The Subaru Leone, popular in New Zealand throughout the early 1980s, was the sort of small trusty wagon you could rely on when you needed it. As well as generally aging well, they are in need of TLC from time to time, so here we dive into a little technical side of a technical car.
Leones can be susceptible to corrosion, especially being in a humid climate like NZ, so it's worth taking the time to inspect any corrosion that may be occurring now, before it gets out of hand. Also, components will degrade over time due to age, so keep on top of these too.
WOF tips
When taking it to a WOF, take note of all the usual things, tyres, lights and mechanical components such as breaks and suspension, but also make sure to inspect the undercarriage too. There will be many things that just don't appear during day-to-day driving.
About the Subaru Leone EA81
Known for it's 4-wheel-drive capability a family favorite, the Leone in NZ came stock with the small but perky and robust inline 4-cylinder. There is not much to fault them on, that is, as long as they've been maintained properly. Preventative maintenance is the key here.
Questions owners ask
What are the most common issues to look out for with a 1981-1984 Subaru Leone in New Zealand?
The 1981-1984 Subaru Leone, while robust, can be susceptible to corrosion, especially given New Zealand's humid climate. It's crucial to regularly inspect for rust. Additionally, due to the age of these vehicles, components will naturally degrade over time, so preventative maintenance on all parts is key to longevity.
What should I pay special attention to during a WOF inspection for my 1981-1984 Subaru Leone?
Beyond the standard WOF checks like tyres, lights, brakes, and suspension, it's particularly important to thoroughly inspect the undercarriage of your 1981-1984 Subaru Leone. Corrosion can often hide here, and other issues that aren't apparent during daily driving might be found, which is critical for WOF compliance in New Zealand.
How often should I service my 1981-1984 Subaru Leone?
For optimal performance and to ensure the longevity of your 1981-1984 Subaru Leone, it's recommended to adhere to a service interval of every 10,000km. Consistent preventative maintenance is crucial for these vehicles.
Where can I get parts for my 1981-1984 Subaru Leone in NZ?
CARFIX stocks 239 different SKUs specifically for the 1981-1984 Subaru Leone. You can find a wide range of parts for your vehicle through CARFIX in New Zealand.
Are 1981-1984 Subaru Leones good for off-road driving in NZ?
The 1981-1984 Subaru Leone is known for its 4-wheel-drive capability, making it a capable vehicle for various terrains, including light off-road use common in New Zealand. Its robust inline 4-cylinder engine provides reliable power for these conditions, provided it's well-maintained.
What kind of engine does the 1981-1984 Subaru Leone typically have in New Zealand?
The 1981-1984 Subaru Leone models imported into New Zealand typically came stock with a small but robust inline 4-cylinder engine. This engine is known for its reliability when properly maintained.