January 19, 200521 yr I purchased a used 92 Subaru Legacy Wagon. The previous owner told me that while the car is all wheel drive, he removed the fuse so that it would be front wheel drive (for better mileage). Ever since I've had it, the FWD light has been lit on the dashboard. Well, after a few snow storms, I want the car to be AWD again (not to mention I think its ruining the transmission). From what I've researched so far, it seems like he put a fuse in, not removed it. Can anyone tell me where I can find the fuse to remove (or if I have to put one in, what type of fuse and where does it go)? Thanks, matt farmingdale, ny limr72@yahoo.com
January 19, 200521 yr You need to remove the fuse in the FWD fuse holder to return the car to AWD. The previous owner probably installed it because there was an issue with the car. The fuse holder is near the right front strut tower. Remove the fuse, see how the car drives. I'd also suggest changing the tranny fluid.
January 19, 200521 yr Not too sure on the earlier models, but on late 90s cars the FWD fuse is either in the fusebox in the engine bay, OR it's up by the passenger side on the firewall (behind the brake booster). IIRC, adding the fuse makes it FWD (and should ONLY be used for towing purposes to allow the rear wheels to free-roll). It should never be used on a permanent basis.
January 19, 200521 yr IIRC, adding the fuse makes it FWD (and should ONLY be used for towing purposes to allow the rear wheels to free-roll). It should never be used on a permanent basis.The FWD Fuse is for mis matched tires... IE: flat, and you need to install the donut tire... mmmmmmm donuts... (sorry couldn't resist the Homer Simpson relate) Towing should always be flatbed, no matter what... Even with the FWD fuse in, towing on 2 wheels can cause damage to the clutches, etc...
January 19, 200521 yr That's a good point about the space saver wheel...however the owner's manual does highlight that you can tow with the front wheels off the ground, though only for short distances. I've always had a tow (twice) by flatbed only. It's safer too.
January 19, 200521 yr Author Thanks everyone. I'm going to look for that fuse tonight. Need that AWD in time for a blizzard that's coming to Long Island (NY) this weekend!
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