TIPS0614 - 2014 June TechTIPS Newsletter

NHTSA ID Number: 10232518

Manufacturer Communication Number: TechTIPS-1

Summary

Subaru Service and Technical Support Line Newsletter

ARTICLES CONTAINED IN THIS ISSUE
CODE ARTICLE…………………………….PAGE
(00) May STIS New Releases………05
(01) QMR of the Month……………..01
(01) 2015MY Legacy and Outback Transit Fuse Information……. 04
(02) Too Much Oil In The Engine Revisited………………………02
(12) Whitish Discoloration / Deposits on Front Door Panels, 2012MY and Later Impreza and XV Crosstrek® Models…………….03

1 Affected Product

Vehicle

MAKE	MODEL	YEAR

SUBARU	SUBARU	9999

1 Associated Document

Manufacturer Communications

TIPS0614 – 2014 June TechTIPS Newsletter

https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=10232518

MC-10232518-9999.pdf 1245.267KB

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SaleBestseller No. 1

FOXWELL Car Scanner NT604 Elite OBD2 Scanner ABS SRS Transmission

[Easy to Use—Work Out of the Box] + [FOXWELL 2026 New Version] FOXWELL NT604 Elite scan tool is the 2026 new version from FOXWELL, designed for car owners who want to figure out the cause of issues before fixing car problems by scanning common systems like ABS, SRS, engine, and transmission. The NT604 Elite obd2 scanner diagnostic tool comes with the latest software—no need to waste time downloading software first. Plug the scanner into the OBDII port with OBDII cable to start the diagnosis.
[Affordable] + [Reliable Car Health Monitor] Will you be confused what happens when the warning light of ABS/SRS/transmission/check engine flashes? Instead of taking your cars to dealership, this FOXWELL scanner will help you do a thorough scanning and detection for your cars and pinpoint the root cause. Note：The device is a diagnostic tool, not a repair tool. To turn off a warning light, you must first physically repair the issue causing it. Only then can the scanner be used to clear the corresponding fault code.
[5 in 1 Car Diagnostic Scanner] Compared with obd scanners (50-100), NT604 Elite code scanner not only includes their OBDII diagnosis but also serves as ABS/SRS scanner, transmission and check engine code reader. When it’s an odb2 scanner, you can use it to check if your car is ready for annual test through I/M readiness menu. In addition, live data stream, built-in DTC library, data play back and print, all these features are a big plus for it. Note: doesn't support maintenance functions like reset or relearn. For the SRS system, NT604 Elite can read and clear common fault codes not caused by a crash, but crash/collision data cannot be cleared.
[Fantastic AUTOVIN] + [No extra software fee] Through the AUTOVIN menu, this NT604 Elite car scanner allows you to get your V-IN and vehicle info rapidly, no need to take time to find your V-IN and input one by one. What's more, the NT604 Elite ABS SRS scanner supports 60+ car brands from worldwide (America/Asia/Europe). You don’t need to pay extra software fee. AUTOVIN may not work on some older vehicles or certain vehicle brands. If AUTOVIN fails, please input the vin code manually or go to the Diagnostic Menu to select your vehicle model.
[Solid protective case KO plastic carrying bag] + [Lifetime update] Almost all same price-level car scanner diagnostic tool only offers plastic bag to hold the scanner.However, NT604 Elite automotive scanner is equipped with solid protective case, preventing your obd2 scanner from damage. Then you don’t need to pay extra money to buy a solid toolbox.

SaleBestseller No. 2

312 Reviews

OBDMATE OBD2 Scanner with ABS SRS Transmission Diagnostic Tool

【Reset ABS/SRS/Transmission/Engine Lights】 More than an check engine code reader, OBDMATE OM901 obd2 scanner performs comprehensive diagnostics for the 4 most-used systems (ABS/SRS/Engine/Transmission). It quickly clears fault codes, turns off warning lights, read data stream and auto VIN.
【3.5" Handheld Scanner with 4 System Diagnose】 3.5" Super large TFT screen equipped displays an intuitive menu and clear readings of various sensors from ABS, SRS, ECM and TCM systems. It arrived with a silicone protective case and hard-shell carrying case, ensuring long-lived durability and drop resistance. The car diagnostic tool is plug-to-play designed, plug it and get diagnosis started without any batteries or updates required.
【One-Click I/M Readines&Full OBD2 Functions】 Press F1 to get an intuitive corloured form about whether various emissions-related systems on the vehicle are operating properly. Help you get smog-check ready quickly. OM901 car scanner supports all essential OBD2 functions you need: read & clear codes, view freeze frame, read I/M readiness, retrieve VIN, live data stream (with graphing display), O2 sensor test, onboard monitoring mode, and EVAP leak test.
【Battery Voltage Check&DLC Pin Test】 It allows you to monitor battery health by testing current battery voltage. Plus, this obd2 diagnostic tool features DLC 16-PIN test to check current voltage of every pin.
【Automotive Scanner Diagnostic Kit】 The package comes with 1 car scanner, 1 USB-type c cable, 1 hard storage bag and 1 user manual(en). Free to update without any hidden fees. 5 languanges available in setting including English, French, Italian, German and Espanish. Valuable and Portable, making it a great tool kit for car owners, DIY enthusiasts, and professional mechanics.

Bestseller No. 3

62,378 Reviews

BlueDriver OBD2 Scanner Bluetooth, No Subscription, ABS SRS TPMS

[Diagnose Like a Pro] BlueDriver Pro is a professional OBD2 scanner and diagnostic tool that helps you scan, understand, and clear vehicle trouble codes with confidence. Turn your phone into a powerful car diagnostic scanner—no guesswork, no unnecessary repairs.
[Read and Clear More Codes Than Ever] Read and clear more codes than basic car code readers. Access enhanced diagnostics for Check Engine, ABS, SRS, Airbag, TPMS, Transmission.
[Verified Fixes and Real-Time Data] Get unlimited, technician-verified repair reports matched to your VIN, with definitions, causes, and confirmed fixes. Monitor live vehicle data as you drive, view freeze frames, check smog readiness, and analyze Mode 6 test results.
[Wireless & Bluetooth Enabled] - Say goodbye to wires. BlueDriver connects with Bluetooth via your phone/tablet to a sensor that plugs into your car's OBDII port. Get all of the capabilities of an expensive code reader & scan tool without any annoying wires.
[Broad Make & Model Coverage] Strong support for GM, Ford, Stellantis (RAM, Jeep, Chrysler), Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Mazda, Subaru, Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and VW.

Bestseller No. 4

Outzone B800 BMW SRS Airbag Reset Tool | OBDII Scanner Read & Clear Fault Codes | Fits E36/E46/E34/E38/E39/Z3/X5 (1994-2003) – Except 2001 330i

✔️【Professional SRS Reset for 1994-2003 BMW】 Designed specifically for classic BMW models (1994-2003). This B800 scanner reads & clears SRS airbag fault codes, turns off the warning light, and saves you a costly dealer visit. Confirmed compatible with: E36, E46 (EXCEPT 2001 330i), E34, E38, E39, Z3, and X5 (E53). NOT compatible with any BMW built before 1994 or after 2003.
✔️【Important: Two Different Connection Ports – Read Before Use】 To avoid “not working” issues, please note: For 1994–2000 BMWs (most E36, E34, Z3, early E39), the SRS diagnostic port is a round 20-pin connector under the hood. You MUST use the included 16-pin to 20-pin adapter cable. For 2000–2003 models (late E46, E39, X5), use the standard OBD-II port inside the cabin. Incorrect connection is the #1 reason for “incompatibility” reports.
✔️【Read & Clear Fault Codes in Minutes】 Quickly diagnose why your SRS light is on. The scanner accurately reads fault codes from airbag and seatbelt pretensioner systems. With one button press, clear the codes and reset the SRS warning light in seconds. No expensive dealer tools needed.
✔️【User-Friendly for DIYers – No Mechanic Required】 Easy operation with an intuitive button layout: ‘Enter’ to confirm, ‘Scroll’ to navigate. The clear LCD screen shows results instantly. Includes a step-by-step manual (revised for clarity) to guide you through the entire reset process.
✔️【Reliable Support with 1-Year Warranty】 We stand behind the quality of our B800 scanner. It comes with a 1-Year Hassle-Free Warranty. If you have any questions or need support, please contact us with your Order ID, and our dedicated team will assist you promptly.

Bestseller No. 5

Innova SD35 OBD2 Scanner – ABS, SRS, TPMS & Check Engine Code Reader, Live Data, All System Diagnostics, Compatible with Most Vehicles

OBD2 SCANNER FOR ALL SYSTEMS – The INNOVA SD35 is a tablet-based OBD2 scanner designed for advanced diagnostics. Read and clear check engine light, ABS, SRS, and TPMS codes, plus test your car battery and alternator to prevent unexpected failures. Vehicle coverage may vary. Please use Innova’s Coverage Checker to verify compatibility.
ALL-SYSTEM DIAGNOSTICS & LIVE DATA – Unlike basic code readers, this OBD2 scanner for all vehicles scans engine, transmission, ABS, SRS, and more. Get real-time live data, including RPM, fuel trims, temperature readings, and oxygen sensor performance.
OBD2 TABLET WITH USER-FRIENDLY INTERFACE – This automotive scan tool features a high-resolution display, making vehicle diagnostics faster and easier.
ADVANCED TPMS, OIL RESET & SERVICE FUNCTIONS – Perform TPMS sensor checks, oil light reset, and other service resets with ease This professional diagnostic tool provides comprehensive vehicle maintenance capabilities in one device.
WIDE VEHICLE COVERAGE (1996 & NEWER CARS & TRUCKS) – This OBD2 scanner Bluetooth tablet is compatible with Toyota, Ford, Honda, Chevrolet, Nissan, Dodge, and more. However, feature coverage may vary. Please use Innova's Coverage Checker to verify coverage.

SEOCONTENT-START

June 2014 TechTIPS Page 1 Subaru Service and Technical Support Line Newsletter June 2014 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, L.L. Bean, Baja, Tribeca, BRZ, XV Crosstrek 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. ARTICLES CONTAINED IN THIS ISSUE 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 CODE ARTICLE…………………………….PAGE (00) May STIS New Releases………05 (01) QMR of the Month……………..01 (01) 2015MY Legacy and Outback Transit Fuse Information……. 04 (02) Too Much Oil In The Engine Revisited………………………02 (12) Whitish Discoloration / Deposits on Front Door Panels, 2012MY and Later Impreza and XV Crosstrek® Models…………….03 01 QMR OF THE MONTH We are pleased to announce this month’s winner of the QMR of the Month. Will submitted a very detailed QMR reviewing his diagnosis of a 2014 Legacy with inoperative keyless remote entry. He confirmed the failure mode and using good diagnostic techniques, identified a concern with the keyless entry module. At the same time, he noticed the windows had aftermarket tinting installed. Questioning of the customer indicated that the keyless concern occurred just after the windows were tinted. Further inspection then found the keyless entry module showed signs of soapy water intrusion and corrosion, apparently a result of the tint application process. Will shared this information with us in hopes we would remind others through Tech Tips to always consider the installation of aftermarket products and accessories as part of determining the root cause of any failure. Great Tip Will ! In appreciation for going the extra mile and sharing his experience with us, Will is receiving the following from his FSE: Any Subaru Service Technician can participate in QMR of the Month. See the February 2013 Tech Tips for full details. You may see your name here in a future Tech Tips. A Subaru Confidence In Motion Jacket and a $100 Gift Card Will Wright Pence Subaru in Midlothian, VA 2014 CALENDAR OF SUBARU HOLIDAYS Independence Day Friday, July 4, 2014 Labor Day Monday, September 1, 2014 Thanksgiving Thursday, November 27, 2014 Friday, November 28, 2014 Happy Holidays Thursday, December 25, 2014 Friday, December 26, 2014 ©2014 Subaru of America, Inc. All rights reserved. June 2014 TechTIPS Page 2 How much is too much? What can happen if you put too much oil in an engine? If you’ve ever seen an engine that had way too much oil added, you’d say a lot can happen and all of it is very bad and expensive. What if it’s just a little over full, say by half a quart? Shouldn’t hurt anything…right? Excess will just burn off…right? Wrong. What if we told you that an engine just half a quart over full could result in a drivability concern? It can. You may want to check the engine oil level when the engine is cold. In addition, we have received reports outlining CVT operational issues listed (but not limited to) the conditions below. These have also been found to be a result of an over-filled crankcase: If the engine oil level is over-full, drain the excess oil to the full mark on the dipstick then see if the conditions are corrected. Conditions like these will generally be most noticeable when accelerating up a grade. If you are monitoring the ECM using the SSMIII, you may also notice knocking correction occurring at the same time you experience the surging sensation. We are aware of concerns like this occurring in the field following both dealer and aftermarket oil changes. If the oil level is found to be over-filled, always make sure to check the oil level in the front differential to rule out an accidental draining. Always confirm the engine oil level is correct following any service. What if the car is new? What if the mileage isn’t near the scheduled service interval? Don’t discount the possibility of someone adding oil to an engine between services. After all, if it’s down half a quart why not just add the whole quart. It’s only a little over full. What could it hurt? Now you know. It could hurt drivability. 02 TOO MUCH OIL IN THE ENGINE REVISITED IF YOU ENCOUNTER A CONCERN OF: • Sluggish operation • Hesitation • Continual Surging • CVT not “shifting” properly, delayed up-ratio or wrong ratio selected for the engine load followed by an engine over-rev condition when CVT ratios down in response to throttle input • “Grabbing” sensation, CVT operating in a jerking fashion • Vehicle seems to be lacking power at times or continually June 2014 TechTIPS Page 3 If you receive a customer concern of a whitish discoloration found on the front interior door trim panels, it is most likely a by-product of the scratch prevention agent used in the front door trim material. If the vehicle has been in storage for a period of time or unused with all the windows closed, a lack of air circulation in the cabin can cause deposits to form on the front door trim panel surfaces in the areas shown in the photo below. Use a clean detailing cloth wet with plain water to remove the deposits. After the surface dries, confirm all the deposits have been removed. Should any deposits remain, repeat the process again. Make sure the cloth is wet as using a dry cloth can damage the surface of the trim panel. WHITISH DISCOLORATION / DEPOSITS ON FRONT DOOR PANELS, 2012MY AND LATER 12 IMPREZA AND XV CROSSTREK® MODELS Common Areas For The Whitish Deposits To Accumulate. June 2014 TechTIPS Page 4 In the very near future, your dealership will start to receive the first shipments of the all-new 2015MY Legacy and Outback models. As part of the Pre-Delivery Inspection procedure, the transit fuse will need to be relocated to the back-up power fuse location in the Main Fuse Box (M/B), under the hood as shown in the illustrations below. 01 2015MY LEGACY AND OUTBACK TRANSIT FUSE INFORMATION Transit / Storage Configuration Empty back-up power supply fuse location Location of transit fuse Retail / Market Configuration Move 30A fuse from the transit position to the back-up power supply position. June 2014 TechTIPS Page 5 00 MAY STIS NEW RELEASES ITEM CODE ITEM TYPE TITLE CREATED DATE F551SAL700 Accessory Installation Guide 2015MY Outback Compartment Separator 29-May-14 MSA5P1926C Technician Reference Booklet 2015 Legacy and Outback New Technology Training (Module 926) 29-May-14 H001SAL800 Accessory Installation Guide 2015 Legacy and Outback Smart Engine Start Kit (Push-Start Ignition) 28-May-14 H001SAL000 Accessory Installation Guide 2015 Legacy and Outback Remote Engine Start System (Turn-Start Ignition) 28-May-14 02-156-14 Technical Service Bulletin Service Part Number Change to The V-Belt (Serpentine Drive / Accessory Belt) to Address A Squeak, Squeal, or Chirp Sound 27-May-14 02-147-13R Technical Service Bulletin Surface Treatment Change To Oil Control Piston Rings 27-May-14 02-145-13R Technical Service Bulletin Surface Treatment Change To Oil Control Piston Rings (2012-2013MY Impreza and 2013MY XV Crosstrek) 27-May-14 02-144-13R Technical Service Bulletin Surface Treatment Change To Oil Control Piston Rings (2012-2014MY Forester) 27-May-14 02-143-13R Technical Service Bulletin Surface Treatment Change To Oil Control Piston Rings (2013MY Legacy and Outback) 27-May-14 11-140-14 Technical Service Bulletin Reprogramming Files for Spark Knock (Ping) in High Altitude Areas 23-May-14 MSA5M1514A Owner Manual 2015MY WRX and WRX STI Owner’s Manual 21-May-14 17-17-13R Technical Service Bulletin Event Data Recorder (EDR) Function of Airbag Module 20-May-14 J501SAJ600 Accessory Installation Guide Rear Seat Back Protector 19-May-14 J101SSG701XX Accessory Installation Guide Forester Body Side Molding Kit 19-May-14 11-139-14 Technical Service Bulletin Reprogramming Files for DTC P0606 and Extended Engine Cranking 16-May-14 15-173-14 Technical Service Bulletin Exterior Auto Dim Mirrors with Approach Lighting 16-May-14 E361SAJ500 Accessory Installation Guide Ski Carrier Lift Kit 14-May-14 CONTINUED ON THE NEXT PAGE June 2014 TechTIPS Page 6 00 MAY STIS NEW RELEASES (CONTINUED) ITEM CODE ITEM TYPE TITLE CREATED DATE MSA5T1559A Service Manual Full 2015MY Impreza WRX/STI Body Repair Manual 14-May-14 MSA5M1503A Owner Manual 2015MY Forester Owner’s Manual (Version B) 13-May-14 F551SAL020 Accessory Installation Guide 2015MY Legacy Trunk Side Net Kit (Both Sides) 8-May-14 16-90-13R Technical Service Bulletin Design Change to Lock-Up Type Torque Converter 7-May-14 13-97-14 Technical Service Bulletin 2015 MY Paint Coding Information 6-May-14 SUTTIPSLOC Other / Miscellaneous TechTIPS Article Locator Index (Updated 05-2014) 6-May-14 TIPS0514 TechTIPS NewsLetter 2014 May TechTIPS Newsletter 5-May-14 WQJ-46 Subaru Product / Campaign Bulletin 5-Speed Automatic Transmission (5EAT) Parking Rod 1-May-14 15-156-12R Technical Service Bulletin Deletion of Compass Mirror 1-May-14 A091SSG000 Accessory Installation Guide 2015MY Legacy and Outback Engine Block Heater Kit (4 Cylinder) 1-May-14 A091SFJ001 Accessory Installation Guide 2015MY Legacy and Outback Engine Block Heater Kit (6 Cylinder) 1-May-14 H631SAL000 Accessory Installation Guide 2015MY Legacy and Outback Tweeter Kit 1-May-14 Be sure to always check the “What’s New” section on STIS for any updated or recently released information that may not be listed here. June 2014 TechTIPS Page 7 *** 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 6000, Cherry Hill, NJ 08034-6000. Your Name: Signature: Dealer’s Name: City: Date: Dealer Code: