TIPS1219 – 2019 December TechTIPS Newsletter – Subaru

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Subaru Service and Technical Support Line Newsletter
December 2019
01 QMR OF THE MONTH
We are pleased to announce this month’s Winner of QMR of the Month:
Perpetuo (Pete) Silan from
Farrish Subaru in Fairfax, VA.
Pete’s winning QMR detailed his diagnosis and repair of an erratic
multi-function display in the center of the combination meter on a
new 2020 Outback Limited. Initially, he was unable to confirm the
customer concern of the display blinking off and on but, after letting
the car sit outside overnight, the condition was verified the following
morning with the key on and engine off. Initial checks involved close
inspection of the combination meter harness connections and sliding
resistance checks of each related connector’s individual pins which
all tested fine. Pete then swapped the suspect combination meter
into a known good vehicle where it operated normally. This directed
him back to continue inspection of the wiring in the problem vehicle.
Further testing led him to check the AD16 connector and data wire
leading from the combination meter to the Cockpit Control Unit
(CCU) located behind the audio unit. Although the connector was
locked in place at the combination meter, it turned out to not be fully
locked at the CCU. While pressing on the CCU connector, he heard
a “click” sound and normal display operation was restored. After
reassembly, he confirmed proper combination meter and display
operation during a thorough road test. Pete outlined his step-bystep
diagnostic procedure and attached quality photos along with 2
videos to document his findings.
In appreciation for going the extra mile and sharing his experience
with us, Pete will be receiving the following from his Field Service
Engineer.
A $500.00 Snap-On gift card.
©2019 Subaru of America, Inc. All rights reserved.
SUBARU TECHLINE HOLIDAYS
& HOURS OF OPERATION
Holiday Break: (Closed)
Tuesday, December 24, 2019
Wednesday, December 25, 2019
New Year’s Day: (Closed)
Wednesday, January 1, 2020
Mon. – Thurs. 8:30AM – 7:30PM EST
Friday 10:30AM – 5:00PM EST
Saturday 9:00AM – 3:00PM EST
CONTINUED ON THE NEXT PAGE
home
ARTICLES CONTAINED
IN THIS ISSUE
CODE ARTICLE………………………….PAGE
(00) STIS New Releases…………….. 11-12
(01) QMR of the Month…………………. 1-2
(01) QMR of the Month Award
Presentations ……………………….. 2
Tech Tips Greatest Tips
(01) Calling The Techline Revisited……… 3
(06) Brake Caliper Assembly Oil
Residue………………………………. 4
(07) Midtronics DSS-5000 and DCA-8000
Tips and Tricks……………………..4-9
(08) Input Code For Combination Meter
Mode Change……………………….. 10
(15) 2020MY Legacy and Outback, DTC
U0254……………………………….. 11
The Subaru TechTIPS newsletter is intended for use by professional Technicians ONLY. Articles are
written to inform those Technicians of conditions that may occur in some vehicles, or to provide
information that could assist in the proper servicing of the vehicle. Properly trained Technicians
have the equipment, tools, safety instructions, and know-how to do the job correctly and safely.
If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that your vehicle has or will have that condition.
Impreza, Legacy, Justy, Loyale, Outback, Forester, Subaru SVX, WRX, WRX STI, Baja, Tribeca,
BRZ, XV Crosstrek, Ascent, Crosstrek Hybrid and “Quality Driven” are Registered Trademarks.
ISO 14001 is the international standard for
excellence in Environmental Management
Systems. Please recycle or dispose of
automotive products in a manner that is
friendly to our environment and in accordance
with all local, state and federal laws and
regulations.
CAUTION: VEHICLE SERVICING PERFORMED BY UNTRAINED PERSONS
COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY TO THOSE PERSONS OR TO OTHERS.
SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC. IS
ISO 14001 COMPLIANT
Click on a title below to jump to the article.
Click the date located in the footer to return to page 1.
December 2019 TechTIPS Page 1 of 13
01 QMR OF THE MONTH (CONTINUED)
The other Regional winners selected from QMRs submitted during November 2019 were:
• John Cote from Bill Kolb Jr. Subaru in Orangeburg, NY
• David Jodat from Subaru City of Milwaukee in Milwaukee, WI
• Richard Vens from AutoNation Subaru Spokane Valley in Spokane Valley, WA
• Damian Brzezinski from Suburban Subaru in Vernon, CT
Any Subaru Technician can participate in the QMR of the Month program. See the February 2013 and
January 2016 issues of Tech TIPS for full details. You just might see your name and photo in a future issue
of Tech TIPS!
01 QMR OF THE MONTH AWARD PRESENTATIONS
As part of our “enhanced” QMR of the Month recognition program, we will be including a photo (whenever
available) of the recipient’s award presentation in TIPS. The winner selected from QMR of the Month
submissions received during October 2019 was Pete Silan, a Technician from Farrish Subaru in Fairfax, VA.
Pete is shown above after being presented with his gift and a $500.00 Snap-On Gift Card by SOA Field
Service Engineer, David Kirby. Farrish Subaru’s Service Director Mike Graziano is shown to Pete’s right.
Congratulations and THANK YOU to our October 2019 QMR of the Month Award recipient!
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December 2019 TechTIPS Page 2 of 13
This series features TechTIPS articles frequently referred to by Techline. This month’s feature is Calling
The Techline Revisited from October 2016
01 CALLING THE TECHLINE REVISITED
In order for Subaru Techline to best serve our retailers, it is necessary that the Technician meet the
following criteria before dialing in for assistance. Following this guideline can help reduce call wait
times, decrease comebacks, and increase customer satisfaction.
• The vehicle should be available to the Technician for testing while on the phone with the
Techline representative, if appropriate.
• All associated pre-call work sheets should be completed. These are located on Subarunet
under Service Operations & Technical.
• If there are DTCs, the Technician should have a documented diagnostic path with exact answers.
Stating “good” or “within specification” is not acceptable when a numerical value is requested.
• Always save Freeze Frame Data (FFD) electronically before clearing any DTCs. Printing is not
recommended as it can omit important information. SSM4 use is recommended.
• Always try to capture a data stream (SSM4 File) every time you are attempting to duplicate a
condition. This is especially important when diagnosing intermittent issues.
• Always search STIS for common or known issues via TechTips, Service Bulletins, and Campaign
Bulletins.
• When a case number is given to a Technician, it serves as a means to document vehicle issues
and repairs. It does NOT give authorization to replace anything. If your diagnosis leads you to
needing to replace a component and your testing results have been reviewed with the Techline
Representative, it is still suggested you discuss this with your Service Manager. When in doubt
about the need for an authorization, consult the Policy and Procedures manual to be sure you
are following recommended procedures.
• Oil consumption issues fall within the guidelines of Technical Service Bulletin 02-157-14R do not
need to be called in to the Techline unless you require assistance as stated at the bottom of the
Consolidated Oil Consumption Form found on Subarunet.
• The only Authorizations the Techline can provide are for Warrantable Glass and Paint issues. They
are to be submitted through the Authorization Request (AR) process also found on Subarunet.
• When you encounter a Customer complaint of a normal condition that you can verify on a
comparable model, there is no need to call in for a case number to document this. If you have
completed a repair successfully, there is no need to call and get a case number. It is suggested
you complete and submit a QMR in these cases.
The Technical Support Line (Techline) is here to provide assistance to our retailers ONLY.
The Techline phone number should never be given to the Customer!! We can assist Authorized
Subaru Retailer personnel ONLY. Customers must be directed to Customer Retailer Services (CRS)
by contacting them online or by phone at:
https://www.subaru.com/customer-support.html or by calling 1-800-782-2783.
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December 2019 TechTIPS Page 3 of 13
06 BRAKE CALIPER ASSEMBLY OIL RESIDUE
There have been reports from some retailers indicating possible brake fluid leaks from the front brake
caliper area. After investigation, it was determined there was no brake fluid leaking from the brake caliper
and the fluid found was residue from an assembly oil. Should you encounter this condition, clean all
affected components with an appropriate parts cleaner and confirm the brake fluid level in the master
cylinder reservoir. If the fluid level is full and there are no signs of any contamination or any other concerns,
test drive the vehicle making several stops. After the test drive, check the brake calipers again along with
the balance of the brake system for any leakage and the brake fluid level for any decrease. If there is no
leakage, brake caliper replacement is not necessary.
07 MIDTRONICS DSS-5000 AND DCA-8000 TIPS AND TRICKS
Tool Information
Knowledge base sites –tips and tricks, user manuals:
• DSS-5000: https://subaru.dss5000.com/
• DCA-8000: https://subaru.dca8000.com/
Identifying Batteries
The two battery types that Subaru uses are:
• Standard flooded batteries (Flooded)
• Enhanced Flooded Batteries (EFB)
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December 2019 TechTIPS Page 4 of 13
07 MIDTRONICS DSS-5000 AND DCA-8000 TIPS AND TRICKS (CONTINUED)
Vehicle applications
• EFB –Stop/Start models only:
hh 2020 Legacy and Outback
hh 2019+ Forester
hh 2020 Crosstrek with CVT
hh 2014-2016 Crosstrek Hybrid (Engine Restart Battery only)
• Flooded –All others
There are additional selections of battery types in the tools that Subaru does not use (AGM, AGM Spiral, Gel)
Enhanced Flooded Batteries (EFB)
EFB batteries require different charging and testing logic:
• Charging with incorrect battery type can damage the battery
• Testing with incorrect battery type can produce incorrect results
EFB battery types currently used:
• Q85 –2019+ Forester, 2020 Crosstrek with CVT
• LN2 –2020 Legacy and Outback
• 55N –2014-2016 Crosstrek Hybrid
Standard Flooded Type
CCA will vary by application
LN2 type EFB
2020 Legacy and Outback
Q85 Type EFB
2019+ Forester and 2020 Crosstrek with CVT
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December 2019 TechTIPS Page 5 of 13
07 MIDTRONICS DSS-5000 AND DCA-8000 TIPS AND TRICKS (CONTINUED)
Connecting Testers/Chargers to the Battery
• For Best testing accuracy, ensure the vehicle has been off with the doors closed for a minimum of
60 seconds
• If the battery voltage is less than 8 volts it is recommended to use the DCA-8000
• Connect the clamps directly to the battery post/band, avoid connecting to tightening hardware
ᵒᵒ If a BMS (Battery Monitor Sensor) is installed, connect onto or as close to the battery post as
possible
• Rock/rotate clamps to ensure a clean connection onto the battery post
• If terminal posts are corroded, the terminals must be removed and cleaned
ᵒᵒ It may be necessary to test the battery with the terminals removed to ensure a good test connection
with the clamps
DCA-8000 Main Menu Options
• In-Vehicle Charge and Test
ᵒᵒ Warranty test to use when the battery is in the vehicle or when a system test is needed
• Out of Vehicle Charge
ᵒᵒ Non-warranty test to use when the battery is on the bench (an in-vehicle test can also be used
on the bench when the VIN is entered). Will perform charge and test functions
• Manual Charge
ᵒᵒ Use when needing to just charge a battery
• Power Supply mode
ᵒᵒ Use when performing any vehicle reprogramming functions
• Jump Start
ᵒᵒ Use to jump start a dead battery
• After New Battery Install
ᵒᵒ For testing newly installed batteries in a vehicle. Also includes vehicle electronics reset information
after battery installation.
DSS-5000 Main Menu Options
• In Vehicle Test: Automates battery testing for quickly testing vehicles using the fewest steps. A VIN
is required and a Warranty Code is generated for all Replace Battery decisions.
• Out of Vehicle Test: For testing out-of-vehicle customer batteries for possible return.
• After New Battery Install: For testing newly installed batteries in a vehicle. Also includes vehicle
electronics reset information after battery installation.
• Express Test: For quickly testing batteries in vehicles in for servicing. A VIN is optional and a Warranty
Code is generated for all Replace Battery decisions (only when the VIN is entered)
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December 2019 TechTIPS Page 6 of 13
07 MIDTRONICS DSS-5000 AND DCA-8000 TIPS AND TRICKS (CONTINUED)
Vehicle Identification
• In most cases the vehicle will be recognized when a VIN scan is performed
ᵒᵒ Prepopulated Fields include: VIN, Year, Make, Model, Technology, Test Location, Battery type
NOTE: the VIN schematic data follows vehicle launch so there is a period of time between start of sales
and the related software update release timing so newly launched vehicle might not be recognized.
Vehicle Identification: VIN Scan
Scan the VIN –if the VIN bar code is not available use manual entry to type in the VIN.
Vehicle Identification: VIN recognized
Scan the VIN –if the VIN is recognized it will decode the VIN and pre-populate the vehicle information
and battery type. The user need only to input the battery rating (Use of CCA for the Battery Units is
recommended).
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December 2019 TechTIPS Page 7 of 13
07 MIDTRONICS DSS-5000 AND DCA-8000 TIPS AND TRICKS (CONTINUED)
Vehicle Identification: VIN not recognized
Scan the VIN –if the VIN is not recognized it will not decode the VIN and pre-populate the vehicle information
and battery type. The user may need to change the battery type (defaults to flooded) and input the battery
rating (Use of CCA for the Battery Units is recommended) to complete the test.
NOTE: the VIN will be captured and recorded in BMIS for future reference and traceability.
Discharged Battery Testing in General
Effective testing and diagnosis of a customer complaint of battery discharge/ dead battery starts with a
thorough customer interview.
It’s critical to understand how and when the condition was first recognized by the customer, events prior
to that time, and how the condition was addressed when found.
As examples the following questions may provide needed insights to help avoid subsequent failure or
may explain the batteries current condition.
• When was the condition identified? At first start in the morning or after driving?
• How long had the vehicle been parked prior to this time?
• How was the vehicle used just prior to or after being parked?
• When the condition was found, how was it addressed? Was the car jump started? How?
• What are the customers normal driving habits? Is the car driven daily? What sort of distances each
trip?
Additionally as part of any diagnosis of a discharged battery if a root cause for the condition is not identified
(i.e. map lamp left on or similar), it is critical to ensure no condition exists vehicle side that could result
in a future discharged battery.
This includes the completion of a correctly performed parasitic / dark current draw test based on the
information supplied by the customer.
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December 2019 TechTIPS Page 8 of 13
07 MIDTRONICS DSS-5000 AND DCA-8000 TIPS AND TRICKS (CONTINUED)
Testing / Charging EFB Batteries
Always check that the battery type is
EFB.
• DCA-8000 and DSS-5000 shown.
Recovering EFB batteries
If an EFB battery has an insufficient charge to start the vehicle.
• Before testing, use a Manual Charge to bring some life back into the battery.
ᵒᵒ Be sure to select EFB type battery.
ᵒᵒ A thirty minute charge will generally be sufficient.
ᵒᵒ Make sure to give the battery a rest period between manual charge and testing.
• Once the battery has a sufficient amount of charge, continue with either an In-Vehicle Test and Charge
or an Out of Vehicle Charge.
• Note: It can take hours to complete a full charge procedure on a low battery.
Test Result: Charge and Retest Use DCA
If the DSS-5000 returns the result of “Charge and Retest Use
DCA”.
• DO NOT keep repeating the test with the DSS-5000
• Use the DCA-8000
Replacing a battery
• Do not replace an EFB battery with a flooded battery. Use only the battery specified for the vehicle.
• When testing a new replacement battery, use the After New Battery Install function in either the DSS-
5000 or the DCA-8000 to perform the test.
Best Practice: VIN tagging the battery
If the battery is removed from the car for testing or replacement, place a bar code sticker of the VIN on
the battery if it is available. If the sticker is not available, a piece of masking tape with the last 8 digits of
the VIN written on it will suffice.
• This provides traceability for the battery and any tests or charging performed.
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December 2019 TechTIPS Page 9 of 13
08 INPUT CODE FOR COMBINATION METER MODE CHANGE
The Techline continues to receive calls from Technician’s regarding a special “input code” when attempting
Variant Work Procedure B on Combination Meters. This concern can occur if the applied model or option
code is input incorrectly. Side effects could include malfunction indicator lamps and false DTCs. If you
encounter this condition, follow the instructions below to repair the vehicle.
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December 2019 TechTIPS Page 10 of 13
15 2020MY LEGACY AND OUTBACK, DTC U0254
It is possible for DTC U0254 to be stored as a history DTC when performing an all systems DTC check on
vehicles equipped with the Genuine Subaru accessory Remote Engine Starter (RES) p.n. H001SAN000
or H001SAN100.
The software interface between the Central gateway CM and RES control module is the source of the
DTC. Although the DTC appears during a diagnostic check, it has NO effect on the operation of the RES
or the vehicle.
If the RES accessory is operating normally, DTC U0254 by itself can be ignored. If the DTC is cleared, it
will likely reset under normal operation. An investigation is currently underway to address the cause of this
DTC. In the meantime, the accessory can continue to be installed and used normally.
If U0254 is set without any other DTCs present and there is a current concern with the operation of the
remote engine starter accessory, refer to the applicable Service Manual for the related diagnosis.
00 STIS NEW RELEASES
ITEM CODE ITEM TYPE TITLE
CREATED
DATE
15-234-18R Technical Service Bulletin 2019 Audio/Navigation & Power … 20-Dec-19
15-214-17R Technical Service Bulletin 2018 Audio/Navigation Exchange… 20-Dec-19
15-190-15R Technical Service Bulletin 2016 Audio/Navigation Exchange… 20-Dec-19
15-249-19R Technical Service Bulletin 2020 Audio/Navigation & Power … 20-Dec-19
15-204-16R Technical Service Bulletin 2017 Audio/Navigation Exchange… 20-Dec-19
H461SXC101 Accessory Installation Guide PORT INSTALLATION: 2019-20MY A… 19-Dec-19
H461SXC101 Accessory Installation Guide PORT INSTALLATION: 2019-20MY F… 19-Dec-19
WUW-08R Subaru Product/Campaign Bulletin PCV Valve- Design Change 17-Dec-19
12-277-19 Technical Service Bulletin A-Pillar Trim Cover- Design Ch… 13-Dec-19
10-96-19 Technical Service Bulletin HVAC Blower Fan Inoperative 13-Dec-19
WUH-93R Subaru Product/Campaign Bulletin Front Duct Panel Spot Weld 13-Dec-19
WUU-06R Subaru Product/Campaign Bulletin ECM Reprogramming for DTC C142… 13-Dec-19
WUM-98R Subaru Product/Campaign Bulletin Occupant Detection Wiring Harn… 13-Dec-19
12-276-19 Technical Service Bulletin Fog Light Covers- Design Chang… 12-Dec-19
05-72-19 Technical Service Bulletin Squeak / Creaking Sound from R… 10-Dec-19
12-275-19 Technical Service Bulletin Leather Front Seat Cushion Cov… 9-Dec-19
16-126-19 Technical Service Bulletin Select Lever Grip- Design Chan… 9-Dec-19
15-208-17R Technical Service Bulletin Availability of “Gracenote® Me… 9-Dec-19
H630SAN100 Accessory Installation Guide PORT INSTALLATION: 2020MY Lega… 6-Dec-19
J1210SJ500 Accessory Installation Guide STI Door Handle Cup Protector 5-Dec-19
All revised publications are highlighted in yellow. CONTINUED ON THE NEXT PAGE
December 2019 TechTIPS Page 11 of 13
All revised publications are highlighted in yellow.
ITEM CODE ITEM TYPE TITLE
CREATED
DATE
WUP-01R Subaru Product/Campaign Bulletin PCV Valve- Design Change 5-Dec-19
SOA567B011 Accessory Installation Guide Thule Bike Carrier – Fork Moun… 5-Dec-19
L101SXC003 Accessory Installation Guide PORT INSTALLATION: 2019-20MY A… 5-Dec-19
07-163-19 Technical Service Bulletin Airbag Control Module- Replace… 5-Dec-19
WUV-07 Subaru Product/Campaign Bulletin CVT Chain Slip 5-Dec-19
WUK-96 Subaru Product/Campaign Bulletin DIT Exhaust Pipe Front (EPF) N… 5-Dec-19
H630SFL002 Accessory Installation Guide PORT INSTALLATION: 2019-20MY C… 5-Dec-19
SS_OTA_Navi_3.1 Owner Manual Over the Air Software Updates … 4-Dec-19
SS_OTA_Mid_3.1 Owner Manual Over the Air Software Updates 4-Dec-19
SS_OTA_Mid_3.0 Owner Manual Over the Air Software Updates 4-Dec-19
SS_OTA_Navi_3.0 Owner Manual Over the Air Software Updates … 4-Dec-19
15-258-19 Technical Service Bulletin 2020MY Legacy and Outback 3-Dec-19
E771SAN000 Accessory Installation Guide PORT INSTALLATION: 2020MY Lega… 3-Dec-19
02-184-19 Technical Service Bulletin Intake Duct Bolt Tightening / … 3-Dec-19
H501SSG203 Accessory Installation Guide PORT INSTALLATION: 2020MY Lega… 3-Dec-19
Service Diagnostics 2020 WRX/STI Service Manual (S… 3-Dec-19
G1747BE Service Manual 2020 WRX/STI Service Manual (S… 3-Dec-19
U1747BE Service Manual 2020 WRX/STI New Car Informati… 3-Dec-19
WUQ-02R Subaru Product/Campaign Bulletin Ignition Coil Short Circuit 2-Dec-19
00 STIS NEW RELEASES
December 2019 TechTIPS Page 12 of 13
*** NOW YOU CAN E-MAIL YOUR TECHTIPS INPUT AND SUGGESTIONS TO: TECH@SUBARU.COM ***
SUBARU TECHLINE Monday – Thursday 8:30 am to 7:30 pm
Hours of Operation Friday 10:30 am to 5 pm and Saturday 9 am to 3 pm
This is your chance to offer suggestions for use in future issues of TechTIPS! Make sure
that if you e-mail us, you place in the subject line of your e-mail “For TechTIPS Newsletter”.
Thank you!
MODEL:
YEAR:
VIN:
Description of situation encountered:
Your suggestion for repair procedure, product improvements, etc.:
Please attach separate sheets, if necessary. You may also want to include Service Manual
diagrams or references, or your own drawings to assist in describing your suggestion. All
information submitted becomes the property of Subaru of America, Inc. Permission is granted to
Subaru of America, Inc. to print your name and suggestions in TechTIPS and other Subaru of
America, Inc. publications. Mail items to: PO Box 9103; Camden, NJ 08101-9877.
Your Name:
Signature:
Dealer’s Name:
City:
Date:
Dealer Code:
December 2019 TechTIPS Page 13 of 13

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