ATTENTION:
GENERAL MANAGER
PARTS MANAGER
CLAIMS PERSONNEL
SERVICE MANAGER

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

SERVICE PROGRAM BULLETIN
APPLICABILITY: 2
016 MY Forester, Impreza, Crosstrek,
Legacy, and Outback
SUBJECT: Telematics System Data Communication
Module (DCM) Reprogramming

NUMBER: WQZ-61R
DATE: March 15, 2016
REVISED: March 15, 2021

INTRODUCTION
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is initiating a service program for certain 2016 model
year Forester, Impreza, Crosstrek, Legacy, and Outback vehicles equipped with Telematics
(STARLINK). Subaru has determined that vehicles affected by this Service Program require
reprogramming of the Telematics System Data Communications Module (DCM).
Due to a logic issue in the current software, the DCM may erroneously detect either the Check
Engine Light or the Electronic Power Steering (EPS) light is on. This condition triggers false
notifications through the SUBARU STARLINKTM system to the customer, although the Check
Engine Light and Electronic Power Steering light are not illuminated in the vehicle, and no
malfunction of either of these systems exist.

AFFECTED VEHICLES
•
•
•
•
•

Certain 2016 model year Forester vehicles
Certain 2016 model year Impreza vehicles
Certain 2016 model year Crosstrek vehicles
Certain 2016 model year Legacy vehicles
Certain 2016 model year Outback vehicles

Not all vehicles listed below are covered by this service program. Coverage for all affected
vehicles must be confirmed by using the Vehicle Coverage Inquiry function on subarunet.com.
This data is scheduled to be available in the system on March 15, 2016.
NOTE: Some vehicles within these VIN ranges may already have the latest DCM software
installed. Always perform the Version ID Check procedure before attempting DCM
reprogramming.
VEHICLE MODEL

AFFECTED VIN RANGE

PRODUCTION CHANGE DATE

Forester

Up to and including G*515076

1/7/2016

Impreza 4-Door

Up to and including G*009611

1/7/2016

Impreza 5-Door

Up to and including G*245353

1/7/2016

Crosstrek

Up to and including G*245355

1/7/2016

Legacy

Up to and including G3036790

1/20/2016

Outback

Up to and including G3287296

1/20/2016
Continued...

Bulletin Number: WQZ-61R; Revised: March 15, 2021

Page 1

OWNER NOTIFICATION
Notification letters will be sent by first class mail to owners of all potentially affected vehicles
on March 18, 2016. A copy of the letter is included at the end of this bulletin.

RETAILER AFFECTED VIN LISTS
Each Subaru retailer will receive an affected VIN list for sold and unsold vehicles from
their Zone Office before owner notification begins. Vehicles will be assigned to retailers
in the affected VIN list as follows:
•

Original vehicle owners are assigned to the original selling retailer when their
current address is within a 100 mile radius of that retailer.

•

If the original selling retailer is inactive, the VIN has been assigned to the nearest
active retailer.

•

For any new owners or when original owners live more than 100 miles from the
original selling retailer, the VIN has been assigned to the nearest active retailer.

IMPORTANT: Retailer affected VIN lists include owner name and address information for
vehicles affected by this service program. This information will enable retailers to follow-up
with owners of potentially affected vehicles. The lists contain owners’ names and addresses
obtained from State Motor Vehicle Registration Records. The use of such motor vehicle
registration data for any other purpose is unlawful. Accordingly, retailers are required to limit
the use of these lists for the purpose of completion of this service program.

SUBARU RETAILER PROGRAM RESPONSIBILITY
Retailers are to promptly perform the applicable service procedures to correct all affected
vehicles in their inventory. Additionally, whenever a vehicle subject to this service program
is taken into inventory or in for service, necessary steps should be taken to ensure the service
program has performed before selling or releasing the vehicle.
Any vehicles listed in a service program that are in the retailer’s stock must be:
•

Immediately identified.

•

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

•

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

Continued...
Bulletin Number: WQZ-61R; Revised: March 15, 2021

Page 2

PACK FILE APPLICABILITY:
VERY IMPORTANT NOTES:
• Customers with vehicles NOT actively subscribed to STARLINK Telematics are eligible
to receive the original WQZ-61R pak file listed below ONLY. Install this file ONLY if
the vehicle is NOT actively subscribed to STARLINK Telematics.
• Customers with vehicles that ARE actively subscribed to STARLINK Telematics ARE
eligible for the 3G Sunset Update which also contains the update necessary to close
WQZ-61R. See TSB 15-279-21 (tentative release date 3/21/21) for details.
MODEL
YEAR

MODEL
Legacy &
Outback
Forester &
Impreza

2016

PAK FILE NAME

TARGET PART
NUMBERS

DECRYPTION
KEYWORD

NEW DCM SOFTWARE
VERSION

86222DCM01.pak

86222AL00A,
01A
86222SG000,
010

7A295EFE

DCM_05.00.17_20151001

SERVICE PROCEDURE / INFORMATION:
This section details an enhancement to the operation of the Telematics system’s Data
Communication Module (DCM). The new file will address customer concerns of the
electronic power steering (EPS) and in some cases, the Check Engine lamp (CEL) coming on
in error. This condition can also initiate false Diagnostic Alert messages to display through
the SUBARU STARLINKTM system.
When a vehicle within the VIN range specified in the table shown on Pg.1 is presented for this
Service Program, a check of the current software version must be performed before attempting
any reprogramming. Never attempt DCM reprogramming if:
•
•

the version ID Check shows the latest software version is already installed
the system status LEDs indicate a problem with the system as described in the Status
Check Procedure below.

TELEMATICS SYSTEM STATUS CHECK PROCEDURE:

TELEMATICS SYSTEM
STATUS INDICATOR

Continued...
Bulletin Number: WQZ-61R; Revised: March 15, 2021

Page 3

VERY IMPORTANT: Before attempting programming, the status of the Starlink Telematics
system MUST be confirmed by observing the RED and GREEN indicator LEDs on the
overhead console located between the Blue “i” and Red “SOS” buttons with the ignition ON.
There are four possible statuses: RED lamp ON, GREEN lamp ON, BOTH lamps ON, BOTH
lamps OFF.
•

If only the RED lamp is on, diagnose any DTCs found in the DCM using the applicable
Service Manual. The concern(s) must be corrected before attempting any reprogramming.

•

If only the GREEN lamp is on, proceed with programming. When programming is
complete, confirm: (1), the GREEN light comes back on and (2), when pressing the
RED SOS button, you are connected to Starlink Support.

•

If BOTH lamps are OFF, proceed with programming. When programming is complete,
confirm when after pressing the RED SOS button, you hear the “Not currently subscribed to STARLINK please visit mySubaru.com to upgrade your service” message.

•

If BOTH lamps are ON, the Starlink Telematics system is having a communications
concern. Please diagnose using the applicable Service Manual. The concern must be
corrected before attempting programming.

VERY IMPORTANT: If there is a customer concern of the CEL and / or the EPS lamp(s)
coming on, diagnose the condition based on the corresponding DTC(s) stored using the
applicable Service Manual.
Perform the Version ID Check procedure following the SSM4 screen shot sequence below. If
the software version number is DCM_05.00.10_20150420, the DCM must be reprogrammed
following the normal FlashWrite procedure.
To clarify the FlashWrite Search Result screen shot shown below, select the file to be used based
strictly upon the Vehicle Line and ignore the engine and aspiration fields. For example: XV
Crosstrek covers both gasoline and Hybrid powertrain vehicles, even though non-Turbo is the
only one listed.

VERY IMPORTANT: DO NOT attempt to program any DCM which is already updated to
the current DCM_05.00.17_20151001 Software Version. If done inadvertently, all codes created
as a result must be cleared from each affected control unit or a no start or other condition may
result.
REMINDER: Always note the current and new software version ID(s) on the Repair Order.
Continued...
Bulletin Number: WQZ-61R; Revised: March 15, 2021

Page 4

Version ID Check
Procedure

1

2

4

3

5

Continued...
Bulletin Number: WQZ-61R; Revised: March 15, 2021

Page 5

Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) highly recommends connecting the Subaru Midtronics GR8
Diagnostic Battery Charger to the vehicle and utilizing the Power Supply Mode feature
anytime a vehicle control module is being reprogrammed. Follow the procedure as outlined
in document GR8-1100 on STIS for for use of the GR8’s Power Supply Mode:
•

Confirm all electrical loads such as lights, audio, HVAC, seat heaters, and rear
defroster are all switched OFF before setting up for Power Supply Mode.

•

Select the correct battery type (Flooded, AGM or AGM Spiral).

•

Select the CCA which matches the vehicle’s battery (NOTE: OE and replacement
batteries have different CCA ratings. Always confirm the battery rating before
proceeding.)

•

If the “Charge Battery” WARNING appears, the battery MUST be charged before
attempting reprogramming.

•

DO NOT connect the DSTi or SDI until the GR8 Power Supply mode has completed
its battery test mode and the Charging Voltage has dropped to a steady 13.5 Volts on
the display.

•

If the GR8 “beeps” or the Status Light flashes, the battery is defective and should not
be charged.

•

Once Power Supply Mode reaches a steady 13.5 volts, connect the DSTi or SDI to the
OBD connector and initiate the reprogramming process.

•

Amperage will fluctuate based upon the vehicle’s demand for power. NOTE: If the
voltage rises beyond 14V while programming is in process, the procedure will abort.
This can indicate a need to test or charge the vehicle battery before any further attempt
at programming.

IMPORTANT: This information is applicable to the Midtronics GR8 Diagnostic Battery
Charger ONLY. It does not apply to any other brand / type of “generic” battery charger
whatsoever. ONLY the GR8 and its Power Supply Mode feature has been tested and
approved by SOA.
Once the GR8 is connected to the vehicle, as long as the battery is fully charged, it takes
less than 3 minutes to boot-up the charger, select Power Supply Mode, and have the battery
voltage stabilized and ready for reprogramming.
REMINDER: If the GR8 indicates the vehicle’s battery must be charged, charge the battery
using the GR8 before proceeding to reprogram the vehicle.
NOTE: Control module failures as a result of battery discharge during reprogramming
are not a matter for warranty. Should any DTCs reset after the reprogramming update is
performed, diagnose per the procedure outlined in the applicable Service Manual.
NOTE: The pack file listings provided in this bulletin are the latest available at the time of
publishing. Updates are often released thereafter without revision to the original bulletin. For
this reason, it is critical to always have the latest version of Select Monitor software installed
on your system. You can confirm if a later version is available by entering the CID listed in
this bulletin into FlashWrite. If a newer CID is shown as available in FlashWrite, reprogram
using that file.

Continued...
Bulletin Number: WQZ-61R; Revised: March 15, 2021

Page 6

When DCM reprogramming is complete:
•

Verify successful file installation by performing the Version ID Check procedure again
following the screen shot sequence shown above.

•

Complete the STARLINK Telematics status check per the Telematics System Status
Check Procedure performed before the reprogramming was started.

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 normal parts ordering channels. The part number is
MSA6P1302. Ordering qty 1 = 1 sheet of 20 labels.
PART NUMBER

APPLICABILITY

DESCRIPTION

ORDER
QUANTITY

MSA6P1302

All models

Campaign Completion Labels
(contains one sheet of 20 labels)

1

WQZ-61

CLAIM REIMBURSEMENT AND ENTRY PROCEDURES
Credit to perform this service campaign will be based on the submission of properly completed
repair order information. Retailers may submit claims through subarunet.com.
LABOR DESCRIPTION

LABOR
OPERATION #

TELEMATICS SYSTEM VERSION
ID CHECK ONLY

B167-900

TELEMATICS SYSTEM REPROGRAMMING

C167-908

FAIL
CODE

LABOR
TIME

CLAIM
TYPE

0.3

RC

WQZ-61
0.3

RC

IMPORTANT REMINDERS:
•

SOA strongly discourages the printing and/or local storage of service information as
previously released information and electronic publications may be updated at any time.

•

Always check for any open recalls or campaigns anytime a vehicle is in for servicing.

•

Always refer to STIS for the latest service information before performing any repairs.
Continued...

Bulletin Number: WQZ-61R; Revised: March 15, 2021

Page 7

OWNER NOTIFICATION LETTER
This notice applies to the VIN identified
in the address section printed below.

Subaru Service Program WQZ-61
March 2016

Dear Subaru Owner:
We would like to thank you for your selection of a Subaru vehicle. We take pride in our products and are committed
to your continued satisfaction.
Subaru has developed a modification to the Data Communication Module (DCM) software logic for certain 2016
model year Forester, Impreza, Crosstrek, Legacy, and Outback vehicles equipped with Telematics (STARLINK).
You received this notice because our records indicate that you currently own one of these vehicles.
DESCRIPTION
Due to a logic issue in the current software, the DCM may erroneously detect that either the Check Engine Light
is on, or that the Electronic Power Steering light is on. This condition triggers false notifications to vehicle owners
through the Subaru STARLINK system.
REPAIR
Subaru will inspect your vehicle and reprogram the DCM. That repair will be performed at no cost to you.
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
You should immediately contact your Subaru retailer (dealer) for an appointment to have this repair performed.
HOW LONG WILL THE REPAIR TAKE?
The time to perform the inspection and reprogramming is approximately 30 minutes. However, it may be necessary
to leave your vehicle for a longer period of time on the day of your scheduled appointment to allow your Subaru
retailer flexibility in scheduling.
CHANGED YOUR ADDRESS OR SOLD YOUR SUBARU?
If you have moved or sold your vehicle, please complete the enclosed prepaid postcard and mail it to us. Or if
you prefer to update this information online, please go to www.subaru.com, select ‘Customer Support,’ then select
‘Address Update’ or ‘Ownership Update’ from the drop down menu.
IF YOU NEED FURTHER ASSISTANCE:
To locate the nearest Subaru retailer you can access our website at www.subaru.com and select ‘Find a Retailer.’
For additional information, please go to: http://www.wqz61.service-campaign.com.

Continued...
Bulletin Number: WQZ-61R; Revised: March 15, 2021

Page 8

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

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

•

y telephone: 1-800-SUBARU3 (1-800-782-2783)
B
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

•

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

Please contact us immediately if the Subaru retailer fails or is unable to make the necessary repairs free of charge.
Your continued satisfaction with your Subaru is important to us. Please understand that we have taken this action in
the interest of your vehicle’s proper operation. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this matter may cause
and urge you to schedule an appointment as soon as possible to have this repair performed.
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.
Bulletin Number: WQZ-61R; Revised: March 30, 2016

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