1982 Subaru Brat problems
The Subaru BRAT (acronym for “Bi-drive Recreational All-terrain Transporter”) is a light-duty, four-wheel drive coupé utility, version of the Subaru Leone originally introduced in 1977. The BRAT was developed directly from the company's four-wheel drive station wagon model and was first introduced as a 1978 model – following the concept of coupe utilities such as the Chevrolet El Camino and the Ford Ranchero. The BRAT is also known as a Brumby, MV Pickup or Shifter depending on where it was sold. The vehicle was sold from 1978 until 1994.
Technical
All BRAT's had four-wheel drive and the Subaru EA engine. Early models received the 1.6 litre EA-71, whereas 1981 and later models received a 1.8 litre EA-81 engine. The 1983 and 1984 models could be purchased with an optional 94 hp (70 kW) turbocharged engine. Manual transmissions were standard on all models, and an automatic transmission was available on turbocharged BRAT's. The 1980 and earlier models had a single-range transfer case, while 1981 and later GL models had a dual-range transfer case (DL's still had single range), and all turbocharged models were equipped with a 3 speed automatic transmission with a single-range, push-button, four-wheel drive.
First generation
Developed in Japan in 1977 at the request of the President of Subaru of America, the BRAT was introduced to match the demand for small trucks in North America, in order to compete against other manufacturers, such as Toyota, Nissan, and Mazda. Unlike trucks from other manufacturers, all BRATs had four-wheel drive, as they were developed from the existing Leone station wagon. When the Leone was redesigned in 1979 for the 1980 model year, the BRAT continued with the original Gen I body until 1982.
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Common 1982 Subaru Brat problems
The Subaru BRAT, introduced in 1978, was a mini-pickup truck based on the Leone platform. It was designed to cater to the booming mini-pickup market, but with a unique twist: it had two seats in the bed, making it a passenger car and avoiding the 25% "chicken tax" on trucks. While the BRAT had its charm, it was not without its problems. Here are some common issues based on complaints from owners:
- Rust: Rust was a significant problem for the Subaru BRAT, particularly in areas like the wheel wells, rocker panels, and bed. This was due to the unibody construction and the lack of proper rust protection.
- Carburetor issues: The 1982 Subaru BRAT had carburetor-related problems, as reported by some owners. These issues could result in poor performance, difficulty starting, or stalling.
- Limited cargo space: While the rear seats in the bed were a unique feature, they reduced the available cargo space. Many BRAT owners opted for a "seatectomy" to maximize the cargo area.
- Fuel economy: Although the BRAT had a reputation for good fuel economy, some owners reported disappointing results, especially when the vehicle was used for towing or hauling heavy loads.
- Suspension and handling: Some BRAT owners reported issues with the independent suspension at both ends, which could lead to a harsh ride or difficulty in handling.
- Electrical issues: Electrical problems, such as malfunctioning gauges, lights, or accessories, were also reported by some BRAT owners.
- Brakes: Some BRAT owners experienced issues with the braking system, including longer stopping distances or difficulty modulating the brakes.
- Engine reliability: Although the BRAT's engine was generally reliable, some owners reported issues with head gasket problems, which became more common in later models.
- Heat and air conditioning: Some BRAT owners reported issues with the heating and air conditioning systems, including poor performance or complete failure.
- Interior quality: The interior of the BRAT, particularly in the base models, was criticized for its lack of durability and poor materials.
These common problems with the 1982 Subaru BRAT were based on complaints from owners and can serve as a guide for potential buyers or those considering a restoration project.
How much horsepower does a 1982 Subaru BRAT have?
The engine is a 71-horsepower thumper.
Are Subaru brats rare?
To sum it all up, the Subaru Brat is a pretty rare model for its time. It was the only four-wheel-drive small truck, which beat its competitors due to its durability and all-terrain design. Now, it is quite difficult to find if you want to purchase one.
Why did the Subaru BRAT have seats in the back?
The seats were a ploy to circumvent a punitive tariff on light trucks known as the Chicken tax. The plastic seats in the cargo bed allowed Subaru to classify the BRAT as a passenger car, rather than as a light truck.
Why was the Subaru BRAT discontinued?
Originally Answered: Why did they discontinue the Subaru BRAT? Twards the end of its run it wasn't selling well at all so They discontinued it. They replaced it with the Baja and that did not sell Well as well.
How much horsepower does a 1982 Subaru BRAT have?
The engine is a 71-horsepower thumper.
Are Subaru brats rare?
Records indicate that there were about 100k Subaru BRAT pickup trucklets sold in the US. Most of them became work trucks and, unfortunately, have since been left to waste away in junkyards or backyards. Finding a nice example to take home is a difficult task.
Is the Subaru BRAT AWD or 4wd?
The Subaru BRAT (acronym for “Bi-drive Recreational All-terrain Transporter”) is a light-duty, four-wheel drive coupé utility, version of the Subaru Leone originally introduced in 1977.
How much is a Subaru BRAT worth?
A: The lowest recorded sale price was $4,000 for a 1986 Subaru Brat GL on Dec 22 2022. Q: What is the average sale price of a Subaru BRAT? A: The average price of a Subaru BRAT is $16,164.
1982 Subaru Brat car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Subaru Brat problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Tires problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1982 Subaru Brat vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1982 Subaru Brat complaints
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1982 Subaru Brat.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-01-01
- VIN: JF2AT53B1CE
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: CONSUMER WAS TRAVELING ABOUT 60 MPH ON HIGHWAY AND HEARD A LOUD NOISE, LEFT FRONT TIRE TREAD HAD SEPARATED. UNIROYAL , P185/80R13. DEALERSHIP WAS AWARE OF PROBLEM.*AK ON ANOTHER OCCASION, THE LEFT REAR TIRE EXPERIENCED TREAD SEPARATION AT 30 MPH, DOT NUMBER ANJKBB0165. *SLC
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1982 Subaru Brat problems:
Subaru Brat as a daily - Old Gen.: 80's GL/DL/XT/Loyales ...
Jul 25, 2014 ... Hey Guys I was just wondering who daily's a Subaru Brat , and if y'all have problems with the power, or lack of?
Tested: 1982 Subaru BRAT GL
From the Archive: Subaru's second-generation BRAT is a really good whatever-it-is. ... From the July 1982 issue of Car and Driver. That beat of the different ...
It's me Again - 1982 Subaru Brat Carburetor Trouble and Questions ...
Sep 16, 2021 ... However, I am currently having issues getting it to run properly. Just a disclaimer: I am trying to learn as much about these vehicles as I can, ...
temp gauge doesn't register, no heat - AMC Eagle Den Forum
Nov 1, 2011 ... 1982 Subaru Brat White (Daily driver ... 1982 AMC Eagle wagon (Was going to be parts car) ... A clogged heater matrix is a common problem on the ...
Advice on Subaru Brat - Old Gen.: 80's GL/DL/XT/Loyales ...
Nov 13, 2008 ... I've got a 1982, stock 4spd single range trans, stock 4cyl motor with 200,000+ miles on it. ... Up hills? No problem if you know how to drive it ...
Other years of Subaru Brat
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