The SUBARU EA82 is a 1,781 cc, flat-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1984 and 1994. It features SOHC, 8-valve configuration and Subaru's EA-series architecture, delivering 63 kW (86 PS) and 133 Nm of torque in carburetted form, with fuel-injected variants producing up to 74 kW (101 PS). Its horizontally opposed layout provides low center of gravity and smooth operation across a range of passenger vehicles.
Fitted to the GL, DL, and Loyale series, the EA82 was engineered for durability and all-weather drivability in Subaru's compact and mid-size platforms. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and catalytic converter systems, enabling US Federal and early Euro emissions standards depending on market.
One documented concern is cylinder head warpage, particularly on units subjected to prolonged overheating or improper coolant maintenance. This issue, highlighted in Subaru Service Information Bulletin 87-04-01, often led to head gasket failure and loss of compression. In response, Subaru issued revised cylinder head machining procedures and recommended use of OEM multi-layer steel (MLS) gaskets during repairs.
Production years 1984–1994 meet US Federal and Euro I emissions standards depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3472).
The SUBARU EA82 is a 1,781 cc flat-four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size applications (1984–1994). It combines Subaru's signature boxer layout with SOHC valvetrain to deliver balanced performance and mechanical refinement. Designed to meet early emissions standards, it balances reliability with evolving regulatory requirements.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,781 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Flat-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 92.0 mm × 67.0 mm | |
| Power output | 63–74 kW (86–101 PS) @ 5,200–5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 133–140 Nm @ 3,200–3,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Carburettor or multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | US Federal, Euro I (market-dependent) | |
| Compression ratio | 8.5:1 (carb), 9.0:1 (EFI) | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (double-row, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (API SG/SH) | |
| Dry weight | 128 kg |
The flat-four design provides inherent balance and smoothness ideal for daily driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to maintain chain longevity and lifter function. Use of API SG/SH-rated oil is critical due to its formulation supporting hydraulic lifters and timing chain lubrication. Cooling system maintenance is essential to prevent overheating and head warpage; use of correct coolant mix (HOAT-based) and regular flushes are recommended. Pre-1987 models should follow revised head gasket installation procedures per Subaru SIB 87-04-01 if experiencing compression loss. Engines used in high-mileage applications require valve clearance inspection every 60,000 km.
Oil Specs: Requires API SG/SH specification oils (Subaru Owner's Manual 84-94). Non-detergent or lower-grade oils increase wear risk.
Emissions: US Federal and Euro I certification applies to production years (1984–1994) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3472). Market-specific variations exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output varies by fuel delivery method and regional tuning.
Subaru Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A12000, A12300, SIB 87-04-01
Subaru EPC and Parts Catalogue: E-EA82 Series
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3472)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The SUBARU EA82 was used across SUBARU's GL/DL/Loyale platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-carburetted versions in base trims and MPFI in higher-spec models-and from 1994 the facelifted Loyale LCI adopted the EJ18 variant with DOHC architecture, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left-side engine block near the transmission bellhousing (Subaru TIS A12900). The 5th digit of the VIN indicates engine family ('E' for EA series). All EA82 units have silver valve covers with "EA82" branding. Critical differentiation from EJ18: Original EA82 uses SOHC 8-valve configuration with distributor ignition, while EJ18 features DOHC 16-valve and coil-on-plug. Service parts require production date verification - head gaskets before 06/1987 are prone to failure and should be replaced with post-revision MLS units per Subaru SIB 87-04-01.
The EA82's primary reliability risk is cylinder head warpage on pre-1987 builds, with elevated incidence in mixed driving conditions. Internal Subaru quality reports from 1986 indicated a significant number of pre-upgrade heads requiring resurfacing before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show compression-related failures were common in neglected examples. Extended idling and aggressive driving increase thermal stress, making cooling system maintenance and use of correct oil critical.
Analysis derived from Subaru technical bulletins (1984–1994) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1995–2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about SUBARU EA82.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with SUBARU or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
SUBARU Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialSUBARU documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
