VIN LOCATION
The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is located on the left side of the dash panel at the base of the windshield. The VIN chart explains the code characters.
VIN CODE ID EXPLANATION
Numbers preceding the explanations in the legend below refer to the sequence of characters as listed on VIN identification label. See VIN example below.
VIN Code ID Explanation. Scheme 2
SEVERE & NORMAL SERVICE DEFINITIONS
Note. Use the Severe Service schedule if the vehicle to be serviced is operated under ANY (one or more) of these conditions
Service is recommended at mileage intervals based on vehicle operation. Service schedules are based on the following primary operating conditions
Normal Service
- Driven More Than 10 Miles Daily
- No Operating Conditions From Severe Service Schedule
Severe Service (Unique Driving Conditions)
- Short Trips In Freezing Temperatures
- Hot Weather, Stop-And-Go Driving
- Driving On Rough Or Muddy Road
- Driving In Salty Or Other Corrosive Materials Areas
- Severe Dust Conditions
- Driving In High Humidity Or Mountainous Areas
- Extensive Idling
CAMSHAFT TIMING BELT
| CAUTION | Failure to replace a faulty camshaft timing belt may result in serious engine damage. |
The condition of camshaft drive belts should always be checked on vehicles which have more than 50,000 miles. Although some manufacturers do not recommend belt replacement at a specified mileage, others require it at 60,000-100,000 miles. A camshaft drive belt failure may cause extensive damage to internal engine components on most engines, although some designs do not allow piston-to-valve contact. These designs are often called "Free Wheeling".
Many manufacturers changed their maintenance and warranty schedules in the mid-1980's to reflect timing belt inspection and/or replacement at 50,000-60,000 miles. Most service interval schedules in this manual reflect these changes.
Belts or components should be inspected and replaced if any of the following conditions exist
- Cracks Or Tears In Belt Surface
- Missing, Damaged, Cracked Or Rounded Teeth
- Oil Contamination
- Damaged Or Faulty Tensioners
- Incorrect Tension Adjustment
Replace camshaft timing belt at 60,000 mile intervals.
Scheme 3
Scheme 4
SERVICE LABOR TIMES
Note. For 1990 and newer vehicles, labor times are provided, where available, within appropriate SERVICE INTERVAL table in SCHEDULED SERVICES article.
WHEEL & TIRE SPECIFICATIONS
Tire specifications are imprinted on the tire side wall. The recommended cold tire inflation pressures are listed on a label attached to the left center pillar.
| CAUTION | All four tires on vehicle must be of the same size, construction and load range. DO NOT mix tires of different design such as radial with bias or belted bias tires. Mixing tire types will adversely affect road handling and may lead to loss of vehicle control. To prevent vehicle and tire damage, DO NOT use tire chains on the T-type compact spare tire. |
WHEEL TIGHTENING
Tighten all wheel lug nuts to 58-72 ft. lbs. (78-98 N.m). Always tighten wheel lug nuts in a crisscross pattern.
BATTERY SPECIFICATIONS
| CAUTION | When battery is disconnected, vehicles equipped with computers may lose memory data. When battery power is restored, driveability problems may exist on some vehicles. These vehicles may require a relearn procedure. See COMPUTER RELEARN PROCEDURES article in the GENERAL INFORMATION section. |
All 1987-89 vehicles are delivered with maintenance-free battery and water need never be added. Under normal conditions, battery delivered with later model vehicles is maintenance-free and does not require additional water. However, under severe conditions it is advisable to check battery fluid periodically. Use only distilled water to fill battery cell should it becomes necessary. For some models, charge condition can be checked by a visual test indicator on top of battery. Blue signal indicates adequate charge level and White indicates charging is required.
BATTERY REPLACEMENT
If battery is replaced, it should be of the same group number as shown on the original battery's label.
SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS) AIR BAG SYSTEM
Note. See the AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEM article in the ACCESSORIES/SAFETY EQUIPMENT Section.
The SRS has no user-servicable parts. Always have servicing done by an authorized dealer.
When performing maintenance on air bag equipped vehicles always observe proper safety precautions.
| WARNING | To avoid injury from accidental air bag deployment, read and carefully follow all warnings and service precautions. See appropriate AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEM article in the ACCESSORIES/SAFETY EQUIPMENT section. |
| CAUTION | Disconnect negative battery cable before servicing any air bag system, steering column or passenger side dash component. After any repair, turn ignition key to the ON position from passenger's side of vehicle in case of accidental air bag inflation |
ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS)
| CAUTION | Never mix different diameter tires. On loose or uneven surfaces, the ABS system may require longer stopping distances than conventional brake systems. Exercise caution when removing mud or snow from the wheels so as not to damage the ABS wiring or speed sensors. |
BATTERY WARNING
| WARNING | When battery is disconnected, vehicles equipped with computers may lose memory data. When battery power is restored, driveability problems may exist on some vehicles. These vehicles may require a relearn procedure. See appropriate COMPUTER RELEARN PROCEDURES article in the GENERAL INFORMATION section below. |
REPLACING BLOWN FUSES
| CAUTION | Before replacing a blown fuse, remove ignition key, turn off all lights and accessories to avoid damaging the electrical system. Be sure to use fuse with the correct indicated amperage rating. The use of an incorrect amperage rating fuse may result in a dangerous electrical system overload. |
BRAKE PAD WEAR INDICATOR
| CAUTION | Indicator will cause a squealing or scraping noise, warning that brake pads need replacement. |
CATALYTIC CONVERTER
| CAUTION | Continued operation of vehicle with a severe malfunction could cause converter to overheat, resulting in possible damage to converter and vehicle. |
COOLANT (PROPYLENE-GLYCOL FORMULATIONS)
| CAUTION | To avoid possible damage to vehicle use only ethylene-glycol based coolants with a mixture ratio from 44-68% anti-freeze. DO NOT use 100% anti-freeze as it will cause the formation of cooling system deposits. This results in coolant temperatures of over 300° F (149°C) which can melt plastics. 100% anti-freeze has a freeze point of only -8° F (-22°C). |
| CAUTION | Propylene-Glycol Mixtures has a smaller temperature range than Ethylene-Glycol. The temperature range (freeze-boil) of a 50/50 Anti-Freeze/Water Mix is as follows: Propylene-Glycol -26° F (-32°C) - 257° F (125°C) Ethylene-Glycol -35° F (-37°C) - 263° F (128°C) |
| CAUTION | Propylene-Glycol/Ethylene-Glycol Mixtures can cause the destabilization of various corrosion inhibitors. Also Propylene-Glycol/Ethylene-Glycol has a different specific gravity than Ethylene-Glycol coolant, which will result in inaccurate freeze point calculations. |
ELECTROSTATIC DISCHARGE SENSITIVE (ESD) PARTS
| WARNING | Many solid state electrical components can be damaged by static electricity (ESD). Some will display a warning label, but many will not. Discharge personal static electricity by touching a metal ground point on the vehicle prior to servicing any ESD sensitive component. |
ENGINE OIL
| CAUTION | Never use non-detergent or straight mineral oil. |
FUEL SYSTEM SERVICE
| WARNING | Relieve fuel system pressure prior to servicing any fuel system component (fuel injection models). |
HALOGEN BULBS
| WARNING | Halogen bulbs contain pressurized gas which may explode if overheated. DO NOT touch glass portion of bulb with bare hands. Eye protection should be worn when handling or working around halogen bulbs. |
RADIATOR CAP
| CAUTION | Always disconnect the fan motor when working near the radiator fan. The fan is temperature controlled and could start at any time even when the ignition key is in the OFF position. DO NOT loosen or remove radiator cap when cooling system is hot. |
RADIATOR FAN
| WARNING | Keep hands away from radiator fan. Fan is controlled by a thermostatic switch which may come on or run for up to 15 minutes even after engine is turned off. |
WARRANTY INFORMATION
| CAUTION | Due to the different warranties offered in various regions and the variety of after-market extended warranties available, please refer to the warranty package that came with the vehicle to verify all warranty options. |
BASIC NEW CAR LIMITED WARRANTY
Covers the cost of repair or replacement of parts on vehicle that have been proven defective in material or workmanship under normal use for 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever occurs first. Beginning with 1989 model year, this basic warranty coverage has been extended to 36 months/36,000 miles. Warranty coverage also includes any adjustment services required on vehicle, even if there is no defect in material or workmanship, or as a direct result of the repair or replacement of a part under this warranty for the first 7500 miles of operation (12 months/12,000 miles for 1989-94 models). Warranty begins on date vehicle is delivered to first retail purchaser or first put in used, whichever occurs first.
POWERTRAIN COVERAGE
For 1991-94 vehicles, upon expiration of the Basic New Car Warranty, this warranty covers the following powertrain components for repairs needed to correct defects in materials or workmanship up to a maximum of 5 years or 60,000 miles, whichever occurs first.
- Engine Cylinder block and internal parts, cylinder heads, valve train (including cam belts), oil pump, engine lubrication system, seals, gaskets, water pump, turbocharger (if equipped) and intake manifolds.
- Transmission Transmission cases and internal parts, differential, torque converter, flywheel, pressure plate, vacuum modulator, oil seals and gaskets.
- Front Wheel Drive Vehicles Axle shafts and joints (except boots), front hubs and bearings.
- Four Wheel Drive Vehicles Transfer case and internal parts, drive shaft assembly (front and rear), rear differential case and internal parts, rear axle shafts and joints, rear hubs and bearings.
ANTI-CORROSION PERFORATION LIMITED WARRANTY
Covers any body sheet metal panel found to have developed perforation (rust-through) due to corrosion in normal use for 36 months or 36,000 miles (5 years/60,000 miles for 1989-90 models and 5 years unlimited mileage on 1991-94 models) from date of delivery or first use, whichever occurs first.
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM DEFECT WARRANTY (EXCEPT CALIFORNIA)
Warrants that the vehicle was designed, built and equipped to conform at the time of sale with all applicable U.S. emission standards. Covers any repairs needed to correct defects in materials or workmanship of genuine Subaru parts which would cause the vehicle not to meet these standards for 5 years or 50,000 miles from date of original retail delivery or first use, whichever occurs first.
EMISSION PERFORMANCE WARRANTY (EXCEPT CALIFORNIA)
Warranty applies to all vehicles in states requiring periodic emissions test approved by the EPA. Covers all repairs, adjustments, or replacements if vehicle has been maintained in accordance with the prescribed scheduled maintenance instructions and fails to conform to applicable emission standards as judged by an EPA-approved emission test and such failure results or will result in the vehicle owner having to bear any penalty or other sanctions under local, state or federal law. Covers remedy of non-conformity which causes vehicle to fail EPA-approved emissions test, at manufacturer's option, for 5 years or 50,000 miles, which ever occurs first. After the first 2 years or 24,000 miles, this warranty will cover only repair, replacement or adjustment of the primary components which affect vehicle's emission performance. See copy of warranty for specific components covered.
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM WARRANTY (CALIFORNIA)
Manufacturer warrants its emission components in vehicle to be free of defects in material and workmanship and that vehicle is designed, built and equipped to conform at the time of sale to all applicable requirements of the Federal EPA and the California Air Resources Board (CARB). Covers any repairs needed to correct defects in materials or workmanship of parts which would cause the vehicle not to meet these standards for 5 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first. Warranty period on 1990-94 models is 3 years or 50,000 miles, which ever occurs first. Primary emission system components on 1987-89 models are covered under this warranty for 5 years/50,000 miles. For 1990-94 models, certain primary emission system components are warranted for 7 years or 70,000 miles. See copy of warranty for specific components covered.
PARTS & ACCESSORIES LIMITED WARRANTY
Warrants all Subaru parts and accessories purchased and installed in vehicle to be free of defects in material or workmanship under normal use. Covers any repairs or replacement of parts or accessories necessary to correct defects at manufacturer's option. Warranty begins on date of purchase and lasts for one year or for the remaining coverage period of the particular part under the Basic New Car Limited Warranty, whichever is longer.
FUSE PANEL LOCATION
The fuse block is located under the instrument panel. If a fuse is blown, locate the cause before replacing the fuse. If an electrical failure has occurred and the fuses are in good condition, check the main fuses and replace as necessary. Always use fuses with the correct amperage rating.
Scheme 5
Fuse & Circuit Breaker Identification
- 1 - 15 Amp (1987) - EFC Unit, Tachometer, Solenoid Valve, Auto Choke, Instrument Gauge Light, Ignition Timing, Fuel Pump 15 Amp (1988) - 4WD Solenoid Valve, EFC Unit, Fuel Pump, Auto Choke, Tachometer, Solenoid Valve, Instrument Gauge Light, Ignition Timing
- 2 - 15 Amp - Taillights, License Plate & Parking Lights, Gauges, Switch Illumination Light, Reflex Reflector, Marker Light
- 3 - 15 Amp - Left Headlight, High Beam Indicator
- 4 - 15 Amp - Right Headlight
- 5 - 15 Amp - Parking Lights, Hazard Warning Lights
- 6 - 15 Amp - Stoplight, High-Mounted Stoplight, Interior Light, EFC Unit, Clock
- 7 - 15 Amp (1987) - Heater Fan, Cigarette Lighter 15 Amp (1988) - Heater Fan, Cigarette Lighter, Radio
- 8 - 15 Amp (1987) - Heater Fan, Cigarette Lighter 15 Amp (1988) - Heater Fan, Cigarette Lighter, Radio
- 9 - 15 Amp - Radiator Fan, Horn
- 10 - 15 Amp - Windshield Wiper & Washer Motor, Tachometer
- 11 - 15 Amp - Rear Window Defogger
- 12 - 15 Amp - Ignition Coil, Back-Up Lights, Turn Signal Indicators, Seat Belt Timer
- 1 - 15 Amp (1987) - EFC Unit, Solenoid Valve, Fuel Pump, ECVT Unit, Instrument Gauge Light, 4WD Solenoid Valve
- 2 - 15 Amp - Taillights, License Plate Lights, Parking Lights, Gauges, Switch Illumination Light, Reflex Reflector, Marker Light
- 3 - 15 Amp - Left Headlight, High Beam Indicator
- 4 - 15 Amp - Right Headlight
- 5 - 15 Amp - Parking Lights, Hazard Warning Lights, Shift Lock Unit
- 6 - 15 Amp - Stoplight, High-Mounted Stoplight, Clock, Interior Light, EFC Unit, Shift Lock Unit
- 7 - 15 Amp - Heater Fan, Cigarette Lighter, Radio
- 8 - 15 Amp - Heater Fan, Cigarette Lighter, Radio
- 9 - 15 Amp - Radiator Fan, Horn, Auto Choke, Shift Lock Unit
- 10 - 15 Amp - Windshield Wiper & Washer Motor, Tachometer
- 11 - 15 Amp - Rear Window Defogger
- 12 - 15 Amp - Ignition Coil, Back-Up Light, Shift Lock Unit, Turn Signal Indicators, Seat Belt Timer
- 1 - 15 Amp (Carbureted Engine) - Ignition Coil, EFC Unit & Fuel Pump 15 Amp (MPFI Engine) - Ignition Coil, ECVT Unit, Back-Up ECVT Unit
- 2 - 15 Amp (Carbureted Engine) - EFC Unit 15 Amp (MPFI Engine) - Solenoid Valve, Fuel Pump, MPFI Unit
- 3 - 15 Amp (Carbureted Engine) - Clock (Back-Up), Parking Lights, Brakelights, Radio, High-Mounted Stoplight 15 Amp (MPFI Engine) - Parking Lights, Brakelights, High-Mounted Stoplight, Radio, Clock (Back-Up), Shift Lock Unit
- 4 - 15 Amp (Carbureted Engine) - Interior Lights, Hazard Warning Lights, Chime, Automatic Belt Unit (FWD Model) 15 Amp (MPFI Engine) - Interior Lights, Hazard Warning Lights, Chime, Automatic Belt Unit (FWD Model), Shift Lock Unit
- 5 - 15 Amp - Right Headlight, Turn Signal Indicators, License Plate Lights, Instrument Gauge Light, Gauge, Switch Illumination Light, Reflex Reflector, Marker Lights, Taillight
- 6 - 15 Amp - Left Headlight, High Beam Indicator
- 7 - 15 Amp (Carbureted Engine) - Automatic Belt Unit (FWD Model), Seat Belt Timer Unit, Solenoid Valve 15 Amp (MPFI Engine) - Automatic Belt Unit (FWD Model), Seat Belt Timer Unit
- 8 - 15 Amp (Carbureted Engine) - Turn Signal Indicators, 4WD Solenoid Valve, Back-Up Light 15 Amp (MPFI Engine) - Turn Signal Indicators, Back-Up Light, 4WD Solenoid Valve, Shift Lock Unit
- 9 - 20 Amp - Heater Fan
- 10 - 20 Amp - Cigarette Lighter, Radio, Clock, Rear Wiper Motor
- 11 - 20 Amp - Front Windshield Wiper & Washer Motor, Rear Window Defogger
- 12 - 15 Amp (Carbureted Engine) - Radiator Fan, Horn, Auto Choke 15 Amp (MPFI Engine) - Radiator Fan, Horn, Shift Lock Unit