Subaru "manufacturer specific" Diagnostic Scan Tools, along with the related hardware and software, provide the functionality required to troubleshoot self-diagnostic, computerized systems on 1996 model and later Subaru vehicles. These tools, which are made available to all Subaru franchised dealers, are available for purchase to all aftermarket service providers as well as equipment and tool companies for the proper service repair of Subaru vehicles through contracted 3rd party tool manufacturers, as referred to below.

Subaru is committed to make available to information providers and tool companies training information, tools, and tool information. Although different manufacturers use different mediums for distributing tool information, Subaru's current practice is to distribute our information using NASTF (National Automotive Service Task Force) and Blue Streak Electronics (BSE). Tool information is distributed subject to reasonable confidentiality, licensing, and/or security arrangements.

The following are some common questions that have been asked of us and our responses, so we present them here for your convenience:

NOTE: Subaru Diagnostic Scan Tools are ONLY for the North American market (US and Canada).

1) Does Subaru have a manufacturer-specific Diagnostic Interface tool?

Yes. Subaru offers an OEM diagnostic interface tool for use in certain system diagnostics and reprogramming.

2)  What is the availability of the Subaru OEM Diagnostic Interface tool?

Subaru offers an OEM diagnostic interface tool to authorized Subaru Dealers, independent repair facilities and individuals.

3) What is the process for obtaining a Subaru OEM Diagnostic Interface tool?

Note: Subaru Diagnostic Interface tools are ONLY offered for the North American market (US and Canada).

3a) Authorized Subaru Dealerships can order a Subaru Diagnostic Interface tool through the Subaru DT web site: www.subarudt.com. (Available for lease only)

3b) Independent repair facilities and individuals can order a Subaru Diagnostic Interface tool through Blue Streak Electronics (BSE). (Available for purchase only) To order, contact BSE at the website link or telephone number below.
 
Blue Streak Electronics
45 Basaltic Rd
Concord, ON L4K 1G5
Tel: (905) 669-4812
Fax: (905) 669-5179
Email: info@bsecorp.com
Website: http://www.bsecorp.com/hds.php
 
(User Note: This type of electronic device requires the advanced automotive knowledge that only a trained technician possesses. Subaru does not offer technical support for diagnostic tools that are not sold by Subaru and will not answer specific questions based on the operation or performance of these devices. All questions pertaining to this device should be directed to Blue Streak Electronics at the above contact information.)

4) What J2534 reprogramming capabilities are available?

(4a) J2534 Reprogramming
Subaru reprogramming files using a generic (non-OEM) SAEJ2534 pass-thru vehicle programming device are available by contacting Service Technical Information Company toll free at 1-866-428-2278. The cost for the CD-ROM with all reprogramming files is $75.00 plus S/H and applicable state tax. Files will be updated four (4) times per year, in CD-ROM format, with all available reprogramming service information at the same above offered cost. Authorized Subaru Dealers are provided the same reprogramming information.

Before purchasing, the reprogramming details can be found in the following Reprogramming J-2534 Files chart. Click the link to view the PDF chart.

Subaru J2534 Reprogramming software meets the latest available J2534-1 specification. Our Reprogramming J2534 Files chart does not specify the Calibration Identification Number (CID); however, this information is included in our offered CD-Rom.

Note:The ECM or TCM being reprogrammed may already contain some or all of the reprogramming files listed in the Reprogramming J2534 Files chart shown by release date. It is possible to damage the vehicles ECM/TCMduring the reprogramming event. Once the reprogramming process has started, it is recommended not to interrupt the process until the event is completed. If you experience any problems, please contact your scan tool maker for further instructions.

(4b) Are all pre-2004MY Subaru vehicles compatible with J2534?

No. Subaru has no reprogramming capability for model years 1996-1998. Starting with our 1999 model year, please see our Reprogramming Pre-J2534 Files chart for affected model reprogramming information.

Both pre-J2534 reprogramming and J2534 pass thru reprogramming files are included in the offered HDS kit software for aftermarket service provider application.

5) What are the Minimum Computer Operating Requirements?

Operating System	Microsoft Windows 2000 / XP; Microsoft Windows 7 (32 bit version only, NOT 64 bit).  (Windows Vista should NOT be used)
CPU	Intel Pentium M processor; 900 MHz equivalent or higher recommended
RAM	256 MB recommended
Available Hard Drive Capacity	20 GB recommended
Drive	CD-ROM drive
CommunicationsPort	USB port (USB1.1 or higher)