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About All Wheel Drive Auto
(Top Expert on this page)

Expertise
All Subaru Repair and Service Questions.Master Certified Technician

Experience
20 years in Automotive Industry

Organizations
ASA,BBB

Education/Credentials
Ase Certified Master Technician, UTI tech, Factory Training.

You are here: Experts > Home/Garden > Auto Repair > Subaru Repair

Questions Answered By Expert All Wheel Drive Auto
In Category Subaru Repair

Subject	Date Asked

Stalling	11/10/2008
Q: My son owns a 2000 Forester with 150K miles. Lately when he stops (like at a Stop Sign or Light) the ... A: Issac There isn't anything I can advise you on here. A skilled tech familiar with Subaru, local to ...
2001 Outback thermostat + head gasket	11/9/2008
Q: Last weekend, my 2001 Outback wagon (61,000 miles) overheated and "blew the head". HISTORY: We ... A: Faith, I know you are upset but a lot of what you are saying does not add up. The thermostat is a ...
2004 Subaru Outback Legacy 2004	11/5/2008
Q: I am changing the AT transmission fluid and need to locate the filter.I cannot find the twiston ... A: Karen, Staring in mid year 04 there is no inline replacement fuel filter. If it has a H6 it ...
Front Headlight/Parking light assembly	11/4/2008
Q: How do i remove the front headlight/parking light assembly from a 2005 subaru impreza A: Rich, Honestly how can I answer that for you? I don't know the contents of your tool box, or your ...
1994 Subaru legacy wagon AWD	11/3/2008
Q: My dash lights and clock don't come on when i turn on the headlights- it seemed to coincide with ... A: Most likely it has some burnt out bulbs or the interior lights have been turned off or down with the ...
Towing Noise	11/1/2008
Q: I have a Forester 2ltr 2005 45,000 miles; when I am towing my caravan I occasionally get a rumbling ... A: Dave, That is a non typical issue and there just is no way I can advise you without experiencing ...
Battery & Brake dash lights on and off	10/30/2008
Q: 1998 Subaru Legacy L wagon 2.2L 5 speed. I had the battery and brake lights on the dash appear. I ... A: If you used anything other than the Factory Subaru Alternator you are asking for trouble and paid ...
Tie rod replacement	10/29/2008
Q: How long should it take to replace a tie rod on a 1997 Subaru Legacy SW? Also how will it affect ... A: You have both an inner and outer tie rod and both have different replacement procedures. I think we ...
2004 Outback 3.0 L automatic	10/26/2008
Q: Three annoying issues with this car: 1) It takes a while to shift from reverse to first. If we ... A: There is an updated Throttle position sensor, common problem with the H6 found in your LL Bean. Has ...
1999 Subaru Speedometer	10/24/2008
Q: My wife went to the dealer today and got a diagnostic on and intermittant operating speedometer. ... A: John, I can't say that you have been scammed, the 1999 Subaru Legacy, and Legacy Outback have a ...
2001 Outback ltd	10/22/2008
Q: Rear moon roof front metal frame of the window is rusting out in a couple of places on the front ... A: Subaru sunroofs are a pain to deal with as are most sunroofs when they act up. I would get prices ...
2000 Subaru Outback legancy	10/21/2008
Q: I just brought a used 2000 subaru outback all wheel driver with over 200,000 miles. The check engine ... A: Lori, What is it exactly you want to know? I would suggest having someone who knows what they are ...
Random "jerk" at high speeds	10/18/2008
Q: Year 2000; 110k mi For the past 5 months or so, I've noticed a very RANDOM jerking with the car at ... A: Joe, You are all over the map in regards to what you have tried to deal with the symptom. A "jerk" ...
1998 Subaru airbag light	10/16/2008
Q: I have a 98 Forester and the airbag light on the dash is on. Sometimes it will go off, then the ... A: Frank, There are many possible causes of an air bag light coming on. It needs to be Diagnosed, ...
rear license plate lamp	10/14/2008
Q: Both of my rear license plate lamps have failed, I have tried replacing them without any luck, which ... A: Wayne, On a U.S. model the fuse for the rear license plate bulbs are the same as the parking ...
2002 Outback 3.0L wagon	10/13/2008
Q: I feel my 2002 Outback 3.0L wagon vibrating when it idles in traffic or at a red light. There is ... A: Anthony, There a a lot of possibilities did the two dealers verify the vibration? It's one thing ...
1991 Liberty Clutch 5spm	10/11/2008
Q: I really dont know if i need to change my clutch is blown or it needs adjusting. if the car is ... A: Will, I am in the U.S. there is no such car as the Liberty and in 1991 the standard Legacy didn't ...
pressure sensor	10/8/2008
Q: What is function of the pressure sensor in a Subaru A: Richard, Your Subaru has more than one pressure sensor. Which one are you referring to? Power ...
Subaru 2000 Outback- resetting check engine light	10/6/2008
Q: I need to take my car in for an annual emission testing. They will not test with the check engine ... A: Bob, You have been misinformed and I am not surprised as most don't understand how the computer ...
91 subaru loyale 1.8l possible head gasket?	10/1/2008
Q: hardly no power on flat and barely goes uphill. tune up done no improvement. rpm tach guage ... A: Ok oil in the radiator is bad for the hoses over time but isn't going to cause any damage to the ...
97 legacy outback cooling fans	9/30/2008
Q: From Colorado. The cooling fans of my Legacy outback '97 2.5 automatic, are always on, even in the ... A: We have seen this a few times. It is not an easy diagnoses. We have replaced a sensor, relays and ...
1999 Outback shakes when starting when it is in the rain	9/29/2008
Q: The other day it was raining out, i went to start my car and it shook and jolted while it was in ... A: Sid, There are a lot of potential causes more than I can list. It could be a corroded coil, and or ...
1998 Outback Wagon Ltd: Wont Start when rains	9/28/2008
Q: We began having trouble with acceleration about 2 years ago, but would let it warm up and car would ... A: Yvonne, Of course it can be fixed, but the only way it will happen is for someone familiar to ...
Subaru front axel, bearings & seal replacement	9/27/2008
Q: How much would the labor be to replace both axles, the two bearings per axle and both seals per axle ... A: Tony, There is no way I can give you an accurate quote over the Internet. I would guess at $340.00 ...
ball joints	9/22/2008
Q: I have a '99 forester, I broke the bolt that holds the ball joint into the knuckle( front ). What ... A: Bob, If the bolt breaks you can drill it out and re-tapp the threads. Or take it to a machine shop ...
subaru 2003 impreza outback	9/21/2008
Q: Just had 30k done at dealer and they had me put new front brake pads (total cost $850). Now when I ... A: Tim, There are so many possible problems in regards to either question. The brake noise could be ...
1999 subaru outback	9/20/2008
Q: please help, my outback will not start do to the factory alarm, it was working find with just the ... A: Maybe the alarm is not the issue? The trick isn't disconnecting the battery cable with the key on ...
speedometer	9/18/2008
Q: Why did the speedometer stop working in my 1993 subaru legacy wagon? The check engine came on at ... A: Mary, You have to understand that I can give advice, give you possible solutions, and let you know ...
02 forester locked up	9/17/2008
Q: Couldn't get the abs sensor off so cut it (and spliced it back after the repair). Put everything ... A: Jim, First of all why didn't you just unplug the abs sensor? It connects further up via a two pin ...
2000 Subaru Outback losing pressure	9/13/2008
Q: I recently saw one of your answers and it is the same problem that we are having. The car while ... A: Lisa, I don't really understand what you are asking. Are you asking for the specific test ...
'98 Subaru Outback	9/10/2008
Q: I have been experiencing strange issues with the car. It started with a #3 & 4 misfire, which has ... A: Hey Kim, You have two issues here. the first being a intermittent misfire that is most likely ...
1996 Subaru legacy Rs Twin turbo	9/8/2008
Q: My subaru has been flashing code 66, when i take it to a garage they just tell me they cant fix it ... A: Hey Jess, Here is the deal. I am in the US and in 1996 there was no twin turbo legacy imported ...
diagnosing a broken timing belt or water pump in 98 impreza	9/7/2008
Q: My girlfriend has a 98' impreza with the 2.2L engine. Before it broke down there was a ... A: Hey Mitch, All of that is tough to answer. Most likely the water pump seized? It may have bent ...
1990 Loyale & 1997 Legacy Outback	8/29/2008
Q: I really enjoy reading your site and find your answers to be both thoughtful and informative. I ... A: Hey John, There are a lot of possibilities for both. The loyale could be a faulty aftermarket ...
99 outback sport O2 sensor	8/28/2008
Q: My son has a 99 outback sport. The check engine light came on and he took it to a shop who hooked ... A: The O2 sensor can also go by the name H2OS. Which means Heated O2 sensor. O2 sensors have to reach ...
front differential whine while accelerating	8/19/2008
Q: I have a 2004 forrester with an automatic in it and a total of 118,000 miles on it. I get a whining ... A: Hey Frank, A good Independent Subaru Repair Shop can also service it. We own all of the tools so ...
Engine knock sensor	8/17/2008
Q: Car-x checked my 1997 Impreza outback when engine light went on - says it is the engine knock ... A: Zach, Subaru Suggested list is $90.00 for the part, not expensive in my book but its all ...
Subaru Tranfer Case?	8/16/2008
Q: My 2002 wrx impreza has been making a whinnying sound while on the move.more audible while coasting ... A: Subaru doesn't use a transfer case. If it is a manual transmission it uses a Viscus coupler, If it ...
02 Forester revs w/ fan - AC	8/11/2008
Q: not sure if this is a small issue, but occasionally the engine revs extra 500 RPM when fan or AC is ... A: Hey Kevin, It's hard to say if what you are feeling is something to worry about or not. A 500rpm ...
1993 Impreza with expensive repairs	8/9/2008
Q: I have a 1993 Impreza, which I know is old, but it only has about 155k miles on it. It recently got ... A: Johanna, I sound like a broken record here but you just can't look at the cost to repair versus the ...
1988 subaru wagon	8/8/2008
Q: my 1988 Subaru wagon with the 1.8L EA82 motor just started to puff smoke out of the oil inlet on the ... A: Will, Splitting the case half's is a chore. Plus you will need a top notch Machinist. No idea ...
2001 outback rear bearing	8/6/2008
Q: I have a grinding sound that is coming from the rear of the car. I believe it to be the wheel ... A: Hey Peter, The wheel bearing and possible hub is not really a do it your self repair. It ...
'99 Forester tranny slips into neutral	8/4/2008
Q: I really appreciate it! I've got a 99 forester, and often when I slow down and stop quickly (like ... A: Hey Frank, The front pinion seals can leak allowing Automatic transmission fluid to be pushed into ...
1998 Suburu legacy	8/1/2008
Q: I have a 1998 suburu legacy 2.5 GT.I replace transmission twice include the computers.My problem ... A: Hey Kevin, Which Computer did you replace the Trans control Module or the Engine Control Module? ...
1998 Forester P0420 intermittant fault	7/31/2008
Q: Approx. 2 years ago I bought a 1998 Forester with 65000 miles. The overflow had green coolant in it ... A: I wasn't suggesting aftermarket parts at all. We use Genuine Subaru parts, and just don't charge as ...
1998 Forester P0420 intermittant fault	7/30/2008
Q: Approx. 2 years ago I bought a 1998 Forester with 65000 miles. The overflow had green coolant in it ... A: Ingo, Ok here is the deal PO420 Catalyst Convertor Efficiency below threshold is a CONDITIONAL ...
Subaru lights	7/29/2008
Q: We just replaced the battery in our 99 Forester. Once that was done, some lights now flash ... A: You have tripped the keyless entry/alarm even if you didn't know you had one. If you don't have the ...
1996 Subaru legacy wagon overheating problems	7/27/2008
Q: I've replaced radiator hose which burst on me, alternator which was messing with the heat over the ... A: Hey Cris, I would start with reading my article here. ...
fuses and circuits	7/26/2008
Q: I own a 2.5l Outback. The front cigarette lighter stop working some time ago. Inconveniently I ... A: A lot of times the big nut on the back of the socket loosens up. If the cigar/mirror fuse is ok ...
Subaru 2002, parking light and battery light is on....	7/25/2008
Q: guys! I hope you guys can help me. My 2002 WRX was running fine, then all of a sudden the parking ... A: Hey Alvin, Some things that are not typical just cant be diagnosed over the Internet. Due to the ...
2000 Subaru Forrester misfiring cylinder 3	7/24/2008
Q: My car sometimes almost stalls/floods when I give it gas. I have 100k miles on it. I have an engine ... A: Passenger side, rear is cylinder # 3. As far as how to replace the spark plugs, here is what we ...
'98 Subaru Forester--Engine Issues	7/22/2008
Q: I've owned a 1998 Subaru Forester for 10 years, 121,000 miles and used the same mechanic for 15 ... A: David, The price seems high, but it is not here and I don't know what the right price is for your ...
How do you check/add transmission fluid for a 2001 Outback	7/20/2008
Q: I just purchased a 2001 Subaru Outback Wagon. It has an extremely minor transmission leak so I ... A: Noel, I am trying not to be rude here, but this is what your Owners manual is for. If you don't ...
subaru stuck in park	7/18/2008
Q: I own a 1997 Subaru Outback and it gets stuck in park. It tends to only get stuck when it's cold ... A: Hey Erica, A couple of possibilities, usually what happens is pop and or coffee are spilt into the ...
Jerky Power Steering	7/8/2008
Q: I have a 1998 Outback and just started feeling jerky when steering. Normally you can turn the wheels ... A: Doug, Have you checked the tightness of the belt? Also Subaru's can develop a situation called ...
92 legacy timing issue	7/6/2008
Q: I am working on a 92 legacy with the 2.2 SOHC engine. Is this an interference engine and could you ... A: Hey Brad, The 1992 2.2l is a non interference engine. The cams can easily become out of time in an ...
2003 Forester Tune up	7/3/2008
Q: Ready to replace plugs and wires. took a quick look and - where are the plugs? Is it easier to ... A: Steve, Follow the plug wires down to the valve covers. The wires go thought the valve covers and ...
piston slap	7/2/2008
Q: My 98 subaru outback is making a loud noise and the dealer said its fine and wont cause any damage ... A: Rich, Splitting the case half and putting in pistons is not a "do it your self" friendly job. And I ...
Coolent Leaking from Lower Radiator	7/1/2008
Q: I have 96 Legacy Outback 2.5. Yesterday, i noticed a leak from lower radiator. There is smaller ... A: Has anyone actually looked at the car? The hose just above the radiator hose at the engine side is ...
2004 Forrester	6/29/2008
Q: After having the right rear wheel bearings replaced at 60k, the rear wheel noise is back louder ... A: Hey Steve, The Forester has had some right rear wheel bearing problems. There is a revised wheel ...
99 Subaru Legacy	6/28/2008
Q: I have a 99 legacy non turbo. Bh5 series, and lately it has been making a popping noise when ... A: Hey Joanne, There are a lot of possibilities. You changed the plugs but how about the plug wires ...
DIFFERENTIAL NOISE	6/27/2008
Q: Ive been working on a 1998 subaru legacy outback awd. cust complained about noise in rear ... A: You didn't mention whether or not the car was a standard or auto transmission. Are you positive ...
96 Outback intermittently won't start when warm	6/26/2008
Q: I have a 96 Outback with 220K miles. The car will start fine in the morning, but sometimes in the ... A: Hey Glen, You mentioned that the crank sensor was replaced but there is actually a cam and crank ...
2000 subaru Outback Legacy Transmission	6/25/2008
Q: I drained the tranny and filter. Put the plug back in, filter back on and went to pour fluid into ... A: Hey Roe, Your Subaru has two fill points one for the transmission and one for the front ...
1998 Subaru Outback Wagon	6/24/2008
Q: My Subaru sometimes randomly will not start. I don't leave lights on, radio, key "on" or door ... A: Hey Sara, Smokey Subie, When it doesn't start does it make a single "click" type sound? If that is ...
97 Outback Flashing lights	6/22/2008
Q: I just replaced the radiator in my 97 Outback. Now that I have finished, and reconnected the ... A: Hey Brent, You have tripped your keyless entry/alarm even if you didn't know you had it. If you ...
$8000 of work and still not fixed	6/21/2008
Q: Sir: I have a 1996 Subaru Legacy station wagon with @90,000 miles on it. It began having problems ... A: Donna, Have you spent $8,000.00 to address this one problem or just $8,000.00 overall? As to what ...
outback crankshaft/rebuild question	6/18/2008
Q: first, amazing site thank you!! I blew up my 98 outback engine driving cross country. 175k miles ... A: Hey Franklin, Sorry it took me so long to get back to you, we are just buried at the shop. Any ...
obdll question	6/17/2008
Q: I have an check engine light on . The code it is telling me is po325 . I have a scanner and could ... A: Hey Rick P0325 is a knock sensor circuit code. It most likely needs a new knock sensor but the ...
engine light	6/15/2008
Q: Hope you can assist. I have a 2004 Forester XS. In Jan 07, the engine came on and an oxygen sensor ... A: Sounds like you have had a rough go. But here is what I need to help you, I need the code numbers ...
Speed Sensor for '97 Subaru Legacy Outback	6/13/2008
Q: Our '97 Outback Legacy's speedometer doesn't work. We also get a check engine light and a flashing ... A: Hey Don, How careful were you in installing the speed sensor that the drive key was installed in ...
Subaru speed limiter	6/7/2008
Q: A: Bryan, I cannot help you with that request. There is no way that I am aware of to do that. Also I ...
Subaru Outback Overheating	6/6/2008
Q: 2001 Outback. 113,000 miles. Noticed the coolant temp gage starting to spike several times this ... A: Ron, You most likely have blown head gaskets. Most Technicians are clueless to figuring this out ...
Warning lights and sounds	6/5/2008
Q: I have a 98 Subaru Legacy Outback wagon with 82K. I'm used to idiot warnings when I leave the ... A: The oil pan is not common, Is the car being looked at by someone familiar with Subaru? You can't ...
Ticking noise - Liberty 1993	6/4/2008
Q: I have a Subaru Liberty 1993 SEDAN and i am getting some sort of ticking sound when i drive from ... A: Try lubing the cable but you may have to replace the speedo head it self. The cable unscrews from ...
Brake vibration	5/31/2008
Q: Why can't I get my 2002 Legacy to give me a true brake stop without the vibration/ I have changed ... A: Hey Tom, What are you using for parts? Are making sure the rotor is sitting on the hub flush? ...
1993 subaru legacy 2.2	5/30/2008
Q: the turn signal on the driver side blinks faster i have tried changing the bulbs but that doesn't ... A: Hey Nicholas The misfire could be be plugs, wires, injector, valves, vacuum leak. A diagnoses is ...
06 baja	5/28/2008
Q: I just bought an 06 Baja and i love it. we had our mechanic check it out and the only thing he found ... A: As long as you have some documentation that you took it in while it was under warranty and ...
1999 suburu forester manual trans	5/26/2008
Q: Here is one for you My tran make a high pitch whine in 5 gear only when i press the gas take it out ... A: There are a lot of possibilities, the fact that it goes away when you take it out of gear doesn't ...
how to fix my sunroof	5/23/2008
Q: My sunroof was tilted up and i tried to close it and it wouldn't go down. Now it will go back but it ... A: Miranda, I would have to look at it my self to tell you if the problem is with the track or the ...
speed/odometer	5/22/2008
Q: I have a 1999 subaur legacy L AWD 2.2L. My speedometer only works when it wants to. I have also ... A: Hey Tracey, You don't have a speedo cable its all electric with a speed sensor. The 1999 Subaru ...
1999 Legacy Check Engine Light	5/12/2008
Q: Check Engine Light Help, please! 1999 Legacy 2.2L 5spd 71,000miles, driven at 5000' altitude. I've ... A: Hey Kevin, The P 1507 is a conditional code and very hard to accurately diagnose sometimes even by ...
2000 subaru outback ltd. transmission and other issues	5/9/2008
Q: I have a 2000 subaru outback ltd. AWD wagon with 92,000 miles, AT. From approx. 37 days after my ... A: Ok, First of all disconnect the green connector immediately. It's the "D" check connector, which ...
clock in instrument cluster not illuminated	5/8/2008
Q: Wondering if there is a lamp in the back of the instrument cluster that may need to be replaced or ... A: Hey Bruce, The dash cluster has to come out and apart and there is a back light or actually a few ...
wiper fluid	5/6/2008
Q: The windshield wipers on my Subaru Legacy work, but the wiper fluid does not. I checked the fuse ... A: Hey Crystal, If you can hear the pump come on but nothing comes out the lines may be clogged. If ...
Vibration/Noise/Front Wheels on Outback 2001	5/5/2008
Q: When I make a fairly wide left or right turn at about 20mph or higher I hear about two seconds of ... A: Hey Tiffany, This is hard to answer without driving the car. Did the noise happen before or after ...
94 Legacy doesn't start	5/2/2008
Q: I have a 1994 Legacy and sometimes it will not start, the lights/radio work. It starts the 1st thing ... A: Hey Matt, If you here a "click" instead of it turning over I would suspect the starter contacts are ...
stalling after starting	3/24/2008
Q: I have a '92 Subaru Legacy with the 2.2 16 valve engine. I recently jump started my brother's car ... A: Matt, There are a lot of possibilities but since you have mentioned it started after jump starting ...
recurring check engine light on	3/20/2008
Q: I have a 2000 Subaru Legacy GT Limited Sedan with automatic transmission and88,000 miles. The Check ... A: The repairs should have been made with Subaru parts as they are in some cases "updated parts". I ...
2003 Subaru Forester XS - Whistling Noise when auto is stopped	3/10/2008
Q: I have a 2003 Subaru Forester XS with 89,000 miles. Sometimes, after a long drive, I hear a ... A: Mark, This is a tough one to answer. A couple of things in that area to make noise would be a hiss ...
91 Subaru Loyale	3/9/2008
Q: My Subaru has been backfiring while accelerating up hill for over a week, and small sparks were ... A: The coil doesn't ail that often. Take the distributor cap off and note the position of the ...
99 Impreza catalytic converter	3/6/2008
Q: My check engine light came on recently and I didn't do anything immediately, but I took it into the ... A: I will try to help answer all of your questions but you may not like all that I have to say. The ...
98 Forester Raditor leak and oil leaks	3/4/2008
Q: I recently had my car (98 Subaru Forester S) at a shop for a check up after I had it stored for a ... A: Alex, The first gen 2.5l found in your Forester (dohc) is prone for head gasket issues. I wouldn't ...
97 outback awd wagon	3/3/2008
Q: My daughter has a 97 outback awd wagon and the check engine light just started flashing for the past ... A: Hey Craig, A flashing check engine light, indicates a cylinder misfire and you should probably have ...
Oil level increase in 2002 Subaru Outback	3/2/2008
Q: The sump oil level in my 2002 Outback has risen rather quickly after the last oil change done around ... A: Hey Trevor, So I am in the States, and I am so used to Quarts and inches when referring to ...
idling problem in subaru wrx	2/29/2008
Q: hey i have subaru wrx sti version 4 and i am having alot of troubles with the idling in goes right ... A: Hey Sam It could be one of many things. Installing any part without a diagnoses performed by ...
93 Legacy Wagon	2/28/2008
Q: I've got a 93 Subaru Legacy Wagon with 160K miles on it, and it ran great until a recent problem ... A: There are quite a few possibilities but the most common with that set of symptoms would be the mass ...
Oil level increase in 2002 Subaru Outback	2/27/2008
Q: The sump oil level in my 2002 Outback has risen rather quickly after the last oil change done around ... A: The 2002 Outback is not really known for injector failures unless it is a early production vehicle ...
Subaru Outback Legacy whines when in reverse	2/22/2008
Q: My Subaru Outback Legacy whines when backing up. What should I be looking for when I take it in to ... A: As far as a whine on an Automatic Trans goes it could be from the pump or the filter could be ...
heater / check-light	2/20/2008
Q: I went to Auto Zone and had the test run on my 2003 subaru. the care has 98,000 miles. the test said ... A: Hey Jeremy, That is something that a local professional familiar with Subaru needs to diagnose for ...
97 outback impreza wagon	2/19/2008
Q: My Subaru is about 150,000 miles. All of a sudden the speedometer has stopped working. I've lost ... A: Hey Belinda, If the speedo has quit working and the check engine light is not on than most likely ...
97 subaru outbackoil and transmission leaks	2/18/2008
Q: Dealer says oil pump needs to resealed, cam shaft gaskets need to be replaced to stop oil leak, ... A: Hey Jim, Yes, it my opinion it is worth fixing. But not the way the dealer is proposing. The ...
Engine Seals	2/17/2008
Q: I have 1 '98 Outback Legacy 2.5l. At least the rear main seal started leaking this week with oil ... A: Hey Carl, The common leak at the rear of the engine is the Separator plate. Being that you are in ...
Check engine light	2/15/2008
Q: I have a 97 outback and the check engine light is on, car runs great..can I reset it myself? A: John, The check engine light on your Subaru can come on for many reasons, mostly with regards to ...
1993 Legacy (Liberty GX) AWD 4 spd Auto Trans Binding	2/14/2008
Q: Upon tight turning, near to full steering lock (either left of right), the engine significantly ... A: Hey Tim, You are describing torque binding. This is when the transfer clutches stay engaged either ...
Check Engine Light	2/12/2008
Q: I have a 2002 Subaru Legacy wagon. The check engine light keeps coming on. The first and third ... A: I will try to answer your question as best as possible but you may not like what I have to say. ...
all wheel drive isn't working	2/11/2008
Q: I have a 2001 subaru outback. I was having problems with getting traction on snow so I spent over ... A: Hey Christine, Here is how we would Diagnose the problem at the shop. We would plug the Subaru ...
1990 subaru legacy wagon auto trans	2/9/2008
Q: replaced mass air flow sensor, codes cleared, no codes present, car has intermittent running ... A: What codes were set? Why was the Mass air suspect? One thing that is very hard to diagnose on that ...
97 subaru legacy outback	2/7/2008
Q: I have a 97 subaru legacy outback it needs headgaskets. I've got it down to the sprockets and I ... A: Hey Dino, There is a special tool that locks the cam sprockets together so you can remove the ...
'99 Subaru Legacy GT 2.5	2/5/2008
Q: The check engine light has recently come on and I've noticed a severe decrease in fuel efficiency. ... A: Hey Tyler, We see a fair amount of problems with both the O2 sensor and the Knock sensor on that ...
Subaru Forester 2003	2/4/2008
Q: I have a squealing noise or whistling noise that comes from the dashboard in front of the steering ... A: Are we talking about a wind type whistle noise mostly at free way speeds? If that is the case a ...
Oil comsumption and cylinder misfire	2/3/2008
Q: I have a 2001 impreza WRX, last week the check engine lite came up with P0302 Code (Cylinder #2 ... A: If the vehicle has a cylinder misfire, than you can and will get smoke out of the tail pipe and in ...
1998 Legacy Outback headlights knock sensor	2/2/2008
Q: I just recently bought a 1998 Legacy Outback with 140k miles from a used car dealership. I know from ... A: Hey Jon, The knock sensor and the head lights going dim are two separate issues. The knock sensor ...
diagnosing oil leak	2/1/2008
Q: Repair shop previously replaced cam and crank seals 40k ago. Returned with new leak. 1st told it ... A: Hey Frank, First of all is the car fixed? If someone isn't all that familiar with the car they ...
power steering hoses	1/30/2008
Q: I have a slight groaning when I turn the wheel to the left in my 2000 Subaru Outback. I was told ... A: To replace the hoses the power steering fluid must be drained out. And new fluid put in. As for the ...
lighted heat/ ac buttons	1/29/2008
Q: my wife's 1997 subaru outback sedan has lost the dashboard backlights for the icons on the heater ... A: The lights in the heater controls are called the mode selector bulbs and they go out quite ...
Subaru Legacy GT check engine light	1/28/2008
Q: I've got a 1997 Legacy GT with 131k miles on it. Recently, the check engine light came on and here ... A: If I understand right, you had a check engine light come on with a P0340(camshaft position sensor ...
Subaru legacy RS year 1996 servicing parts	1/27/2008
Q: e. spark plugs fuel filter air filter etc. thnks for the help A: Yes, you can purchase some of the parts here. If you can obtain the part numbers it makes things ...
differential problems or hub problems?	1/24/2008
Q: I own a 2000 subaru impreza 2.5RS and the left rear hub has gone out 3 times now and i think that ... A: Joe, Are you referring to the wheel hub? The portion that presses into the wheel bearing is the ...
Oil Leak	1/23/2008
Q: I have an oil leak in my 1999 Impreza Outback Sport 2.2L. It seems to be in the back of the block ... A: Hey Tanner, There are three strong possibilities for the origin of the oil leak at the back of the ...
97 legacy outback crankshaft pulley	1/22/2008
Q: I'm working on replacing a timing belt and water pump on a 97 Legacy Outback wagon 2.5L. I've made ... A: Hey Will, Yes you did damage the crankshaft pulley, the outer ring should never spin free of the ...
Gas pedal vibrating	1/21/2008
Q: I got a tire rotation and an alignment done... immediately afterward my gas pedal starting ... A: I would start with making sure the wheels are on tight. The only place you feel a vibration is in ...
rear wiper	1/20/2008
Q: I have a 97 impreza outback. The rear washer fluid works but not the wiper. Any suggestions? Thanks ... A: If you are up for it I would suggest checking the fuse first and then for power at the wiper motor, ...
97 legacy outback crankshaft pulley bolt	1/18/2008
Q: I recently had my son's 97 Subaru legacy outback in for service and was advised that the cam or ... A: Carl, I am sorry that you have had this happen to you. As far as your questions I will do the best ...
1997 subaru forester	1/16/2008
Q: where can i find the temperature sensor for inside a 1997 subaru forester A: Hey Anthony, Sorry it has taken so long to get back to you but I am fighting the flu bug this week ...
Shift Lock Solenoid	1/14/2008
Q: I have a 95 subaru impreza wagon. The shift lock release button locks up in the cold weather, so I ... A: What happens and is often mis diagnosed is that the shift lock solenoid armature becomes sticky from ...
HELP!!!	1/12/2008
Q: 2000 Subaru Legacy AWD 102K miles When I start from a complete stop sometimes (about once a month) ... A: I would suggests starting with a transmission drain and fill and replacing the external filter on ...
HELP!!!	1/11/2008
Q: 2000 Subaru Legacy AWD 102K miles When I start from a complete stop sometimes (about once a month) ... A: The PO-325 knock sensor most likely indicates a failed knock sensor. The approximate cost to replace ...
2000 2.5 ltr. liberty, check engine light	1/9/2008
Q: my check engine light comes on during driving,sometimes a few times a week then i don't see it for a ... A: Sorry it has taken so long to respond, I had answered the question and thought that that i had hit ...
1996 Subaru Impreza Outback shift problem	1/8/2008
Q: I recently bought a 1996 Subaru Impreza Outback for my daughter. After a few weeks it wouldn't come ... A: Here is what is typical , pop or coffee is spilled into the auto Trans sifter. This causes the ...
1992 L series subaru	1/6/2008
Q: On an EA82 motor that has been taken apart. How do you remove the hydraulic tappets that appear ... A: Very carefully, there are a lot of things we have had to do through the years. Ultimately we ...
forrester engines	1/4/2008
Q: For how many miles should a 2002 forrester engine last? A: There are a lot of variables such as how well it is maintained, but the second generation 2.5l found ...
1998 subaru outback legacy overheating	1/3/2008
Q: I have had the heads redone and correct gsakets installed, the block checked for cracks, ... A: Its hard to know what is wrong. The vehicle is reverse flow meaning the t-stat is at the bottom of ...
Forester revving at stop, and "notchy" transmission	1/2/2008
Q: I have a '99 Forester with 180k miles on it. It's been working perfectly, then suddenly the other ... A: Hard to say, without some more information. Is the check engine light on? There are a few ...
no fuel after starting	1/1/2008
Q: I just finished a double head gasket replacement on a 97 Legacy GT 2.5 L double overhead cam. It ... A: There is no factory fuel cut off, as part of the O.E. alarm/keyless entry system. Some after market ...
1999 legacy wagon hesitation	6/7/2007
Q: My wagon has a hesitation problem. The hesitation was intermittent last summer and to my surprise, ... A: A typical issue for that year is a failing mass air flow sensor. Subaru even had a campaign to ...
Transmission	6/5/2007
Q: I have a Subaru Outback 1997 automatic and I can feel the transmission is jerking from the 1st to ... A: I cant really tell you if its normal without experiencing it myself.Some times the Trans on your ...
Overheat 2002 TS	6/5/2007
Q: Great website! I drive a 5-spd 2002 Impreza TS wagon w/ 2.5l engine that has 135K miles. Reading ... A: In reading your symptoms I have to tell you your Suby is looking for some love.As far as the ...
drain hole/s plugged	6/4/2007
Q: My son has a Subaru Outback Wagon Limited Edition 2005. He had a situation shortly after he bought ... A: Are we talking about the rear drain hoses for the sunroof? Depending on where and which drain holes ...
2000 2.5 rs impreza hot start	6/3/2007
Q: I have recently purchased a 2000 impreza 2.5 rs that has 43,000 miles. It drives and starts ... A: The check engine light ,fuel smell and loose gas cap can all be related.If the cap is faulty,or ...
Subaru shake in 2nd gear	6/2/2007
Q: My 1998 Subaru Legacy L with 106,000 miles has started a very subtle vibration just after the auto ... A: Couple of possibilities.First, as we know at our shop all to well.The current options for axles for ...
front end differential	6/2/2007
Q: I have a 99 Subaru Forester with 95,000 miles on it. Last week, I had both front axles replaced. ... A: Sometimes the front axle wont push out of the front wheel bearing without difficulty.And is very ...
91 Legacy. AutoTranny Power Loss and Howling sound.	6/2/2007
Q: This car just this week started having powerloss problem. When driving / accelerating the car seems ... A: Jay, Start with checking the level of the transmission fluid.If its low check the front ...
fan speed changes	6/1/2007
Q: I have a 1997 Subaru Legacy w/2.2 engine. When I have the AC on and the fan on maximum, and ... A: Have the alternator checked somewhere else.By someone who knows Subaru.At our shop we see a lot of ...
timebelt chnge.	6/1/2007
Q: My question is more general. I've always had my water pump changed along with my timing belt ... A: The added stress of a new, tighter timing belt on the water pump bearing can leave a very bad taste ...
overhaul of awd differential	6/1/2007
Q: Today I took my 2004 Subaru 5 speed Legacy to the dealer because I hear a whirring noise as I reach ... A: Most likely you have a bearing making noise.And it could be in the differential.No it doesn't sound ...
Outback Engine Check Light	5/27/2007
Q: I have a 1999 2.5 Outback with 105K miles. I have just returned from a long trip. After 200 miles ... A: Stuart, There are just way to many possibilities to list.Yes aftermarket parts can cause problems ...
1996 Subaru Outback 2.5 - A year and a half.search for a resolution has yeiled nothing!!!! The problem is still here!!!!	5/26/2007
Q: Ok, and thanks to everyone who will read this and respond. This problem has puzzled many a people ... A: Dan, Sounds like your frustrated ,but the car is very fixable.Heat increases resistance the more ...
blue smoke	5/26/2007
Q: i have a 2006 jap imported subaru impreza spec c the car has been remapped for the right fuel. last ... A: There are a lot of possibilities and even though its been remapped it doesn't mean its right.A gas ...
Subaru Check Engine Lights On and Off	5/26/2007
Q: I have a 2001 Subaru Outback. I have a delayed transmission engagement problem which is improved ... A: Most likely you need a new knock sensor.Pretty common problem.Not sure if its something you want to ...
oxygen sensor	5/26/2007
Q: I have a 99 subaru forester and the check engine light it on, and will not go off. Just head the ... A: Andy, The front o2 sensor is installed at the front of the first catalytic convertor .You have to ...
ENGINE MANAGEMENT LIGHT	5/24/2007
Q: MY CAR HAS BEEN TO A SUBARU GARAGE SEVERAL TIMES NOW AND THE PROBLEM STILL HASNT BEEN SOLVED. THEY ... A: Chris, There is no information i can give you about a check engine light with out knowing the fault ...
Reverse	5/24/2007
Q: I have a 1995 Subaru Impreza and it will not go into reverse at all, but then after I left the ... A: Will it go into drive? or is it just not moving at all?If it wont move at all chances are pop or ...
Driving up grade, engine heats oil that smokes	5/23/2007
Q: So my Subaru is a 1998 Wagon 2.5L; super I know. It has had some real issues, I'd say the mechanics ... A: The oil pump on a Subaru 2.5l will need to resealed at some time ,its not a matter of if its when.It ...
1991 Loyale- Starting Problem	5/23/2007
Q: Original starting problem was trouble shot to a solenoid, integral to the starter. The solenoid ... A: If you remove the lower dash panel you will see the ignition switch harness and pigtail the wire in ...
2002 Forester Head gasket	5/23/2007
Q: I brought my car in because there was smoke coming out of the back along with hesitation and the ... A: The head gaskets do fail .But as far as the rest of your concerns Its really hard to say, we do lots ...
1997/8 Subaru Forester check engine light/speedometer wont work HELP!!!!	5/22/2007
Q: Today i was driving home from school and i noticed that my speedometer wasn't working. The other ... A: The speed sensor # 1 has most likely failed.It is located top of the transmission /differential on ...
1998 2.5 Subaru Outback won't start	5/22/2007
Q: Experienced sudden engine overheating and head gasket failure on my recently purchased Outback. ... A: The data link connector has a tendency to pop out of the lower dash panel.If you remove the panel ...
Subaru power steering	5/22/2007
Q: We picked up the car Friday night after the shop closed and the power steering didn't work very ... A: The shop is wrong, I have seen this so many times if i had a nickel for every time I saw it i would ...
1991 Loyale- Starting Problem	5/22/2007
Q: Original starting problem was trouble shot to a solenoid, integral to the starter. The solenoid ... A: Ok,Most likely we have a blown fuse or fuse link somewhere ,there are two places to check one is in ...
Tacho on a Subaru RS 1990	5/21/2007
Q: Just wondering if you can provide me with details on installing a external 5" monster tacho ... A: I'm thinking you are talking about an RX for 1990?.Anyways if it is the 1.8l hook the green wire up ...
1991 Legacy power loss under load	5/21/2007
Q: i have a 1991 liberty stationwagon auto 2.2l here in australia (legacy in the US i think )which has ... A: You my friend have sticky valves.Very hard for the average mechanic to correctly diagnose as ...
car won't start	5/21/2007
Q: Recently, I had my transmission reconditioned in my 1996 Subaru Outback. It was running great for ... A: I would try doing a voltage drop test at both the positive and negative cables.ButI am wondering ...
Timing belt	5/21/2007
Q: I have two Legacy Outbacks, a 2001 and a 2003. One has 50K and the other 57K. My manuals say at the ... A: The service interval is 105k for both vehicles.But the age should also be considered, our rule of ...
2000 subaru AC	5/20/2007
Q: When the ac is turned on , there is a 30 sec delay in activation. While on, the performance is good ... A: Ok, The ambient temperature is an important tool to use when trying to diagnose your AC .If the high ...
Code 141	5/20/2007
Q: I have a code 141 - O2 sensor failure....I was wondering if this would make the car run badly....the ... A: P0141 Applies to the rear o2 sensor heater circuit.And really shouldn't have much effect on the ...
Auto trans, H6, 2003 Outback	5/20/2007
Q: When accelerating fairly hard from 10 to 40 kM/H, the auto trans kicks down 1 or 2 gears, this takes ... A: Are you saying you want it to kick down less or more?There isn't a real reflash available .But you ...
2006 Baha	5/20/2007
Q: From the moment I drove my brand new Baha off the lot, it has had this problem. When I accelerate in ... A: We have had a couple of Outbacks that had one or more intake valves that were adjusted to tight from ...
parking lights wont go off	5/19/2007
Q: i have a 1998 subaru legacy. the parking lights wont go off and ive tried everything...it seems. i ... A: The lights are blinking because some how the keyless entry/alarm has been tripped ,even if you ...
96 subaru legacy power loss	5/19/2007
Q: I REALLY appreciate your taking the time to help me. This problem has stumped both myself and ... A: I have the answer, but you wont like it.1995 to 1998 Subaru 2.2l has a problem with the valve guides ...
98 subaru with smoke	5/19/2007
Q: I have recently purchased a 98 subaru forrester with 68K miles. it came with the check engine light ... A: Smoke out of the Tail pipe will be bluish in color when related to oil.Black when related to ...
97 Subaru WRX	5/19/2007
Q: When you say Main Engine Harness, can you please describe for me the location of where this would ... A: Passenger side,upper most bellhousing bolt there should be a bracket just above it with two or ...
97 Subaru WRX	5/19/2007
Q: I changed the gear box in my 97 WRX. All went back together ok, started and drove ok. However, the ... A: There are a few possibilities and im trying to think what may have been disturbed while removing the ...
98 subaru with smoke	5/18/2007
Q: I have recently purchased a 98 subaru forrester with 68K miles. it came with the check engine light ... A: The smoke from the front of the engine is most likely an oil leak ,leaking onto the exhaust.The ...
overheating	5/18/2007
Q: We have a 1999 legacy outback 2.5L engine that intermitten overheatng problem. The water pump went ... A: The easiest thing to look for is evidence of an exhaust smell in the coolant overflow bottle.If the ...
1998 subaru legacy sw 2.2 L-Check engine light	5/17/2007
Q: Help. Check engine light has been on again/off again for about a month, but now is always on. ... A: WOW, 1.Ok,Lets start with p1507 first If you have a manual transmission most likely the neutral ...
oxygen sensors, subaru outback	5/17/2007
Q: engine light, which has recently come on was diagnosed by mechanic as needing front oxygen sensor ... A: Hey Felix, You can clear the memory a few different ways , 1. With a generic OBD II scan tool/code ...
2002 Subaru WRX turbo being sluggish	5/17/2007
Q: I own the 2002 Subaru WRX Wagon with the turbo. Lately I moved to Missouri from Utah. We put the ... A: I wouldn't look to fuel cleaner it may compound the problem if the problem isn't a dirty fuel ...
2002 Subaru WRX turbo being sluggish	5/17/2007
Q: I own the 2002 Subaru WRX Wagon with the turbo. Lately I moved to Missouri from Utah. We put the ... A: Hey Nathan, There are a lot of possibilities.As the turbo works mostly in conjunction with exhaust ...
Oxygen sensor	5/16/2007
Q: We have a 1999 Subaru Legacy & keep having trouble with the Oxygen sensor. Last month the check ... A: There are two types of codes conditional and componet.A conditional code would be P0139 O2 sensor ...
Justy Won't Start	5/16/2007
Q: I have a 94 Justy FWD. Every now and then it won't start, sounds like it just turns over without ... A: Sounds to me like there is either a power or ground distribution problem to the ECM (Engine Control ...
Misfire, loss of power & engine judder	5/16/2007
Q: I was wondering if you could help. I have GC8 Impreza turbo -1999. It suffers badly from a sluggish ... A: Have you checked fuel pressure, and exhaust back pressure? That is where i would start.Next i would ...
overheating 99 forrester	5/16/2007
Q: I recently purchased a 1999 subaru forrester. The car is great except for in the last couple of ... A: Hey Mike, Check the coolant overflow bottle for signs of an oily residue inside the bottle,next ...
subaru loyale 4x4	5/16/2007
Q: i have a 93 subaru loyale 5speed manual 4x4 my problem is the 4x4 engaged without me poping it in. ... A: Hey Pete, One of the control solenoids for the vacuum actuators is stuck.They are on the the drivers ...
1999 subarua legacy outback	4/27/2007
Q: There are 2 problems that may or may no be related. First off, when I go from park to drive there ... A: Ok for the transmission delay its possible the filter is resticted.Usually when you have a delay ...
1996 Subaru Outback...very sluggish	4/27/2007
Q: I have a 1996 Subaru Outback, manual transmission, 132,000 miles. I just had the waterpump & ... A: As far as the sluggish performance, Since it was right after the timing belt I would suspect one of ...
see 4-17-07 post CEL running poorly with rain	4/27/2007
Q: I have a 99 Forester automatic that is behaving EXACTLY like Aleks described in his post on 4/17/07. ... A: When the CEL flashes that indicates a misfire .When it comes on and stays on it could mean many ...
Engine stays on hig revs on acceleration	4/26/2007
Q: I have a manual Outback yr2000 model with about 200K km. Problem is, and appears to becoming worse, ... A: Really needs to diagnosed.But may be as simple as dirty/sticky throttle plates for the sluggish idle ...
'06 Legacy wagon--? need a/c compressor	4/26/2007
Q: '96 has only 79k miles. recently smell of burning rubber and black smoke coming out under hood by ... A: You can remove the ac belt or disconnect the ac compressor electronically to disable it from coming ...
oxygen sensor	4/25/2007
Q: Engine check light keeps coming on after I clear it, code indicates rear oxygen sensor. I want to ... A: Ok first off there are a few different codes that will set in correlation to the rear o2 sensor some ...
AT Temperature Light Blinks 5 times	4/25/2007
Q: My wife has a 1996 Subaru Legacy Wagon. I just noticed that when you start the Legacy, the AT ... A: and yes the Transmission control module(TCM) will command the ATF temperature light to blink when it ...
Headlight	4/25/2007
Q: I have a 1999 subaru impreza L awd. My headlights sometimes turns on when i shut off engine even ... A: Yes, you do need to de-activate the air bag system prior to working in the steering column area.This ...
96 outback overheating	4/24/2007
Q: put in the new thermostat, ran the hose water in the top, and it ran out very quickly. I assume the ... A: Sounds like the thermostat you put in isn't opening.This could be a faulty poor quality part or a ...
Headlight	4/24/2007
Q: I have a 1999 subaru impreza L awd. My headlights sometimes turns on when i shut off engine even ... A: I don't think this is going to be as simple as guiding you through replacing the switch.Im ...
2000 imprezza outback sport	4/24/2007
Q: my gas gage acts funny after it get to a half of a tank in hot weather its fine in the cold weather ... A: Most likely one of the sending units.Really the best way to test it is to remove it, and do a sweep ...
96 outback overheating	4/23/2007
Q: put in the new thermostat, ran the hose water in the top, and it ran out very quickly. I assume the ... A: Really you need to check the vehicle for exhaust gas in the cooling system.Smell the over flow ...
Rear Tail Lamp Not Working/Cig Lighter Not Working	4/23/2007
Q: I have a 2000 Legacy Outback Sedan and both of the rear tail lights don't turn on when the vehicle ... A: Are you saying the reverse lights don't work? If that is the case you would also need to check the ...
1997 Legacy Outback Airbag light	4/23/2007
Q: I recently disconnected the airbag on the steering column. I reset the airbag rollover sensor ... A: Its possible that the slide connector within the connector was damaged, (this was the yellow ...
1997 Subaru Legacy L AWD Flashers and Blinkers	4/23/2007
Q: 1997 Subaru Legacy L AWD Flashers and Blinkers are not working. Head Lights, tail lights and reverse ... A: Could be a fuse,flasher,bulbs Etc.Also the circuit is wired through the hazard switch on the dash ...
Forester leaking oil	4/22/2007
Q: My Subaru Forester is leaking oil. My mechanic said the cam seals have to be replaced along with the ... A: Did a Subaru technician work on it the first time? This next statement may make you cranky but I am ...
egr light	4/22/2007
Q: I have an 85 Brat with an egr warning light on. Where do I start the fix? Thanx and have a nice ... A: The egr light on that vintage is alerting you to inspect & service the egr system.After you have ...
96'Subaru Outback	4/21/2007
Q: I just bought a 96'Subaru Outback a month ago with no warranty that has 137000 miles on it. The one ... A: There are lots of possibilities,you can start with checking the fuse for the cooling fan,next if the ...
1998 forester overheating	4/21/2007
Q: I have a used 1998 forester with 104K miles. It was working perfect then one day I noticed the AC ... A: The engine should be pulled to do the repair as it will be a Better repair.When headgaskets blow on ...
Forester leaking oil	4/20/2007
Q: My Subaru Forester is leaking oil. My mechanic said the cam seals have to be replaced along with the ... A: Hard to say, as labor rates are different all across the country. Next there are two different ...
1998 Impreza Clock Spring	4/20/2007
Q: My airbag light has come on and my horn has stopped working. The local mechanic (there's no proper ... A: You can do a search for an air bag speialist.They are typically mobile and should be able to come to ...
1998 Forrester engine: replace or not?	4/20/2007
Q: I have a 1998 Subaru Forrester (125k miles) purchased used from Carmax in 2003. The car ran great ... A: WHOAAAAAA.Nothing against you're regular mechanic but the engine design is great, the original ...
WRX Differential problems	4/20/2007
Q: I have a 2002 WRX with 100,000 miles. I replaced a rear flat with the temp. spare and proceeeded ... A: You would have to prove that you didn't exceed speed,distance, and that the spare tire was inflated ...
auto 2004 forrester	4/20/2007
Q: The "hold/power" button on my 2004 forrester appears to do nothing other than switch on an ... A: I really think that the big difference you are talking about is more related to the two different ...
Forrester wheel bearings	4/19/2007
Q: I have a 2000 Forrester. Only 67K miles. Here is the schedule of wheel bearing replacements that it ... A: Yes the forester does seem to go through wheel bearings.At our shop we have found that ,cleaning the ...
auto 2004 forrester "power" button	4/18/2007
Q: The "hold/power" button on my 2004 forrester appears to do nothing other than switch on an ... A: When you push the power button you are commanding the Transmission control module(TCM) to hold the ...
93 subaru impreza overheating	4/17/2007
Q: My car is constantly overheating. I have to put water in the radiator every time I stop my car. What ... A: Its possible the fuse are blown but the fans don't come on until the computer turns them on .Which ...
93 subaru impreza overheating	4/17/2007
Q: My car is constantly overheating. I have to put water in the radiator every time I stop my car. What ... A: Well it could be lots of things but if you continue to let it overheat you may damage the ...
1998 forester overheating	4/17/2007
Q: I have a used 1998 forester with 104K miles. It was working perfect then one day I noticed the AC ... A: The problem with the pressure test is it pressurizes the cooling system to the highend of the ...
After rain: check engine flashes, uneven acceleration	4/17/2007
Q: Vehicle: 05 forester XS, 5 speed, 34K miles If it rains overnight, on some mornings I get a ... A: The dealer cant find any codes or they don't know what is wrong?If the light is FLASHING the ECM ...
95 Subaru legacy L wagon, 195000 miles	4/17/2007
Q: In just under 14 months we had to have 2 right rear wheel bearings replaced, with the oil seals too. ... A: Well the power steering rack and the bearings are separate issues.But having to have the same ...
check engine light	4/16/2007
Q: I have an '05 Forester with 27k miles on it. When I put the car in drive this morning the CEL light ... A: Sorry,but nothing immediately comes to mind.Good news is that at you're mileage you are should still ...
Reconditioning engine??	4/16/2007
Q: Just back from the garage with my 1998 2.2 Legacy after an investigation for an oil leak. It also ... A: The 2.2l in your Subaru can and will go 300,000 miles with proper care and maintenence.Im not sure ...
5mt not selecting gears easily	4/16/2007
Q: I have a 2002 WRX manual sedan 5mt. I have done 75 000 miles. Clutch was changed at 30 000miles. ... A: It might just be that the fluid in the clutch master cylinder reservoir has moisture in it and is ...
Turbo and trans reliability	4/16/2007
Q: I have been considering a 2005+ Subaru Outback or Legacy Wagon. I’ve been seeing good prices on ... A: The 05 auto transmission seems to be holding up pretty well .But that being said you have to realize ...
combination switch	4/15/2007
Q: Our 01 outback has a very rapid ( faster than turn signal interval ) clicking noise under the dash. ... A: In 2000 when i was at the dealer we had a 2000 Outback that had that symptom except it was ...
1996 subaru outback 2.5L Bad head gaskets?	4/15/2007
Q: I have a 1996 Subaru legacy outback automatic with the 2.5L engine. I drove it about a year nursing ... A: Better off just fixing what you have.There is a lot involved in swapping over all of the stuff from ...
99 subaru impreza	4/14/2007
Q: my check engine light came on last month. It was due for an oil chage about the same time, so I had ... A: on An OBDII vehicle which is anything after 1996 .A check engine light indicates that the engine ...
My Subaru coolant system	4/14/2007
Q: My dashboard gives me readings of engine overheat after every 5 minutes drive. Now I checked for ... A: Head gaskets .Can be difficult to Diagnose.Start with simple stuff after it over heats smell the ...
warrantee	4/14/2007
Q: We have an 05 Subaru Legacy Gt with 50,000 miles on it. Just recently it started to make a whining ... A: Wow thats a new one to me .Did the Stealer offer up what code had been set ?Im not sure how they ...
1998 Outback	4/13/2007
Q: I have a 98 Outback with the factory keyless entry alarm. Battery died. Every time i connect ... A: Very very common .Here is a procedure for resetting the alarm if the remote doesn't work and you ...
2002 Forester - Clutch	4/12/2007
Q: I recently bought a 2002 Forestor with about 92,000 Km. During test driving no problem but within a ... A: I cant really comment on specific experiences with the dealer.What i can tell you is most dealers do ...
what's wrong?	4/12/2007
Q: and 1.8L four cylinder motor in it. Recently my camshaft bent or broke not sure which not sure how, ... A: When installing a used motor you need to swap out the longblock only.The intake manifold and wiring ...
subaru trany	4/12/2007
Q: I have a 99 subaru forester. The engine was replaced at 86,000 but that is another story. Any ... A: Its possible that the filter is restricted.Your symptom usually indicates that pump pressure is ...
Check Engine light on 94 legacy	4/11/2007
Q: I have a 1994 Legacy L. The check engine light started turning on periodically. It tends to come on ... A: It would have to be diagnosed.The light comes on whenever the ECM sees a problem with A sensor or ...
'92 Legacy Wagon stalling/power loss	4/11/2007
Q: I'm also having stalling/lack of power problems, just recently. When needing to accelerate up a ... A: What we see a lot of for that year and mileage is sticky valves.Where the valve stem actually hangs ...
AWD System	4/11/2007
Q: I just bought a 02 WRX and when I am driving at highway speeds in any not so perfect conditions. it ... A: I would start with checking tire pressure and condition,next have an alignment check ...
Engine Stalling	4/9/2007
Q: I have a 2000 AT impreza 2.5RS. Just recently I had it bring up a CEL. I didn't have a chance to get ... A: Most likely Mass Air Flow sensor.But having said that it needs to be diagnosed.Dont assume that ...
'90 Sub legacy tranny/speedometer problem	4/9/2007
Q: Just had a used tranny installed in 1990 Legacy wagon and now the speedometer and, of course, cruise ... A: Most likely its just the speedo drive adapter.Very very common, did i mention very common.Anyways it ...
'97 Subaru Legacy L light issues	4/9/2007
Q: My 97 Subaru's panel lights went out last week. I was also informed (on my way home after school the ... A: Are you talking about the lights in the mode selector or the dash lights including the speedo and ...
'03 Outback H6: Howling noises	4/8/2007
Q: Recently we purchased a used '03 Outback H6, 90,000k. Highway driving above 90km/h with side winds ... A: There isn't anything typical for that car aside from the gussets.We would use Ultrasonic ears while ...
98 outback 95000miles	4/7/2007
Q: I have been diagnosed with leaky head gaskets after intermittent mysterious overheating problems - I ... A: The 1st generation 2.5l had some head gasket issues for sure.But it doesn't make the whole design ...
Neutral Safety Switch	4/7/2007
Q: I read your reply to someone with the subject: "Outback randomly won't start-no power", from 27. ... A: Not knowing the contents of your toolbox and your personal capabilities its hard to say if you can ...
WRX differential problems	4/5/2007
Q: I have a 2002 WRX with 100,000 miles. I replaced rear blowout tire with replacement tire. Forty ... A: That is awful.The only thing i can remotely suggest is that any time you use the emergency spare on ...
'98 Sub. Leg. Outback oil leaks and clunks	4/5/2007
Q: I purchased a used 98 outback 2 years ago and have put roughly $2,600 into a car the dealer claimed ... A: It is a common issue for that year Subaru.But that being said the way in which the process has gone ...
1999 Subaru Outback front wheel seal	4/5/2007
Q: Help!! My 99 Subaru Outback has leaky front axle seals. Where can I find the tool to remove the ... A: WHOAAA.If your talking about the front differential side seals and o-rings be very careful doing ...
measuring gasoline added at fillup, for MPG check	4/5/2007
Q: I am hoping to test a mileage improving catalyst. I think I have heard most of the stuff ( variables ... A: What i am suggesting and how we have done some tests here .Is the following 1.Fill the car up with ...
Draining Gas out	4/5/2007
Q: I have a 95 Subaru Legacy that I plan to store for my oldest daughter 1st car. It will be in ... A: Some Subarus of that vintage have a drain plug it is hard to see as it will usually be covered in ...
Reoccuring P0400	4/4/2007
Q: I have 1996 Legacy outback that has a p0400 EGR flow malfunction code that just keeps coming back. ... A: P0400 is a conditional code note a componet code, meaning that the conditions have been met to set ...
Subaru Outback sport rear washer-spritzer	4/3/2007
Q: Water just dribbles out --is this part easy to install---how do I find one?--Thanks A: There may just be some blockage somewhere in the line or the fogger.I would start by trying to clean ...
'98 Subaru Outback	4/3/2007
Q: I recently purchased a used '98 Subaru Outback with 170K miles. The head gaskets were replaced ... A: I cant really comment on the noise without hearing it to know if it is normal to the car.Sometimes ...
Buying a 98 Forester	4/2/2007
Q: There is a 1998 forester for sale that I am considering buying. The car has 150,000 miles and the ... A: In a normal situation with routine maintenance a Subaru can and will go 300k .I currently have 292k ...
Vibration at idle under load	4/2/2007
Q: My 2002 outback subaru has a vibration at idle when in gear. At nuetral and park it is not ... A: Wow, sounds to me like you really have had a tough go here.Anyways lets go to the beginning.The ...
misfires and oil consumption	4/2/2007
Q: I have read a good many of your responses to questions, and thank you for answering questions for ... A: The misfires may go completely unnoticed to you as they generally will happen at higher rpms and can ...
'98 Sub. Leg. Outback oil leaks and clunks	4/1/2007
Q: I purchased a used 98 outback 2 years ago and have put roughly $2,600 into a car the dealer claimed ... A: Ok sounds like you have had some trouble getting your repairs done properly or there is some major ...
Catalytic Converter	4/1/2007
Q: My engine light came on and indicates catalytic converter. What to do? Federal government ... A: p0420 is what is called a conditional code.Rather than a component code.Meaning that the conditions ...
Trans weirdness on 03 Outback	3/31/2007
Q: Suddenly the AT light is flashing, along with check engine light. The tram "slips" ,if you can call ... A: I would be really hesitant to take it to a Trans shop.The TCM(Trans control module)and the ECM ...
2001 Subaru Outback Idles rough, poor acceleration, stalls at stop	3/30/2007
Q: 2001 Subaru Outback Sedan was running fine until I ran the gas tank to empty and then it began to ... A: If you have a bad O2 sensor the vehicle can run poorly all the time.There is no CO2 sensor But there ...
2001 Subaru Outback Idles rough, poor acceleration, stalls at stop	3/30/2007
Q: 2001 Subaru Outback Sedan was running fine until I ran the gas tank to empty and then it began to ... A: Did you run it out of fuel?.I often see where my customers correlate it being very low on fuel to a ...
Trans leak and binding when cornering	3/30/2007
Q: I have a '97 outback with 140,000 miles. On and off when I park or otherwise crank the wheel it ... A: If it is an automatic transmission You are experiencing transfer clutch binding.If the atf temp ...
squeal under hood	3/29/2007
Q: I have a '93 Subaru Legacy that just started to put out a high pitch chirp when I accelerate. The ... A: Sounds like a possible ac compressor problem or as simple as a loose or worn ac belt.Whenever the ...
01 Forester Reliability	3/28/2007
Q: I'm hearing lots of issues with 2001 headgaskets, bearings, clutchs... I'm looking at a clean 01 ... A: All of those things can happen to a Subaru but also to any car out there.If you use the Internet as ...
Outback H-6 engine misses	3/28/2007
Q: My 2003 Outback H-6 has never run very smoothly. Sometimes much worse. Jerks under mild ... A: Have you compared it to a like vehicle?Subarus are not the smoothest feeling vehicle out there.Just ...
Subaru Repairs	3/28/2007
Q: Q: After changing cambelt, idlers, tensioners, waterpump oil seals on a 97 Subaru Forestor the ... A: I hope you used a Subaru t-belt ,some of the after market ones will align the cam sprockets up wrong ...
Used Subaru purchase	3/27/2007
Q: I am considering purchasing a used Subaru in the 1996 to 2000 range. I like the Outback but have ... A: Sorry it has taken so long to respond.Any ways here is the deal.Subaru has had headgasket issues.But ...
Outback randomly won't start-no power	3/24/2007
Q: I have a 2003 Subaru Outback Wagon. Sometimes,, when I get in the car to start it, it won't start. ... A: I cant tell you the exact problem without Diagnosing it my self.But some of the usual suspects would ...
cruise control light.	3/24/2007
Q: On the highway I had my 2004 Forrester on cruise when suddenly the cruise went off and the cruise ... A: It could be many things.from a problem with the brake light circuit including a faulty bulb and ...
knock sensor location on 96 subaru outback legacy 2.5l	3/24/2007
Q: Where is the knock sensor located in a 96 subaru outback legacy 2.5L?? I have a chilton and it says ... A: Its bolted to the block below the intake on the drivers side ,its a little black sensor with a white ...
Abnormal gear shifting/stalling	3/22/2007
Q: I have a 2002 Subaru Impreza 2.5L RS Auto trans. Two things for starters... First I have noticed ... A: Ok first of all the car has a rev limiter that shuts off the fuel injectors and ignition system if ...
change of the transmission	3/22/2007
Q: I sent my subaru'98 outback lagacy to the garage last Thursday and noticed that the transmission has ... A: There are variables and lots of them that could delay the process but it really sounds to me like ...
Clutch sticking	3/22/2007
Q: I have a 1998 Subaru Outback Wagon with 91,000 miles on it. I replaced the clutch in December 2006 ... A: There is a clutch hydrolic update from Subaru.This includes a new slave cylinder,line and sealing ...
Engine Check Light	3/22/2007
Q: So I checked the codes and got P301, P303, and P420. I checked the plugs and they looked fine. Even ... A: Ok ,P0301,P0303 cylinders 1 and 3 misfires as well as p0420.The ignition system should be ...
2000 Outback leaking oil	3/22/2007
Q: Last fall I had to have the head gaskets replaced due to antifreeze leaking into engine- not covered ... A: The most common thing to leak is the oil pump but the car should be inspected by someone who knows ...
Check engine light	3/21/2007
Q: I have a 2002 Subaru Forester. The check engine light came on and I had it diagnosed. (I checked ... A: Thats the first problem.Most shops have a generic scan tool.The sample rate on a Subaru specific ...
weatherstripping	3/15/2007
Q: My '03 forester has some pretty loud weatherstipping 'leaks' at the front windows, mostly the ... A: There is an updated door gusset for Outbacks and legacy i think there is one for Impreza and ...
2.5 L Engine	3/14/2007
Q: It's not that it runs rough. At idle is sound normal and well as at a constant driving speed, but ... A: I wasn't trying to suggest it was running rough i was trying to explain to you that in an automatic ...
2.5 L Engine	3/13/2007
Q: I'm in the process of purchasing a 1998 Outback (5 spd manual) with the 2.5L engine. When I first ... A: Did it get better as the car got warm?You mentioned it was when you 1st drove the car.A 5spd gives ...
Outback Engine Problems	3/9/2007
Q: The Apr 07 Consumer Reports on Car Reliability (page 92)shows uncharacteristically higher than ... A: L/S Head gasket failure leaking coolant externally .Subaru came up with a coolant conditioner that ...
ignition module	2/28/2007
Q: how can i check to see if the ignition module in my 1990 subaru legacy L is good or bad? only two ... A: You would have to have a digital oscilloscope or a meter that will read frequency to really properly ...
Whistle from exhaust and hard shift	2/27/2007
Q: I do not know the history of the vehicle because I just purchased it 1 month ago, so it is possible ... A: Thats kind of hard for me to answer as i don't know your skill level or if you have the proper ...
Whistle from exhaust and hard shift	2/27/2007
Q: I have a 2003 Subaru Forester XS Automatic with 87,000 Miles on it. When the engine is under load, ... A: The exhaust whistle .A lot of these do that, some are caused by a restricted drain hole in the ...
oil leaks	2/26/2007
Q: I have a 1988 subaru gl wgn with a 1.8 eng.Is it best to pull eng and trans,or just eng to replace ... A: If you are replacing the oil pump,cam and front crank seals there is no need to pull the motor.If ...
Cost for Short Block 99 Forester	2/25/2007
Q: I've looking for a cost estimate for replacing the shortblock in my 99 Forester. Dealership told me ... A: Its really hard to give you a number without seeing the car or some one elses quote .You should ...
1990 subaru legacy wont start	2/23/2007
Q: my subaru legacy will turn over but it wont actually start. I replaced the ignition coil pack and ... A: If It died while driving i would suspect a broken timing belt.Or a bad cam sensor best thing to do ...
94subaru loyale engine racing	2/21/2007
Q: i recently acquired a 94 loyale wagon, it had been sitting for awhile but started and ran fine for 2 ... A: Start With checking the T.P.S. voltage .A good possibility is that the TPS(Throttle position sensor) ...
94 Subaru Legacy engine temp	2/16/2007
Q: Recently replaced head gasket, water pump, thermostat, radiator and temp sensor, and had heads ... A: Not Knowing how long ago the work was done i would say if it was just done you have an air pocket in ...
99 Forester - Head Gasket Repair - now engine replacement?	2/16/2007
Q: Hoping to get some feedback. A month ago I had issues with the temperature doohicker sticking ... A: I am truly sorry your having the experience that you are both with your Subaru and the repair ...
check engine light	2/13/2007
Q: If I was to start this process what/where would you suggest I begin? It sounds like I should begin ... A: Please don't just replace parts.The vehicle really needs to be diagnosed first.You may waste alot of ...
knock sensor replacement	2/12/2007
Q: I own 99 subaru legacy sus and the engine light comes on and off. The knock sensor needs replaced. ... A: On a first generation 2.5l it can be a bit of a challenge to replace the Knock sensor.It will ...
clutch slipping	2/12/2007
Q: Our '01 Forester's clutch is beginning to slip recently ... 54,000 mi.s. Is there any adjustment ... A: Sounds like time for a new clutch.It is a hydraulic operated clutch with now adjustment.Be aware ...
check engine light	2/10/2007
Q: Experts, I have recently purchased a 97 impreza sport 2.2 and got a very good deal. I guess the ... A: I wouldn't through parts at it if a vss or vehicle speed sensor is faulty when you try to clear it ...
02 legacy will not hold on 1st or 2nd. Cluster lights do not light N, 2 or 1.	2/9/2007
Q: I recently had my head gaskets replaced. Shortly after I noticed on the inst. cluster that N, 2 and ... A: The place to start is to put a scanner on the vehicle and see what gear the TCM thinks the car is ...
power steering pump replacement	2/7/2007
Q: Dealer said power steering pump needs replacing on '98 Legacy Outback wagon. Can I do this myself or ... A: Two thoughts 1.If it is leaking you can rebuild it with a seal kit, much cheaper than replacing ...
Whistle noise when under load	2/5/2007
Q: I have a 2003 Subaru Forester XS with a 2.5L engine and 86,000 miles. I just bought that car last ... A: Sounds to me like whom ever checked or replaced the air filter last didn't re-assemble the air box ...
94 subaru legacy head/head gasket?	2/5/2007
Q: . I appologize for my question to be confusing, I have had so many issues with this car, I wasnt ... A: The only 2.2l cyl head I have seen crack was cracked in between the spark plug and exhaust valve.A ...
94 subaru legacy head/head gasket?	2/5/2007
Q: aprox 1 yr ago, a local repair shop damaged my car engine, and had to replace at their cost. head ... A: Wow,You have gone through a lot.1994 legacy 2.2l are not prone for cracked heads .Im not sure if I ...
Subaru Baja brake service	1/31/2007
Q: Cannot find a Baja shop manual and need to replace front and rear pads on 2003 Baja. Will another ... A: The Baja is the same platform as the Legacy and Outback.So one of those manuals will work for ...
Repleacing rear speakers	1/30/2007
Q: I need to replace speakers on a 99 Legacy coupe, and I was wondering if anyone can give me a clue on ... A: I'm pretty sure that on a 99 Legacy sedan you should be able to access the speakers from the trunk. ...
2000 Subaru Outback auto trans	1/27/2007
Q: I just changed the fluid and filter (Dextron III), made sure I filled to the line, and took for a ... A: Are you checking the fluid level on a flat surface?with the vehicle running in park?If you are doing ...
Steering	1/25/2007
Q: I have manual transmission with a brand new Subaru clutch (everything), and I just had the front ... A: Two other thoughts would be 1.A Vicious coupler starting to fail (this is what allows all wheel ...
Steering	1/25/2007
Q: It is worse when it is cold. Can you tell me if this needs attention or if it just annoying. Thanks. A: Two Thoughts ,One is if the vehicle has an automatic transmission you could be developing a little ...
94 subaru legacy	1/24/2007
Q: i have a 94 subaru legacy with air suspension that doesn't work can i replace the air struts with ... A: Yes,you can and that is the best way to tackle that issue.Look for ,four used strut assemblies from ...
Check engine light	1/24/2007
Q: I recently bought a 2003 Outback with 42000 miles. Last evening the check engine light came on. ... A: Before taking it to the dealer make sure the gas cap is tight .Newer vehicles will set a check ...
hesitation subaru legacy	1/23/2007
Q: SUBARU HESITATION ------------------------------------------- The text above is a follow-up to ... ... A: Wow,I'm sorry your having that kind of performance issue with your Subaru.Im assuming the dealer has ...
electronic instrument panel	1/23/2007
Q: 86 GL Wagon EA81Turbo. Has been idle for 2.5 yrs. New battery. Tach/Speedo/etc,not on.Panel lights ... A: Really the only thing you can do is verify that the power and ground circuits to the cluster are ...

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