Outback F4-2.5L SOHC (2005)
Technical Service Bulletin # WVI-19
Date: 090612
Recall - ECM Update For Catalyst Efficiency (Ca. Spec.)
NUMBER: WVI-19
DATE: June 2009
APPLICABILITY:
2005MY PZEV Spec. Subaru Legacy and Outback
SUBJECT:
Engine Control Module (ECM)Reprogramming
This Campaign applies to vehicles in any state except those with motor vehicle registrations in the States of California, Massachusetts, Maine, New York
or Vermont. For affected vehicles registered in these states, see Service Program WVH-18.
Introduction
Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) has determined that vehicles affected by this Service Program require ECM reprogramming.
Under certain unique driving patterns, such as repeated acceleration and deceleration and/or continuous uphill driving at higher speeds (about 75 mph),
the catalytic converters of affected vehicles may develop high internal temperatures that exceed design parameters. If left uncorrected, this condition may
eventually degrade the catalytic converters. (The "CHECK ENGINE" light will illuminate to alert the driver if catalytic converter degradation has
already occurred and that the vehicle may be releasing air pollutants which exceed Federal emission standards.). To prevent this condition, a
modification to the Engine Control Module software logic has been developed that will improve management of temperatures within the catalytic
converters.
This condition is a software issue and has no impact on vehicle drivability.
AFFECTED VEHICLES
2005 MY Subaru Legacy and Outback with CAL PZEV Spec Emission System and motor vehicle registration in any state except California,
Massachusetts, Maine, New York or Vermont.
Affected vehicles are identified in the VIN range chart. NOTE: Prior to performing repairs, confirm coverage for potentially affected vehicles by using
the Vehicle Coverage Inquiry in the Dealer Communication System (DCS).
OWNER NOTIFICATION
SOA will prepare and mail an Owner Notification Letter to owners of affected vehicles on or around June 15, 2009.
A copy of the Owner Notification Letter is included at the end of this bulletin.
CATALYTIC CONVERTER WARRANTY EXTENSION
For owners of affected vehicles, SOA is extending warranty coverage for catalytic converters under the Subaru Federal Specification Emissions
Extended Defect Limited Warranty to a period of 10 years or 100,000 miles, whichever occurs first. Warranty coverage begins on the date the vehicle
was delivered to the first retail purchaser. If the vehicle was used as a demonstrator or company vehicle before being sold at retail, warranty coverage
begins on the date the vehicle was first placed in such service.
DEALER PROGRAM RESPONSIBILITY
Dealers are to promptly service all vehicles subject to this service program at no charge to the vehicle owner regardless of mileage, age of the vehicle, or
ownership.
For affected vehicles sold after the date on the dealer's computer list, dealers are to contact those owners and provide them with a copy of the owner
notification letter. They should also arrange to make the required correction according to the instructions in the service procedure
section of this bulletin.