I have a 1990 Subaru Legacy Wagon (2.2L). My Grandparents purchased it new, and it was given to me when they passed away in November of 2003. They never drove over 55 mph, and it sat for three months before I could go and get it. I had to drive it almost 1000 miles back home. The only problem is that the Check Engine light was on for about the first 150 miles, but than went off after new gasoline was added. It has been running well since; until now... It will not hold an idle. When I pull up to a stoplight the engine rpm goes up and down, and if I don't give it gas, it dies. Also, it smells really rich, is belching black smoke when revved, and sputters and tries to die (unless I stomp the gas peddle). I checked the fuel line, and it was cracked and leaking, so I replaced it and the fuel filter, and it is still doing it!!! I don't know what else to do. Any suggestions would be very much appreciated. The engine is a 2.2L. The car is in immaculate condition, and it holds sentimental value for me, as when my grandparents got to old to drive, I would drive them to their appointments in it; so, the car and I have a history also. I'm sorry this e-mail is so long, I’m feeling very frustrated!!! Any help would be appreciated - Also, does anyone know if this model/type has two fuel filters? I found the canister filter in the engine compartment - is there another one???

Sounds a lot like a MAF sensor. Try looking for one in a junkyard.

 

And you'll probably get warned about cross-posting in the Older Gen forum, so just be prepared for that.

Sounds a lot like a MAF sensor. Try looking for one in a junkyard.

 

And you'll probably get warned about cross-posting in the Older Gen forum, so just be prepared for that.

Thanks for advice (I'm green about posting, and didn't mean to do it twice - thanks for the warning); what is an MAF sensor anyway? Thanks again...

MAF = Mass Air Flow sensor, it is attached to your air filter housing

You may want to read the codes first

Try this : www.troublecodes.net/Subaru/

Read it all the way through it covers many models

Once you have the code you may have your problem

Hope this helps

SEA#3

How many miles are on it? Have any pictures?

I'd also run some injector cleaner and/or fuel treatment, it can't hurt, is cheeap, and as the car sat for a while there may be some deposits.

I'd also run some injector cleaner and/or fuel treatment, it can't hurt, is cheeap, and as the car sat for a while there may be some deposits.

 

I had the exact same problem...I ran some injector cleaner through 3 tanks of gas and it disappeared.

Agreed. A good fuel system cleaner would be a good thing to do - no matter what.

 

The MAF is not the first place I would look. The IAC - idle air control - valve, or it's attachments are more likely, since your problem dissappears when you open the the throttle. (Does it still smoke on the move?)

 

Look around for broken/cracked/disconnected hoses in the engine room. Especially the inch thick tube that runs from the IAC valve (near the throttle body) and back to the main intake pipe. If this is disconnected or clogged, the car will not idle.

Hi,

have a look at your air cleaner too.