Questions and Answers
Subaru Legacy Won't Stay Running
Q. Hi, I've got a 1990 Subaru Legacy with about 200,000 miles on it. Recently it has begun misbehaving. It starts up after the second try and then it runs fine for about 12 to 15 miles, but then it loses acceleration when you give it gas, barely moves, or moves in lurches, and then stalls.
Then when you restart it it runs fine for about 30 seconds and the whole drama replays itself. But again and again, it runs fine until about the 12 to 15 mile mark and then it runs poorly. Does that sound like the fuel injectors or fuel pump? And is there a way to test injectors or the pump?
Thanks,
DavidA. Yes, it could be the fuel pump. The way to test it is with a fuel pressure gauge. leave it hooked up and when it starts stalling and acting up, look at the gauge. If the needle is all over the place then you know for sure it's the fuel pump.
One way you can test it is when you go to start it in the morning, turn the key ON but do not start it. When you hear the fuel pump shut off, do it again three or four more times. This will prime the fuel system and if it starts right up and stays running, you know the general cause of the problem.
The best way to test fuel injectors is by taking them out and using an injector tester. The next best thing is to take a long screwdriver and put the tip on the injector and your ear on the handle. You should hear the injector clicking. If it is then electrically it is okay. It may be clogged or partially clogged however. You can use some fuel injector cleaner when you fill up on a regular basis.
Additional Information provided courtesy of ALLDATA
