🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Impreza WRX

Model Code:

GC8

Generation:

GC8 (First Generation, second phase)

Production Years Covered:

1999, 2000

Chassis Codes:

GC8D, GC8E

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Performance Compact Sedan/Coupe, Rally-bred Sport Compact.

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, performance drivers, mechanics specializing in Japanese performance vehicles.

Key Competitors:

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Honda Civic Type R (later generations), Nissan Sentra SE-R.

Performance Orientation:

High-output turbocharged engine, advanced All-Wheel Drive system, stiff chassis, rally heritage.

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned for exceptional grip, responsive handling, and driver engagement.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Mechanical repair, overhaul, diagnosis, and troubleshooting for the Subaru Impreza WRX.

Secondary Coverage:

Electrical system diagnosis, body and trim repair, HVAC system service, and chassis components.

Estimated Page Count:

Over 1000 pages (typical for full workshop manuals)

Manual Classification:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

EJ20G, EJ20K, EJ205 (specific variants depending on market and trim)

Drivetrain:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, differentials (front, center, rear), driveshafts, axles.

Transmission:

5-speed manual transmission (TY75 series), clutch system.

Suspension:

MacPherson strut front, multi-link rear, springs, dampers, anti-roll bars, bushings.

Brakes:

Front: Ventilated discs (typically 4-piston opposed caliper on WRX STi variants, 2-piston on standard WRX), Rear: Disc brakes (typically 1-piston caliper). ABS system.

Steering:

Power-assisted rack and pinion, steering column, linkages.

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, ignition system, fuel injection system (ECU controlled), sensors, dashboard instrumentation, power windows, mirrors, central locking.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, coolant reservoir, cooling fan.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, pipes.

Body And Trim:

Exterior panels, bumpers, spoilers, interior panels, seats, dashboard assembly, glass replacement.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, climate controls.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-ups, brake pad/shoe replacement, tire rotation.

Engine Repair:

Engine removal/installation, cylinder head overhaul, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft service, timing belt/chain replacement (if applicable), turbocharger service, intercooler installation/service.

Transmission Repair:

Transmission removal/installation, clutch replacement, internal transmission component inspection and replacement, differential service.

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Shock absorber/strut replacement, spring replacement, control arm replacement, ball joint service, tie rod end replacement, power steering pump/rack service.

Brake System Repair:

Brake caliper overhaul/replacement, brake rotor replacement, brake line replacement, brake bleeding, ABS system diagnostics and repair.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Wiring diagram interpretation, troubleshooting electrical faults using multimeters and oscilloscopes, sensor testing, ECU diagnosis.

Fuel System Service:

Fuel pump replacement, fuel filter replacement, injector cleaning/replacement, fuel pressure testing.

Cooling System Service:

Radiator replacement, water pump replacement, thermostat replacement, coolant flush and refill.

Body And Interior Repair:

Panel alignment, dent repair, interior component replacement, glass sealing and installation.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon problems, fault code interpretation.

Depth Level:

Comprehensive: Covers all aspects from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics.

Diagnostic Emphasis:

High: Provides detailed diagnostic procedures, wiring diagrams, and troubleshooting charts.

Rebuild Instructions:

Detailed: Includes step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, and reassembly with torque specifications and tolerances.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Searchable text content for quick information retrieval.

Image Resolution:

High resolution for clear diagrams, illustrations, and text.

Digital Binding:

N/A (Digital format)

Digital Paper Emulation:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Typical:

EJ20G, EJ20K, EJ205

Engine Type:

Horizontally-opposed (Boxer) 4-cylinder, turbocharged, intercooled.

Displacement:

2.0 Liters (1994 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

92.0 mm x 75.0 mm (typical)

Horsepower Typical:

215 - 276 hp (varies significantly by market and specific WRX/STi variant)

Torque Typical:

209 - 250 lb-ft (varies significantly by market and specific WRX/STi variant)

Redline:

Approx. 7,500 RPM

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Multi-point injection.

Fuel Type Recommended:

Unleaded Premium (91 Octane or higher recommended)

Turbocharger System:

IHI VF series turbocharger (e.g., VF23, VF24, VF28 depending on model/market), Air-to-air intercooler.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Model Code:

TY75 Series

Transmission Type Optional:

N/A (WRX variants of this era were exclusively manual)

Drive Layout:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Viscous coupling center differential.

Differential Types:

Front: Open differential, Rear: Limited-slip differential (LSD) often included on WRX variants.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4340 mm (170.9 in)

Width:

Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 in)

Height:

Approx. 1435 mm (56.5 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2520 mm (99.2 in)

Track Width Front:

Approx. 1470 mm (57.9 in)

Track Width Rear:

Approx. 1465 mm (57.7 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1280 - 1350 kg (2822 - 2976 lbs), varies by trim and equipment.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Typically around 1700 kg (3748 lbs)

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 0.30 m³ (10.6 cu ft) for sedan models.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings Typical:

Not widely available for this specific model and era in standardized formats like modern NCAP.

ABS:

Standard on WRX models.

AWD System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive provides enhanced traction and stability.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags standard.

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners.

Chassis Design:

Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

Basic factory-installed AM/FM/Cassette or CD player with rudimentary digital display.

Speaker System:

Typically 4-6 speaker setup.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System standard.

Auxiliary Inputs:

None typically standard; aftermarket upgrades common.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (severe driving requires more frequent changes).

Engine Oil Type Spec:

API SG/SH/SJ, ACEA A2/A3, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (depending on ambient temperature, consult manual for specifics). Full synthetic recommended for high-performance use.

Oil Filter Part Number Example:

Subaru OEM: 15208AA031, WIX: 57935, Fram: PH7317

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) depending on plug type (iridium/platinum vs. standard).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial: Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4-5 years for interference engines. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.

Transmission Fluid Type:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (Hypoid gear oil)

Differential Fluid Type:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (Hypoid gear oil), limited-slip differential fluid if applicable.

Coolant Type:

Subaru Blue Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Head Gasket Failure:

While more prevalent in naturally aspirated EJ engines of earlier generations, turbo models can also experience head gasket issues, especially if overheated or poorly maintained. Proper torque and cooling are critical.

Ringland Failure:

Can occur in high-mileage or aggressively driven EJ20 engines due to detonation or improper tuning. Regular use of high-octane fuel and avoiding prolonged high boost in hot conditions helps.

Turbocharger Wear:

Oil starvation or debris can lead to turbo failure. Regular oil changes with quality oil are essential. Checking turbo oil feed lines for blockage.

Clutch Wear:

Typical wear item, especially under spirited driving. Symptoms include slipping or difficulty engaging gears.

Suspension Bushings:

Wear and tear on suspension bushings can lead to sloppy handling, noise, and premature tire wear. These are common on older performance cars.

📚 Vehicle History

Rally Roots:

Subaru's long and successful history in the World Rally Championship (WRC) directly influenced the Impreza WRX development.

Gc8 Generation:

The GC8 platform, introduced in 1992, saw continuous evolution. The 1999-2000 models represent the 'Phase II' (GC8D/GC8E) updates, often featuring revised styling, engine tuning, and chassis enhancements compared to earlier versions.

Wrx Vs Sti:

The WRX (World Rally eXperimental) was the performance variant for road use, derived from Subaru's rally cars. The WRX STi (Subaru Tecnica International) was a higher-performance, homologation special with more power, advanced AWD systems (e.g., DCCD), and stiffer suspension. This manual likely covers both, or specific variants within the GC8 WRX family.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

Global Availability:

While the Impreza was sold globally, the WRX variant's availability varied by market. These years were significant for the WRX's growing popularity outside Japan, especially in Europe and Australia.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

While the 1999-2000 models were not explicitly listed in Car and Driver's 10Best, the Subaru Impreza line, particularly the WRX, has consistently been recognized for its performance and value by automotive publications worldwide, often praised for its rally-bred capabilities.

Performance Reviews:

Highly lauded in period reviews for its aggressive styling, potent turbocharged engine, and tenacious all-wheel-drive grip, establishing it as a benchmark in the sport compact segment.