Market Segment:
Compact/Small Family Car, Rally Sport Heritage
Key Selling Points:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, turbocharged performance (GT/GT-B models), reliability, practicality, rally pedigree
Competitors:
Mitsubishi Lancer, Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, Ford Escort
Vehicle Platform:
Subaru's GF/GC/GC8 platform
Engine:
All engine variants, including EJ15, EJ16, EJ18, EJ20 (Naturally Aspirated and Turbocharged), EJ22
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system (EFI), ignition system, exhaust system, emissions control, engine diagnostics, engine overhaul procedures
Transmission:
All manual and automatic transmission variants, including 5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, viscous coupling center differential, front and rear differentials, drive axles, prop shafts
Chassis:
Suspension (front MacPherson strut, rear multi-link), steering system, braking system (front disc, rear drum/disc), wheel alignment specifications
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, lighting system, instrumentation, body electrical (power windows, door locks, wipers, horn), HVAC controls, ECU diagnosis
Body:
Body structure, exterior panels, interior trim, doors, glass, seals, body repairs, corrosion prevention
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt replacement, fluid checks and changes
Repair:
Engine component repair and replacement, transmission overhaul, brake caliper/rotor replacement, suspension component replacement, steering rack repair, electrical component diagnosis and repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems with step-by-step flowcharts
Diagnostics:
OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics I) code retrieval and interpretation, sensor testing, actuator testing
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Includes detailed specifications, torque values, diagnostic procedures, and rebuild information.
Engine Code Examples:
EJ16, EJ18, EJ20 (NA and Turbo), EJ22
Ej20 Turbo Horsepower:
Approx. 205-220 hp (WRX/STi variants)
Ej18 Horsepower:
Approx. 115 hp
Ej22 Horsepower:
Approx. 135 hp
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with multi-point injection
ECU Type:
OBD-I compliant engine control units
Block Material:
Aluminum alloy
Head Material:
Aluminum alloy
Manual Transmission:
5-speed manual transaxle
Automatic Transmission:
4-speed automatic transaxle
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with viscous coupling center differential (standard on most models)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-5 SAE 75W-90 gear oil (Subaru specification often recommended)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent automatic transmission fluid
Wheelbase:
Approx. 99.9 inches (2535 mm)
Length:
Approx. 167.5 inches (4255 mm)
Width:
Approx. 67.1 inches (1705 mm)
Height:
Approx. 54.1 inches (1375 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2,600 - 3,100 lbs (1180 - 1406 kg), varies by model and trim
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model, typically around 4,000 lbs (1814 kg)
Towing Capacity:
Not generally recommended or specified for this model
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not rated under current NHTSA standards for this era, but generally considered safe for its class.
ABS:
Available on higher trims and optional on some models (Anti-lock Braking System)
Airbags:
Driver airbag standard, passenger airbag optional or standard on later models within the range.
Seatbelts:
Front 3-point retractable seatbelts, rear 3-point and lap belts
Body Construction:
Unibody construction with front and rear crumple zones, reinforced passenger compartment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM cassette player with optional CD player; aftermarket stereo installation guidance may be present.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control systems (depending on trim).
Traction Control:
Not typically available on this generation; focus on AWD.
Cruise Control:
Available on most models.
Aux Input:
Not standard on factory systems; aftermarket solutions exist.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe service), 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal service), consult manual for specifics.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (standard ignition), platinum plugs may extend this
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles or 4 years (crucial for EJ engines to prevent catastrophic failure)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US Quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter (for most EJ20/EJ18 engines)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 6.7 US Quarts (6.3 Liters)
Recommended Engine Oil:
API SN/SP, ILSAC GF-6A certified, 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on climate)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Head Gaskets:
Common concern in EJ engines; manual details inspection and replacement procedures.
Oil Leaks:
Can occur from valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and front crankshaft seal.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings and ball joints can wear over time, affecting handling and ride quality.
Catalytic Converter:
Can become clogged or fail, affecting engine performance and emissions.
Subaru Strengths:
Pioneering All-Wheel Drive technology, boxer engine expertise, rally racing success, durable engineering
First Generation:
Launched in 1992 as a replacement for the Subaru Leone. The GC/GF/GM generation spans 1993-2001.
Generation Breakdown:
This manual covers the early phase of the first generation, encompassing styling and mechanical updates through 1996.
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan (Gunma Plant)
Key Trims Early Generation:
L, LS, Brighton, RS (Rally Sport), GT/GT-B (Turbocharged Performance models)
