Sus Tips 0809 - August 2009 (TIPS 0809-01)

SUS TIPS 0809 - AUGUST 2009

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN

2010MY LEGACY & OUTBACK CLOCK SETTING PROCEDURE

We have received a couple of QMR reports with questions about setting the clock on the new 2010MY Legacy & Outback. In each case, the vehicle has been equipped with Navigation. On these models, the Navigation system must be set up first as it controls the clock display on the dash. This information is also available in the Owner's Manual, pg. 3-24.

2010MY LEGACY & OUTBACK DENSO A/C COMPRESSOR WARNING

During our training with Denso on the new A/C system used on the 2010MY Legacy & Outback vehicles, it was pointed out that if the engine is started while the A/C system is under vacuum, it will result in catastrophic failure of the compressor. Because of the lack of a clutch on the new variable compressor, the engine must not be started  while the system is being evacuated.

TURBOCHARGED ENGINES: OIL SUPPLY REMINDER

When replacing a turbocharger, it is extremely important to remember the inspection of the banjo bolt mesh filter screens. Inspection, cleaning (or replacement if necessary) of these filters will help prevent repeat failures. It is also a good idea to inspect and clean the oil supply pipe while the bolts are removed. Don't forget to replace the copper sealing washers too as they are one-time use items.

Refer to Service Bulletins # 02-103-07R and # 02-106-08R for further details.

IPOD CHARGING INFORMATION

Last fall, Apple released new iPod models that charge using 5 volts only eliminating the capability to charge from either a 12 volt or 5 volt source. Since Subaru iPod interface kits provide 12 volts for charging, these newer iPods will not charge when connected.

Current iPods that do not  support charging under 12V:

• 4th Generation Nano
• 2nd Generation iTouch
• iPod Classic
• iPhone 3G and 3GS* (*Note: iPhone is not officially supported, but iPod functions will work if connected)
• Any new iPods released after June 2009.

A new 12 volt to 5 volt adapter cable has been developed for existing kits in operation; H621SSC200, H621SXA200, H621SFG500 and H621SFG501. The cable is about 6" long and includes the voltage conversion circuit inside. The user simply plugs it in, and then connects the iPod to the other end. This new adapter cable is not a proprietary design type therefore, it may not work with other iPod docking stations. As always, Subaru only verifies and guarantees compatibility with Subaru products. The part number is H621SXA300. We expect this new cable to be ready during September 2009.

New kits with 5 Volt charging are planned to replace the current kits once current inventory is exhausted. An announcement will be posted on Subarunet.com when the new kits are released. The new Media Hub (next generation iPod Interface) kits for 2010 Outback, 2010 Legacy and 2010 Impreza will have 5 Volt charging built in.

2010MY LEGACY & OUTBACK SOUND AT INITIAL START-UP

The new 2010MY Legacy and Outback models utilize a new cradle type mounting design for the engine and transmission assembly. This new engine and transmission cradle is designed to provide a better ride quality. One of the inherent differences of the new design from the old design is the manner in which the torque from starting the engine is dispersed. Specifically, when the torque from the starter is released and the engine returns to a "neutral" position in the cradle, a sound may result that can be heard through the floorboards. It may be described as a very slight "knock" sound (one time) right at the point of the initial ignition (start-up). During a cold engine start-up, this sound may be intensified by the additional starter torque required due to the increased viscosity of cold engine oil. This sound is in no way detrimental to the vehicle and will not cause any damage and/or wear over time.

2010MY LEGACY & OUTBACK LOW-BEAM BULB REPLACEMENT

Be advised that the low-beam headlight bulbs on 2010 Legacy/Outback models can be serviced by removing the inner fender wells. There is no need to remove the bumper cover per the procedure originally outlined in the Module 919 TRB.

SPEEDOMETER INOPERATIVE? DON'T OVERLOOK THE SUNROOF WIRING

If you encounter an inoperative speedometer and the vehicle is equipped with a sunroof, don't overlook the sunroof wiring. The reported vehicle was a 2009MY Forester, but the wiring depicted in this article is not particular to this model. By design, there is a vehicle speed signal input to the sunroof motor. Simply put, it takes more current to operate the auto-reversing feature of the sunroof motor when the vehicle is moving, hence the need for a VSP input. See the 9/06 issue of TIPS for more information on this subject. An intermittent short to ground was detected on the VSP signal wire (green w/ black tracer) going to the combination meter from ABS control unit. The ABS control unit and then the TPMS module were disconnected but, the short was still present. After a lot of time and resources were used, the short was finally traced to the green/black wire above the head liner near the top of the "A" pillar by the sunroof frame. After repairing the damaged wiring, the speedometer worked normally.

2010MY LEGACY & OUTBACK, AUTO UP/DOWN FEATURE OPERATION

If you receive a customer concern that their one touch auto-up (or auto-down) feature of their power windows no longer operates, ask if their battery has been disconnected for any reason. Disconnecting the battery disables the system and requires re-initialization before it will operate again.

The process is simple:

• Get in the car, close the driver's door and turn the ignition "on".
• Lower the driver's window 1/2 way down.
• Raise it fully, then hold the switch up an extra second or two after it's fully closed.
• Confirm that the automatic operation has been restored.

This information can also be found in the Owner's Manual.