DIY Instructables

DIY Instructables Discussions on DIY Instructables and Common Issues Tue, 09 Jun 2026 12:17:58 +0000 Tue, 09 Jun 2026 12:17:58 +0000 MNSubaru https://mnsubaru.com/forums/diy-instructables.26/ Lube your squeaky blower motor, 08-14 Impreza, 01-13 Forester Sat, 11 Apr 2026 19:21:44 +0000 https://mnsubaru.com/threads/lube-your-squeaky-blower-motor-08-14-impreza-01-13-forester.55652/ https://mnsubaru.com/threads/lube-your-squeaky-blower-motor-08-14-impreza-01-13-forester.55652/ invalid@example.com (obsolete) obsolete
The only good thing about the aftermarket blower motors is that while the second one was in the car, I had an opportunity to try...

Lube your squeaky blower motor, 08-14 Impreza, 01-13 Forester]]> 14 Control Arm Rebuild Wed, 01 Apr 2026 18:39:35 +0000 https://mnsubaru.com/threads/control-arm-rebuild.55660/ https://mnsubaru.com/threads/control-arm-rebuild.55660/ invalid@example.com (predavore) predavore 22 Puddle Lights Wed, 25 Feb 2026 16:08:13 +0000 https://mnsubaru.com/threads/puddle-lights.55656/ https://mnsubaru.com/threads/puddle-lights.55656/ invalid@example.com (Superglue) Superglue This should be the same across the entire 08-14 Impreza and probably other platforms?

Tools Needed:
Subaru puddle lights (I got mine on eBay)(there's a bunch of different logos you can get or you can have a custom one)
Screwdriver
Wire cutter/crimping tool
Extra 18g wire
Wire connectors (I like the little heat shrink solder in place connectors)
18g connectors (I like the waterproof quick connects, to...

Puddle Lights]]> 4 Door Lock Actuator Replacement, 08-14 Impreza GE/GR Wed, 11 Feb 2026 21:04:16 +0000 https://mnsubaru.com/threads/door-lock-actuator-replacement-08-14-impreza-ge-gr.55650/ https://mnsubaru.com/threads/door-lock-actuator-replacement-08-14-impreza-ge-gr.55650/ invalid@example.com (obsolete) obsolete Problem: Door doesn't lock or unlock from the remote or button on the door, especially when it's cold outside.

Solution A: Buy a whole new door lock actuator assembly from Subaru for over $100, or take your chances on a used one from a junkyard.

Solution B: Crack open the "non-serviceable" assembly and replace the crappy little brushed DC motor for under $10.

I'm a cheapskate for life, and I like doing things the hard...

Door Lock Actuator Replacement, 08-14 Impreza GE/GR]]> 7 **The Fix Thread** Help! Parking Lights Wont Turn Off! Sun, 08 Nov 2020 04:05:25 +0000 https://mnsubaru.com/threads/the-fix-thread-help-parking-lights-wont-turn-off.29401/ https://mnsubaru.com/threads/the-fix-thread-help-parking-lights-wont-turn-off.29401/ invalid@example.com (Bielke55) Bielke55
This Switch in the center of your steering column in front of your insterment cluster. Will look like this if you bumped it or turned it on.
[IMG]

That allows yours parking lamps to stay on when the keys are out of the vehicle.

Flip that switch....

**The Fix Thread** Help! Parking Lights Wont Turn Off!]]> 16 Clunk when steering turned most of the way left or right Tue, 29 Sep 2020 13:18:16 +0000 https://mnsubaru.com/threads/clunk-when-steering-turned-most-of-the-way-left-or-right.54812/ https://mnsubaru.com/threads/clunk-when-steering-turned-most-of-the-way-left-or-right.54812/ invalid@example.com (Drew in the Subaru) Drew in the Subaru
I've been looking all over but can't find if this already been addressed.

For a year or so my 2009 Forester Limited has been making this strange clunk when I turn the steering wheel to make 90° turn either way. Then usually after that on the highway the car will pull the direction that I just turned. It doesn't seem anything to do with alignment or the tie rod ends. It happened after I replaced the struts on all corners. At first I thought it might be the struts but this never...

Clunk when steering turned most of the way left or right]]> 5 06-08 Forester- PCV valve replacement Sun, 31 May 2020 12:57:57 +0000 https://mnsubaru.com/threads/06-08-forester-pcv-valve-replacement.54672/ https://mnsubaru.com/threads/06-08-forester-pcv-valve-replacement.54672/ invalid@example.com (Ottawa_Boy) Ottawa_Boy I spend this weekend checking PCV valve on my Forester. Hopefully, someone can use it.
The hardest part I found was to locate the damm thing...]]> 1 Automatic Transmission Fluid Change and Service Wed, 30 Oct 2019 17:44:50 +0000 https://mnsubaru.com/threads/automatic-transmission-fluid-change-and-service.54461/ https://mnsubaru.com/threads/automatic-transmission-fluid-change-and-service.54461/ invalid@example.com (Dan Levar) Dan Levar
The biggest question is with the trans drain plug when draining the fluid: is there a specific crush washer for the plug, similar to the crush washer with the oil...

Automatic Transmission Fluid Change and Service]]> DIY: Spot free car wash setup Sat, 04 May 2019 13:21:35 +0000 https://mnsubaru.com/threads/diy-spot-free-car-wash-setup.52636/ https://mnsubaru.com/threads/diy-spot-free-car-wash-setup.52636/ invalid@example.com (joebush44) joebush44
I'm going to take a stab at a DYI "spot free" filtration setup for my car washing. There are several "purpose built" de-ionozation/filtration systems out there, but they are expensive ($350+). This DIY kit won't DI the water, but should at least filter sediments, calcium, chlorine, etc...and in theory, it should at least improve my water spotting situation. I figure...

DIY: Spot free car wash setup]]> 13 Dash Cam - Do you have one? Thu, 11 Apr 2019 17:45:57 +0000 https://mnsubaru.com/threads/dash-cam-do-you-have-one.53965/ https://mnsubaru.com/threads/dash-cam-do-you-have-one.53965/ invalid@example.com (Queue) Queue

What brand
Front only or front and rear
Installation effort
Is it worth it

Thanks!]]> 18 The Official Tire Thread Sat, 04 Aug 2018 02:37:58 +0000 https://mnsubaru.com/threads/the-official-tire-thread.16980/ https://mnsubaru.com/threads/the-official-tire-thread.16980/ invalid@example.com (Scuba Steve) Scuba Steve
Please list the following....

Tire name/type, ratings, prices (at least what you know), and where to buy. Also include why you prefer the tire.

:biggthumpup:]]> 231 The Official Oil Thread Thu, 19 Jul 2018 18:13:03 +0000 https://mnsubaru.com/threads/the-official-oil-thread.20030/ https://mnsubaru.com/threads/the-official-oil-thread.20030/ invalid@example.com (JanglinJamie) JanglinJamie
-Thanks,]]> 196 E-Brake Not holding Fri, 19 May 2017 18:36:55 +0000 https://mnsubaru.com/threads/e-brake-not-holding.52594/ https://mnsubaru.com/threads/e-brake-not-holding.52594/ invalid@example.com (Herb Miller) Herb Miller
Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.]]> 6 GD Impreza shift boot install Sun, 12 Mar 2017 22:53:48 +0000 https://mnsubaru.com/threads/gd-impreza-shift-boot-install.52393/ https://mnsubaru.com/threads/gd-impreza-shift-boot-install.52393/ invalid@example.com (pleiades) pleiades @ryjacobs I thought it was time.

The boot I settled on was one you can find for less than $10 on eBay or Amazon in...

GD Impreza shift boot install]]> 8 Best HID kit for price Mon, 27 Feb 2017 21:51:02 +0000 https://mnsubaru.com/threads/best-hid-kit-for-price.49963/ https://mnsubaru.com/threads/best-hid-kit-for-price.49963/ invalid@example.com (Sanjay raval) Sanjay raval 14 Fuel Smell Problem Recalled! 02 - 03 Mon, 24 Oct 2016 17:31:18 +0000 https://mnsubaru.com/threads/fuel-smell-problem-recalled-02-03.30131/ https://mnsubaru.com/threads/fuel-smell-problem-recalled-02-03.30131/ invalid@example.com (TjDunklee) TjDunklee

Fuel Smell Problem Recalled! 02 - 03]]> 90 AC compressor defrost mod Thu, 22 Sep 2016 16:12:43 +0000 https://mnsubaru.com/threads/ac-compressor-defrost-mod.44884/ https://mnsubaru.com/threads/ac-compressor-defrost-mod.44884/ invalid@example.com (Cotts612) Cotts612
This mod will allow you to use the windshield defrost and windshield/floor vent selection without your ac compressor running automatically. There are already some posts on Scooby mods about this, but the pictures aren't the greatest and I'm not using a soldering iron to remove any wires.

http://www.scoobymods.com/showthrea...1262.html?threadid=1262&highlight=a/c+defrost

NOTE: In some wrx's, the ac light comes on...

AC compressor defrost mod]]> 13 Who needs help with a timing belt change? Mon, 06 Jun 2016 00:01:37 +0000 https://mnsubaru.com/threads/who-needs-help-with-a-timing-belt-change.51365/ https://mnsubaru.com/threads/who-needs-help-with-a-timing-belt-change.51365/ invalid@example.com (Jeremy969) Jeremy969
SOHC or DOHC doesnt matter. Can do them both. Have all the tools needed and the knowledge. So feel free to contact me via MNSUBARU or 651-600-0635 Jeremy! Tis summer and I know there has to be a few dudes/dudettes that need to get the ROO back on the road!]]> 6 2001 RS EJ251 Head Gaskets Thu, 05 May 2016 18:03:29 +0000 https://mnsubaru.com/threads/2001-rs-ej251-head-gaskets.51233/ https://mnsubaru.com/threads/2001-rs-ej251-head-gaskets.51233/ invalid@example.com (Todd) Todd
Show me I'm not crazy, I can't seem to find it anywhere.

Thanx, Todd]]> Tranny Swap 4EAT swap to 5MT: A different perspective Sun, 10 Apr 2016 20:03:35 +0000 https://mnsubaru.com/threads/tranny-swap-4eat-swap-to-5mt-a-different-perspective.50989/ https://mnsubaru.com/threads/tranny-swap-4eat-swap-to-5mt-a-different-perspective.50989/ invalid@example.com (djravechild) djravechild
Tranny Swap 4EAT swap to 5MT: A different perspective]]> 12 Sound system Wed, 02 Mar 2016 03:14:23 +0000 https://mnsubaru.com/threads/sound-system.50772/ https://mnsubaru.com/threads/sound-system.50772/ invalid@example.com (baileyvang) baileyvang Too cheap to go to the shop for them to install]]> 6 power steering flush? Wed, 20 Jan 2016 17:12:53 +0000 https://mnsubaru.com/threads/power-steering-flush.50122/ https://mnsubaru.com/threads/power-steering-flush.50122/ invalid@example.com (Romeski613) Romeski613
any input will be helpful thanks]]> 4 Replacing head gasket ???s Wed, 30 Sep 2015 21:08:13 +0000 https://mnsubaru.com/threads/replacing-head-gasket-s.50027/ https://mnsubaru.com/threads/replacing-head-gasket-s.50027/ invalid@example.com (MonkeyGein) MonkeyGein I have a 97 legacy outback. Seems the HG been leaking. Just oil leaking out, no coolant in the cylinders or cross pollination.
What kind of trouble am I in here lol?]]> 5 WRX STI rear bearing replacment Thu, 24 Sep 2015 21:12:31 +0000 https://mnsubaru.com/threads/wrx-sti-rear-bearing-replacment.49995/ https://mnsubaru.com/threads/wrx-sti-rear-bearing-replacment.49995/ invalid@example.com (Subelution) Subelution
Parts that you need are below. I purchased off Rockauto

2003 SUBARU IMPREZA 2.0L H4 Turbocharged
BECK/ARNLEY 0523678 (052-3678) Wheel...

WRX STI rear bearing replacment]]> Need guidance for rad coolant change Sat, 19 Sep 2015 05:34:30 +0000 https://mnsubaru.com/threads/need-guidance-for-rad-coolant-change.49910/ https://mnsubaru.com/threads/need-guidance-for-rad-coolant-change.49910/ invalid@example.com (Sanjay raval) Sanjay raval 12 DIY: HID Retrofit for 93-01 Impreza Tue, 15 Sep 2015 02:06:06 +0000 https://mnsubaru.com/threads/diy-hid-retrofit-for-93-01-impreza.35137/ https://mnsubaru.com/threads/diy-hid-retrofit-for-93-01-impreza.35137/ invalid@example.com (G_2.5rs) G_2.5rs
Things you'll need:
Bi-Xenon: Morimoto Mini D2s
D2s bulbs
D2s harness
DDM Tuning apexcone hid kit
HID projector shroud
Heat gun or oven
saw(for fitting projector shroud)
3hrs of your time!

-First, take out both your headlight assembly, take out the clips on the headlight and go work with the heatgun.
-Once you've done that remove the clip where it holds the bulbs by unscrewing the screw on the back. and take...

DIY: HID Retrofit for 93-01 Impreza]]> 17 injector swap Sat, 11 Jul 2015 15:53:26 +0000 https://mnsubaru.com/threads/injector-swap.49078/ https://mnsubaru.com/threads/injector-swap.49078/ invalid@example.com (rshoop2) rshoop2 3 Best website for parts? Fri, 24 Apr 2015 02:02:34 +0000 https://mnsubaru.com/threads/best-website-for-parts.11583/ https://mnsubaru.com/threads/best-website-for-parts.11583/ invalid@example.com (frichdan) frichdan
I was wondering which ones you all recommend and have had good service with?

I found this one... But haven't tried ordering anything yet.

http://www.rallysportdirect.com/shop/index.php]]> 68 Radio and alarm fuse short? Tue, 03 Feb 2015 14:11:50 +0000 https://mnsubaru.com/threads/radio-and-alarm-fuse-short.42609/ https://mnsubaru.com/threads/radio-and-alarm-fuse-short.42609/ invalid@example.com (Sleeperwrx) Sleeperwrx 3 Fitting GD Cluster in GM6/GC8 Impreza Fri, 30 Jan 2015 04:40:03 +0000 https://mnsubaru.com/threads/fitting-gd-cluster-in-gm6-gc8-impreza.48188/ https://mnsubaru.com/threads/fitting-gd-cluster-in-gm6-gc8-impreza.48188/ invalid@example.com (Se7enrex) Se7enrex
So, 4 easy steps to glory (note I am not addressing wiring, those threads already exist)

1. Take your GD cluster and cut the tabs on...

Fitting GD Cluster in GM6/GC8 Impreza]]> 10 Request for block heater install Thu, 22 Jan 2015 18:35:06 +0000 https://mnsubaru.com/threads/request-for-block-heater-install.47973/ https://mnsubaru.com/threads/request-for-block-heater-install.47973/ invalid@example.com (Fatboy Walrus) Fatboy Walrus
I unfortunately do not have a heated garage at home. It scares me a little to start up when temps are below 0. Decided to go pick up an OEM block heater from a local dealer since neither the OBS(2.2) or Saabaru(2.0) came with one factory.

Looking for a little advice on the matter. If none is available, I may just DIMS and...

Request for block heater install]]> 50 DIY All Weather Mats Sat, 17 Jan 2015 15:07:25 +0000 https://mnsubaru.com/threads/diy-all-weather-mats.48016/ https://mnsubaru.com/threads/diy-all-weather-mats.48016/ invalid@example.com (sinks88) sinks88
I went to Menards: (spent under 27 bucks)

$8.00ish 6x2 (makes 4 easy) Red Indoor/Outdoor Marine Carpet
Oil-Grease resistant, Mildew resistant, water proof...etc

$5.00ish 27x2 Runner Rubber Mat
Ridges, waterproof...etc

$13.00ish Can of Spray Adhesive

Used my OG mat, and made my template and cut out the rubber base:...

DIY All Weather Mats]]> 13 How to Install a LED light bar behind the Grille of a 2014 or Newer Subaru Forester Sat, 27 Dec 2014 00:31:07 +0000 https://mnsubaru.com/threads/how-to-install-a-led-light-bar-behind-the-grille-of-a-2014-or-newer-subaru-forester.48215/ https://mnsubaru.com/threads/how-to-install-a-led-light-bar-behind-the-grille-of-a-2014-or-newer-subaru-forester.48215/ invalid@example.com (Moto) Moto
http://projects.geothunder.com/2014...he-grille-of-a-2014-or-newer-subaru-forester/

]]> DIY: Installing Autodimming Homelink Rear View Mirrors in the 9-2X Fri, 10 Oct 2014 14:20:23 +0000 https://mnsubaru.com/threads/diy-installing-autodimming-homelink-rear-view-mirrors-in-the-9-2x.46260/ https://mnsubaru.com/threads/diy-installing-autodimming-homelink-rear-view-mirrors-in-the-9-2x.46260/ invalid@example.com (Adibee) Adibee

Complete Parts list with price...

DIY: Installing Autodimming Homelink Rear View Mirrors in the 9-2X]]> 17 MAF Cleaning, makes a world of difference Mon, 07 Jul 2014 17:16:57 +0000 https://mnsubaru.com/threads/maf-cleaning-makes-a-world-of-difference.42022/ https://mnsubaru.com/threads/maf-cleaning-makes-a-world-of-difference.42022/ invalid@example.com (Glock_Turbo) Glock_Turbo ) but low on funds. was getting 20mpg hwy! after reading up on http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1060871
it solved the problem! $8 at napa! runs smooth with no...

MAF Cleaning, makes a world of difference]]> 23 Radio Head Unit Hidden menu and adjustment. 2015 Sat, 17 May 2014 23:47:19 +0000 https://mnsubaru.com/threads/radio-head-unit-hidden-menu-and-adjustment-2015.46311/ https://mnsubaru.com/threads/radio-head-unit-hidden-menu-and-adjustment-2015.46311/ invalid@example.com (Noone) Noone
Key in the ACC position. Radio off. Hold buttons 1 and 4 down and tap the tune button. The display should say Through Mode.
That's it for that part. Now.
Radio on.
Tap the...

Radio Head Unit Hidden menu and adjustment. 2015]]> 3 Cam Lock ideas Tue, 06 May 2014 15:34:03 +0000 https://mnsubaru.com/threads/cam-lock-ideas.45924/ https://mnsubaru.com/threads/cam-lock-ideas.45924/ invalid@example.com (mn63) mn63
Any ideas, hints, tips would be welcomed.

Thanks]]> 17 Timing Belt Thread Mon, 28 Apr 2014 12:35:56 +0000 https://mnsubaru.com/threads/timing-belt-thread.22695/ https://mnsubaru.com/threads/timing-belt-thread.22695/ invalid@example.com (MNSnoDrifter) MNSnoDrifter
**Edited To Help out with Timing Service Questions**

OEM Subaru Parts Involved with Timing Belt.
(With MNSOC Discount!)

2.5 N/A SOHC

Timing Belt - 13028AA230 = $71.96
Tensioner -...

Timing Belt Thread]]> 38 Official "how to post picture with no attachments" thread Thu, 10 Apr 2014 20:05:09 +0000 https://mnsubaru.com/threads/official-how-to-post-picture-with-no-attachments-thread.37449/ https://mnsubaru.com/threads/official-how-to-post-picture-with-no-attachments-thread.37449/ invalid@example.com (John Yang) John Yang Just follow the steps and depending the materials you have, may take 2-15 minutes of your time.

materials:
1. an account to one of the following:
-http://photobucket.com/
-http://www.flickr.com/
-http://imageshack.us/
-something you can upload the picture and grab its "IMG" code.
2. pictures of what you want to upload or show.
3. Time (obviously)

since I already an account for photobucket, i'm just going to show the...

Official "how to post picture with no attachments" thread]]> 6 Forester (impreza wagon) Sound Deadening on a Budget Sun, 09 Mar 2014 04:23:04 +0000 https://mnsubaru.com/threads/forester-impreza-wagon-sound-deadening-on-a-budget.42968/ https://mnsubaru.com/threads/forester-impreza-wagon-sound-deadening-on-a-budget.42968/ invalid@example.com (twiztid_rs) twiztid_rs
ruhrohh on forester.org had a decent write up about basically the same exhaust here... http://www.subaruforester.org/vbulletin/f94/ebay-cobb-replica-catback-dnamotoring-115650/...

Forester (impreza wagon) Sound Deadening on a Budget]]> 8