2015 Forester 2.0

[OnceInALifeTime]

On 10/3/2020 at 10:09 AM, Picnic said:

You’re right. The warning lights were on all the way from home to MI. However, it didn’t come on when the SA started the car. Anyway, I’ve a video and showed him the disco lights.

They ran diagnostics and couldn’t find any error codes. They off-on and still nothing. Well, I asked them to do the exhaust nuts bcos of the recall. They fixed it and replaced exhaust brackets. 
 

Will see what happens. 

haha... Thank you for sharing.

I guess in terms of intermittent troubleshooting, they might not be the best place to go to. I do not have any faith in them too. Except they are the authorised distributor. Why don't you try 3rd party workshop? There are a few listed in this forum. I believe will be able to help.

Way in the beginning, when I send in my vehicle for the fist 1k and 10k service. They were using 5W-40 Shell Helix Engine Oil ACEA A3/B4 API SN rating. Now, they are using Motul Subaru Engine oil 5W-30 ACEA C2 API SN rating.

These two engine oil differences were the SAPS level and other characteristics such as viscosity and H. T. H. S. So I had stop sending in for service to MI, as I do not think that Shell Helix 5W-40 is the appropriate engine oil for the application.

Earlier, there were also discussion in the forum about using thicker oil by MI which is more suitable in our climate. (I was in agreement of using 5W-30 ACEA C3 rated engine oil, due to the higher H. T. H. S and mid SAPS to reduce intake valve carbon build up)

But MI is now using 5W-30 now instead of 5W-40? What would be the reason?

Based on the earlier inputs/post in this forum, is Singapore climate getting colder? That would be the reason that MI is adopting to Subaru Motul 5W-30 and no longer using the Shell Helix 5W-40?

I am wondering for those having SJ5 models... Is MI using Subaru Motul 5W-30 or 0W-20 Oil?

Next, on the other fluids used by them for service the vehicles sent in. We do not really know what was used too.

Moreover, to maintain warranty status do not really need to have vehicles to be serviced at authorised distributors. They will demand that servicing to be done in accordance to their standards or specifications. As long there is adequate proof of service and payment receipts. This would be sufficient.

Well, eventually; it will be down to the individuals. Some wouldn't mind paying more, Some do. Some wouldn't mind getting less, Some do.

The worst lot of all, play on the "warranty" or "guarantee" scare card...

[Turismo9]

On 10/1/2020 at 12:03 PM, Picnic said:

Driving a 2015 FXT. This morning after dropping my son off, I went for breakfast. After breakfast, started the car and the 3 warning lights came on, together with the Sports Mode and Cruise Control light. The S mode and CC light were flashing and I can't change the mode. The 3 warning lights were CEL, Hill start assist and Vehicle Dynamics. I off the engine, waited a while and started again. Still the same. 

This was not the first time it happened. First time was 3 days back and it went off after a while. This time, it lasted after 3 off and on. Even after I drove to buy lunch, it was still there.

Car drives normally but seems a little jerky. Called Subaru service center and waiting for them to call me back .

Read online but nothing conclusive. Not sure if its battery, O2 sensor or whatever. Anyone experienced the same before?

Is the auto-transmission check-light blinking? If no, them most probably is just the brake switch faulty coz u mentioned the car still can drive normally but only in sport mode. 

If the auto-transmission check-light is blinking, then high chances is the transmission valve body assy kaput liao. The car can only drive in first 3 gears only. Very scary coz u can see the oil temp goes up very fast.

I had both above issues on my 2014 fxt before. 

[Contipro]

1 hour ago, OnceInALifeTime said:

haha... Thank you for sharing.

I guess in terms of intermittent troubleshooting, they might not be the best place to go to. I do not have any faith in them too. Except they are the authorised distributor. Why don't you try 3rd party workshop? There are a few listed in this forum. I believe will be able to help.

Way in the beginning, when I send in my vehicle for the fist 1k and 10k service. They were using 5W-40 Shell Helix Engine Oil ACEA A3/B4 API SN rating. Now, they are using Motul Subaru Engine oil 5W-30 ACEA C2 API SN rating.

These two engine oil differences were the SAPS level and other characteristics such as viscosity and H. T. H. S. So I had stop sending in for service to MI, as I do not think that Shell Helix 5W-40 is the appropriate engine oil for the application.

Earlier, there were also discussion in the forum about using thicker oil by MI which is more suitable in our climate. (I was in agreement of using 5W-30 ACEA C3 rated engine oil, due to the higher H. T. H. S and mid SAPS to reduce intake valve carbon build up)

But MI is now using 5W-30 now instead of 5W-40? What would be the reason?

Based on the earlier inputs/post in this forum, is Singapore climate getting colder? That would be the reason that MI is adopting to Subaru Motul 5W-30 and no longer using the Shell Helix 5W-40?

I am wondering for those having SJ5 models... Is MI using Subaru Motul 5W-30 or 0W-20 Oil?

Next, on the other fluids used by them for service the vehicles sent in. We do not really know what was used too.

Moreover, to maintain warranty status do not really need to have vehicles to be serviced at authorised distributors. They will demand that servicing to be done in accordance to their standards or specifications. As long there is adequate proof of service and payment receipts. This would be sufficient.

Well, eventually; it will be down to the individuals. Some wouldn't mind paying more, Some do. Some wouldn't mind getting less, Some do.

The worst lot of all, play on the "warranty" or "guarantee" scare card...

you mentioned intake valve carbon built up. I not realise Subaru engine is of direct injection, I thought is still port injection..

[Tohto]

16 minutes ago, Contipro said:

you mentioned intake valve carbon built up. I not realise Subaru engine is of direct injection, I thought is still port injection..

FXT engine cover already clearly mark. DIT  - Direct Injection Turbo.

[Contipro]

6 hours ago, Tohto said:

FXT engine cover already clearly mark. DIT  - Direct Injection Turbo.

I din know that subaru use direct injection already, since when? I am so out of the pictures

[shutterbox]

One question guys,

The Forester SJG sold in Singapore, is a JDM model with the FA20F engine?

Wiki https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Subaru_FA_engine#FA20F says that a for FA20F , there are:

2014-2018 USDM Subaru Forester XT:

• Power: 250 hp (186 kW; 253 PS) at 5,600 RPM
• Torque: 258 lb⋅ft (350 N⋅m; 36 kg⋅m) at 2,000-4,800 RPM

2014-2018 JDM Subaru Forester XT:

• Power: 276 hp (206 kW; 280 PS) at 5,600 RPM
• Torque: 258 lb⋅ft (350 N⋅m; 36 kg⋅m) at 2,000-5,200 rpm

The one sold by MI from 2016 onwards, would have been using the USDM or JDM?

in either case, it looks like Sg market got a detuned engine?

[OnceInALifeTime]

On 10/4/2020 at 1:53 PM, Contipro said:

you mentioned intake valve carbon built up. I not realise Subaru engine is of direct injection, I thought is still port injection..

SJG is direct injection. Forester XT

SJ5 is port injection. Forester

[OnceInALifeTime]

18 hours ago, shutterbox said:

One question guys,

The Forester SJG sold in Singapore, is a JDM model with the FA20F engine?

Wiki https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Subaru_FA_engine#FA20F says that a for FA20F , there are:

2014-2018 USDM Subaru Forester XT:

• Power: 250 hp (186 kW; 253 PS) at 5,600 RPM
• Torque: 258 lb⋅ft (350 N⋅m; 36 kg⋅m) at 2,000-4,800 RPM

2014-2018 JDM Subaru Forester XT:

• Power: 276 hp (206 kW; 280 PS) at 5,600 RPM
• Torque: 258 lb⋅ft (350 N⋅m; 36 kg⋅m) at 2,000-5,200 rpm

The one sold by MI from 2016 onwards, would have been using the USDM or JDM?

in either case, it looks like Sg market got a detuned engine?

In Singapore, it is FA20 engine. FA20F is [F: DOHC DIT (LH)]. It is rated at 177kW. You can look at your logcard for your Engine Number.

It might be detuned to accept lower octane fuel such at RON95 and also to prevent possible LSPI syndrome.

 

Source: https://www.oronite.com/about/news/low-speed-pre-ignition.aspx

[OnceInALifeTime]

I had just performed an intake valve cleaning.

For those who are keen. It is rather simple task, but would require 2 people to complete the task.

I had used: https://www.crcindustries.com/products/gdi-ivd-174-intake-valve-cleaner-11-wt-oz-05319.html

I believe that ThreeBond Engine Conditioner should work as well.

However, there are information stating that polyether amines (PEA) additives are very effective in carbon cleaning.

Remove vacuum hose clamp with pliers.

Slip the clamp upwards

Pull the hose out

Attach Cleaner Additives spray tube to the vacuum hose. Use a nozzle or. Use masking tape to secure the spray tube and the hose to seal. (This is to reduce and prevent atmospheric air from entering the vacuum hose.)

Start engine, rev up and maintain 2000 rpm.

Just spray and empty the can.

Switch off engine and reattach vacuum hose.

Cheap regular maintenance to prevent intake valves from carbon building up.

To further prevent carbon building up, use low or mid SAPS engine oil. It will help.

 

[Picnic]

On 10/4/2020 at 1:39 PM, Turismo9 said:

Is the auto-transmission check-light blinking? If no, them most probably is just the brake switch faulty coz u mentioned the car still can drive normally but only in sport mode. 

If the auto-transmission check-light is blinking, then high chances is the transmission valve body assy kaput liao. The car can only drive in first 3 gears only. Very scary coz u can see the oil temp goes up very fast.

I had both above issues on my 2014 fxt before. 

It’s not the auto- trans light. It’s hill assist, CEL and anti-skid lights. MI mentioned if persist, then maybe need to check and replace throttle body.

I’ll try to clean the MAF sensor this weekend and see what happens. Else go to KBS to service and clean TB.

[Tohto]

1 hour ago, Picnic said:

It’s not the auto- trans light. It’s hill assist, CEL and anti-skid lights. MI mentioned if persist, then maybe need to check and replace throttle body.

I’ll try to clean the MAF sensor this weekend and see what happens. Else go to KBS to service and clean TB.

Go visit an outside Subaru expert workshop.

Never trust MI.

[OnceInALifeTime]

11 hours ago, Picnic said:

It’s not the auto- trans light. It’s hill assist, CEL and anti-skid lights. MI mentioned if persist, then maybe need to check and replace throttle body.

I’ll try to clean the MAF sensor this weekend and see what happens. Else go to KBS to service and clean TB.

 

10 hours ago, Tohto said:

Go visit an outside Subaru expert workshop.

Never trust MI.

Very terrible situation. Even authorised distributor unable to properly pinpoint the exact fault that is happening.

That is also the reason, why I do not feel justified returning to MI for service or paying the premium at all.

My expectations would be returning to MI. They will know what is the exact fault and rectify the fault. That will then be termed as "Subaru experts".

Not to mention, the premium that they are charging comparing to the 3rd party workshops. If paying premium and obtaining similar or less quality service, it does not make economic and logical sense at all.

 

[Stratovarius]

On 10/4/2020 at 9:49 PM, shutterbox said:

One question guys,

The Forester SJG sold in Singapore, is a JDM model with the FA20F engine?

Wiki https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Subaru_FA_engine#FA20F says that a for FA20F , there are:

2014-2018 USDM Subaru Forester XT:

• Power: 250 hp (186 kW; 253 PS) at 5,600 RPM
• Torque: 258 lb⋅ft (350 N⋅m; 36 kg⋅m) at 2,000-4,800 RPM

2014-2018 JDM Subaru Forester XT:

• Power: 276 hp (206 kW; 280 PS) at 5,600 RPM
• Torque: 258 lb⋅ft (350 N⋅m; 36 kg⋅m) at 2,000-5,200 rpm

The one sold by MI from 2016 onwards, would have been using the USDM or JDM?

in either case, it looks like Sg market got a detuned engine?

SG import the FXT from JP, so likely we got the JDM model. I understand that the pre facelift model is rated at 276hp while the facelift is 237hp. From YT comments, seems that USDM also have the 276 and 250 versions of the FA20F. 

Maybe MI bring in the detuned engine to lower OMV? 

[Tohto]

45 minutes ago, OnceInALifeTime said:

 

Very terrible situation. Even authorised distributor unable to properly pinpoint the exact fault that is happening.

That is also the reason, why I do not feel justified returning to MI for service or paying the premium at all.

My expectations would be returning to MI. They will know what is the exact fault and rectify the fault. That will then be termed as "Subaru experts".

Not to mention, the premium that they are charging comparing to the 3rd party workshops. If paying premium and obtaining similar or less quality service, it does not make economic and logical sense at all.

 

You can forget about MI. Go outside pro Subaru workshop. Cheaper and better.

[shutterbox]

4 hours ago, Stratovarius said:

SG import the FXT from JP, so likely we got the JDM model. I understand that the pre facelift model is rated at 276hp while the facelift is 237hp. From YT comments, seems that USDM also have the 276 and 250 versions of the FA20F. 

Maybe MI bring in the detuned engine to lower OMV? 

Does that mean Sg's SJG can be "tuned back" to JDM factory specs again easily while keeping the same reliability? 

[Stratovarius]

24 minutes ago, shutterbox said:

Does that mean Sg's SJG can be "tuned back" to JDM factory specs again easily while keeping the same reliability? 

I dont think that is an issue If you or the tuner have the original JDM map. But I think most of us go for road/dyno tune and not following the JDM specs. Reliability should not be an issue if you go to the right tuner. 

[OnceInALifeTime]

On 10/5/2020 at 10:48 PM, Tohto said:

Go visit an outside Subaru expert workshop.

Never trust MI.

Yes. Fully agree.

[OnceInALifeTime]

On 10/6/2020 at 1:50 PM, shutterbox said:

Does that mean Sg's SJG can be "tuned back" to JDM factory specs again easily while keeping the same reliability? 

Technically could be done.

As it seems that mechanically it is the same.

However, do note that in Japan; there are availability of RON 100 petrol.

Therefore, the maximum power output might need that petrol rating.

Next, other then engine power. Torque values are important. If I didn't remember wrongly, it is still rated at 350Nm for the maximum torque.

Although higher horsepower might seems attractive. However, I believe on Singapore roads. If there is a possibility for increasing the maximum torque for Forester, it will be great and even more crucial than tuning the engine to increase engine power.

Looking at Subaru Ascent; same gear box TR690. But able to generate higher torque and tow higher capacity.

Too bad, its not sold in Singapore.