1990 Subaru XT

Introduction:

The 1990 Subaru XT is a compact sports car that was available with a 2.2L flat-four engine and a 4-speed automatic transmission or a 5-speed manual transmission. The 2.2L engine produces 130 horsepower and 142 lb-ft of torque. The XT was praised for its handling and performance, but it was also criticized for its cramped interior and lack of features.

Engine

2.2L Flat-Four

• Head Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant loss, white smoke from exhaust, overheating
  • Solution: Replace head gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Belt Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine will not start, ticking noise from engine
  • Solution: Replace timing belt
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Fluid Leaks:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leaking from pan or lines
  • Solution: Replace transmission fluid pan or lines
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Shifting Problems:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, transmission slipping
  • Solution: Replace transmission fluid, adjust shift linkage
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

• Clutch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting gears
  • Solution: Replace clutch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling
  • Solution: Replace struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000 per set
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ball Joint Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from suspension, poor handling
  • Solution: Replace ball joints
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 per pair
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging, electrical system not working
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine will not start
  • Solution: Replace starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust spots on body panels, frame
  • Solution: Sand and repaint affected areas
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks in dashboard
  • Solution: Replace dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate Control Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Heater or air conditioner not working
  • Solution: Replace climate control module or actuators
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 1990 Subaru XT is a reliable and fun-to-drive car, but it is not without its issues. The most common problems are related to the engine (head gasket failure, timing belt failure), transmission (fluid leaks, shifting problems), and suspension (strut wear, ball joint failure). While some of these repairs can be expensive, the XT is still a relatively affordable car to maintain and can provide years of enjoyment.