hawksoob

My P-brake holds just fine. Problem is (if it IS a problem) it doesn't always do the clicky clicky. Meaning, I pull up and it locks into place, but no clicking. If I put it back down and go again, a bit more slowly, maybe "pump" it a little, it does the clicky clicky. Nice, firm grip. It holds just fine. No problem with the holdage. I've done the cable adjustment thing ... tightened it up a bit. Is this a symptom of a possible, potential problem? Stretched cable? Or is it a matter if, "Eh...it works....."?

Well, I was all ready to bust a knuckle or two, but it looks like it's not necessary. The other day, my girlfriend was driving my car while I was behind in a moving van and I noticed that the upper right hand brake light was out. I happened to have a spare bulb and I changed it. Later that evening, I noticed, while backing up, the reverse light came on. Hmmmmm ... maybe the other busted bulb cut the reverse light circuit. Strange.

Recently? Cruddy winter-time gas possibly?

Haynes seems to be pretty decent, but since I'm a complete novice when it comes to auto repairs, I've been reluctant to go whole hog on something based solely on what it says. Example: I was really nervous about swapping the knock sensor on my 96 OBW because the Haynes said to remove the intake manifold and drain the coolant. One a very complex endeavor, the other a time-consuming hassle. After reading a few posts on this board and others, I realized that all it took was a socket wrench and the pulling of a wire ... 5 minute job at best. At worst, it can lead you down an unnecessary road of frustration, busted knuckles, and a 3000lb paper weight. At best, it can help you save a bit of money and lead you to better knowledge of how your car works and how to tell if your mechanic is leading you straight or handing you a line of BS: "Well, your blinker fluid needs rotating and your grommet bearings need flummoxing. That'll be $800 ... plus parts and labor."

1996 Legacy Outback. Front door speakers. Do the speaker grilles simply come off with a little careful prying, then easy access to replace the speaker? Or must I remove the entire door panel? Thanks

FWIW ... When I bought my '96 OBW 2 years ago, I wrote SOA via my.subaru.com and told them I had just purchased one of their vehicles but I had not receive an owner's manual, and I was wondering how I could get one. The next thing I knew was I had received a reply to my email saying, "A new manual is on the way" and 2 weeks later it was in my mailbox...no charge. May have changed since, given that I recently asked for a way to get the maintenance booklet, and they said, "You can order one for $19.99 from this place...." But ... Might be worth a try.

Eh...being from Tennesse, I doubt I'll get too many odd looks if I just Duct tape it up. Seriously, thanks for the advice everyone.

Fix for this? DIY? Cheap? Ideas? Silicone? Ruuber Cement? Elmer's?

Thanks muchos for the response. That helps a lot. I have seen the backup light switch replacements on Autozone's website for about $28. Hope soon to have an opp I'll raise the sucker up and check it out. Otherwise, I just have to keep leaning out the window yelling, "HEY YOU! I'm backing up!!!" Many appreciations.

Twice my 96 OBW did that. Both times after the battery had been disconnected for repair work. The cure in my case was lock and unlock with the keyless remote doomawatchamathingy. Might have to cycle it a couple of times. Might give that a try.

Super. Thanks!

Back up Light Switch Where? 1996 Legacy OBW 2.2 5-sp Mine is apparently out. The fuse is fine. Would like to test/replace it if I can get to the little bugger. Haynes has a photo of it that is ridiculously close up with no point of reference. No help. (Really glad I didn't take their advice and drain the coolant and remove the manifold in order to change the knock sensor. Soooooo much easier to just unhook a wire and ratchet out a bolt - then reverse) Also, is it necessary to "Raise auto and place securely on jackstands" or can I crawl underneath and get to it? Thanks in advance, Hawk