🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Impreza

Year Range Covered:

1996-2001

Chassis Codes:

GC, GF, GM

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact/Small Family Car (also known for rally heritage)

Target Demographic:

Individuals and families seeking reliable, practical transportation with optional all-wheel-drive capability; enthusiasts attracted to its rally pedigree and performance variants.

Key Competitors:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda Protege, Mitsubishi Lancer, Nissan Sentra

Subaru Advantage:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive on most trims (a significant differentiator), boxer engine providing a low center of gravity, reputation for durability and safety.

All Wheel Drive:

Availability of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, enhancing traction and stability in various weather conditions.

Boxer Engine:

Horizontally-opposed (boxer) engine design, contributing to a lower center of gravity for improved handling and balance.

Performance Variants:

Introduction and evolution of performance-oriented models like the Impreza WRX, which gained significant popularity and rally heritage.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Models:

All Subaru Impreza models (sedan, coupe, wagon) from 1996 to 2001

Covered Engines:

EJ22, EJ25 SOHC, EJ25 DOHC (including turbocharged variants like EJ205 for WRX/STi where applicable to North American market models)

Covered Transmissions:

4-speed automatic, 5-speed manual

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, piston and connecting rod, crankshaft and flywheel, oil pump, timing belt, oil pan, lubrication system, cooling system

Engine Performance:

Fuel injection system, ignition system, emission control system, turbocharger system (where applicable)

Transmission Drivetrain:

Manual transmission (clutch, gearbox, driveshafts), Automatic transmission (torque converter, planetary gear sets, valve body, control system), differentials, AWD system (Viscous coupling, center differential)

Suspension Steering:

Front suspension (struts, control arms, sway bar), Rear suspension (struts, trailing arms, multi-link), steering gear, power steering system

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (discs, calipers, pads, master cylinder), parking brake, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)

Electrical Electronic:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, ignition system, fuel injection control, ECU (Engine Control Unit), body control modules, instrument cluster, wiper/washer system, power windows/locks, audio system, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System - Airbags)

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (AC compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, controls)

Body Interior:

Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, seats, dashboard, exterior trim, bumpers, body sealing

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, brake inspections, tire rotation

Repair Rebuild:

Engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnostics and repair, body panel repair

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, fault code interpretation (OBD-I/OBD-II)

Diagnostics:

Wiring diagrams, component testing procedures, signal tracing

Torque Specifications:

Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners (engine, transmission, suspension, brakes)

Depth:

Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnostics, and bodywork)

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchable:

Yes (text-searchable PDF)

Printable:

Yes

Image Resolution:

High (suitable for clear viewing of diagrams and text)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

EJ22

Displacement 1:

2.2 Liters (2212 cc)

Configuration 1:

2.2L SOHC 16-valve Boxer-4

Horsepower 1:

135 hp @ 5600 rpm (approx.)

Torque 1:

140 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)

Engine Code 2:

EJ251 (SOHC)

Displacement 2:

2.5 Liters (2457 cc)

Configuration 2:

2.5L SOHC 16-valve Boxer-4

Horsepower 2:

142-165 hp (depending on year/model)

Torque 2:

150-162 lb-ft (depending on year/model)

Engine Code 3:

EJ253 (DOHC)

Displacement 3:

2.5 Liters (2457 cc)

Configuration 3:

2.5L DOHC 16-valve Boxer-4

Horsepower 3:

165 hp (approx.)

Torque 3:

162 lb-ft (approx.)

Turbocharged Options:

Yes (WRX models typically featured EJ205 turbocharged engines, but this manual focuses on the core Impreza range, though turbo servicing is likely covered).

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type Optional:

4-speed Automatic Transmission

Drivetrain Configuration:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) on most trims; Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) on some base models.

AWD System Description:

Viscous coupling center differential and rear differential (mechanical or viscous center diff depending on transmission type and trim).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 174.7 - 177.9 inches (4437 - 4520 mm) depending on body style

Width:

Approx. 66.7 - 67.5 inches (1695 - 1715 mm)

Height:

Approx. 55.1 - 58.1 inches (1400 - 1475 mm) depending on body style

Wheelbase:

Approx. 98.2 inches (2495 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2800 - 3100 lbs (1270 - 1406 kg) depending on trim and drivetrain

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

4 stars (for comparable models in the era, specific rating may vary)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

4 stars (for comparable models in the era, specific rating may vary)

IIHS Side Impact:

Good (for comparable models in the era, specific rating may vary)

ABS:

Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

AWD:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive as a significant active safety feature.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags (SRS)

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM radio with cassette player and/or CD player (depending on trim and options). Basic speaker systems.

Display:

Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, and temperature. Basic digital odometer/trip meter.

Cruise Control:

Available cruise control system.

Traction Control:

Limited traction control systems were beginning to appear, but not widespread. AWD serves as the primary traction enhancer.

Aux Input:

Not standard. Aftermarket head unit upgrades often add aux or USB connectivity.

Bluetooth:

Not available from the factory.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 - 7,500 miles (6,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Consult manual for specifics.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Typically recommended every 60,000 - 90,000 miles (96,000 - 144,000 km) or 5-7 years. Crucial due to interference engine design.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 - 100,000 miles (48,000 - 160,000 km) depending on spark plug type (copper vs. platinum/iridium).

Engine Oil Type:

API SJ or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on temperature).

Coolant Type:

Subaru Genuine Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant with Subaru's specific additive package), typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Subaru ATF (Dexron III compatible or Subaru's specified fluid).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron II/III ATF.

Head Gaskets:

While not as prevalent as in later generations, some EJ25 engines from this era can be prone to head gasket failure, especially if overheated or poorly maintained. The manual will detail inspection and replacement.

Oil Leaks:

Valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and front crankshaft seals are common sources of oil leaks, particularly on higher-mileage vehicles. The manual will provide torque specs and procedures for sealing.

Suspension Wear:

Bushings, ball joints, and strut mounts can wear over time, leading to noise and alignment issues. The manual will provide replacement procedures and specifications.

Exhaust Manifold Cracks:

Some EJ series engines can develop cracks in the exhaust manifolds, leading to exhaust leaks and ticking noises. The manual will cover removal and installation.

Electrical Connectors:

Corrosion or damage to electrical connectors, particularly in areas exposed to moisture, can cause intermittent issues. The manual's wiring diagrams are essential for diagnosis.

📚 Vehicle History

Parent Company:

Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries)

Brand Focus:

Known for its boxer engines and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive systems, often associated with safety and reliability, and a strong presence in motorsports, particularly rallying.

First Generation:

The Subaru Impreza was introduced globally in 1992 as a replacement for the Subaru Leone. The second generation, covered by this manual, was launched for the 1993 model year in Japan and later in other markets.

Design Changes Gc8:

The GC8 chassis (sedan), GF8 chassis (wagon), and GM8 chassis (coupe) for this generation saw minor styling updates and powertrain refinements throughout its production run, including facelifted front-end designs.

Production Period Specific:

1996-2001 (second generation, often referred to as GC8/GF8/GM8 platform)

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Japan (Gunma Plant)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Rally Heritage:

The Impreza, particularly the WRX variants, became a legend in world rally championship (WRC) due to its success with Colin McRae and Richard Burns, contributing to the model's sporty image.

Car And Driver Recommendation:

Often cited in 'Best Cars' lists for its value, all-wheel-drive capability, and the sporty nature of its WRX variants.

Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards:

Designed and manufactured to meet all applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) for its production era.