Segment:
Mid-size sedan, known for its standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD) capability, a segment-defining feature for Subaru.
Differentiation:
Distinguished by its standard AWD system, robust construction, and reliable horizontally-opposed 'Boxer' engines, appealing to drivers prioritizing traction and longevity.
Competitors:
Competed against other mid-size sedans of the era such as the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Ford Taurus, and Chevrolet Lumina, though Subaru's AWD was a unique selling proposition.
Standard AWD:
The hallmark feature, providing superior traction and stability in various weather conditions.
Boxer Engine:
Horizontally-opposed engine layout offering a lower center of gravity for improved handling.
Durability:
Reputation for robust engineering and long-term durability.
Years Covered:
1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994
Regions Covered:
Global (primarily North American and European specifications based on common factory manual content)
Trim Levels Covered:
Likely covers all available trim levels offered for the GL-10, including base, DL, GL, and potentially Turbo models if applicable within this timeframe.
Estimated Page Count:
Varies significantly based on the specific factory publication, but factory service manuals of this era often range from 800-1500+ pages. This is a comprehensive PDF download.
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Source Type:
Official Factory Documentation
Powertrain:
Engine mechanicals, fuel system, ignition system, lubrication system, cooling system, exhaust system, engine control systems (ECU/EFI).
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission repair, overhaul, operation, and troubleshooting. Includes details on AWD/4WD system engagement and components.
Drivetrain:
Front and Rear drive axles, CV joints, propeller shaft, differential systems, and AWD/4WD system components.
Suspension:
Front and Rear suspension systems (likely MacPherson struts front, independent rear suspension), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, wheel bearings.
Steering:
Power steering system operation, components, and service procedures. Steering column and linkage.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum or disc brakes (depending on model/year), hydraulic system, parking brake, ABS (if equipped on later models).
Electrical:
Complete electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, lighting systems, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system, ignition switch, instrument cluster, accessories.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system components, operation, diagnosis, and refrigerant service.
Body:
Body and chassis repair, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, exterior trim, bumpers, seals, and collision repair guidelines.
Emissions:
Emissions control systems, catalytic converters, EGR systems, evaporative emission control systems, and diagnosis of emissions-related faults.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance procedures such as oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes, belt inspections and replacements.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon problems, symptom-based troubleshooting charts, and electrical diagnostic flowcharts.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems, including component removal, disassembly, cleaning, inspection, reassembly, and installation.
Overhaul:
Complete overhaul procedures for engines, transmissions, and differentials, including specifications for clearances, tolerances, and torque values.
Adjustments:
Adjustment procedures for ignition timing, carburetor settings (if applicable), clutch, brakes, and other mechanical systems.
Diagnostics:
In-depth diagnostic strategies for engine performance issues, electrical faults, transmission problems, and other system malfunctions.
Special Tools:
Identification and use of specialized tools and equipment required for specific repair and diagnostic procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic preventive maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic flowcharts and specifications.
Accuracy:
Factory-level accuracy, essential for correct repairs and maintaining vehicle integrity.
Diagrams Illustrations:
Includes detailed diagrams, exploded views, and illustrations to aid in understanding complex systems and procedures.
Engine Code:
Likely variations of the EJ series Boxer engines (e.g., EJ18, EJ20, EJ22 depending on market and year).
Configuration:
Horizontally-Opposed (Boxer) 4-Cylinder
Displacement:
Ranges from 1.8L to 2.2L (e.g., 1781cc, 1994cc, 2174cc) across the model years and variants.
Valvetrain:
SOHC or DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft), 16 valves.
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 90 hp to 130 hp depending on engine displacement and fuel injection.
Torque Range:
Approximately 100 lb-ft to 130 lb-ft depending on engine displacement.
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) or Carbureted (early models may have had carburetors).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Oil Change:
Typically every 3,000 to 5,000 miles (5,000 to 8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Specific intervals in the manual.
Spark Plugs:
Recommended replacement every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (48,000 to 96,000 km), depending on plug type (standard vs. platinum).
Timing Belt:
If equipped with a timing belt (some EJ engines used belts), replacement typically recommended every 60,000 to 90,000 miles (96,000 to 144,000 km).
Engine Oil:
API SG or SG/CD rated multi-viscosity oil, typically SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40, depending on ambient temperature. Check manual for exact API service classification and viscosity recommendations.
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze/coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Manual will specify type and capacity.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-5 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 recommended for manual transmissions and differentials.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II or equivalent ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid). Capacity and specific type in manual.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Head Gaskets:
While Subaru is known for head gasket issues, they were more prevalent on specific generations/engines. This era's Boxer engines are generally robust, but manual will cover inspection/repair.
Rust Corrosion:
Like many vehicles of this vintage, rust and corrosion can be common, particularly in areas exposed to road salt. Manual provides body repair guidance.
Cv Axle Boots:
CV axle boot failure leading to grease loss and premature CV joint wear is a common wear item.
Ignition System:
Wear on ignition components (plugs, wires, coil) can affect performance.
Brand Focus:
Subaru has a long history of producing reliable, durable vehicles, with a core expertise in All-Wheel Drive technology and horizontally-opposed engines.
Predecessors:
The GL-10 represents a significant evolution from earlier Subaru models, adopting a more modern chassis and AWD system architecture, bridging towards the Subaru Legacy.
Key Developments:
Transition from simpler AWD systems to more advanced full-time AWD, adoption of electronic fuel injection for improved performance and emissions.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in Japan.
Production Span:
Covered by the manual: 1984-1994. This timeframe corresponds to the final years of the 'compact' era for Subaru and the early development of their mid-size offerings.
