1990 Subaru Loyale

Introduction: The 1990 Subaru Loyale is a compact all-wheel-drive station wagon that offers a versatile blend of off-road capability and daily practicality. It is powered by a 2.2-liter naturally aspirated boxer engine that produces 115 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque, mated to either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. The Loyale is praised for its rugged construction, spacious interior, and standard all-wheel-drive system, but it has some shortcomings in terms of performance and interior refinement.

Engine 2.2L Boxer

• Head gasket failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, white smoke from exhaust
  • Solution: Replace head gaskets, resurface cylinder heads
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing belt failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, loss of power, loud ticking noise
  • Solution: Replace timing belt, tensioners, and pulleys
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission 5-Speed Manual

• Clutch wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping, difficulty shifting, burning smell
  • Solution: Replace clutch assembly
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic

• Transmission fluid leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: Fluid leaks from transmission pan, loss of gears
  • Solution: Replace transmission pan gasket, refill fluid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises, uneven tire wear, reduced handling
  • Solution: Replace struts and mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000 per axle
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dim lights, dead battery, charging system warning light
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery dies overnight, difficulty starting
  • Solution: Identify and repair electrical component causing the drain
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the cause

Exterior

• Rust:
  • Description/Symptoms: Surface corrosion, holes in body panels, especially underbody
  • Solution: Rust prevention, paint touch-ups, body repairs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on severity

Interior

• Dashboard cracks:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks and splits in the plastic dashboard, especially on the passenger side
  • Solution: Replace dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000

Summary: The 1990 Subaru Loyale is a reliable and capable vehicle, but it is not without its issues. The head gasket failure and timing belt failure are major concerns with the engine, while transmission fluid leaks and clutch wear can affect the drivetrain. Suspension problems such as strut failure can compromise handling and ride quality. While electrical problems and dashboard cracks are less severe, they can still be inconvenient and costly to fix. Rust is a common issue, especially in areas with harsh winters or near saltwater. Overall, the cost of repairs for the Loyale can be moderate to high, depending on the severity of the issues.