1991 Subaru Justy problems
The Subaru Justy is a subcompact hatchback that has been sold by Japanese automobile manufacturer Subaru since 1984. Subaru manufactured the Justy from 1984 to 1994; since then it has sold rebadged versions of other vehicles under the Justy nameplate. The company introduced the latest iteration, a rebadged Daihatsu Boon (second generation), at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show with a 1.0 or 1.2-liter straight-three engine, front/four wheel drive, electronically controlled continuously variable transaxle, or a 5-speed manual transaxle. For the 2010 model year, the Justy was replaced with the Subaru Trezia. The Justy nameplate was revived in November 2016 as a rebadged Toyota Tank and its twin counterpart the Toyota Roomy and Daihatsu Thor.
First generation
Originally designed and manufactured in Japan, the Justy was introduced to Japan in 1984. The design was a widened and stretched version of the Rex kei car, still using the same doors and some other pressings. To Japanese buyers, it was longer and wider and had an engine larger than kei car dimension regulations outlined, while keeping the engine displacement just under 1000 cc to minimize the annual road tax obligation. The electronically controlled, continuously variable "ECVT" transmission was introduced in February 1987. Production of this model was limited to 500 per month due to limited supplies of steel bands from Van Doorne transmission, but as the Justy ECVT was not an unqualified success this was not a real problem. When supplies later increased, Subaru chose to use them for the smaller Rex instead. The Justy was originally available with a low or a high roof, although the flat roofed version was eventually allowed to wither away.
European and American versions followed in 1987 and all models received a restyling in 1989. In some countries, such as Sweden, the Justy was sold under the name Subaru Trendy. In some places it was also simply marketed as the 'J-series' in early years, J10 for 1.0 L versions and J12 for the later 1.2 L versions. In many markets the Justy was only sold with four-wheel-drive, as with much of the Subaru lineup. Intended to compete with Daihatsu's one-liter Charade, the Justy was presented with a one-liter engine. Somewhat underpowered, this was later complemented by a larger 1.2-liter which eventually became the only engine installed. In European catalyzed trim, this engine offered 80 PS (59 kW) at 5200 rpm.
In Taiwan, Subaru marketed a version of the Justy with a sedan-style body and an uprated 80 PS (59 kW) fuel injected EF12 engine called the Tutto. Taiwanese Subarus were assembled by their local partner Ta Ching.
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Common 1991 Subaru Justy problems
The Subaru Justy, manufactured from 1984 to 1994, is known for its compact size and versatility. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems that owners have reported.
One common issue with the 1991 Subaru Justy is related to the engine control unit (ECU) not sensing air leaks after the airflow meter, causing a lean mixture and rough engine performance. This may result in the engine running rough and revving up excessively, with no warning light coming on. The issue is mechanical, and it might be challenging to locate the leak. One way to trace the leak is to run the engine till warm and then spray propane or lighter gas around each joint separately. If this causes the engine to suddenly race, you know where the leak is. This problem may be caused by a bad fuel pump, a faulty regulator, or a blocked filter, which can result in low fuel pressure and insufficient fuel to the engine.
Another problem reported by Subaru Justy owners is related to the seats, with 100,825 cars affected by recalls due to seat issues. The largest recall of the model came in 1988, when cars were invited to dealerships for troubleshooting with four issues, including seats. In 1995, another recall affected 60,000 cars due to seat problems.
The front shock absorbers are also known for failing in the Subaru Justy, causing a clonking noise coming from the front suspension as you drive over speed bumps and/or an oil leaking from the suspension as you look under the front wheel arch. This problem requires replacing the shock absorbers.
Rear wheel bearing failure is another common problem in the Subaru Justy, causing a droning/rumbling noise from the rear wheels, most noticeable at speeds above 30 mph and when turning round corners. Replacing the rear wheel bearings is the solution to this problem.
Driveshaft failure is also a common problem in the Subaru Justy, causing a clonking noise coming from the Justy when you pull away and a clicking noise as you pull away when turning the steering wheel full lock. Replacing the drive shaft is the solution to this problem.
Gearbox leaking is another common problem in the Subaru Justy, causing an oil patch underneath the car, appearing to be coming from the gearbox. Replacing the front gearbox oil seal is the solution to this problem.
Engine tapping noise is a problem in the Subaru Justy, caused by a problem with the tappets, requiring having the tappets re-set or fitting replacement ones to fix the problem.
In summary, the Subaru Justy has several common problems that owners have reported, including engine control unit (ECU) air leak issues, seat recalls, front shock absorber failure, rear wheel bearing failure, driveshaft failure, gearbox leaking, and engine tapping noise. These problems can be resolved by replacing the necessary parts or fixing the issues as described above.
When did Subaru stop making the Justy?
The Subaru Justy is a subcompact hatchback that has been sold by Japanese automobile manufacturer Subaru since 1984. Subaru manufactured the Justy from 1984 to 1994; since then it has sold rebadged versions of other vehicles under the Justy nameplate.
Did the Subaru Justy have a boxer engine?
Like the Ignis, the Justy featured a small instrument cluster designed in a binocular style. Since Subaru had only boxer engines, which were unsuitable for the little car, the Justy's engines were carried-over from its sibling, the Ignis.
What is the top speed of the Subaru Justy G3X?
The Subaru Justy G3X 1.3 AWD top speed is 155 Km/h / 96 mph. Is Subaru Justy G3X 1.3 AWD All Wheel Drive (AWD)? Yes, the Subaru Justy G3X 1.3 AWD is All Wheel Drive (AWD).
How much horsepower does a 1989 Subaru Justy have?
SUBARU Justy 3 doors 1.2L 5MT AWD (67 HP)
| ENGINE SPECS - 1.2L 5MT AWD (67 HP) | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 49 KW @ 5600 RPM 67 HP @ 5600 RPM 66 BHP @ 5600 RPM |
| Torque: | 70 lb-ft @ 3600 RPM 95 Nm @ 3600 RPM |
| Fuel System: | Carburetor |
| Fuel: | Gasoline |
When did Subaru stop making the Justy?
The Subaru Justy is a subcompact hatchback that has been sold by Japanese automobile manufacturer Subaru since 1984. Subaru manufactured the Justy from 1984 to 1994; since then it has sold rebadged versions of other vehicles under the Justy nameplate.
Did the Subaru Justy have a boxer engine?
Like the Ignis, the Justy featured a small instrument cluster designed in a binocular style. Since Subaru had only boxer engines, which were unsuitable for the little car, the Justy's engines were carried-over from its sibling, the Ignis.
Is Subaru Justy 4wd?
Specifications for Subaru Justy 3-door generation MJA/MS 1.3 4WD Manual, 5-speed 68ps, (1996 - 2003)
What is the top speed of the Subaru Justy G3X?
The Subaru Justy G3X 1.3 AWD top speed is 155 Km/h / 96 mph. Is Subaru Justy G3X 1.3 AWD All Wheel Drive (AWD)? Yes, the Subaru Justy G3X 1.3 AWD is All Wheel Drive (AWD).
1991 Subaru Justy car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Subaru Justy problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Seat belts problems
- Power train problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Seats problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1991 Subaru Justy vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1991 Subaru Justy complaints
The NHTSA has received 9 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1991 Subaru Justy.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-06-24
- VIN: JF1KA7323MC
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SEAT BELT DOES NOT RETRACT INTO DOOR, DOES NOT RESTRAIN DRIVER. DEALER QUOTES $500 TO REPAIR. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-04-19
- VIN: JF2KD83A1MF
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION: DROPS INTO LOW GEAR AFTER THE BRAKES ARE APPLIED TO SLOW DOWN. THE FRONT WHEELS WOULD SQUEAL & SLIDE WHEN THIS HAPPENS. HAVE TAKEN VEHICLE TO PRIVATE SHOP.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-03-11
- VIN: JF2KA83A9MF
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: OWNER STATES THAT WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE AT HIGHWAY SPEED THE PISTON ROD SNAPPED. THE CAUSE HAS NOT BEEN DETERMINED. OWNER IS VERY CONCERNED FOR SAFETY. *ML
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-05-30
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JF2KD83A4MD
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: WHILE IN REAR-END ACCIDENT SEAT BROKE, FELL BACKWARDS, RESULTING IN AN INJURY. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-06-13
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JS1KA7224MB
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: DRIVNG AT VERY LOW SPEED,10MPH, APPLIED THE BRAKES, THEY FAILED, PUT THE EMERGENCY BRAKE ON, SAW SMOKE COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-01-01
- VIN: JF2KA83A9MF
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION WOULD NOT DOWNSHIFT SMOOTHLY, IT JUMPED INTO LOWER GEAR, CAUSING A JOLT; THROWING PASSENGERS FORWARD. *DSH
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-09-26
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: PASSIVE RESTRAINT FAILED (1) YEAR AGO NOT RESTRAINING DRIVER'S UPPER PORTION. ELECTRONIC RETRACTOR FAILURE WAS REPLACED W/PROBLEM REOCCURING. PLEASE DESCRIBE.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-03-11
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JF1KA7228MB
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: VEHICLE WAS AT COMPLETE STOP AND IMPACT AT 6:00 POSITION, FRONT SHOULDER BELT FAILED, CAUSING INJURIES. TT
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-02-28
- VIN: JF1KA7328MC
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE REAR FRAME LEFT HAND SIDE IS BENT HAD TO REPLACE TWO NEW TIRE. TT
1991 Subaru Justy recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1991 Subaru Justy.
- Manufacturer: SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
- Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
- Summary: THE FRONT SAFETY BELT BUCKLE RELEASE BUTTONS CAN BREAK. THESE RED PLASTIC RELEASE BUTTONS ARE MARKED "PRESS." IF A BUTTON BREAKS, PIECES CAN FALL INTO THE BUCKLE ASSEMBLY CAUSING THE BUCKLE TO OPERATE IMPROPERLY.
- Consequence: THE SAFETY BELTS WOULD NOT PROVIDE ADEQUATE PROTECTION TO AN OCCUPANT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: OWNERS SHOULD PROMPTLY CHECK THE CONDITION AND OPERATION OF BOTH FRONT SAFETY BELT BUCKLES AND CAREFULLY INSPECT THE RED RELEASE BUTTON FOR ANY BREAKS OR CRACKS. THEY SHOULD ENSURE THAT BOTH BUCKLES ARE OPERATING PROPERLY BY INSERTING EACH LATCH PLATE INTO ITS BUCKLE, TUGGING ON THE BELT TO MAKE SURE THE LATCH IS SECURELY LOCKED, AND THEN PRESSING THE RELEASE BUTTON. THE LATCH PLATE SHOULD POP OUT OF THE BUCKLE WHEN THE BUTTON IS PRESSED. IF EITHER RELEASE BUTTON SHOWS A SIGN OF BREAKING OR CRACKING OR IF EITHER BUCKLE FAILS TO OPERATE PROPERLY, OWNERS SHOULD PROMPTLY CONTACT THEIR AUTHORIZED DEALER TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TO HAVE THE BUCKLE REPLACED OR REPAIRED, FREE OF CHARGE. THE MANUFACTURER IS DEVELOPING A REMEDY DESIGNED TO PREVENT FAILURE OF THE BUTTONS THAT ARE NOT CURRENTLY BROKEN.
Negative 1991 Subaru Justy car reviews
Positive 1991 Subaru Justy car reviews
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I was surprised to see that the previous reviewer only gave the SOLID Justy 2.5 stars, despite praising its virtues. These cool hatches have a 4wd, a rock-solid 3 banger 1200cc engine, and the ability to carry what you need for a low price. Plus, did I mention the 4wd? It's on the fly with a push of a button nicely located on the stick shift. These cars are definitely worth considering and may even become classics one day, given the respect they deserve!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1991 Subaru Justy problems:
common justy problems | Original Subaru Justy Forum
Jan 24, 2014 ... Like nipper said, the oil system has issues. I highly recommend installing a pressure gauge. On high mileage engines chain guides and main and ...
Subaru Justy — Car Forums at Edmunds.com
Aug 3, 2000 ... ... 1991 Subaru Justy GL on the lot ... I love my justy too, it's a 2wd 1991 Justy GL, 2 door. ... Are there any "common" problems I need to watch out ...
91 ecvt problem | Original Subaru Justy Forum
Apr 2, 2012 ... The brushes are accessible by first removing the starter (two bolts) then removing the brush holder, another two small bolts. New brushes can be ...
Subaru Justy: Common Problems and Solutions | BreakerYard.com
Front shock absorbers failing · Rear wheel bearing failure · Driveshaft failure · Gearbox leaking · Engine tapping noise · Reading these common Subaru Justy problems ...
Subaru Justy Questions - How reliable of a car is the 3 cylindar ...
Jan 30, 2014 ... can they be replaced? 1991 Subaru Justy 4 Dr GL 4WD Hatchback. -. Maintenance & Repair. Content submitted by Users is not endorsed by CarGurus ...
Other years of Subaru Justy
Are you having problems with your 1991 Subaru Justy?
Geovanni Walker 2024-01-01
We have two 1990 Subarus, one of which is our Justy. We have been the second owners for about eight years now. The Subarus are incredibly reliable and dependable, and we have had to spend very little money on maintenance because Subaru knows how to build a quality engine. However, the car is not very comfortable, with very little space in the back and no leg room for even small children. The three-cylinder engine does not provide much power, and the brakes and lack of power steering make it feel like you are driving Fred Flintstone's car. The RPMs run very high on the freeway, even in fifth gear. Nevertheless, the gas mileage is great. I am amazed at the quality and dependability of Subaru.