ATTENTION:
GENERAL MANAGER
PARTS MANAGER
CLAIMS PERSONNEL
SERVICE MANAGER

q
q
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IMPORTANT - All
Service Personnel
Should Read and
Initial in the boxes
provided, right.

SERVICE PROGRAM BULLETIN
APPLICABILITY: 2011-12MY All Models
2013MY BRZ
SUBJECT: Engine Control Module (ECM)
Reprogramming

NUMBER:

WQC-39

DATE:
REVISED:

October 2012
11/30/2012

This Campaign only applies to vehicles with motor vehicle registration in the
States of California, Connecticut, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey,
New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont and Washington.
INTRODUCTION
Subaru of America, Inc. has determined that vehicles affected by this Service Program require
ECM reprogramming.
A modification to the Engine Control Module software has been developed to correct a
deficiency in the OBDII system thermostat monitoring logic. This software change will not
adversely affect fuel economy or performance.

AFFECTED VEHICLES
• 2011-2012MY All Models
• 2013MY BRZ
Affected vehicles are identified in the VIN range chart below. NOTE: Not all vehicles in
the VIN ranges are affected. Prior to performing repairs, confirm coverage by using the
Vehicle Coverage Inquiry function at Subarunet.com.

2011MY

Model
Legacy
Outback
Impreza Sedan 2.5L NA
Impreza Sedan WRX/STI
Impreza Wagon 2.5L NA
Impreza Wagon WRX/STI
Forester
Tribeca

From
B*254245
B*423727
B*520687
B*520685
B*827372
B*827460
B*761277
B*402959

To
B*265232
B*448288
B*523840
B*525817
B*832328
B*833713
B*783898
B*403682

* Various Characters may occupy this position

Continued...
Bulletin Number: WQC-39; Date: October 2012 (Revised 11/30/12)

Page 1

2012MY

2013MY

Model
Legacy
Outback
Impreza Sedan 2.0L NA
Impreza Sedan WRX/STI
Impreza Wagon 2.0L NA
Impreza Wagon WRX/STI
Forester
Tribeca
BRZ

From
C*002025
C*200013
C*002004
C*002100
C*200002
C*200094
C*400002
C*400038
D*600007

To
C*043549
C*303706
C*031254
C*031281
C*247529
C*246471
C*470746
C*402637
D*603007

* Various Characters may occupy this position

OWNER NOTIFICATION
SOA will prepare and mail Owner Notification Letters to owners of affected vehicles
according to the following schedule:
Model
Year

Vehicle
Legacy & Outback

2011

Tribeca
Impreza
Impreza WRX
Impreza STI
Forester
Legacy & Outback

2012

Tribeca
Impreza
Impreza WRX
Impreza STI
Forester

2013

BRZ

Engine

Date

2.5L NA
2.5L Turbo
3.6L NA
3.6L NA
2.5L NA
2.5L Turbo
2.5L Turbo
2.5L NA
2.5L Turbo
2.5L NA
2.5L Turbo
3.6L NA
3.6L NA
2.0L NA
2.5L Turbo
2.5L Turbo
2.5L NA
2.5L Turbo
2.0L NA

10/31/12
12/17/12
10/31/12
12/17/12
12/17/12
12/17/12
12/17/12
12/17/12
12/17/12
11/19/12
12/17/12
12/17/12
12/17/12
10/31/12
12/17/12
12/17/12
12/17/12
12/17/12
12/03/12

A copy of the owner notification letter is included at the end of this bulletin.

Continued...
Bulletin Number: WQC-39; Date: October 2012 (Revised 11/30/12)

Page 2

DEALER PROGRAM RESPONSIBILITY
Dealers are to promptly perform the applicable service procedures defined in this bulletin to
correct all affected vehicles in their inventory (new, used, demo). Additionally, whenever a
vehicle subject to this Service Program is taken into dealer new or used inventory, or is in
the dealership for service, necessary steps should be taken to ensure the Service Program
correction has been made before selling or releasing the vehicle.
New or used vehicles listed in a Service Program that are in dealer stock must be:
•

Immediately identified.

•

Tagged or otherwise marked to prevent their delivery or use prior to repair.

•

Repaired in accordance with the repair procedures outlined in this Service Program
Bulletin.

PARTS INFORMATION
No repair parts are needed to perform this procedure.

SPECIAL TOOLS
Vehicle ECM reprogramming will require the following:
Subaru Diagnostic System (SDS)
• SDS Toughbook
• Subaru Select Monitor III (SSMIII Application Software)
• Subaru Diagnostic Interface Box (SDI)
• USB Data Link Cable and Reprogramming Cable.
Note: If you require assistance with using the Subaru Diagnostic System (SDS), use the
“Help” function icon, which will allow you to access the tutorial information.

SERVICE PROCEDURE
This service procedure will involve reprogramming the ECM with an updated PAK file to
correct the deficiency in the OBDII system thermostat monitoring logic.
1. ECM Reprogramming Instructions
1. Verify the status of the “CHECK ENGINE” malfunction indicator light (MIL) located
on the vehicle’s instrument cluster.
2. If no malfunction is indicated, reprogram the ECM.
3. If a malfunction is indicated by the MIL remaining continually “on” or “flashing”,
diagnose the cause and perform any necessary repairs. Once repairs have been
completed, clear all codes and reprogram the ECM.
Note: In the event the cause of the check engine light illumination is not covered by
applicable warranties, the cost of repairs is the vehicle owner’s responsibility. Under no
circumstances should the ECM be reprogrammed until corrections have been made.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: WQC-39; Date: October 2012 (Revised 11/30/12)

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Important reminders about reprogramming the ECM on all vehicles:
•

Follow ECM reprogramming procedures and precautions found in the applicable Subaru
service manual.

•

Start the engine and allow it to run until base idle speed is achieved. The reprogramming
procedure must be performed within 1 hour.

•

Should the ECM become inoperative or un-responsive while performing the reprogramming procedure, disconnect both the positive (+) and negative (-) battery terminals for at
least 2 or more seconds. Touch the cable ends together for a few moments. Re-connect the
terminals to the battery. Begin the normal reprogramming procedure for a second attempt.

Confirm your SSM III contains the applicable SSMlll Flashwrite File Update which includes
the following reprogramming PAK files.
Version Numbers
•
•
•

Software: 1.35.49.7 or higher
Interface Box: 1.7.6 or higher
Interface Box CF Card: 1.7.0 or higher

The following chart indicates the applicable PAK files and date available.
Model
Year

Vehicle
Legacy &
Outback

2011

Engine
2.5L NA CA Spec. PZEV

Tribeca

2.5L Turbo CA/FED Spec.
3.6L NA CA Spec.
3.6L NA CA/FED Spec.

Impreza

2.5L NA CA/FED Spec.

Impreza WRX
Impreza STI

2.5L Turbo CA/FED Spec.
2.5L Turbo CA/FED Spec.

Forester

2.5L NA CA Spec.
2.5L Turbo CA/FED Spec.

Transmission
CVT
6MT
6MT
5AT
5AT
4AT
5MT
5MT
6MT
4AT
5MT
4AT

New ECM/Pack
Date
File Part Number Available
22765AC93E.pak
Released
22765AC92D.pak
Released
22765AC96C.pak
Released
22765AC97C.pak
Released
22765AB32D.pak
Released
22765AD012.pak
Released
22765AD002.pak
Released
22765AD023.pak
Released
22765AD033.pak
Released
22765AB406.pak
Released
22765AB416.pak
Released
22765AB284.pak
Released

Continued...
Bulletin Number: WQC-39; Date: October 2012 (Revised 11/30/12)

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Legacy &
Outback

2012

2.5L NA CA Spec. PZEV

Tribeca

2.5L Turbo CA/FED Spec
3.6L NA CA Spec.
3.6L NA CA/FED Spec.

Impreza

2.0L NA CA Spec.

Impreza WRX
Impreza STI

2.5L Turbo CA/FED Spec.
2.5L Turbo CA/FED Spec.

Forester

2.5L NA CA Spec.
2.5L Turbo CA/FED Spec.

2013

BRZ

2.0L NA CA/FED Spec.

CVT
6MT
6MT
5AT
5AT
CVT
5MT
5MT
6MT
4AT
5MT
4AT
6AT
6MT

22765AC66C.pak
22765AC65D.pak
22765AD30B.pak
22765AC68C.pak
22765AD47C.pak
22765AC423.pak
22765AC403.pak
22765AC733.pak
22765AC743.pak
22765AD393.pak
22765AD403.pak
22765AD442.pak
22765AC802.pak
22765AC812.pak

Released
Released
Released
Released
Released
Released
Released
Released
Released
Released
Released
Released
Released
Released

STATE EMISSION TESTING ADVISORY
After ECM reprogramming, the OBD system’s readiness code monitors will set to
“incomplete”. Normally, the vehicle needs to be driven under a variety of conditions before
the readiness code monitors will indicate “complete”. (See State I/M Program Advisory
Bulletin number 11-120-12, dated date 9-20-2012 for details.)

SERVICE PROGRAM IDENTIFICATION LABEL
Type or print the necessary information on a Service Program identification label. The
completed label should be attached to the vehicle’s upper radiator support.
Additional labels are available through the Subaru Claims Helpline at 1-866-782-2782.

WQC-39

Continued...
Bulletin Number: WQC-39; Date: October 2012 (Revised 11/30/12)

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CALIFORNIA “VEHICLE EMISSION RECALL - PROOF OF CORRECTION”
CERTIFICATE
The California Air Resources Board and the Department of Motor Vehicles Registration/
Recall Program requires that all emission related Recall/Campaign or Service Program repairs
be completed before a vehicle registration is renewed. Please provide owners of vehicles registered in the state of California a completed “Vehicle Emission Recall - Proof of Correction”
certificate. Vehicle owners should be advised to retain this certificate because the California
Department of Motor Vehicles may require they provide proof this service program repair has
been completed.
Additional certificates are available through the Subaru Claims Helpline at 1-866-782-2782.

CLAIM REIMBURSEMENT AND ENTRY PROCEDURES
Credit to perform this service program will be based on the submission of properly completed repair order information. Dealers may submit claims through Vehicle Claim Entry on
Subarunet.com.
CLAIM TYPE & CAMPAIGN CODE
RC

WQC-39

LABOR
145-583
0.4 hrs.

LABOR OPERATION
Reprogram ECM.

Continued...
Bulletin Number: WQC-39; Date: October 2012 (Revised 11/30/12)

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OWNER NOTIFICATION LETTER
Subaru of America, Inc.
Subaru Plaza

P.O. Box 6000

Cherry Hill, NJ 08034-6000

www.subaru.com
Service Program WQC-39
Engine Control Module Reprogramming
Vehicles Registered in the States of
CA, CT, MA, MD, ME, NJ, NY, OR, PA, RI, VT, WA
October 2012
Dear Subaru Owner:
We would like to thank you for your selection of a Subaru vehicle. At Subaru, we take pride in
our products and are committed to your continued satisfaction.
Subaru has developed a modification to the Engine Control Module software logic to improve
the monitoring parameters within the On-Board Diagnostic (OBDll) system for the engine
coolant thermostat. This correction ensures that should there be an abnormal condition (i.e.,
the engine coolant does not reach or maintain the proper operating temperature), the “check
engine light” will illuminate. The proper illumination of the “check engine light” is needed to
alert you that corrective action may be required.
This software change has no effect on fuel economy or vehicle performance.
WHAT WE ARE ASKING YOU TO DO PROMPTLY
We ask that you schedule an appointment with your Subaru Dealer as soon as possible to have
your vehicle’s Engine Control Module software reprogrammed. This will take approximately
30 minutes to complete. However, it may be necessary for you to leave your car longer on the
day of your appointment to allow your dealer flexibility in scheduling. Your Subaru dealer
will perform this modification at no cost to you.
Please present this letter to your Subaru Dealer on the day of your service appointment.
CALIFORNIA REGISTERED OWNERS
The California Air Resources Board requires that emission related campaigns be completed
prior to California’s vehicle registration renewal process; without this repair, you will not be
able to register your vehicle during your next annual registration. Upon completion of this
campaign, your California dealer will complete and provide you a “Proof of Correction Certificate.” If required, present the certificate to the California Department of Motor Vehicles
(the “DMV”) when renewing your California registration as proof of campaign completion. If
the DMV does not request the certificate, we recommend that you keep it for your records.
In addition, the State of California requires that every vehicle must pass an emission test
(SMOG Check) every two years and before it is sold. Without the service we are providing at
no charge, your vehicle may not pass this test.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: WQC-39; Date: October 2012 (Revised 11/30/12)

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CHANGED YOUR ADDRESS OR SOLD YOUR SUBARU?
If you have changed your address, or if you have sold your Subaru, please complete the
enclosed prepaid postcard and mail it to us.

IF YOU NEED FURTHER ASSISTANCE
To locate the nearest Subaru Dealer you can access our website at www.subaru.com and select
“Find a Dealer”.
For additional information and the most Frequently Asked Questions, please go to:
•

http://www.wqc39.service-campaign.com

If you need additional assistance, please contact us directly:
•

Telephone: 1-800-SUBARU3 (1-800-782-2783)
Monday through Thursday between 7:30 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. ET
Friday between 10:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. ET
Saturday between 9:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. ET

•

E-mail: Go to www.subaru.com and select “Contact Us”.

•

U.S. Postal mail: Write us at Subaru of America, Inc., Attn: CDS Department,
P.O. Box 6000, Cherry Hill, NJ 08034-6000.

Please contact us immediately if the dealer fails or is unable to make the necessary repairs
free of charge.
Your continued satisfaction with Subaru is important to us. This update is intended to ensure
your vehicle’s optimal performance. We appreciate your understanding in this matter and
regret any inconvenience this may cause you.
Sincerely,
Subaru of America, Inc.
Notice to Lessors
Under Federal law the lessor of a vehicle who receives this letter must provide a copy of it to the vehicle
lessee(s) within 10 business days from receipt. The lessor must also keep a record of the lessee(s) to whom
this letter is sent, the date sent, and the applicable vehicle identification number (VIN). (For the purposes of
this section, a lessor means a person or entity that in the last twelve months prior to the date of this notification has been the owner, as referenced on the vehicle’s title, of any five or more leased vehicles. A leased
vehicle is a vehicle leased to another person for a term of at least four months.)
A subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd.

Continued...
Bulletin Number: WQC-39; Date: October 2012 (Revised 11/30/12)

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