NHTSA ID Number: 10201036
Manufacturer Communication Number: Subaru Tech Tips
TSB/Document Date: 2021-09-03
Summary
QMR of the month.
July 2021
Subaru Service and Technical Support Line Newsletter
© 2021 Subaru of America, Inc. All rights reserved.
Home
Articles Contained
in this Issue
Click on a title below to jump to the article.
Click the date located in the footer to return to page 1.
CODE ARTICLE...................................................................PAGE
01
QMR of the Month
We are pleased to announce this month’s QMR of the Month Winner:
(00) STIS New Releases................................10-11
(01) QMR of the Month......................................1-2
(01) QMR of the Month Award
Presentations................................................ 2
(02) 2019 and up 2.4L Turbo, P0299.................... 3
(05) Noises from Strut Area................................. 3
(07) Auto Headlight Strategy Logic for My19+ .....
Foresters....................................................... 4
(07) Power door lock inoperative, erratic or rapid
operation (All Models).................................. 4
(15) Gen 3, 3.1 and 3.1 alpha Harman and Gen
4 Denso CP1 – Prevent Pandora application .
from automatically launching when
connecting phone to vehicle........................ 5
SUBARU
TECHLINE HOLIDAYS
& HOURS OF OPERATION
Mon. - Thurs.
8:30AM - 7:30PM EST
Friday
10:30AM - 5:00PM EST
Saturday
9:00AM - 3:00PM EST
Joseph Frye from
AutoNation Subaru Hunt Valley in Cockeysville, MD
The winning QMR of the Month submission for May involved the diagnosis
and repair of a 2021MY Outback which presented with the EyeSight and
power steering system warning lights illuminated. The customer also
stated the steering felt excessively stiff. After verifying the concerns on a
short road test, Joseph’s initial DTC scan revealed various communication
fault codes including a U0131 which was found in multiple modules.
At first, he was unable to communicate with the EyeSight system but,
when moving the vehicle to another service bay, the warning lights
went out and normal operation returned. Joseph road tested the car
again and fortunately, the previously confirmed conditions returned. He
proceeded to check for trouble in the CAN system. After finding normal
resistance values during his extensive testing, Joseph determined the
communication problems were originating in the advanced safety CAN.
He proceeded with split-half testing and was able to isolate excessively
high resistance in connector RF21 between pins 1 and 2. Further testing
revealed an open circuit between connector RF21 pin 21 and B22 pin 5.
When flexing the harness connector, he was able to change the resistance
in the circuit. Closer inspection revealed a broken lock tab on one of
the affected male pin terminals preventing a solid connection. Joseph
proceeded to replace the bulkhead wiring harness. After completing the
installation, multiple road tests confirmed the successful repair with no
further warning light occurrences and normal steering system operation.
Detailed step-by-step diagnostics and test results along with a video
combined to document his report.
In appreciation for going the extra mile and sharing his experience with
us, Joseph will be receiving the following from his Field Service Engineer:
$500.00 Snap-On gift card
Continued on the next page
CAUTION: VEHICLE SERVICING PERFORMED BY UNTRAINED PERSONS
COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY TO THOSE PERSONS OR TO OTHERS.
The Subaru TechTIPS newsletter is intended for use by professional Technicians ONLY. Articles are written
to inform those Technicians of conditions that may occur in some vehicles, or to provide information
that could assist in the proper servicing of the vehicle. Properly trained Technicians have the equipment,
tools, safety instructions, and know-how to do the job correctly and safely. If a condition is described, DO
NOT assume that your vehicle has or will have that condition. Impreza, Legacy, Justy, Loyale, Outback,
Forester, Subaru SVX, WRX, WRX STI, Baja, Tribeca, BRZ, XV Crosstrek, Ascent, Crosstrek Hybrid and
“Quality Driven” are Registered Trademarks.
July 2021 TechTIPS
SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC. IS
ISO 14001 COMPLIANT
ISO 14001 is the international standard for excellence in Environmental Management Systems.
Please recycle or dispose of automotive products
in a manner that is friendly to our environment
and in accordance with all local, state and federal laws and regulations.
Page 1 of 7
01
QMR of the Month (CONTINUED)
The other Regional winners selected from QMRs submitted during May 2021 were:
•
William Jones from Johnstons Subaru in Middletown, NY
•
Kenneth Kettler from LaFontaine Subaru in Commerce Township, MI
•
Steven Roberts from Subaru of Loveland in Loveland, CO
•
Johnathan Imhoff from MetroWest Subaru in Natick, 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 will include a photo (whenever
available) of the recipient’s award presentation in TIPS. The winner selected from QMR of the Month
submission received during May 2021 was Joseph Frye, a Technician from AutoNation Subaru in Hunt
Valley, MD.
Joseph is shown above being presented with his $500.00 Snap-On Gift Card. Pictured here (left to right)
are General Manager, Nathan Hollis, Service Manager, Eric Nicholson, May’s winning Technician, Joseph
Frye, SOA Field Service Engineer, Jesse Bunting, and SOA District Parts and Service Manager Jason Raguz.
Congratulations and THANK YOU to our July 2021 QMR of the Month Award recipient!
Continued on the next page
July 2021 TechTIPS
Page 2 of 7
02
2019 and up 2.4L Turbo, P0299
If the customer concern is a lack of boost with a Check Engine light on and DTC P0299 in memory,
start by performing a visual inspection of the turbo area. SOA has received reports of the wastegate
rod being disconnected and the retaining nut missing. The wastegate rod is not adjustable and
the retainer nut should never be loosened. If this condition is confirmed, the turbo assembly must
be replaced. If the retainer nut is in place, proceed with diagnostics per STIS for DTC P0299.
05
Noises from Strut Area
When diagnosing suspension noise, verify the strut mount nut (item #2 in the diagram below) is torqued
to the correct specification listed in STIS for the vehicle being repaired. NOTE: this is a one-time use
(indicated by the star) self-locking nut and should never be reused. It is a good practice to verify all
suspension components are torqued to the proper specification listed in STIS for the model and year
being repaired whenever dealing with suspension noises.
Continued on the next page
July 2021 TechTIPS
Page 3 of 7
07
Auto Headlight Strategy Logic for My19+ Foresters
It has been brought to Techlines’ attention that the MY19 and later Foresters have a new headlight
control strategy. When the headlight stalk is in the off position, the BIU will refer to the ambient light
sensor to control instrument panel illumination, headlights, parking lights, side markers, and license
plate lamps. This prevents the customer from driving at night with only the Daytime Running Lights
illuminating the road. This condition is normal, and no repair attempt should be made.
The following is from the New Car Info section on STIS, along with the explanation in the Owner’s
Manual as quick reference:
The driver may forget to turn on the taillight during
nighttime traveling since DRL automatically turns on even
when the lighting switch is at the “ O “ position.
By adding the automatic light function that automatically
turns on the headlight/tail light etc. by detecting ambient
illuminance, failure in turning on a light manually is
prevented and conspicuousness at night is improved.
This function is activated when the following conditions
are all satisfied.
•
Ignition switch is ON.
•
Shift lever is in other than P.
•
Engine speed is at more than a certain level or in
Auto Start-Stop.
•
The electronic parking brake is released.
This function cannot be set to OFF or customized since it
is related to safety.
07
Power door lock inoperative, erratic or rapid operation (All Models)
When presented with a customer concern regarding
power door locks being inoperative, erratic, or rapid
lock and unlocking, it is always important to not only
check the door lock actuator but to also check the door
lock cable set. Technicians should remember to inspect
the cable from the actuator to the Door Inner Remote
handle for free cable movement as well as ensure that
the cable ball is securely placed in the inner door handle
lock knob, as well as in the handle plate. If there is any
abnormality found with the cable positioning, correct as
needed, and recheck operation. If the door inner remote
handle or the lock knob is faulty, replace the remote
assembly. If the cable is deformed, replace the latch and
actuator assembly. Shown here is a properly secured
door lock cable and lever cable. Colors of the cable
ends will vary year to year and model to model.
July 2021 TechTIPS
Door Inner Remote
Continued on the next page
Page 4 of 7
15
Gen 3, 3.1 and 3.1 alpha Harman and Gen 4 Denso CP1 – Prevent Pandora
application from automatically launching when connecting phone to vehicle
There have been several reports of the Pandora application automatically launching while using Bluetooth,
Apple Carplay or Android Auto. This can be resolved by adjusting settings within the app on the customer’s
phone. The Pandora app has an option to automatically launch the app when connecting a phone to the vehicle.
This is ON by default. Customers can disable this in settings (Pandora-> Profile-> Settings Gear -> Advanced
-> Toggle OFF – Launch from Car). Use the pictures below as reference.
Apple Carplay (iOS)
Continued on the next page
July 2021 TechTIPS
Page 5 of 7
00
STIS New Releases
ITEM CODE
18-214-21
01-167-08R
18-213-21
MSA5T2101T
05-87-21
09-77-21R
J131SVC000
12-203-16R
J121SCC000
E771SXC020
WRE-21R
12-323-21
WRB-21R
WUJ-95R
15-208-17R
07-199-21
09-78-21
18-212-21
U1450BE
WRF-21
15-236-18R
09-77-21
09-76-21
09-75-21
04-27-21R
WVX-34R
MSA5M2222A
16-132-20R
ITEM TYPE
Service Manual Correction
Technical Service Bulletin
Service Manual Correction
Technician Reference Booklet
Technical Service Bulletin
Technical Service Bulletin
Accessory Installation Guide
Technical Service Bulletin
Accessory Installation Guide
Accessory Installation Guide
Subaru Product/Campaign Bulletin
Technical Service Bulletin
Subaru Product/Campaign Bulletin
Subaru Product/Campaign Bulletin
Technical Service Bulletin
Technical Service Bulletin
Technical Service Bulletin
Service Manual Correction
Service Manual
Service Diagnostics
Subaru Product/Campaign Bulletin
Technical Service Bulletin
Service Diagnostics
Technical Service Bulletin
Technical Service Bulletin
Technical Service Bulletin
Technical Service Bulletin
Subaru Product/Campaign Bulletin
Owner Manual
Technical Service Bulletin
All revised publications are highlighted in yellow.
July 2021 TechTIPS
CREATED
DATE
TITLE
Service Manual Corrections
Recommended Materials (All Veh...
Service Manual Corrections
Subaru Diagnostic Systems (SDS...
Front Stabilizer Bar Bushing C...
Lack of Power / Hesitation Dur...
PORT INSTALLATION: 2022MY Impr...
Squeaking Sound from Front Sea...
2022MY BRZ Exterior Graphics -...
2022MY Ascent Rear Bumper Cove...
Ignition Coil Replacement
Water Intrusion / Door(s) Area
Corrosion of the Air Condition...
Exhaust Pipe Front (EPF) Bello...
Availability of “Gracenote® Me...
Measurement of Dark Current (S...
DTC P015A - A/F / O2 Sensor De...
Service Manual Corrections
2022MY Impreza/Crosstrek/Cross...
2022MY Impreza / Crosstrek / C...
EGI Harness and ECM Replacemen...
Reprogramming File Availabilit...
2022 Ascent Service Manual VH
Lack of Power / Hesitation Dur...
Difficulty Starting at Low Tem...
DTC P0128 / Coolant Thermosta...
Electronic Power Steering (EPS...
Front Lower Control Arm (Trans...
2022MY SUBARU STARLINK Safety ...
Diagnostic Information for All...
11-Aug-21
10-Aug-21
9-Aug-21
9-Aug-21
6-Aug-21
6-Aug-21
4-Aug-21
4-Aug-21
3-Aug-21
3-Aug-21
2-Aug-21
2-Aug-21
30-Jul-21
30-Jul-21
30-Jul-21
30-Jul-21
30-Jul-21
29-Jul-21
29-Jul-21
29-Jul-21
28-Jul-21
28-Jul-21
28-Jul-21
28-Jul-21
28-Jul-21
28-Jul-21
28-Jul-21
26-Jul-21
23-Jul-21
22-Jul-21
Continued on the next page
Page 6 of 7
*** Now you can e-mail your TechTIPS input and suggestions to: [email protected] ***
This is your chance to offer suggestions for use in future issues of TechTIPS! Make
sure that if you e-mail us, you place in the subject line of your e-mail “For TechTIPS
Newsletter”. Thank you!
Model:
Year:
VIN:
Description of situation encountered:
Your suggestion for repair procedure, product improvements, etc.:
Please attach separate sheets, if necessary. You may also want to include Service Manual
diagrams or references, or your own drawings to assist in describing your suggestion. All
information submitted becomes the property of Subaru of America, Inc. Permission is granted
to Subaru of America, Inc. to print your name and suggestions in TechTIPS and other Subaru of
America, Inc. publications. Mail items to: PO Box 9103; Camden, NJ 08101-9877.
Your Name:
Signature:
Dealer’s Name:
City:
Date:
Dealer Code:
SUBARU
TECHLINE
Hours of Operation
July 2021 TechTIPS
Monday – Thursday 8:30 am to 7:30 pm
Friday 10:30 am to 5 pm and Saturday 9 am to 3 pm
Continued on the next page
Page 7 of 7
- 💯【Conta.ct us for Support Directly】If you met any...
- 🔥🔥🔥【2026 AUTEL FLAGSHIP MK900BT MK900-BT, NEW...
- 🚗【3000+ ACTIVE TESTS (50➡3000+), SAME AS MS...
- 🚗【40+ HOT SERVICES FOR 150 MAKES (28+➡40+)】Full...
- 🚗【OE ALL SYSTEM DIAGNOSE, AUTO SCAN 2.0: SCAN LICENSE...
- 【TURN OFF CEL】 This AL319 car scanner diagnostic tool...
- 【EXTENSIVE APPLICATION】 Autel AL319 Compatible with...
- 【FOR END USER & DIYERS】 This error code reader AL319 is...
- 【USER-FRIENDLY DESIGN】 This OBD2 scanner and check...
- 【HIGH-QUALITY SERVICES】 12 months war.ranty from the...
If the PDF is very large, it may not load in the preview below.
Some older TSBs had multiple PDFs — visit the NHTSA Website to view all PDFs.
If the TSB PDF does not show, download or view it on the NHTSA Website.
Click on the (+) Plus Sign
Then Click on Associated Document(s)
Search NHTSA Database for Recalls
Search NHTSA Database for Vehicle Investigations
View Latest Vehicle Investigations
Search NHTSA Database for Vehicle Complaints
View Latest Vehicle Complaints
TSB/Document ID: Subaru Tech Tips
Replacement Service Bulletin Number:
MFR Communication Date: 2021-08-13
MFR Internal Campaign ID/Software Version:
Communication Type: Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
NHTSA Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
MFR Component System:
MFR Component Subsystem:
Previous TSB | Next TSB |
- [Notice] When you receive a used device, it may be a customer return resold by Amazon without inspection. You can exchange it for a new one through Amazon. As this situation is unavoidable, we sincerely apologize. For any issues, contacting us via Amazon's "Messages" is the best way. THINKSCAN 689BT Bidirectional Scan Tool Can Be Used Immediately After It is Turned On, Without Complicated Registration Process, Which is More Convenient & Quick.
- Full Bi-Directional Control & 3000+ Active Tests: Take control and test components like actuators, fuel injectors, relays, and cooling fans in real time. You’ll quickly see if the problem is in the part itself or the control module — saving you hours of guesswork and frustrating trial-and-error.
- Advanced ECU Coding Capabilities: Handle module matching and hidden feature activation with confidence. When you replace an ECU or want to customize settings, this obd2 scanner diagnostic bi directional tool gives you the professional-level capabilities you need without the dealership price tag.
- 34+ Useful Reset and Maintenance Functions: Complete everyday service tasks smoothly with a wide range of helpful reset and maintenance functions. Whether you’re keeping up with regular upkeep or tackling a specific job, this scanner makes maintenance simpler and less stressful for both DIYers and pros.
- Comprehensive Full System Diagnostics: Diagnose every major system — Engine, Transmission, ABS, SRS, TPMS, and more — all in one place. Finally stop wondering if you’re missing something important; get the full picture and clear codes with ease.
- Top Reasons to Choose the D7S OBD2 Scanner: XTOOL D7S car scan tool, an upgrade of XTOOL D7, offers comprehensive features for automotive technicians, workshops, and DIY enthusiasts 1. Upgraded Hardware: 2+64GB memory, rear camera, intuitive interface, foldable bracket 2. Complete Diagnostics: FCA
Autoauth, OE-level all system scan, 39+ maintenance services, 4K+ bidirectional, CANFD/DoIP protocol 3. Advanced Capabilities: ECU c0ding, PMI functions 4. Wide Compatibility: Support 10,000+ models, covering 99% vehicle brands 5. Multi-language: Available in 22+ languages, No IP Restrictions 6. 3-Year Updates: Save 300 bucks on software updates for the latest features and optimizations - 2026 Upgraded D7S Car Scanner Features: The newly 2026 D7S V2.0 scanner for car brings exciting features for advanced vehicle diagnostics and enhanced user experience 1. FCA AutoAuth: Now supports FCA SGW module for Chrysler, for Jeep, for Dodge (2018+), for Fiat (2017+), enabling faster vehicle communication without gateway restrictions 2. PMI (Offline ECU Pr0gramming): Allows for Ford, for Lincoln, and for Mazda ECU pr0gramming for new modules 3. Optimized Diagnostic Report 2.0: Personalized reports with logos and customer info for auto shops. Note: Compatibility varies by cars, please check before order
- 39+ Services/Resets/Adaptations/Relearns/Calibrations: XTOOL D7S full system car scanner diagnostic tool tackles 99% of common car issues through its 36+ special functions, including Oil Reset, EPB, SAS, BMS, Throttle Reset, Injector C0ding, ABS Bleed, TPMS Reset, Power Balance, etc and also covers specific-vehicle functions like Crank Sensor Relearn, ABS Initialization, Cylinder Power Balance, Fuel Trim Reset, Idle Relearn etc. This car diagnostic scanner enhances efficiency, making repairs and maintenance hassle-free. Tip: DO NOT for All vehicles, please check compatibility first
- Cost-effective ECU C0ding Scan Tool for Specific Brands: Enhance your vehicle's performance with XTOOL D7S! This obd2 scanner all systems bidirectional offers advanced capabilities at an affordable price, supports online for BMW, for Benz and offline for BENZ, for MIT, along with PMI functions for Ford, for Mazda, and for Lincoln. Ideal for technicians and DIY enthusiasts, this automotive scanner diagnostic tool optimizes vehicle performance and enhances the driving experience. Note: Not for all cars and modules, please send car VIN to check the compatibility before purchase
- OE All System Diagnostic & 8 Pids Graphing: XTOOL D7S is a comprehensive all system bi directional obd2 scanner that delivers dealer-level diagnostics, completely controlling over your vehicle’s performance and health. This automotive scan tool can read and clear DTCs, view live data and ECU information, retrieve freeze frames, and perform active tests and full obd2 functions. This bi-directional scan tool can can identify your vehicle's make, model, and year information with just one click and show up to 8 PIDs live data with options for CSV viewing, playback, and recording for in-depth analysis. It is easy-to-use for both professionals and beginners, helping pinpoint issues efficiently
- 【✅Compared to BOSSCOMM IF742, IF745 Offers Full-System Diagnostics】The BOSSCOMM IF745 car diagnostic scanner is an upgraded model of IF742. In addition to supporting all OBD2 Code Reader functions and 6 reset options (ABS/EPB/SAS/BMS/Oil/Throttle), it expands diagnostics from 4 systems (Check Engine/ABS/SRS/Transmission) to vehicle All systems, including Steering, Suspension, and Body Electronics. This provides deeper, more comprehensive diagnostic capabilities.
- 【✨10 OBD2 Functions】The BOSSCOMM IF745 scan tool’s DTC Lookup instantly translates fault codes into user-friendly explanations, its I/M Readiness feature streamlines emissions testing with a single tap, and Freeze Frame lets you pinpoint the exact moment of a fault for in-depth root-cause diagnosis. Combined with a live data dashboard and advanced diagnostics (O2S, OBMon, EVAP), it delivers comprehensive insights for confident troubleshooting.
- 【✨Deep Diagnostics for All Vehicle System Modules】Beyond code reading/clearing and ECU information retrieval, our all-in-one data stream feature lets you inspect all current fault codes and their locations across the vehicle’s systems. This vehicle code reader helps you turn off dashboard warning lights and perform a comprehensive self-check of your car at home—no more back-and-forth trips to the repair shop or hefty inspection fees.
- 【✨6 Essential Resets: ABS Bleeding, Oil, EPB, SAS, Throttle, BMS】The BOSSCOMM IF745 obd2 scanner diagnostic tool swiftly purges air from brake lines to restore braking sensitivity, fine-tunes maintenance cycles to eliminate false alerts, resolves parking brake issues with one-click control, recalibrates steering sensors for stability, optimizes engine idling/acceleration for smoother performance, and deeply resets battery systems to extend lifespan and range via precise parameter adjustments.❗NOTE: Does NOT support bidirectional control, coding, or programming.
- 【✨10,000+ Car Models, AutoVIN, 13 Languages】The BOSSCOMM IF745 vehicle scanner diagnostic tool covers 73+ global car brands and offers support in 13 languages, making it perfect for DIYers, auto mechanics, or as a thoughtful gift. With a single-click AutoVIN feature, it instantly retrieves vehicle serial numbers, streamlining diagnostics for users globally. This adaptable tool balances user-friendliness with precision, catering to both personal and professional requirements.✅Unsure about compatibility? Compatibility will vary on vehicles' model and year, pls reach us via 📧 [email protected] 📧 before purchase.
This product presentation was made with AAWP plugin.