In this issue find information on a seized front differential problem; the new engine oil dipstick for the 2008 3.6L Tribeca; new information added to the STIS website; and much more.

New Engine Oil Dipstick for 2008 3.6L Tribeca

A new style engine oil dipstick is found on 2008 3.6L Tribeca vehicles manufactured since September, 2007. On these vehicles, an indentation is found on the dipstick above the “FULL” mark. To avoid confusion, Subaru of America, Inc. explains: “Oil levels below this mark are acceptable and no oil needs to be drained from the engine. When filling during an oil change, fill to the required specified level.”

New Information Added to STIS Website

New service information has recently been added to the Subaru Technical Information System (STIS) website at http://techinfo.subaru.com. Please note the additions and visit the website to familiarize yourself with the new information.

Separate Service Manual for 2008 Impreza WRX STI

The 2008 Impreza WRX STI has its own dedicated service manual, separate from the 2008 Impreza (including WRX) manual. Please take care to refer to the correct manual when performing service.

Body Repair Manuals

Service Manuals for body repair service have recently been added to the STIS website for the following models:

• Forester (2003-2008)
• Legacy (2005-2008)
• Tribeca (2006-2008)
• Impreza (2008)

2009 Forester Manuals

Service Manual and Body Repair Manual covering the 2009 Forester are now available on the STIS website.

Seized Front Differential

Here’s a problem you should watch for. A few months ago, a 2005 Legacy XT was towed into a Subaru dealer. The customer stated that the vehicle just came to a stop and would not move.

When the service advisor asked if any recent service had been performed on the vehicle, the customer said he had the engine oil changed at a chain oil change shop.

A quick check of the vehicle showed that the front differential oil plug had been removed (with adjustable pliers) and the differential contained no oil. Apparently, the differential oil had been drained at the oil change shop by a worker thinking that he was draining the crankcase – even though the “DIFF OIL” markings for the differential oil drain plug are stamped on the case, near the drain plug. As a result, the differential seized and needed extensive repair.

Unfortunately, this is not a rare occurrence when engine oil changes are performed by chain oil shops or do-it-yourselfers. Be aware of this possibility and remind your customers to have service performed only at quality service facilities that are knowledgeable of Subaru vehicles, using Genuine Subaru parts and fluids.