🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Impreza

Years Covered:

1993, 1994, 1995, 1996

Chassis Codes:

GC, GF, GM

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact/Small Family Car, Performance Sedan/Wagon

Usp:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on most variants), boxer engine, rally-inspired performance.

Key Competitors:

Mitsubishi Lancer, Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, Ford Escort, Nissan Sentra.

Performance Variants:

WRX and STI (though early versions were primarily JDM, the GT and basic performance models are covered).

All Wheel Drive:

Subaru's signature Symmetrical AWD system provides enhanced traction and stability.

Engine Layout:

Horizontally-opposed ('Boxer') engine, contributing to a lower center of gravity.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Options:

1.6L EJ16, 1.8L EJ18, 2.0L EJ20 (Naturally Aspirated & Turbocharged - EJ20G, EJ20K)

Drivetrain Options:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD), Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) - primarily AWD for performance variants

Body Styles:

2-door Coupe (GC), 4-door Sedan (GC), 5-door Wagon (GF), 5-door Sports Wagon (GM)

Estimated Pages:

Over 1500 pages (typically a comprehensive factory service manual)

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF) - Searchable, printable

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine teardown, assembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing belt/chain, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel delivery (EFI), ignition system, emissions control.

Engine Performance:

ECU diagnosis, sensor data, turbocharger operation (where applicable), intercooler system, fuel injection strategies.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch system, gear shifting mechanisms, gearbox overhaul, synchronizers, bearings, seals, shift linkage.

Transmission Automatic:

Torque converter, planetary gear sets, valve body operation, hydraulic control, transmission fluid cooler, shift control solenoids, overhaul procedures.

Drivetrain:

Front and rear differentials, viscous coupling unit (center differential), driveshafts, CV joints, wheel bearings, AWD system diagnosis and repair.

Suspension:

Front struts, rear shocks, control arms, ball joints, bushings, anti-roll bars, alignment specifications, spring replacement.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, pump, fluid, tie rods, steering column, diagnosis of play and leaks.

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, master cylinder, brake booster, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnosis and components, calipers, rotors, pads, brake lines, bleeding procedures.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator, regulator), starting system (starter motor), lighting, wipers, horn, power windows, power locks, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams for all systems.

Engine Control Unit:

ECM/ECU pinouts, sensor inputs, actuator outputs, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), self-diagnosis procedures, wiring harness schematics for engine management.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, door mechanisms, glass replacement, body repair techniques, chassis specifications.

Climate Control:

HVAC system operation, A/C compressor, refrigerant, blower motor, climate control panel, heater core, diagnosis of cooling and heating issues.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system (SRS) diagnosis and components (if equipped), seat belt mechanisms, ABS system details.

Scheduled Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes (coolant, brake, power steering, transmission), spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, timing belt replacement intervals and procedures.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, common problem identification, solutions for starting issues, running problems, electrical faults, braking issues, etc.

Repair And Rebuild:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation for virtually all vehicle systems.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all critical fasteners (engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, body).

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for all circuits, including engine management, lighting, audio, power accessories, and safety systems.

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on using Subaru's proprietary diagnostic connectors and procedures for engine management system interrogation.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced diagnostics, and detailed electrical system repair. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Yes - text-searchable for quick information retrieval.

Printability:

Yes - pages can be printed for easy reference during repairs.

Image Resolution:

High resolution - clear illustrations, diagrams, and photographs.

Binding Format:

N/A (Digital Product)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Product)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Codes:

EJ16, EJ18, EJ20G, EJ20K

Displacement Ej16:

1.6 Liters (1597 cc)

Displacement Ej18:

1.8 Liters (1835 cc)

Displacement Ej20G:

2.0 Liters (1994 cc) - Turbocharged

Displacement Ej20K:

2.0 Liters (1994 cc) - Turbocharged (Higher performance variant)

Horsepower Ej16:

~95-105 PS (70-77 kW)

Horsepower Ej18:

~103-115 PS (76-85 kW)

Horsepower Ej20G:

~200-220 PS (147-162 kW)

Horsepower Ej20K:

~250-260 PS (184-191 kW)

Injection Type:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) / Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating varies by engine and market)

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug or distributor ignition depending on market and engine variant.

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission:

5-speed Manual (Various gear ratios depending on model and engine)

Automatic Transmission:

4-speed Automatic (Optional on many models, particularly non-turbo variants)

AWD System Manual:

Viscous coupling center differential with open front and rear differentials.

AWD System Auto:

Electronically controlled AWD system (Active AWD) or viscous coupling center differential depending on model and year.

📐 Dimensions

Length Sedan:

~4345 mm (171.1 in)

Length Wagon:

~4355 mm (171.5 in)

Width:

~1690 mm (66.5 in)

Height:

~1405 mm (55.3 in) for sedan, ~1445 mm (56.9 in) for wagon

Curb Weight:

~1150 - 1400 kg (2535 - 3086 lbs) depending on configuration.

Wheelbase:

~2520 mm (99.2 in)

Track Width Front:

~1460 mm (57.5 in)

Track Width Rear:

~1460 mm (57.5 in)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x100mm

Wheel Size:

15-inch or 16-inch standard, 17-inch for performance variants.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

Limited independent crash test data available for this era of vehicle; primarily relies on domestic market standards and manufacturer data. Early models may lack advanced safety features.

ABS:

Optional or standard on higher trims/performance models (e.g., 4-channel ABS).

AWD:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is a primary active safety feature, enhancing stability and traction.

Airbags:

Driver airbag standard in most markets from 1994/1995 onwards; passenger airbag optional or unavailable in early models.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners on front seats in later models.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/Cassette stereo with optional CD player. Speaker configurations vary by trim level. Manual covers removal/installation and basic diagnostics.

Cruise Control:

Optional on most models, manual details operation and troubleshooting.

ABS:

See safety section; operation and diagnostics covered.

ECU Diagnostics:

OBD-I compliant diagnostics, with specific Subaru diagnostic connectors and procedures detailed in the manual.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 - 7,500 miles (6,000 - 12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) or 5-7 years for EJ engines. Critical due to interference design. Manual will specify exact interval and procedure.

Spark Plug Replacement:

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

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (48,000 - 80,000 km) or 2-3 years.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG/SH, SAE 10W-30 or 5W-30 (check manual for specific viscosity based on temperature range).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically Subaru Super Coolant or equivalent (color may vary, consult manual).

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil recommended. Capacity ~1.7-2.0L.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Subaru ATF-HP or Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid. Capacity ~3.5-4.5L for drain and fill. Consult manual for exact specification.

Power Steering Fluid:

Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or ATF Type T-III/T-IV compatible fluid.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Head Gaskets:

While less prevalent on the first-gen EJ20/EJ22 than later generations, minor leaks can occur. The manual covers inspection and replacement procedures.

Turbo Failure:

For turbo models, proper maintenance (oil changes) is critical. Turbo failure can occur from oil starvation or wear. The manual details turbo inspection and service.

Clutch Wear:

Common wear item, especially in performance driving. Manual provides clutch inspection and replacement steps.

Suspension Bushings:

Wear on control arm and sway bar bushings can lead to noise and poor handling. Manual covers bushing replacement.

Starter Motor Failure:

Intermittent starting issues can sometimes be attributed to a worn starter motor. Manual covers testing and replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Legacy:

The Impreza was developed to expand Subaru's offerings and cater to a younger demographic, building on the success of the larger Legacy model.

First Generation:

The first generation (1992-2000) established the Impreza's reputation for AWD capability and rally success.

Rally Dominance:

The EJ20 Turbo engines powered rally cars to multiple WRC championships in the 1990s, significantly boosting the Impreza's performance image.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan (Ota City, Gunma Prefecture)

Production Start Year:

1992 (Model year 1993 in North America)

End Of First Gen:

2000

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Carmagazine Best Performance Car:

While specific awards for the 1993-1996 Impreza are numerous in motorsport, general automotive publications often lauded its AWD system and handling for its class. The manual provides the technical foundation to maintain this performance.

Rally Heritage:

The Impreza is synonymous with rallying success, including multiple World Rally Championship manufacturer and driver titles, which significantly influenced its market perception and desirability. This manual is essential for maintaining these vehicles.