Segment:
Performance Compact Sedan/Hatchback
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, rally fans, performance-oriented drivers.
Competitors 2012:
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Ford Focus RS, Volkswagen Golf GTI/R.
Drivetrain:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD).
Engine Type:
Turbocharged Boxer Engine.
Suspension:
Performance-tuned suspension with inverted front struts.
Brakes:
High-performance Brembo braking system.
Transmission:
6-speed manual transmission.
Engine System:
Detailed diagnostics, repair, and overhaul for the EJ257 turbocharged boxer engine, including fuel injection, ignition, emissions, cooling, and lubrication systems.
Transmission System:
Comprehensive coverage of the 6-speed manual transmission (TY856), including disassembly, assembly, and troubleshooting of gears, clutch, and drivetrain components.
Drivetrain System:
Information on the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, including center differential, front and rear differentials, driveshafts, and wheel hubs.
Suspension System:
Detailed repair procedures for front and rear suspension components, including struts, springs, control arms, bushings, and anti-roll bars.
Brake System:
Complete information on the Brembo braking system, including ABS, EBD, brake fluid specifications, caliper and rotor replacement, and bleeding procedures.
Steering System:
Diagnosis and repair of the power steering system, including the steering rack, pump, and associated lines.
Electrical System:
Extensive coverage of the vehicle's electrical system, including wiring diagrams, component locations, fuses, relays, lighting, and battery system.
Body And Chassis:
Procedures for body panel repair, interior trim removal, glass replacement, and chassis component maintenance.
Climate Control System:
Diagnosis and repair of the air conditioning and heating systems, including refrigerant handling and component replacement.
Safety Systems:
Information on airbags, seatbelts, and vehicle security systems.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, and general inspection procedures.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues, fault code interpretation, and wiring harness testing.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed, illustrated instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment for all major vehicle systems.
Engine Rebuild:
Complete procedures for engine disassembly, inspection, component replacement (pistons, rings, bearings, valves), and reassembly.
Transmission Overhaul:
Detailed instructions for the complete disassembly, cleaning, inspection, and reassembly of the 6-speed manual gearbox.
Electrical Component Testing:
Methods for testing alternators, starters, sensors, actuators, and control modules.
Alignment Procedures:
Specifications and procedures for wheel alignment, including caster, camber, and toe settings.
Calibration Procedures:
Procedures for recalibrating sensors and systems after component replacement (e.g., ABS sensors, steering angle sensor).
Depth Level:
Factory-level, in-depth technical information suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts.
Diagnostic Tools:
Information pertaining to the use of Subaru's Select Monitor (SSM) diagnostic tool and OBD-II scan tools.
Gear Ratios 1-6:
3.167 / 2.050 / 1.370 / 1.061 / 0.857 / 0.707
Reverse Gear Ratio:
3.545
Drivetrain Type:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Center Differential:
Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) with automatic and manual modes.
Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (Subaru Extra-S or equivalent)
Front Differential Fluid Spec:
API GL-5, SAE 80W-90 (Subaru Extra-S or equivalent)
Rear Differential Fluid Spec:
API GL-5, SAE 80W-90 (Subaru Extra-S or equivalent)
NHTSA Overall Rating:
4/5 Stars (for 2012 Impreza model range)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for 2012 Impreza model range)
ABS:
Yes, 4-wheel disc with ABS and EBD.
Traction Control:
Standard
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard (Vehicle Dynamics Control - VDC)
Airbags:
Front, side-curtain, front-seat side airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point height-adjustable front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months (severe driving) or 7,500 miles or 7.5 months (normal driving). Consult manual for specific recommendations based on driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Subaru recommends replacement every 30,000 miles.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Replace every 15,000 miles or 15 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Replace every 60,000 miles for iridium-tipped plugs.
Coolant Replacement:
First replacement at 60,000 miles or 5 years, then every 30,000 miles or 3 years thereafter.
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30 Synthetic (API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified). Refer to owner's manual for specific viscosity under varying temperatures.
Engine Oil Capacity Quarts:
5.0 quarts (with filter)
Brake Fluid Spec:
FMVSS No. 116 DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid Spec:
Subaru Genuine ATF or Dexron III equivalent.
Piston Ring Land Cracks:
A known issue on some EJ257 engines, particularly when subjected to aggressive tuning or poor maintenance. The manual will detail inspection procedures.
Clutch Wear:
Heavy clutch usage or aggressive driving can lead to premature wear. The manual provides diagnostic steps for clutch performance.
Oil Consumption:
Some EJ257 engines may exhibit higher than average oil consumption; regular checks are advised. Manual details potential causes and checks.