FHI announced today at http://www.fhi.co.jp/recall/sc_data/05-02_14.pdf that it's recalling some cars in Japan. The problem involves operating the automatic transmission in manual mode and running the engine at high RPMs and engine damage can occur. The fix is to reprogram the ECU. The cars involved there are BLE models (manufactured between Aug 22, 2003 and Dec 16, 2004) and BPE models (manufactured between Aug 22, 2003 and Dec 17, 2004). These models are Legacys and Outbacks with the 5-EAT and 3.0R engine, I think.

I wonder whether anything will happen over here with the North American 3.0R Outbacks.

hmm I guess this means the rev limiter does not kick in?

that would kinda hair raiseing to have that happen and you not know untell later.

The recall in Japan was classified as a "Service Campaign" and it appears SOA will conduct a similar service campaign in the US, WWV-06. From http://techinfo.subaru.com/html/displayPDFDesc.jsp?doc_id=75852: Transmission Control Module Reprogramming

Service Program Bulletin #WWV-06
Pages: 11

Bulletin Description: Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) has determined that some affected vehicles (listed in this bulletin) require Transmission Control Module (TCM) reprogramming.

Affected vehicles are equipped with an electronically controlled automatic transmission with "Sport" and "Manual" mode features. The "Manual" mode feature allows the driver to manually select the desired transmission gear. The current software logic will not automatically shift the transmission out of the manually selected gear, regardless of engine or vehicle speed, until the driver manually selects a new gear. This may result in the engine operating near over-revving speed which could cause the engine oil to overheat. Continued operation of the vehicle under these conditions may cause engine damage.

This service program will involve reprogramming the TCM on affected vehicles.If you have an active STIS subscription, you can download the complete bulletin from:
http://techinfo.subaru.com/html/downloadPdf.jsp?doc_id=75852

So, it appears that operating a 3.0R "near" redline for extended periods will break the engine. No wonder we don't have a manual version of the 3.0R here.

P.S. If you're able to read the actual service bulletin, please reply here with information about the actual cars affected.

So, it appears that operating a 3.0R "near" redline for extended periods will break the engine. No wonder we don't have a manual version of the 3.0R here.

....there was a lady that had a 'service loaner', a BRAND NEW LL Bean OB and drove it in 1st for a few miles....WOT....didn't know about the shifter and had pulled it into 1st.....a rod let go out the top puncturing the intake manifold.....fuel spilled down onto the cat and ignited.....she got flagged down by passing cars and stopped the car....didn't know it was on fire:rolleyes:......and left the key in and 'on' and the car burned right there.

Saw the car...saw the remains, that is....had less than 30 miles on it, I think.