Having issues with your Subaru? There are a number of common problems with Subaru vehicles such as oil leaks, clutch, and transmission issues, head gasket leaks, and more. This article will walk you through what could be happening with your Subaru. If you're looking for a Subaru specialist in Kitchener-Waterloo, trust Hansma Automotive. Hansma has been servicing Subarus for over 30 years. Contact the professionals at Hansma today to have your Subaru serviced.
Trusted Subaru Specialist Waterloo: 8 Common Problems
Often, as with any vehicle manufacturer, there are common problems found throughout multiple vehicle models. Below are 10 common problems with Subaru vehicles. If you are experiencing any of these problems please contact Hansma immediately to have your problems resolved.
1. High Oil Consumption
Most Subaru owners are aware of the common oil leaks that develop as you start to put kilometres on them. High oil consumption problems are common in Subaru vehicles as early as 37,000 km. While Subaru engines like to leak oil, they are very reliable, so very much worth fixing. The way Subaru engines are designed contributes to this problem. While the high oil consumption is a downfall, the reliability of Subaru engines overall makes up for it in some capacity. If your oil light comes on early it is likely because of the high oil consumption. You won’t notice it burning most of the time, your car will just all of a sudden be low on oil. When this happens, call Hansma immediately to book an appointment for an oil change and to get the engine checked.
2. Bad Clutch Plate
In manual models, this problem can occur as early as 14,000 km, basically a new vehicle. Like most manual vehicles, the clutch can go bad from time to time, regardless of how reliable the vehicle is. If you ignore the problem or don’t notice it, this could lead to even more costly repairs. One of the first things to look out for with this problem is your car not shifting gears as easily as it previously did. If you’re not sure what’s happening with your clutch you can always look at the tachometer, if the tachometer gauge is moving rapidly and seemingly uncontrolled, you may have an issue and should have your clutch looked at as soon as possible. Generally, any changes that you notice in how your Subaru drives are not a good thing. When you feel any kind of change or difference in your car, that’s when you need to find out what is causing it. If you want to learn more about how the clutch works, click here. Contact the professionals at Hansma today if this is happening.
3. Transmission Failure
As mentioned above, transmission issues are common with Subaru vehicles. Sometimes, as early as 15,000 km transmission issues such as poor shifting, skipping, or failure may occur. The repair could very well require a full transmission replacement. Contact Hansma today to learn more about what type of repair your transmission problem requires.
4. Head Gasket Leak
The head gasket contains both the engine oil and coolant passages, and if they fail, this can allow leaks of either or both fluids inside and outside the engine. If you have low coolant or oil levels, your car is overheating, or you detect a burning smell while driving, this may be the issue. While this is typically a higher mileage issue, it is very important that if you notice the symptoms you have it replaced or repaired. Contact Hansma today to book your appointment.
5. Warm Air Conditioning Air
Another common problem with Subaru vehicles is that during the summer they can sometimes blow warm air out of the air conditioning. This is caused by worn-out O-rings that seal the air conditioning system. Once heat gets in, it blows out hot air. Most often once the seal is fixed the system can be recharged with refrigerant and the air conditioning will work properly again. If you’re having an air conditioning issue be sure to contact Hansma right away to have it fixed.
6. C/V Axle and Double Offset Joint (DOJ) Boot Problems
The C/V Axle connects the transmission to its wheels. Each axle has two joints, an inner and outer, which are lubricated with thick grease contained by rubber boots. The inner joint boot, also known as the DOJ, sits in close proximity to the exhaust pipes. If not functioning properly, this can produce a burning smell, and the loss of lubrication can lead to the joint wearing out if not addressed. If you want to learn more about how the C/V axle works, check out this article. This is another issue that worsens over time, so again if you detect a burning smell with your vehicle, be sure to address it immediately by calling the professionals at Hansma.
7. Various Bushing Problems
With our extreme winters here in Canada, cold temperatures can accelerate the wear of rubber parts like belts and bushings. The lower control arm bushings, front suspension bushings, and sway bar bushings can have problems as a result. These are all rubber components that tend to wear out quickly on Subarus in extreme cold. Learn more about various bushings problems here. When you get your vehicle serviced regularly, be sure to ask that the bushings be inspected.
8. Discontinued Tires
Like most vehicles, Subaru has tires that are prone to popping, leaking, or being punctured. A flat tire is usually a problem that will occur at some point in the lifespan of the vehicle. The problem, however, is that Subaru constantly updates their tires, and discontinues the old lines. The result is that, if you need one tire replaced, you may have to get them all replaced. At Hansma we will recommend tires that meet the needs of your Subaru.
The Hansma Difference
At Hansma we offer service with a difference. We have worked hard to gain a reputation for honesty and quality work. As Subaru experts, trust the professionals at Hansma to only recommend and carry out the repairs that you actually need. We will let you know what you need done and when it should be done. Our customers have come to consider us as their mechanic friend. And as your mechanic friend, we promise to give you top-notch service at reasonable and competitive rates. Click here to meet our friendly team, read our testimonials, and contact us today and find out about the Hansma service difference for yourself. We are open every weekday from 8 AM to 6 PM. Come see us at 88 Shoemaker St. in Kitchener, Ontario.
“Hansma Automotive has always provided excellent service to me. They are fast, accommodating, and their work is top-notch. All the staff I've dealt with are very friendly. I would highly recommend Hansma.” - Debra
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