxury), RX (Sportier/Performance), GL10 (Luxury/Top Trim), Loyale (later name for the generation, often retaining GL/DL designations).
