1988 Subaru XT Service Manual

The 1988 Subaru XT is a unique sports coupe featuring advanced aerodynamics, available with either 1.8L or 2.7L horizontally-opposed engines, front-wheel drive or optional four-wheel drive, digital instrument cluster, and innovative features like the Electro-Touch 4WD system. This service manual covers maintenance procedures, specifications, troubleshooting, and repair instructions for all major systems.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Maintenance Schedule 3. Engine Systems 4. Transmission & Drivetrain 5. Electrical System 6. Braking System 7. Suspension & Steering 8. Body & Interior 9. Troubleshooting Guide 10. Technical Data

Vehicle Specifications

Key specifications for the 1988 Subaru XT models including engine options, dimensions, and performance data.

Specification	Description
Engine Options	1.8L EA82 (90 hp) or 2.7L ER27 (145 hp) flat-4
Transmission	5-speed manual, 3-speed automatic, 4WD option
Wheelbase	96.7 inches
Length	175.6 inches
Width	66.7 inches
Height	51.8 inches
Curb Weight	2,450-2,750 lbs
Fuel Capacity	15.9 gallons
Brakes	Front disc, rear drum with optional ABS
Suspension	Independent MacPherson strut front and rear

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended maintenance intervals for optimal vehicle performance and longevity.

Oil and filter change: Every 3,000 miles or 3 months
Air filter replacement: Every 15,000 miles
Spark plugs: Every 30,000 miles
Timing belt: Every 60,000 miles (critical for interference engines)
Coolant flush: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Brake fluid: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Transmission fluid: Every 30,000 miles

WARNING! Always use jack stands when working under vehicle. Disconnect battery before electrical work.

Engine Systems

Service procedures for EA82 and ER27 horizontally-opposed engines.

Valve adjustment: Required every 15,000 miles for hydraulic lifters
Timing belt replacement: Critical maintenance item
Fuel system: Carbureted or MPFI depending on model
Ignition system: Distributor-based with electronic advance
Cooling system: Crossflow radiator with electric fan
Exhaust system: Dual exhaust on XT6 models

CAUTION! Engine components remain hot after operation. Allow proper cooling time.

Transmission & Drivetrain

Manual Transmission: 5-speed with dual-range selector on 4WD models
Automatic Transmission: 3-speed with lock-up torque converter
4WD System: Electro-Touch push-button engagement
Differential: Front and rear open differentials
Drive Axles: Constant velocity joints front and rear
Transfer Case: Part-time system with high/low range

Electrical System

Diagnosis and repair procedures for the advanced electrical systems.

Features: Digital instrument cluster, power windows, power mirrors, cruise control, automatic climate control (optional).

Battery: 12V, 45Ah. Alternator: 65-75 amp output. Fuse panel location: Under dashboard, driver's side. Wiring diagrams included in full manual. Common issues: Instrument cluster failure, power window regulators, alternator brushes.

Braking System

Service procedures for standard and optional anti-lock braking systems.

Brake pad replacement: Front disc brakes
Brake shoe replacement: Rear drum brakes
Rotor resurfacing: Minimum thickness specifications
Brake bleeding: Manual procedure required
ABS diagnosis: Special tool required for system bleeding

Tip: Always replace brake components in axle sets (both front or both rear).

Suspension & Steering

Maintenance and repair of MacPherson strut suspension and power steering system.

Strut replacement: Requires spring compressor tool
Ball joint inspection: Check for play during tire rotation
Tie rod ends: Replace if any looseness detected
Wheel alignment: Specifications: Camber -0.5° to +0.5°, Toe 0° to +0.2°
Power steering: Fluid type ATF Dexron II
Steering gear: Rack and pinion design

WARNING! Use proper spring compressor when working with struts. Never heat suspension components.

Body & Interior

Repair procedures for unique XT body design and interior components.

Troubleshooting Guide

Common problems and solutions for the 1988 Subaru XT.

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine misfire	Spark plugs, wires, distributor	Replace spark plugs, check ignition wires, inspect distributor cap
4WD not engaging	Electro-Touch switch, vacuum lines	Check switch operation, inspect vacuum lines to front hubs
Digital dash failure	Power supply, ground connections	Check instrument cluster power supply, clean ground connections
Power window inoperative	Switch, motor, regulator	Test switch operation, check motor function, inspect regulator mechanism
Overheating	Thermostat, water pump, radiator	Replace thermostat, check water pump, flush radiator

Reset: Disconnect battery for 10 minutes to reset ECU if applicable.

Service: Consult authorized Subaru dealer for complex electrical issues.