Campaign - ECM Update For High RPM Lean Condition: Overview

NUMBER: WVE-15

DATE: Aug. 2008

APPLICABILITY:
2008MY Impreza WRX STI

SUBJECT:
Engine Control Module (ECM) Reprogramming

INTRODUCTION

Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) has determined that vehicles affected by this Service Program require ECM reprogramming. Under certain harsh driving patterns, specifically when repeatedly or continuously operating the engine above the "red-line" (RPM above 6,700), abnormal combustion could occur resulting in serious internal engine damage in the form of broken piston ring lands. This abnormal combustion condition is the result of an "over lean" fuel mixture caused by a combination of fuel cut activation and high turbo boost. To prevent this condition from occurring, Subaru has developed a modification to the Engine Control Module software logic that will improve combustion management above "red-line" engine speed. This revised logic will not adversely affect peak vehicle performance.

AFFECTED VEHICLES
^ 2008 MY Subaru Impreza WRX STI





Affected vehicles are identified in the VIN range chart above.

NOTE:
Some vehicles affected by this Service Program have already been updated by Subaru. 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 August 15, 2008.

A copy of the Owner Notification Letter is shown in this bulletin.

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.

Dealers are also 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.





SPECIAL TOOLS

SERVICE PROCEDURE

Use the Special Tools listed above to reprogram the ECM.

Follow all standard ECM reprogramming precautions before attempting reprogramming.

Note:
If you require assistance with using the Subaru Diagnostic System (SDS), use the "Help" function icon, which will allow you access the tutorial information.





ECM Reprograming Instructions

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 11-72-04, dated 8/4/04 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 Customer Dealer Services Department (CDS).





CLAIM REIMBURSEMENT AND ENTRY PROCEDURES