🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Brat

Model Code:

AL

Body Style:

Two-door coupe utility / pickup truck

Generation Name:

First Generation

Chassis Code:

AL

Engine Code Early:

EA71

Engine Code Late:

EA81

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Market Niche:

Compact, all-wheel-drive utility vehicle with a distinctive open cargo bed, appealing to utility, off-road, and lifestyle buyers.

Key Competitors:

Competed with vehicles like the Ford Bronco II, Jeep CJ, and early SUVs from other manufacturers, though its unique utility bed set it apart.

Vehicle Distinguishing Features:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, dual-range transfer case, unique rear-facing jump seats (in some markets), distinctive two-door coupe utility design.

Manual Value Proposition:

Essential resource for maintaining, diagnosing, and repairing the Subaru Brat across a significant portion of its production life, enabling owners and technicians to keep these classic vehicles running optimally.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Years:

1985-1996

Covered Models:

Subaru Brat

Covered Trims:

All trim levels

Estimated Page Count:

Varies based on specific publisher, typically 500-1500 pages for comprehensive service manuals.

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely printed book format. Digital formats (PDF) may be available from resellers.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection (SPFI/MPFI where applicable), ignition, emission control systems.

Transmission:

Manual and automatic transmission overhaul, diagnostics, adjustments, and clutch service.

Drivetrain:

Four-wheel drive system, transfer case, front and rear differentials, CV joints, driveshafts.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Front disc and rear drum brake systems, hydraulic system, parking brake, component replacement and bleeding procedures.

Steering:

Steering gear, power steering system (if equipped), tie rods, steering linkage.

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.

Body And Chassis:

Body panels, doors, tailgate, interior trim, glass replacement, chassis frame.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system (if equipped) diagnosis and repair.

Maintenance:

Regular maintenance tasks: oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tune-ups, lubrication.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting charts, common problems and solutions.

Repair:

Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major mechanical and electrical components.

Disassembly And Assembly:

Component disassembly and reassembly procedures with torque specifications and special tool requirements.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams for various electrical systems.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Detailed diagnostic flowcharts and procedures for identifying and resolving issues.

Special Tools:

Lists and descriptions of special tools required for specific repair procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Details:

If digital, typically PDF format. Searchable text is highly desirable for efficient use.

Print Quality Expectation:

High-quality printing with clear diagrams and legible text.

Binding Type Expectation:

Durable binding (e.g., spiral-bound, case-bound) suitable for workshop use.

Paper Type Expectation:

Durable, grease-resistant paper is ideal for workshop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Horizontally-opposed (Boxer), 4-cylinder, naturally aspirated.

Displacement Early:

1.8 L (1781 cc)

Displacement Late:

1.8 L (1781 cc)

Bore X Stroke Early:

85.0 mm x 79.0 mm

Bore X Stroke Late:

85.0 mm x 79.0 mm

Compression Ratio Early:

8.5:1 (typical)

Compression Ratio Late:

9.5:1 (typical with SPFI)

Horsepower Early:

Approx. 75 hp @ 4800 rpm (carbureted)

Horsepower Late:

Approx. 85-90 hp @ 5200 rpm (Single Point Fuel Injection - SPFI)

Torque Early:

Approx. 97 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm (carbureted)

Torque Late:

Approx. 103-106 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (SPFI)

Fuel Delivery Early:

Carburetor (e.g., Hitachi or Keihin 2-barrel)

Fuel Delivery Late:

Single Point Fuel Injection (SPFI) - Subaru's proprietary system.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Recommended Octane:

87 AKI (minimum)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

4-speed manual transmission

Optional Transmission Type:

3-speed automatic transmission (less common)

Drivetrain Configuration:

Full-time All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with a dual-range transfer case (high/low range) and a lockable center differential.

Clutch Type:

Dry single-plate (manual transmission)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 3,970 mm (156.3 in)

Width:

Approx. 1,600 mm (63.0 in)

Height:

Approx. 1,525 mm (60.0 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2,400 mm (94.5 in)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 200 mm (7.9 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1,050 - 1,200 kg (2,315 - 2,645 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by model and configuration

Cargo Bed Length:

Approx. 1,100 mm (43.3 in)

Cargo Bed Width:

Approx. 1,300 mm (51.2 in)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Standards:

Vehicle safety standards of the 1980s and 1990s; comparable modern ratings may not apply directly. Likely lacked advanced safety features of later vehicles.

Active Safety Features:

Four-wheel drive, good visibility.

Passive Safety Features:

Seat belts (lap belts in rear jump seats), reinforced chassis.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player. Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer (on some models), fuel, engine temperature, oil pressure.

Driver Assistance Systems:

None.

Connectivity Options:

None.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles (4,800 - 8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km), or as needed based on conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km), depending on plug type.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Not applicable (uses a timing chain, but inspection for wear is recommended)

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for automatic, manual fluid check/change as per manual recommendations.

Coolant Flush:

Every 24,000 - 48,000 miles (38,000 - 77,000 km) or 2-4 years.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or higher classification, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended (check manual for exact specifications based on climate).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.2 US quarts (4.0 liters) with filter change.

Transmission Fluid Type Manual:

GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.

Transmission Fluid Type Automatic:

Dexron III / Mercon equivalent.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, 50/50 mixture with distilled water.

Common Rust Areas:

Wheel arches, rocker panels, tailgate, floor pans, chassis frame components, especially in areas with road salt use.

Engine Wear:

Piston ring wear leading to oil consumption and blow-by, valve stem seal degradation.

Fuel System Issues:

Carburetor wear and tuning issues; SPFI components can be proprietary and harder to source.

Electrical Problems:

Degradation of wiring insulation, corroded grounds, failing relays and switches.

Suspension Wear:

Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, bushings, and wheel bearings.

Drivetrain Issues:

CV joint wear, transfer case seal leaks, differential bearing noise.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Brand Focus:

Subaru's history is rooted in automotive manufacturing, with a strong emphasis on reliable, practical vehicles, particularly known for their pioneering use of All-Wheel Drive.

Brat Development Context:

Developed as a response to market demand for compact, all-wheel-drive utility vehicles, incorporating passenger car comfort with off-road capability and cargo hauling. Influenced by the popular Subaru Leone platform.

Brat Key Market Entries:

Initially launched in 1978, with significant updates and engine changes through its production life. Sold in markets including North America, Australia, and Europe.

Production Years:

1978 - 1994

Manufacturing Locations:

Japan

Unique Market Aspects:

In the U.S., the Brat was originally classified as a 'light truck' to avoid import quotas on Japanese cars, leading to the unique addition of rear-facing jump seats with grab handles and seatbelts, mandated by U.S. Customs for light trucks with passenger capacity.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Market Awards:

While specific awards for the Subaru Brat are not widely documented in the same way as modern vehicles, its enduring popularity and cult status are a testament to its design and capability. It was a significant vehicle in establishing Subaru's reputation for AWD in a compact utility format.