1993 Subaru Svx problems
The Subaru Alcyone SVX, marketed outside Japan as the Subaru SVX, is a two-door, front-engine, all- or front-wheel drive coupé manufactured and marketed by Subaru from 1991 to 1996 over a single generation.
Superseding the company's aviation-influenced XT range, the Alcyone SVX was Subaru's first entry into the luxury/performance market, and was noted for its aircraft-inspired 'window-within-a-window' side-glass configuration.
The nameplate "Alcyone" (pronounced "al-SIGH-uh-nee") refers to the brightest star in the Pleiades constellation, stylized in the Subaru company logo. The suffix "SVX" is an acronym for "Subaru Vehicle X".
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Common 1993 Subaru Svx problems
The Subaru SVX, produced in 1993, is known for its unique design and engineering features, but it also has some common problems that owners have reported.
One of the most common problems with the 1993 Subaru SVX is a dead battery due to the ABS relay being stuck on. This issue can cause the battery to drain quickly, leaving the car without power. The cause of this problem is not explicitly stated, but it is likely due to a malfunction in the ABS system, which can lead to excessive current draw and battery drain.
Another common problem with the 1993 Subaru SVX is related to the engine's complexity. The SVX's engine is a 3.3-liter flat six with 24 valves, four overhead cams, and a single toothed cam belt driving both exhaust cams. This complex design can lead to various issues, including problems with the cam belt and the engine's variable intake system. These issues can result in decreased performance, increased fuel consumption, and even engine failure in severe cases.
The 1993 Subaru SVX also has reported problems with the electric sunroof, which can lapse into a coma and require significant repairs. Additionally, the air conditioning system is not the most robust, and it may not function correctly in some cases.
The Subaru SVX's four-wheel drive system, operated by an active torque split system and an electronically controlled intelligent four-speed automatic gearbox, can also cause problems. These issues can result in decreased performance, increased fuel consumption, and decreased reliability.
Furthermore, the SVX's electronic equipment, including the central locking system and the six-speaker stereo system, may also cause problems. These issues can result in decreased functionality and increased repair costs.
In summary, the 1993 Subaru SVX is known for its unique design and engineering features, but it also has some common problems that owners have reported. These problems include a dead battery due to the ABS relay being stuck on, issues with the complex engine design, problems with the electric sunroof and air conditioning system, and issues with the four-wheel drive system and electronic equipment. These issues can result in decreased performance, increased fuel consumption, and decreased reliability, and they may require significant repairs.
Why did the Subaru SVX fail?
Due to the SVX's introductory high price, and the fact that it had made its debut during an economic recession, sales in the United States were sluggish; just 5,280 cars were sold in 1992 and 3,859 cars in 1993. Subaru intended to sell 10,000 SVX's each year.
Are Subaru SVX parts hard to find?
Most parts are unavailable however If you call the Subaru dealership and ask them to look for parts for a 1994 svx (regardless of your year) you will find more parts or at least a part number for reference of discontinued parts. eBay for the used parts or buy a parts car from svx-nation.
Is Subaru SVX a rare car?
In its production lifetime between 1991 and 1996, the Subaru SVX is reckoned to have sold 24,379 units — that's slightly more than the 23,400 examples of Citroën C6, with which I am very familiar.
What is the top speed of the 1993 Subaru SVX?
- 0-60 mph: 7.3 seconds.
- 1/4 mile: 15.4 seconds at 92.5 mph (148.9 km/h)
- Top speed: 154 mph (248 km/h) (1992–93), 143 mph (230 km/h) (1994+ due to the addition of an electronic speed governor)
- 60-0 mph: 98 ft (30 m)
Why did the Subaru SVX fail?
It was the only available gearbox because Subaru didn't have a manual transmission that could effectively put up with the SVX without liquifying itself (via MotorTrend). A hefty price tag and somewhat weak transmission spelled sales disaster for Subaru. All told, the brand sold around 14,000 SVXs during its short life.
Why did Subaru stop making the SVX?
They simply weren't selling, so Subaru decided to scrap the name and car in favour of a better vehicle, the Subaru Ascent. In 2014, the last year the Tribeca was sold, only 732 models were sold. A lot lower of a number compared to the 18,614 sold in 2007.
What is the top speed of the 1993 Subaru SVX?
- 0-60 mph: 7.3 seconds.
- 1/4 mile: 15.4 seconds at 92.5 mph (148.9 km/h)
- Top speed: 154 mph (248 km/h) (1992–93), 143 mph (230 km/h) (1994+ due to the addition of an electronic speed governor)
- 60-0 mph: 98 ft (30 m)
Is Subaru SVX a rare car?
In its production lifetime between 1991 and 1996, the Subaru SVX is reckoned to have sold 24,379 units — that's slightly more than the 23,400 examples of Citroën C6, with which I am very familiar.
1993 Subaru Svx car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Subaru Svx problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1993 Subaru Svx vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1993 Subaru Svx complaints
The NHTSA has received 4 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1993 Subaru Svx.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION WITH A SEMI-MANUAL MODE ONLY WORKS IN SECOND AND THIRD GEARS. THE VEHICLE WILL BE TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR REPAIR. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE FOLLOWING LETTER HAS BEEN SENT TO SUBARU OF AMERICA.... FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE EXTENT OF THE SUBARU SVX TRANMISSION PROBLEM PLEASE GO TO WWW.KINETICCONCEPTS.COM. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE FOLLOWING LETTER HAS BEEN SENT TO SUBARU OF AMERICA.... FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE EXTENT OF THE SUBARU SVX TRANMISSION PROBLEM PLEASE GO TO WWW.KINETICCONCEPTS.COM
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JF1CX3536PH
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION FAILURE.
Positive 1993 Subaru Svx car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1993 Subaru Svx problems:
![Common problems with SVX's? [Archive] - The Subaru SVX World ...](https://slotcar-today.com/assets/img/no-preview.png)
Common problems with SVX's? [Archive] - The Subaru SVX World ...
1- The biggest problem with theese cars is the transmission. 90% of them have / are about to explode. · 2- Wheel bearings. Subaru made the rear ...
Is a subaru SVX reliable to use as a daily driver? : r/subaru
Oct 2, 2021 ... Problem is, they're notorious for having a lack of parts available. Exactly how hard are they to find? Are there any work arounds? I've heard of ...
Transmission Fuse - The Subaru SVX World Network
Nov 16, 2006 ... If you insert a 5A fuse, it will disable the AWD and if the problem goes away, you have a very common problem. I drove around with the fuse in ...
1994 Subaru SVX Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 1994 Subaru SVX? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
Subaru SVX Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
Get Subaru SVX repair and maintenance costs, common problems, recalls, and more ... Subaru SVX vehicles have0known recent recalls. ... 1993 Subaru SVX · 1994 Subaru ...
Other years of Subaru Svx
Are you having problems with your 1993 Subaru Svx?
Samir Jacobs 2025-02-21
The SVX is an incredibly enjoyable car to drive. Upon trading in my 1989 Corvette for this model, I immediately noticed a significant improvement in my driving experience. The smooth and quiet ride, even at high speeds, is truly remarkable and akin to sitting in an airplane. Additionally, I have never encountered any technical issues with this vehicle. While I have noticed that it can be a bit challenging to enter and exit the car as I have gotten older, this does not detract from the overall excellence of the SVX.
Gus Will 2025-02-17
This car was and still is ahead of its time. Worried about safety in a small car? Not in this incredibly solid vehicle. All-wheel drive with excellent power and handling completes the package. And it's different! Don't forget this car competed with the BMW (and for me won). With only 14,000 in the US, it is becoming a collector's item.
Gerald Rempel 2025-01-28
I bought my Subaru SVX in May of '04 and I have never regretted it. This car is truly unique and stands out from all the other cars on the road. It's rare to see another one, and owning one feels like being part of a special community. The 3.3 liter Boxer H-6 engine delivers impressive power to all four wheels, and the independent ABS on each disc (yes, four discs, not two discs and two drums) ensures quick and efficient braking. And if you need any more convincing, when you step on the gas, a green light on the dashboard lights up with the word POWER. It's an exhilarating experience to drive this car.
Tatum Russel 2025-01-27
The car feels like a luxurious American V8, but with the added benefit of all-wheel drive to prevent any tire slippage. You'll receive compliments and questions like 'what kind of car is that?' I particularly love the unique asymmetric mag wheels, with the left and right wheels being different. Although it's a heavy and wide car, it still grips well around slalom-like bends, making it a great city driver. It's also an excellent highway cruiser, although the 6-cylinder mileage may not be ideal for everyone. The only issues I encountered were a creaky dashboard (a known issue with Subaru) and a weak transmission, which unfortunately died after I traded it in. I even took it on a fishing trip and accidentally went off-road, but the car stopped when the transmission temperature light turned on. Overall, I would definitely buy this car again if possible.
Trent Carroll 2025-01-25
I've owned my '92 SVX for 8 years and absolutely adore its style and speed. However, it's worth noting that the transmission can be a bit weak due to some engineering decisions, possibly influenced by budget constraints. Fortunately, improvements were made in '94 and even more so from '95 onwards, but unfortunately, most of the cars sold were already on the road by then. The good news is that there are some simple and effective fixes for the '92-'93 models: 1) Use full synthetic transmission fluid. 2) Install a transmission cooler. 3) Install a transmission fluid filter (you can ask your mechanic or check out owner websites for more information). After these modifications, you'll be in complete control of your car's power.