Your Subaru’s check engine light just came on. What now? At Fremont Foreign Auto, right here in Fremont, we’ve seen every Subaru issue imaginable. From mysterious knocks to stubborn transmissions, we’re here to diagnose and fix your Subaru woes.
Did you know? Subaru’s unique boxer engine design isn’t just for show. This horizontal layout lowers the car’s center of gravity, improving handling and reducing vibration. But here’s the catch: it can make some repairs trickier. Oil changes? A breeze. Spark plug replacements? That’s where our expertise comes in handy. This design quirk affects all Subaru models, from the sporty WRX to the family-friendly Outback.
Head Gasket Headaches
The EJ25 2.5-liter engine, a staple in Subarus from 1996 to 2015, is infamous for head gasket failures. This issue plagues Outbacks, Foresters, and Imprezas alike. Watch for white exhaust smoke or coolant loss. At Fremont Foreign Auto, we don’t just slap on a new gasket. We upgrade to multi-layer steel versions and check for warped cylinder heads. It’s a thorough fix that keeps you on the road longer.
Oil Vanishing Act
Noticed your oil disappearing faster than usual? You’re not imagining things. 2011-2015 Foresters, 2013 Legacy and Outback models, and 2012-2013 Imprezas and Crosstreks often guzzle oil. Worn piston rings or valve seals are the usual suspects. We’ll run compression tests and leak-down checks to pinpoint the issue. Sometimes it’s a quick fix. Other times, we might need to rebuild your engine. Either way, we’ll get your Subaru back to sipping oil, not chugging it.
Timing is Everything
If your Subaru has a non-turbo engine made before 2013, listen up. Your car uses a timing belt, not a chain. This belt needs replacement every 105,000 miles or 10 years. Ignore it, and you risk catastrophic engine failure. When we replace your timing belt, we also check related components like water pumps and tensioner pulleys. It’s preventative maintenance that saves you money in the long run.
CVT Conundrums
Subaru’s Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) can be a smooth operator… when it’s working right. Models from 2010 to 2015 sometimes struggle with hesitation, shuddering, or power loss. Our advanced diagnostic tools pinpoint CVT issues with precision. Sometimes a software update does the trick. Other times, we might need to replace components or the entire transmission. We’ll find the right solution for your specific Subaru.
Suspension Suspense
Even Subaru’s renowned handling can suffer over time. Worn control arm bushings, failed ball joints, and tired struts are common culprits. These issues lead to uneven tire wear and steering quirks. Our Fremont shop specializes in reviving your Subaru’s nimble handling. We’ll have you cornering with confidence again in no time.
Wheel Bearing Woes
Hear a humming noise that changes with your speed? Your wheel bearings might be crying for help. This issue often strikes older Forester and Impreza models. Ignore it, and you risk damaging your ABS system or worse. Our thorough inspections catch these problems early, saving you from costly repairs down the road.
Engine Knock Knock
Who’s there? Potentially serious engine trouble. The EJ series engines in Impreza WRX and Forester XT models can develop rod bearing issues. This results in a distinct knocking sound. Causes range from oil starvation to manufacturing quirks. Our specialized equipment detects early warning signs, potentially saving your engine from total failure.
Maintenance Matters
Prevention beats cure every time. Follow Subaru’s oil change schedules religiously. Use high-quality, approved oil. Keep an eye on your coolant. Have your CVT fluid checked regularly. And never ignore strange noises or vibrations. At Fremont Foreign Auto, we offer maintenance packages tailored to your specific Subaru model and year.
Your Subaru Saviors in Fremont
Owning a Subaru should be a joy, not a headache. At Fremont Foreign Auto, we’re committed to keeping your Subaru in top shape. Our experienced technicians use cutting-edge tools and quality parts to ensure your car gets the best care possible.
Hearing strange noises? Feeling odd vibrations? Due for a check-up? Don’t wait. Contact Fremont Foreign Auto today. We’ll keep your Subaru running smoothly, whether you’re cruising through Fremont, commuting to Newark, or exploring California’s backroads. Trust us to be your Subaru care partner, ensuring many more miles of safe, enjoyable driving.