Variable Torque Distribution (TIPS 0501-03)

WARNING: This page is about the Impreza WRX, 4D Sedan, Automatic, which is a different variant/trim than selected.

Publication date: 2001-05-01
Reference number: TIPS 0501-03

VARIABLE TORQUE DISTRIBUTION

TECHNICAL INFORMATION TIP - MANUFACTURER

Reference Number(s): TIPS 0501-03, Date of Issue: May, 2001

SUBARU:	2001 Legacy Outback; 2002 Impreza
CATEGORY:	Subaru Tech T.I.P.S. 2001
GROUP:	03 - Drivetrain - Transaxle

DESCRIPTION

(03) VARIABLE TORQUE DISTRIBUTION (VTD)

The Variable Torque Distribution system is used on all 2001 MY 6 cylinder Legacy Outback VDC and the 2002 MY Impreza WRX models, equipped with the 4EAT. As was mentioned in the New Model Update courses for these vehicles, this system is new to the U.S. market.

When the friction of the front and rear tires is the same, the power is split 54.55% to the rear and 45.45% to the front. When the TCU detects a speed difference between the front and rear wheels, the MPT clutch will send more power to the front wheels making the power split approx. 50% to the front and 50% to the rear.

Something to remember when working on vehicles with this VTD system.

The power split for the front and rear, at minimum, is always 45% / 55% front to rear in round numbers. It is never less.
Even when you have installed the forced front wheel drive fuse (FWD), you will STILL have power to the rear wheels. On VDC models, installing this fuse, will ONLY disable the VDC system. It will NOT disable the AWD system.
Also, the FWD fuse holder on the WRX has NO connection to the TCU. It is a blank hole. The WRX is always in AWD.

Remember this when you have the front wheels on either of these vehicles raised and the rear wheels on the ground for whatever reason. If you put the vehicle in gear, the vehicle will STILL have traction at the rear wheels.

The L.L.Bean model has a conventional 4EAT system meaning that installation of the FWD fuse will force the transmission into FWD operation.