Segment:
Performance Compact Sedan/Hatchback
Usp:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) performance, rally-bred heritage, turbocharged power
Key Competitors:
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Subaru WRX (non-STi variants), Volkswagen Golf GTI, Ford Focus RS
Performance Orientation:
Designed for enthusiast drivers seeking track-capable performance
AWD System:
Subaru's legendary symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD)
Engine Technology:
High-revving, turbocharged Boxer engine
Chassis Dynamics:
Performance-tuned suspension and chassis for superior handling
Primary Coverage:
Complete Factory Service Repair
Additional Coverage:
Do-it-yourself (DIY) focus, comprehensive diagrams
Estimated Page Count:
Over 1500 pages (typical for comprehensive factory manuals)
Type:
Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (PDF expected, though physical may exist)
Engine:
Full engine overhaul, diagnostics, performance tuning, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, exhaust
Transmission:
Manual transmission (Type RA/STi specific), clutch system, drivetrain, differentials (front, center, rear)
Brakes:
ABS system, hydraulic components, brake pads, rotors, calipers, parking brake
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, anti-roll bars, alignment procedures
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, column, troubleshooting
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, starter, alternator, battery, fuses, relays, ECU, sensor diagnostics
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, chassis components, rust prevention, collision repair basics
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heating, ventilation, climate control diagnostics
Restraints:
Airbag system, seatbelt operation and maintenance
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid flushes, spark plug replacement, timing belt inspection/replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common problems, fault codes and their meanings
Repair:
Component replacement, system diagnostics, calibration procedures
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD-II), sensor testing, actuator testing, circuit testing
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, tolerances, clearances
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Diagrams Quality:
Top quality, detailed illustrations and exploded views
Text Readability:
Easy-to-read text sections
Digital Format:
PDF (searchable text, printable pages)
Print Quality:
High resolution for clear diagrams and text
Binding Type:
N/A (if digital), Professional perfect binding (if printed)
Paper Type:
N/A (if digital), High-quality, durable paper (if printed)
Engine Family:
EJ Series Boxer
Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1994 cc)
Configuration:
Horizontally opposed (Boxer), 4-cylinder
Aspiration:
Turbocharged, Intercooled
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 16 valves (4 valves per cylinder)
Bore X Stroke:
92.0 mm x 75.0 mm
Horsepower Ps:
280 PS @ 6400 rpm (JDM Spec)
Horsepower Hp:
Approx. 276 hp @ 6400 rpm (JDM Spec)
Torque Lb-Ft:
250 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (JDM Spec)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium (91 Octane minimum recommended)
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition with Coil-on-Plug
Turbocharger Model:
IHI VF34 (or similar spec)
Type:
6-speed Manual Transmission
Gear Ratios Approx:
1st: 3.636, 2nd: 2.375, 3rd: 1.760, 4th: 1.345, 5th: 1.062, 6th: 0.850
Dccd:
Driver Controlled Center Differential (manual and auto modes)
Differential Type Front:
Helical Limited-Slip Differential (LSD)
Differential Type Rear:
Viscous Limited-Slip Differential (LSD)
Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:
Subaru Extra-PS Fluid (or equivalent GL-5 75W-90 API)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Good (for comparable models of the era)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Good (for comparable models of the era)
IIHS Front Small Overlap:
N/A (Test not standardized or performed during this era)
Traction Control:
Yes (VDC - Vehicle Dynamics Control, often optional or specific trims)
Electronic Brakeforce Distribution:
Yes (part of ABS system)
Airbags Front:
Driver and Passenger Airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional Side Airbags (check specific trim/market)
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH/ISOFIX (rear seats)
Head Unit:
Factory AM/FM/CD player (typically basic, often upgraded by owners)
Audio System:
Standard speaker setup (upgrades common)
Stability Control:
Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) available on some trims
Auxiliary Input:
Rarely standard; often added via aftermarket modifications.
Bluetooth:
Not standard; aftermarket solutions required.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (depending on driving conditions and oil used)
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (NGK Iridium recommended)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000-100,000 miles or 5-7 years (critical component)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2-3 years
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles
Differential Fluid Change Front Rear:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles
Engine Oil Type And Viscosity:
5W-30 or 10W-30 (API SN or higher)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Subaru Extra-PS Fluid or Dexron III/Mercon ATF
Piston Ring Wear:
Potential for oil consumption and blow-by due to EJ207 ring design, especially if poorly maintained or driven hard.
Head Gasket Leaks:
While less common on the EJ207 compared to some other EJ variants, it's a potential issue to monitor, especially with higher mileage or aggressive tuning.
Turbocharger Failure:
The IHI VF34 turbo can be susceptible to wear or failure if oil is not changed regularly or if the turbo is subjected to extreme heat cycling without proper cool-down.
Clutch Wear:
High-performance clutch can wear faster with aggressive driving; torque converter lifespan can also be affected.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear and tear on suspension bushings is common over time, affecting handling and ride comfort.
Electrical Gremlins:
As with many turbocharged performance cars of this era, intermittent electrical issues can arise, often related to sensor connections or wiring harnesses.
Rally Icon:
Subaru's strong association with the World Rally Championship (WRC)
AWD Pioneer:
Subaru's long history of producing all-wheel-drive vehicles for various conditions
Generation Intro:
This is part of the second generation (GD/GG) Impreza, known for its significant performance upgrades and distinct 'bug-eye' to 'hawk-eye' design changes.
Sti Specialization:
The STi (Subaru Tecnica International) model represents the highest performance variant, directly influenced by rally technology.
Production Period:
The second generation Impreza was produced from 2000 to 2007. The 2004 model year represents a mid-cycle facelift for this generation.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Rally Influence:
The Impreza STi is directly derived from Subaru's successful WRC cars, inheriting their performance DNA and reputation.
Performance Car Of The Year:
While specific awards for the 2004 model year might vary by publication, the STi consistently received accolades in enthusiast circles for its handling, AWD grip, and affordable performance.
Emissions Compliance:
Meets applicable emissions standards for its market of origin (e.g., JDM regulations)