Subaru Crew: Official SOA Presence (aka Patti)

rsholland

Speaking of options, at least for the new Legacy, I find it kind if silly for SOA to be offering alloy "STi" pedals and door step plates for this car. Yeah, I know they want to promote and link STi to the Legacy lineup, but the "link" would become more believable once an STi Legacy appears on the market. Also, on a car as luxurious as the Legacy and Outback, those in-your-face alloy pedals (with the pink STi logo) really look out of place and tacky.

It sort of reminds me of the silly Baja roof lights which can't be operated while driving. I don't think I've ever seen a Baja on the road with those roof lights.

Bob

dcm61

They already print separate accessories brochures for each model line, so all they need to do is expand the detail of each item.

DaveM

kens

In my current 98 Forester S, the motion detection sensitivity can be set from very sensitive (hard rain will set it off), to the point where one needs to whallop the steering wheel to set it.

I would be surprised if the new Legacy security system didn't offer a similar feature.

Ken

bookemdano

Having an adjustable sensitivity would be great feature. However, what I really want it to be able to temporarily disable the motion sensor when I leave my dog in the car. Normally, it would never be disabled.

On my Audi (2002 A4), it works like this... After shutting off the engine, pull a little switch in the door (in the back of the driver's door storage compartment) to disable the motion detector. (You can immediately re-enable by pulling it again.) When you press the "lock" button on the remote, it sets the alarm but the motion sensor is disabled. When you unlock the car, the motion detector is reset to it's normal "active" state.

I would much prefer a manufacturer's system, but I'll buy aftermarket or modify it myself to get this feature. For me, a perimeter alarm and motion sensor is pretty much mandatory, and the motion sensor disable feature is a "must have".

Regards,

Dan.

dcm61

Patti,

I have an '03 Outback H4 wagon (built 6/02) which is not part of the coolant conditioner campaign. Does SOA recommend that the conditioner be added even though it's not part of the campaign. I realize that I would have to pay for the conditioner out of my own pocket.

Just wondering if it's better to add it or not.

Thanks,
DaveM

kmartin

Patti, will there be other tours available this summer? I will be in Indy/Kokomo areas in mid-July. Thx! -Karen-

locke2c

Dan,

just lock the doors with the door lock control (or manually) before exiting the vehicle and do not arm the alarm. it's what I've always done, and who is going to break into a vehicle with a dog sitting in it?

~Colin

cptplt

Patti
whats the official line on kids for the tour, my 9 year old would love to go!

bat1161

Dave,

Thanks for the co-ordinates. I'm still trying to learn how to do all the naunces on the Garmin:-).

Mark

hypov

That will work
But if Dan has the passive arming set-up,... back to square-one

-Dave

jfl

I just got my 2000 Legacy back after a two week repair for the transmission popping out of 5th gear when coasting. (Exactly the symptom described in "Endwrench" summer 2003/insider info/page 30.)

1 800 SUBARU3 has denied coverage as the car is past warranty. Would you take a moment to look into it? It's claim #624031 and your rep was Hope.

Thanks,

Jim

bat1161

Patti,

For now, until I hear if there are any type of group deals, I have put in a reservation at a nearby hotel. I figure to be arriving late Thurs/early Friday. Any idea what time the tour should be starting?

Mark

jon_in_ct

SOA recommends that the fuel filter on the 2004 STi be replaced every 30K miles. The fuel filter on the STi, unlike previous WRX models, is located within the fuel pump assembly instead of in the engine bay. It appears that it's impossible to order an STi fuel filter separately from the fuel pump assembly, which is ~$550.

Can you check into the apparent inability to order an STi fuel filter without also paying for an entire STi fuel pump assembly? Have I missed a Tech T.I.P.S. bulletin?

subaru_team

but I'm still awaiting a call back from him. I'm sharing your frustration. There is a lot going on there with the new model production, so I'm guessing that is why I'm not getting call backs. I have escalated it on my side to get some action. I'll advise soon.

Thanks - and sorry. It still looks like it's on for the 18th though!

Patti

subaru_team

I'll go hunting for details tomorrow and advise. Thanks in advance for your patience. I was off yesterday (college things with my son) so I'm a bit behind. I'll scope things out in the AM.

Thanks!

Patti

subaru_team

more "Edmunds" tours, but next time I'll stay away from a new product launch date!!

You can always go on a private tour. Let me know when you are going and I'll put you in touch with the right person. That is - - if the right person gets this thing right!

Patti

subaru_team

would not be welcome, but I'll ask just in case. I'll also get a reason if the answer is negative. For now, let's assume it will be fine!

Patti

rsholland

Not meaning to throw a wrench into the works, but would it make more sense scheduling this tour when it's less hectic for the SIA folks?

Bob

subaru_team

sorry Hope could not get you a different answer. The problem is the high mileage on your vehicle with no reported history of the problem earlier. The info. in End Wrench really related to a concern that we would expect to see early in the use of the vehicle. There can be other factors that can cause a problem like this not related to the article. But, with your vehicle being so far out of warranty, there wasn't much of a choice for her.

I'm sorry.

Patti

subaru_team

how frustrating a little thing like this has been. I would have hoped that if that was the issue, they would have told me aways back when we started talking about all of this and suggesting different dates. They have the new product launch followed by the summer shut down in the beginning of July (everyone vacations during the same two weeks) and then start-up with 24/7 shifts after that. I know one of the other issues is that the Isuzu production is stopping in July completely. At this point, I can only escalate it and see what happens. I'm on it - every day! Thanks for the thought. I'd never think you were throwing a wrench in anything.

Patti

subaru_team

From what I understand - - -the conditioner has been added in our vehicles during production from some time in 2002. So, I'd think it could only be good for the car whenever the coolant is routinely replaced. Also, from what I hear, they are keeping the price down pretty low for 'over the counter' sales, so it would probably be a good thing.

I hope this helps!

Patti

paisan

I'm interested in the fuel filter thing too. Since we do 30K services I'd like to make sure we can service the STis. as well. Also is this all the 2.5T motors?

-mike

rsholland

Patti, I know you've been really working hard to pull this off, and we really appreciate all your efforts, but if another date works better for everyone involved, maybe that would be better. I hate to see you put in all this time and effort, only to find yourself beating your head against the wall.

Bob

paisan

I'm in for a different date, maybe in the fall?

-mike

subaru_team

like they are saying "no" or not recommending it or anything at this point. I just need some details and help. So, we'll see.

Patti

dcm61

Thanks Patti. I actually bought the conditioner last week; broke the budget at $1.11 + tax. ;^)

I flushed the coolant but didn't add the conditioner yet. I asked because I wasn't sure if the post campaign vehicles benefited from the conditioner or if it would actually be counter productive with the newly designed head gaskets.

Thanks,
DaveM

jon_in_ct

Patti, while you await word on the STi fuel filter dilemma, could you also check into these ordering dead-ends on the WRX?

The center exhaust pipe contains both the front catalytic converter, a donut gasket, and the rear catalytic converter, not to mention their shields/covers. It appears that it's impossible to order any of the individual parts that comprise the WRX center exhaust section.

The tumble generator valve assembly is another problem. It appears that Subaru does not allow anyone to order the individual replacement of the TGV actuator, the TGV position sensor, the TGV valves or the TGV body. It's either the entire TGV assembly or nothing.

bookemdano

Patti,

Thanks for following up.

I'm becoming more impressed with the Outback every time I look at or drive one. I drove an OBXT this evening and was very impressed. Major issues now are the seat and color, and best option package. Your feedback will really help.

Regards,

Dan.

jfl

Patti,

I understand. Thanks for looking into it.

Jim

paisan

Center exhaust. The cat is physically part of the center pipe, you can buy the donuts seperately.

There are 3 cats in the WRX:

UP
DP
3rd Cat in pipe.

You can buy the 3rd cat/center pipe seperate from the DP which has the 2nd cat in it.

-mike

njswamplands

can you send my 3rd cat that was stuck in your pipe back to me?

bat1161

Patti,

I'll echo Bob in saying if it will make it easier to move it to another date, that's fine by me. I apprecaite all that you are doing to put this together in the midst of everything else.

Mark

jon_in_ct

My description of what is in the WRX and STi center exhaust pipe assembly was incorrect above.

It contains the following parts which, as far as I can tell, aren't separately orderable:

pipe containing the rear catalytic converter
a donut gasket
pipe containing a resonator chamber
associated pipe covers/heat shields.

subaru_team

availability. I'll advise when I get an answer. Sorry. Jon - are you having a problem with your vehicle? Has the dealer checked it out for you?

Patti

subaru_team

I'm thinking there is more to the issue since I've never had a lack of response like this. Either way, if you all do want to attend, it should be fine. But, if you prefer not to commit until I can get you a direct contact and some other information (hotels w/discounts, etc.), let me know. I'm still going to continue to try to get some kind of an answer. I'm really sorry.

Patti

subaru_team

not have a "perimeter" function (using radio waves or microwaves) but rather it has a shock sensor. A light impact will cause a warning chirp. Heavier impact will cause the full alarm. I'm still waiting to hear how to disable it and to check out the seats. Stay tuned!

Patti

bluesubie

Just please don't give out too much info on the security system. I know if they really want a car, they'll take it. But anything to make a thieves job tougher is good.

"Eminem and Rastaman" (of Tri-State Rex theft fame) had it easier by stealing some owner's manuals.

-Dennis

subearu

I've got the week of the 18th off already, tour or not. I'm still game to go if it's still on.

-Brian

bookemdano

Patti,

Again, many thanks for following up.

Another poster raised a concern about posting too much info about the security system. I respect that and consider it a good point. Therefore, I'd be happy just knowing if the motion sensor can be disabled. Please don't worry about posting how and where the disable switch is located.

Regards,

Dan.

hypov

Dan-
If I read Patti correctly, the upgraded security system does not come with motion sensor(s).
I think it's just the standard shock sensor with door/hood/trunk triggers, the door/hood/trunk triggers being the "perimeter".

-Dave

locke2c

Dennis is sensitive to theft because his '02 WRX wagon was stolen-- but to be absolutely honest, there is nothing special or even particularly good about the factory system. They are Alpine or Code-Alarm OE units and they have the same features or less than each company's respective retail models.

There's nothing to learn, nothing to give away. Rookie thieves as just as likely to smash & grab-- the pros sure don't need to patrol here for info.

~c

jfl

I'm comfortable with re-scheduling if Patti will be able to join us on the new date.

Jim

paisan

with some minor upgrades is not that bad actually, definitely on par with Alpine, Clifford, Viper, etc. We've seen first hand more recovered cars (probably 10 WRXs first hand) and no matter what alarm is in it, the theives overcome them cause they know how to override them. If anyone wants more details, e-mail me offline and I'll share some minor tweaks we offer to our customers to improve their anti-theft stuff.

-mike

paisan

The reason the cat and resonator are not sold seperately is that they are part of the pipe.

The donut is available at http://subaruwrxparts.com

-mike

ladywclass

I'm fine with whatever is decided. I'm probably the "most flexible" of the group since I'm so close to Lafayette anyway! Just figure it out and let me know ...
I'd also love to have a chance to meet Patti in person, and more of the crew from the east coast, so if a change of dates would be better ... I'm all for it ..

bat1161

I took the days off for the tour, so you can still consider me a go. However if you want to change the dates so that more people can make it, as well as making it easier for SIA, no problem. As you can guess, I just want to go for a little drive:-)

Mark

hypov

Patti-

Would you know why the WRX doesn't have the FWD mode like the other models?
I'm guessing the FX-T wouldn't have it either.

-Dave

dcm61

Dave,

The VTD models (WRX, '03+ Legacy GT, OB VDC, '05 OB XT, '05 OB L.L. Bean, Baja Turbo) don't have the FWD mode because VTD uses both a planetary (mechanical) center differential (which I believe is what gives it the 45F/55R default split) and an electronically managed continuously variable transfer clutch. The WRX STi 6 spd. uses a similar set up as VTD but adds a DCCD. The non-VTD A/T models (active AWD) just use the electronically managed continuously variable transfer clutch.

Since the FX-T A/T has active AWD not VTD (sorry Ed), I see no reason why an FX-T wouldn't have a FWD mode.

DaveM

hondafriek

If a Pro wants yer car consider it gone no matter what security you have on it:-)

 Cheers Pat.

kens

Actually, isn't the OE alarm made by Alpine? At least that's what I think it is on my 98 Forester.

The OE alarm provides a very basic level of protection. It's analogous to the stereo -- if you need the absolute best, you have to go aftermarket.

Ken