Tech Tips February 2022 (TIPS0222)
Reference number: TIPS0222
TECH TIPS FEBRUARY 2022
TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN
| SUBARU: | All Models |
01 QMR OF THE MONTH
We are pleased to announce this month's QMR of the Month Winner:
The QMR of the Month selected from December's submissions detailed a rather unusual condition which became evident after a routine clutch replacement on an 83,000+ mile, 2016MY Impreza 5-Door. Removing the transmission revealed severely worn clutch components which included a pressure plate with several fingers missing from the diaphragm spring. Upon completion of the repair and subsequent confirmation road testing, the Check Engine light came on. Leo reported finding random misfire codes in memory and roughness counts even though the car ran perfectly normal. Since the primary source of misfire data is the crankshaft position sensor, he began by removing it for a visual inspection. With no damage identified, Leo proceeded to inspect each tooth of the reluctor using a borescope while slowly rotating the crankshaft. No damage or misalignment was found. Leo proceeded by connecting his Pico scope and taking a closer look at the waveform data for both camshaft position sensors and the crankshaft sensor. He also used the same waveform data from a known good vehicle for comparison with no significant differences seen. After ruling out an imbalance of the replacement clutch components by installing another assembly, Leo decided to swap in a known good crankshaft position sensor, clear the ECM memory then headed back out for another road test with the scope reconnected. The roughness counts disappeared, and the Check Engine light did not reset. After replacing the crankshaft position sensor with a new part and another confirmation road test, the vehicle was returned to the customer. Leo's TechShare report included his detailed diagnostic steps along with scope data screenshots and numerous high-quality photos.
In appreciation for his continuing to go the extra mile, Leo will be receiving the following from his Field Service Engineer:
The other Regional winners selected from QMRs submitted during December 2021 were:
- Charles Johnston from Subaru of Macon in Macon, GA
- Raymond Quintana from Shingle Springs Subaru in Shingle Springs, CA
- Bryan Finochiaro from Baxter Subaru Omaha in Omaha, NE
- Daniel Evans from North Reading Subaru in North Reading, MA
Any Subaru Technician can participate in the QMR of the Month program. See the February 2013 and January 2016 issues of Tech TIPS for full details. You just might see your name and photo in a future issue of Tech TIPS!
01 QMR OF THE MONTH AWARD PRESENTATIONS
As part of our "enhanced" QMR of the Month recognition program, we include a photo (whenever available) of the recipient's award presentation in TIPS. The winner selected from QMR of the Month submissions received during December 2021 was (once again) Leo Gilmore, a Technician from Ruge's Subaru in Rhinebeck, NY.
Leo is shown above after being presented with his $500.00 Snap-On Gift Card. To Leo's right are Dealer Principals Lewis Ruge and Kristin Hutchins. To his left are Service Manager Jack Cleary and Subaru Distributors Corporation Field Service Engineer, Jim Colamarino.
Congratulations and THANK YOU to our December 2021 QMR of the Month Award recipient!
TECH TIPS GREATEST TIPS
This series features TechTIPS articles frequently referred to by Techline. This month's features are from April 2009 and December 2020.
02 P0171, ROUGH RUNNING CONDITION AFTER COLD START
If you encounter a 2005 or newer M/Y turbocharged vehicle experiencing a Check Engine Light for DTC P0171 and/or a customer complaint of rough running for a short period after start-up when cold, check for a vacuum leak at the intake manifold. The complaint has been noted primarily in northern climates when the outside temperatures are often below freezing. There is an orange rubber o-ring type intake manifold gasket used between the plastic upper intake plenum and the tumble generator part of the intake manifold. In some cases, idle quality was compromised. At times the SSMIII showed a 25% enrichment from the A/F sensor and a slightly lower MAP reading. After removing and separating the intake components, a dirty, blackened tracing could be seen where the leak was occurring (see photo). Symptoms would diminish as the engine warmed up. After replacing the o-ring gaskets, readings returned to normal and idle quality was restored.
11 DTC P0171 DIAGNOSTICS
Unmetered Air
- Air entering the engine after
the MAF
will cause lean air/fuel mixtures.
- Inspect all air intake connections for damage or looseness after the MAF.
- In order to locate air leaks which cannot be visually inspected, use a method of fuel enrichment while monitoring your fuel trims. If the fuel trims drop toward 0% or A/F sensor returns to ≤1.0 during enrichment of a certain location, suspect an air leak.
- Test the CPC solenoid and brake booster by blocking the hose connected to the component while monitoring the fuel trims to determine if there is a fault.
Exhaust
- Air entering the exhaust system between the cylinder head and A/F sensor will also cause a false lean condition.
Metering devices
- Metering devices for the air/fuel mixture can send incorrect information to the ECM causing incorrect fuel corrections.
- Inspect the connections at all air/fuel metering devices for poor connection and contamination.
- Swap the MAF and A/F sensor into a like vehicle to see if the condition follows the sensor.
Combustion chamber
- Poor combustion in a cylinder can result in unburned oxygen. The A/F sensor will read the unburned oxygen as a lean condition.
- Verify valve clearances and compression readings are within specifications according to the applicable Service Manual.
- Information regarding cylinder leak-down testing can be found on STIS in Technician's Reference Booklet: Engine Theory and Diagnosis MSA5P2106C.
01 THE TECHSHARE QMR AND YOU
With the new addition of the TechShare app, Techline and FQA felt it necessary to remind everyone on the importance, reason, proper usage, and effectiveness behind Quality Monitoring Reports (QMR)s,
A QMR should be completed for the following:
- Any vehicle repair made at the time of PDI.
- Any vehicle repair or condition you feel is unusual.
- Any potential safety related concern.
- Any common trend you as the field Technician are seeing that SOA may not be aware of.
A QMR should NOT be completed with questions regarding vehicle operation, repair procedures or claims entry. These topics were not intended for QMRs or the TechShare app, even though a steady increase has been seen. It is recommended to exhaust all available resources on Subarunet, STIS, fellow coworkers/shop foreman, contacting the SOA Techline or the Claims Support for further assistance.
The new TechShare QMR incorporates an interactive dialog option for the retailer Technician and FSE. This new option for dialog is intended to help Technicians receive feedback regarding their QMR entry from their FSE, not for diagnosis. This option should be utilized solely as a line of communication for coaching opportunities to create a more effective QMR.
In addition, QMRs should NEVER be used to escalate a vehicle concern if the Technician is having a difficult diagnosis/repair. Always utilize Techline for any repair escalations. Keep in mind, QMRs are a great way to report a new or hard to diagnose concern AFTER it has been successfully repaired. This will help the repair review process and provide potential improvement.
Finally, in today's world everyone's time is valuable, remember, the key to any diagnosis is in the details. Without the details, the ability of the next level to help you is significantly reduced. The same goes for reporting quality or safety concerns. The more details provided, the better and faster action can take place. Pictures, videos, troubleshooting results and SSM data are vital to good quality improvement escalations. Efficiency is crucial. In this case efficiency means sharing all the details so quick evaluations, judgments, further escalation and follow up actions can be made effectively.
For questions regarding claim entry or claims procedures, see your Warranty Administrator, refer to Subarunet > Claims & Warranty Administration > Claims Policy and Procedures or contact the SOA Claims Team.
05 FLAT SPOTS AND ROAD FORCE TIRE BALANCE
Some customers may describe a concern of a steering wheel vibration, oscillation, or a "shimmy" condition at highway speeds. This could be cause by many factors including improper tire/wheel balance, excessive radial force variation (RFV), and/or improper tire inflation. Another possibility often overlooked is if the vehicle sits for long periods of time, there is the potential for a "flat spot" to develop on the tire. When faced with a concern like this, start by interviewing the customer and test driving the vehicle to verify the concern. The next step would be a thorough visual inspection of the wheels and tires. Make sure they are properly inflated with no obvious signs of external damage like signs of scuffing/rubbing, sidewall damage or rubber missing, bubbles, excessive wear or cords showing. After this process has been completed, a tire balance check may be necessary. A Hunter GSP 9700 tire balance machine (or newer) is highly recommended when checking for balance and road force. The Hunter machine should be kept in good condition and calibrated regularly to maintain accurate results when checking for an imbalance or RFV. Failure to keep the balancer in proper working order could result in false or incorrect readings when attempting to repair this concern. STIS provides a service limit maximum of 0.18 oz for wheel balance, which is less than a quarter ounce! When performing a Road Force balance, be sure to keep the RFV to 8.0kg (17.6lbs) or less. TSB 05-50-10 is a great place to look for information when a vehicle comes in with a possible tire balance concern.
15 GEOTAB, FLEET TRACKING DEVICE
GeoTab is a brand name for a device used commonly across many vehicle manufactures and fleet organizations. GeoTab has worked directly with SOA Fleet Sales, to ensure the best possible operation of the device. It is used for several purposes: insurance tracking, fuel mileage logs, maintenance, and for taxes. There are currently no known concerns associated with the use of a GeoTab device on Subaru vehicles. Recently, Techline has been informed that retailers are refusing to diagnose vehicles for conditions if the GeoTab is found to be installed. These conditions vary widely, from Apple CarPlay connectivity to CVT Chain Slip, as being related to the use of the GeoTab device. All conditions reported were later resolved through normal diagnostics when the GeoTab was still installed/connected. The device had no bearing on the conditions presented. The initial refusal to diagnose the vehicle resulted in an easily avoidable poor customer experience for those fleet drivers. Never refuse to diagnose vehicles equipped with GeoTab branded devices. If after performing diagnosis related to the condition, and you believe there may be a concern specifically related to the GeoTab device reach out to Techline for further review.
If a vehicle with a GeoTab device is brought into the shop for a concern, simply unplug the OBD portion from the OBD port while any SSM Diagnosis is being completed. If the device is hardwired, and the ODB port is not blocked, there is no need to attempt removal. Perform an All-DTC scan and visual inspection. If a communication code (U0XXX) is found with no obvious signs of failure, e.g. the SSM cannot establish communication with a particular module, diagnosis the concern as it presents. If no clear fault can be found after completing the related Service Manual Diagnosis, only then should it be recommended further testing be performed without the device installed.
If the customer concern is for an unrelated system such as Infotainment, HVAC, or an Engine or CVT concern, the proper diagnostic procedure should always be followed. Simply unplug the GeoTab, then duplicate the customer's concern. GeoTab removal SHOULD NOT be the first recommendation to the customer before attempting duplication of the concern and is not necessary when performing initial diagnosis of the concern.
In addition, GeoTab should not cause a DTC B2A15 seen commonly with other OBD devices. The reference TSB 15-257-19R for this condition does not apply to the GeoTab brand devices if the device's software is up to date. The GeoTab device does not interfere with STARLINK Telematics functionality, even in the rare event a B2A15 is present.
If a B2A15 is current, diagnose it per the applicable service manual or TSB. If the root cause of the condition cannot be determined after performing this diagnosis, only then refer the customer back to their fleet provider for assistance with the GeoTab device.
If a STARLINK concern is reported that is not B2A15 and a GeoTab OBD extension or device is found in the vehicle, perform an All-DTC scan and determine if a current code is set. Determine if the RED LED on the overhead console is on then reference TSB 15-286-21R (Telematics Diagnostic Strategy). It is highly recommended to perform a test call and speak to a Telematics representative. If still unsure whether the Telematics is experiencing a fault, contact Techline for further assistance and before any part replacement.
15 KEYLESS ENTRY INOPERATIVE & TURN-KEY IMMOBILIZER PROGRAMMING INOPERATIVE, SIMILAR CONNECTORS 15
It has been brought to Techline's attention that some models have identical connectors at the Key Lock solenoid connector and Key Warning switch connector. If these two connectors are interchanged at any point, multiple systems can become inoperative. One of the most likely situations in which this could happen is during an ignition cylinder replacement or RES installation.
If the connectors are switched, there are two main concerns the customer could experience. First, the keyless entry will become inoperative because the BIU sees the key warning switch is always active. Second, the key chime does not function at all OR functions continuously even with the key physically removed. It is important to note the keyless entry will only work if the key is out of the ignition.
This condition can also affect Immobilizer Registration processes. This is commonly seen when attempting to program additional keys. The Immobilizer must see the key switch to "OFF" when removed from the ignition in order to progress to the next key registration. If the vehicle can only program one key and then times out, check the key switch BIU live data PID.
The other BIU live data PID that will need to be inspected is the Key-Lock Warning SW. The Key-Lock Warning SW will never switch to "OFF" if the connectors are installed incorrectly. If this is found to be the case, the next step would be to review the wiring and perform a visual inspection of the connectors.
A quick reference table has been made below to identify 'like' connectors in this situation only. Additional guidance can be found in the "Shift Lock Control System" section on STIS for the vehicle being serviced. It is highly recommended to match the wire colors to the correct connector. Always consult the appropriate service manual on STIS when performing any diagnosis.
| Vehicle | Year Range | Connectors are identical shape |
|---|---|---|
| Outback | 2015-up | i63 & i52/i181 & i182 |
| Legacy | 2015-up | i63 & i52/i181 & i182 |
| Impreza | 2012-up | B557 & B555/i52 & i63 |
| Forester | 2014-up | B557 & B555/i52 & i63 |
| Crosstrek | 2013-up | B557 & B555/i52 & i63 |
| WRX/STI | 2015-up | B555 & B555 |
| Ascent | 2019-up | i63 & i52 |
00 STIS NEW RELEASES
| ITEM CODE | ITEM TYPE | TITLE | CREATED DATE |
|---|---|---|---|
| TIPS0122 | TechTIPS NewsLetter | 2022 January TechTIPS Newslett... | 25-Mar-22 |
| 15-246-19R | Technical Service Bulletin | New Immobilizer Registration P... | 22-Mar-22 |
| 06-86-22 | Technical Service Bulletin | Squeaking Sound from Brake Ped... | 21-Mar-22 |
| 15-192-22R | Technical Service Bulletin | Infotainment Concern Data Coll... | 18-Mar-22 |
| 15-192-22R | Technical Service Bulletin | Infotainment Concern Data Coll... | 18-Mar-22 |
| C1010VA001 | Accessory Installation Guide | PORT INSTALLATION: 2022MY WRX... | 16-Mar-22 |
| SOA567R200 | Accessory Installation Guide | 2019-22MY Ascent Pet Rear Door... | 16-Mar-22 |
| SOA567R100 | Accessory Installation Guide | 2019-22MY Forester Pet Rear Do... | 16-Mar-22 |
| F411SSJ020 | Accessory Installation Guide | 2019-22MY Forester Seat Cover... | 16-Mar-22 |
| 07-205-22 | Technical Service Bulletin | Subaru Rear Vehicle Detection... | 15-Mar-22 |
| 13-104-21 | Technical Service Bulletin | 2022 MY Paint Coding Informati... | 10-Mar-22 |
| 16-136-22R | Technical Service Bulletin | Vibration & Possible Judder Co... | 9-Mar-22 |
| 18-217-22R | Technical Service Bulletin | Service Manual Correction/DT... | 9-Mar-22 |
| 06-84-22 | Technical Service Bulletin | DTC B2809-VDC Abnormal & B2C2... | 7-Mar-22 |
| L9020BE | Service Manual | 2022MY WRX Body Repair Manual | 7-Mar-22 |
| 09-83-21R | Technical Service Bulletin | 3.6L Water Pump-Design Change... | 7-Mar-22 |
| 15-293-22 | Technical Service Bulletin | Remote Climate Control Operati... | 4-Mar-22 |
| 15-240-19R | Technical Service Bulletin | New Harman Audio Amplifiers | 2-Mar-22 |
| 09-80-21 | Technical Service Bulletin | DTC # P2682 & P26Ax**/Thermo... | 28-Feb-22 |
| 12-234-22 | Technical Service Bulletin | Body Repair Manual Correction | 28-Feb-22 |
| J121SAN500 | Accessory Installation Guide | 2022MY Outback Exterior Graphi... | 28-Feb-22 |
| J121SAN200 | Accessory Installation Guide | 2022MY Outback Exterior Graphi... | 28-Feb-22 |
| J121SAN100 | Accessory Installation Guide | 2022MY Outback Exterior Graphi... | 28-Feb-22 |
| 01-175-16 | Technical Service Bulletin | E-Mailing Files to Techline an... | 28-Feb-22 |
| 06-85-22 | Technical Service Bulletin | Rear Stabilizer Bar/Design C... | 23-Feb-22 |
| WRL-21 | Subaru Product/Campaign Bulletin | Front Axle Housings | 23-Feb-22 |
| 15-255-19R | Technical Service Bulletin | Map Data Update Procedure for... | 22-Feb-22 |
| C1010VA001 | Accessory Installation Guide | PORT INSTALLATION: 2022MY WRX... | 22-Feb-22 |
| 15-234-18R | Technical Service Bulletin | 2019 Audio/Navigation & Power... | 21-Feb-22 |
| WRE-21R | Subaru Product/Campaign Bulletin | Ignition Coil Replacement | 21-Feb-22 |
| MSA5B2205A | Owner Manual | 2022MY WRX Getting Started Gui... | 18-Feb-22 |
| 15-291-22 | Technical Service Bulletin | Gen1 Telematics DCM Replacemen... | 18-Feb-22 |
| MSA5M2210A | Owner Manual | 2022MY WRX Subaru STARLINK® Ow... | 18-Feb-22 |
| MSA5M2215A | Owner Manual | 2022MY WRX Eyesight Owner's Ma... | 18-Feb-22 |
| MSA5M2205A | Owner Manual | 2022MY WRX Owner's Manual | 18-Feb-22 |
| 07-204-22 | Technical Service Bulletin | Tentative Select Monitor Proce... | 18-Feb-22 |
| H505SSJ000 | Accessory Installation Guide | PORT INSTALLATION: 2022MY Fore... | 18-Feb-22 |
| E7210VC200 | Accessory Installation Guide | PORT INSTALLATION: 2022MY WRX... | 18-Feb-22 |
| J121SVC000 | Accessory Installation Guide | 2022MY WRX - Carbon Fiber Trun... | 18-Feb-22 |
| H101SSJ000 | Accessory Installation Guide | 2022MY Forester Long Range Pus... | 18-Feb-22 |
| 15-192-22 | Technical Service Bulletin | Infotainment Concern Data Coll... | 16-Feb-22 |
| 12-233-22 | Technical Service Bulletin | Squeak Sound During Front Wind... | 11-Feb-22 |
| 05-75-20R | Technical Service Bulletin | Front Coil Spring-Design Chan... | 10-Feb-22 |
| 16-132-20R | Technical Service Bulletin | Diagnostic Information for All... | 8-Feb-22 |
| 06-83-22 | Technical Service Bulletin | VDC Reprogramming File Availab... | 8-Feb-22 |
| 16-125-19R | Technical Service Bulletin | CVT Oil Pan-Design Change | 3-Feb-22 |
| 16-138-22R | Technical Service Bulletin | DTC P0613 - TCM Processor | 3-Feb-22 |
| E721SAN031XX | Accessory Installation Guide | 2020-2022MY Legacy - Trunk Spo... | 2-Feb-22 |
| TSG 900MHz KS | Troubleshooting Guide | Remote Engine Start Systems Tr... | 2-Feb-22 |
| Service Diagnostics | 2022 WRX Service Manual VH | 2-Feb-22 | |
| 09-85-22 | Technical Service Bulletin | Front Exhaust Pipe Cover Repla... | 1-Feb-22 |
| 15-261-20R | Technical Service Bulletin | Reprogramming File Availabilit... | 28-Jan-22 |
| SUTTIPSLOC | Other/Miscellaneous | TechTIPS Article Locator Index... | 25-Jan-22 |
All revised publications are highlighted in yellow.