NHTSA ID Number: 10234879
Manufacturer Communication Number: TechTIPS-1
Summary
Subaru
Service and Technical Support Line Newsletter
ARTICLES CONTAINED IN THIS ISSUE
CODE ARTICLE – PAGE
(00) STIS Release Highlights from
04/01/2013 to 04/30/2013 – 07
(01) QMR of the Month – 01
(01) Recommended Materials Update – 03
(02) 2012 WRX
and STI
Motor Mounts – 05
(02) Remanufactured Short Blocks – 06
(05) 2005 and Up Front Lower Control Arm Bushings – 05
(07) Campaign WQF-42 Information – 06
(07) Fuel Gauge Diagnosis – 06
(12) Melting Plastic Parts – 02
(15) 2014 Forester and 2013 Legacy Keyless Access, Keyless Entry – 03
(15) Navigation Voice Guidance..03
(15) 2014 Forester Speaker Kit Installation – 04
10 Affected Products
Vehicles
| MAKE | MODEL | YEAR |
| SUBARU | BRZ | 2013 |
| SUBARU | CROSSTREK | 2013 |
| SUBARU | FORESTER | 2013 |
| SUBARU | IMPREZA | 2013 |
| SUBARU | LEGACY | 2013 |
| SUBARU | OUTBACK | 2013 |
| SUBARU | TRIBECA | 2013 |
| SUBARU | WRX | 2013 |
| SUBARU | WRX | 2013 |
| SUBARU | XV CROSSTREK | 2013 |
1 Associated Document
Manufacturer Communications
TIPS0513 – 2013 May TechTIPS Newsletter
MC-10234879-9999.pdf 1389.776KB
NHTSA ID Number: 10065750
Manufacturer Communication Number: WQF-42
Summary
SUMMARY TO BE PROVIDED ON A FUTURE DATE.
1 Associated Document
Manufacturer Communications
TIPS0513 – 2013 May TechTIPS Newsletter
MC-10065750-3639.pdf 1389.776KB
- [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.
- 【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 monitoring 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.
- [Diagnose Like a Pro] BlueDriver Pro Next-Gen 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, and more on supported vehicles, including expanded coverage on newer model years.
- [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.
- [Expanded Make & Model Coverage] Optimized for today’s vehicles with strong support for GM, Ford, Stellantis (RAM, Jeep, Chrysler), Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Mazda, Subaru
, Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and VW. Enhanced communication on select 2024+ Nissan and Mazda models (see compatibility chart). - [Gas Vehicles 1996+ & Select Light-Duty Trucks] Works with all gas-powered vehicles made in 1996 or newer, plus select light-duty trucks and diesels, including F-250, RAM 2500, Silverado, and Sierra. Built for daily drivers, family vehicles, and real-world truck use.
- PAID FOR ITSELF ON FIRST USE - SAVE ON EVERY DIAGNOSIS: Avoid expensive shop fees and take control of vehicle repairs at home. The NT614 Elite delivers professional-level diagnostics for Engine, ABS, SRS Airbag, and Transmission systems, helping you quickly identify the real cause of warning lights and avoid unnecessary repairs. With 5 essential service resets including Oil Reset, EPB, ABS Bleeding, SAS Calibration, and Throttle Relearn, you can complete everyday maintenance and repairs without paying dealership visit. Features WiFi updates, no registration required, and plug-and-play setup with no extra power cord
- 5 ESSENTIAL RESETS FOR REAL DIY MAINTENANCE: More than just a diagnostic tool, the NT614 Elite gives you the service functions DIYers actually need to avoid expensive shop visits. Perform Oil Reset, EPB brake service, ABS bleeding, steering angle calibration, and throttle relearn to fix common maintenance issues at home with confidence. Reset warning lights, replace brake pads, restore throttle performance, and complete essential maintenance without paying dealership labor costs. Note: Function availability varies by vehicle make, model, year, engine type, and system configuration. Please confirm compatibility before purchase.
- SAME 4-SYSTEM DIAGNOSTICS AS NT604: Built on the trusted NT604, the NT614 Elite delivers full diagnostics for Engine, ABS, SRS Airbag, and Transmission systems-helping you identify the root cause behind warning lights instead of guessing. Read and clear codes, view live data graphs, monitor engine temperature, wheel speed sensors, transmission temperature, and more for accurate troubleshooting at home
- LIVE DATA GRAPHING - FIND PROBLEMS BEFORE THEY GET EXPENSIVE: See what basic scanners miss with real-time data displayed in easy-to-read graphs. Monitor fuel trims, oxygen sensors, engine load, RPM, battery voltage, and transmission temperature to detect intermittent or hidden problems before they become costly repairs. Diagnose faster and make smarter repair decisions with visual data insights
- AUTO VIN + LIFETIME WI-FI UPDATES + WIDE COVERAGE: AutoVIN instantly identifies your vehicle for faster setup and fewer errors. Generate professional vehicle health reports for maintenance tracking, used car inspections, or sharing with mechanics. Stay updated with lifetime free Wi-Fi updates-no subscriptions or hidden fees. Supports 90+ brands and 10,000+ models including Ford, Toyota, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Honda, Nissan, Volkswagen, Hyundai, Subaru
, and more for long-term reliable use
- [All System Diagnostics, Professional-Level Scanner] - BLCKTEC 460T is the ultimate OBD2 diagnostic tool for home mechanics and professionals. It supports all 10 OBD2 modes, reads and clears Engine/Transmission/ABS/SRS codes, performs All-System Diagnostics, offers workshop reset tools, and provides real-time live data. It helps you pinpoint issues, assess your car's condition, and prepare for SMOG checks with ease. NOTE: Function availability depends on your vehicle. Before you buy, be sure to use the Compatibility Checker on BLCKTEC website or contact our customer support to verify that the features you need are supported for your vehicle’s specific year, make, and model.
- [12+ Most Popular Reset Functions] - BLCKTEC 460T OBD2 scanner offers 12+ dealer-level service functions, including Oil Maintenance Reset, ABS Bleeding, EPB Reset, SAS(Steering Angle Sensor) Recalibration, DPF(Diesel Particulate Filter) Reset, Throttle Body Relearn, Battery Reset/Initialization, TPMS Relearn, Transmission Reset, Fluid Change Reset, Maintenance Reset and more, enabling you to perform workshop services like a pro. NOTE: Function availability depends on your vehicle. Be sure to use the Compatibility Checker on BLCKTEC website to verify that the features you need are supported for your vehicle.
- [Real-Time OBD2 and OEM Live Data, Freeze Frame Data] - BLCKTEC 460T helps diagnose vehicle issues when warning lights like Check Engine Light or ABS/SRS Light appear. It offers detailed DTC info, ECU Freeze Frame Data, and real-time OBD2 and advanced OEM live data, including Engine, Transmission, ABS, SRS, and more, making it easy to diagnose and resolve vehicle problems. You can view, graph, record, replay, and overlay up to four live data streams in a single graph for better analysis.
- [AutoVIN, AutoReLink, AutoScan, 3X Faster] - Equipped with AutoVIN technology, 460T automatically retrieves the VIN to save you time. Its AutoScan and AutoReLink features scan all of the vehicle's ECUs and detect any fault codes immediately after you plug the scanner into the vehicle's OBD2 port - no button presses required. Additionally, it regathers DTC and I/M readiness information every 30 seconds, simplifying monitor tests. 460T's advanced technology makes it 3X faster than other products.
- [Get RepairSolutions2, the #1 Auto Repair App for Free] - When paired with RepairSolutions2(RS2) App, 460T becomes even more powerful. RS2's Verified Fix Database built by master technicians, provides the parts needed for the repair. Additionally, RS2 gives you access to OEM warranty info, maintenance schedules, TSB, and dealership recall info, making car care easier than ever. RS2 is free with no subscription fees and it stores your car scan reports in the cloud, allowing you to access, share, or print them anytime and anywhere.
Last update on 2026-06-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
SEOCONTENT-START
May 2013 TechTIPS Page 1
Subaru
Service and
Technical Support Line Newsletter
May 2013
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.
HELPING TO ACHIEVE THE PREMIUM SERVICE EXPERIENCE
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) STIS Release Highlights from
04/01/2013 to 04/30/2013…07
(01) QMR of the Month…………01
(01) Recommended Materials Update……………………..03
(02) 2012 WRX
and STI
Motor Mounts……………………..05
(02) Remanufactured Short
Blocks………………………06
(05) 2005 and Up Front Lower Control Arm Bushings……..05
(07) Campaign WQF-42 Information………………..06
(07) Fuel Gauge Diagnosis …….06
(12) Melting Plastic Parts………02
(15) 2014 Forester and 2013 Legacy Keyless Access, Keyless Entry………………03
(15) Navigation Voice Guidance..03
(15) 2014 Forester Speaker Kit Installation…………………04
We are pleased to announce this month’s winner of the recently released QMR of the Month program.
Toby submitted a very detailed QMR on his diagnosis and repair of a wiring failure that was found following a battery replacement. In appreciation for going the extra mile and sharing his experience with
us in hopes of improving product quality, Toby will be receiving the following from his FSE:
Congratulations Toby!
Any Subaru
Service Technician can participate in QMR of the Month. See the February 2013 Tech Tips for full details. If your QMR is selected, you may see your name here in a future issue of Tech Tips.
QMR OF THE MONTH
01
Maita Subaru
in Sacramento, CA
Toby Costa
A Subaru
Confidence
In Motion Jacket
A $100
Gift Card
&
On Monday, May 27th, Techline
will be closed in observance of
MEMORIAL DAY
May 2013 TechTIPS Page 2
Have you had a customer come into your dealership and report they have plastic parts on their car that look like they are melting? The customer may be correct but this kind of damage, is not a defect with their car’s plastic exterior parts. During the warmer months, the sun’s ultraviolet rays are stronger than at other times. If their vehicle is parked near a house or building which utilizes “Low-E” glass windows, sunlight reflection from this type of glass can actually direct enough heat to damage plastic parts. “Low-E” energy-saving glass has widespread uses, from office buildings to residential windows. Basically, it reflects the sun’s UV rays in the summer and helps retain heat inside during the colder months. Here’s an illustration of how Low-E glass works.
Under the right conditions, the heat from this concentrated sunlight reflection as shown on the left can reach up to near 180 degrees. That kind of concentrated temperature is more than hot enough to damage residential vinyl siding and in some cases, plastic car parts.
MELTING PLASTIC PARTS
12
Continued…
May 2013 TechTIPS Page 3
The photo below shows an example of a sunlight-damaged Subaru
door mirror.
With springtime already here and summer on the way, you may experience these kinds of customer concerns at any time. Keep in mind, this kind of damage is not a defect and therefore, not a matter for warranty.
MELTING PLASTIC PARTS (CONTINUED)
12
The Keyless entry programming for the Keyless Access Control (KAC) remote key has been eliminated. Programming a remote KAC fob for the Immobilizer also programs the Keyless Entry System. Please refer to page 58 of the Registration Manual for Immobilizer type “D” system for information and Registration processes. The Manual can be found by searching STIS/Online Reference under Publication Type “Other/Miscellaneous. You also must select a vehicle with push button start. Enter 2013 Outback or Legacy and type in search key word “Immobilizer”.
2014 FORESTER AND 2013 LEGACY KEYLESS ACCESS, KEYLESS ENTRY
15
If you have a customer concern that their Navigation Voice Guidance is inoperative, make sure the voice mode is on TTS voice Samantha.
When set to Natural Voice Amy or Dave, the voice commands will not work. Refer to the Navigation Owner’s Manual page 83 for further explanation.
NAVIGATION VOICE GUIDANCE (F10 SYSTEMS ONLY)
15
The Techline and Quality Assurance area of SOA Service have been receiving inquiries as to the proper gear oil for a BRZ equipped with a 6 speed manual transmission. We have confirmed with FHI that 75W/90 weight gear oil part number K0322AA093 (5 Gallon Container) is the correct fluid to use when servicing either the transmission or rear differential. The BRZ has a Torque Sensing Limited Slip Differential that does not require LSD type oil. The STI
still uses a traditional Limited Slip Rear Differential and requires LSD type oil. The correct fluid for the STI
is part number K0318Y0000 (4 liter container). All of this information can be found in the Service Manual under section 1, General Information.
RECOMMENDED MATERIALS UPDATE
01
May 2013 TechTIPS Page 4
When removing the left & right rear door trim panels on the 2014 Forester, use caution to first release the clip designated below before releasing any other trim panel clips to avoid trim panel damage.
2014 FORESTER SPEAKER KIT INSTALLATION
15
Standard nylon
trim tool
After removing the panel gusset piece & mount screws, remove the clip designated with an arrow above before releasing any other panel mount clips
Use a standard trim tool to widen the gap between the trim panel & the door panel near the clip location & then insert a slotted trim tool into place at the designated clip to carefully disengage the clip by twisting the tool.
This specific clip should be released first on both the right & left rear door trim panels. Then the other trim panel clips can be released by pulling with fingers while working around the edges of the trim panel normally.
Without releasing the designated clip first, the molded clip support at this clip location is likely to break as per the photo above. The clip at this one location is much less supported than at all other rear door or front door trim panel clip locations.
Continued…
May 2013 TechTIPS Page 5
2014 FORESTER SPEAKER KIT INSTALLATION (CONTINUED)
15
This one designated clip support
is much less substantial than all
other clip locations with support
along two “lines” only
Other panel clips are much more supported in a variety of designs and
we have encountered no damage to the supports at any other clip
locations during panel removal
To further clarify the information that was released in May 2006 Tech Tips, it is not necessary to replace the bushings for cracks up to 15mm across the outside surface, and all the way through the bushing from one side to the other. The strength of the bushing is still 20 times stronger than specification. This information includes the current model (Legacy and Outback) with this style control arm bushing. Unless you receive a direct customer complaint regarding a suspension issue such as a knocking noise on acceleration or some type of noise generated when turning, you should not replace the control arm bushings based upon a visual inspection where cracks are found. Only replace the bushings when it is confirmed to have caused a problem and the customer has reported the problem to your dealership.
2005MY AND LATER FRONT LOWER CONTROL ARM BUSHINGS
05
Crack at 4 Positions
Should you receive a customer complaint of a clicking or knocking sound heard when shifting or engaging/disengaging the clutch, check both motor mount nuts at the bottom of the engine and rear transmission cross members for either being loose or missing. Also, be sure to inspect the engine wiring harness as high torque output can pull on and damage the wiring harness in some cases. As with any noise complaint, the motor mount nuts should be checked for proper torque on any model Subaru
.
2012MY AND 2013MY WRX
AND STI
MOTOR MOUNTS
02
May 2013 TechTIPS Page 6
The deck surface of some remanufactured short blocks will sometimes exhibit a difference in finish texture, as shown in
the picture.
This is caused during the remanufacturing process, when
the cutter changes directions as it finishes its pass across
the deck.
The change in textures can be differentiated with a fingernail,
but it is a normal condition and the block can be installed without any issues.
REMANUFACTURED SHORT BLOCKS
02
The Techline has been receiving calls from technicians performing campaign WQF-42 and reporting that they cannot enter programming mode, particularly on 2012 Impreza models. We have confirmed the Impreza RES module has a larger window to look for the key sweep cycles when entering the programming mode. In each case, we have asked technicians to perform a battery capacitive discharge and to slow down the speed of the key cycle from off to on. This has enabled entry into programming mode and allowed registration of the new RES key fobs.
CAMPAIGN WQF-42 INFORMATION
07
Should you receive a customer complaint that their fuel gauge is not reading accurately or not going all the way up to the full position on any model Subaru
that is equipped with a BIU (Body Integrated Unit), never ground any of the wiring at the BIU. The proper way to diagnose both of the fuel sending units, BIU and combination meter can be found in the Service Manual for the particular model year you are working on.
Generally, the BIU looks at both fuel tank sending units for a combined resistance value that does vary from model year to model year. For example, if you were troubleshooting a 2009 Forester with a customer complaint that their fuel gauge does not go all the way up to the full mark after filling their fuel tank, the first step should be to check for any DTCs ( Diagnostic Trouble Codes). Assume the vehicle had a P0462 Fuel Level Sensor Circuit High Input DTC. After choosing a 2009 Forester on STIS and searching for the DTC P0462, you will see a search link that says check combination meter. If you click on that link, it will take you to a flow chart that will show you what each sending unit resistance value should be at both the Full and Empty positions. In this particular case, the main sending unit value should be 1 to 3 ohms with a full tank and 31 to 33 ohms with an empty tank. The sub sending unit should be 1 to 3 ohms with a full tank and 61 to 63 ohms with an empty tank. The BIU is looking for a combined resistance of 90 ohms for the gauge to read empty.
The key points to remember are:
• Never ground out any of the BIU signal wiring in an attempt to make the gauge read full or empty
• The combined resistance value that the BIU is looking for can vary from different model years.
FUEL GAUGE DIAGNOSIS
07
May 2013 TechTIPS Page 7
*** NOW YOU CAN E-MAIL YOUR TECHTIPS INPUT AND SUGGESTIONS TO: SERVICEINFO@SUBARU
.COM ***
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:
11-131-13; Technical Service Bulletin, ECM Reprogramming for Extended Engine Cranking
H001SSG800; Accessory Installation Guide, 2014 Forester Smart Engine Start (Push-start)
T3010TS010; Accessory Installation Guide, Legacy, Outback and Impreza Wheel Lock Kit (For Steel Wheels)
12-145-13R; Technical Service Bulletin, Condensation in Rear Combination Lamps, Retaining
Nut Change
02-140-13; Technical Service Bulletin, Oil Filler Cap Gasket Coming Unseated
18-171-13; Service Manual Correction, Service Manual Corrections
STIS RELEASE HIGHLIGHTS FROM 04/01/2013 TO 04/30/2013
00
2013 Calendar of
Subaru
Holidays
Memorial Day
Monday, May 27, 2013
Independence Day
Thursday, July 4, 2013
Labor Day
Monday, September 3, 2013
Thanksgiving Day
Thursday, November 28, 2013
Christmas Eve
Tuesday, December 24, 2013
Christmas Day
Wednesday, December 25, 2013
SUBARU
TECHLINE
Monday – Thursday 8:30am to 6:30pm
Friday 10:30am to 5pm
Hours of Operation
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SEOCONTENT-END
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