Segment:
Compact/Small family car, known for its rally heritage and AWD capabilities
Competitors:
Mitsubishi Lancer, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus
Distinctive Features:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) across most trims, boxer engine, sporty driving dynamics, rally-bred performance heritage
Intended Users:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, Subaru enthusiasts
Engine:
Comprehensive coverage of all engine types (EJ15, EJ18, EJ20, EJ22, EJ25 - naturally aspirated and turbocharged variants)
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission systems, including removal, installation, and overhaul procedures
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system components, including viscous couplings, differentials, and driveshafts
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension, including struts, springs, control arms, sway bars, and wheel bearings
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, including master cylinder, calipers, rotors, pads, lines, and ABS components
Steering:
Power steering system, including pump, rack and pinion, hoses, and fluid
Electrical:
Complete electrical system, including battery, alternator, starter, ignition, lighting, fuses, relays, and wiring diagrams
Fuel System:
Fuel delivery, including pump, filter, injectors, lines, and fuel tank
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, thermostat, water pump, hoses, and coolant
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, muffler, and piping
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system components and service
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, frame specifications, and interior trim
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance procedures such as oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, and fluid checks
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures and common problem-solving guides for various systems
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle components
Overhaul:
Engine and transmission overhaul procedures
Alignment:
Wheel alignment specifications and procedures
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque specifications for all critical fasteners
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all circuits
Depth Level:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
File Type:
Likely PDF for digital distribution
Searchability:
Typically searchable text for quick information retrieval
Printable:
Designed to be printable for workshop use
Page Count:
Estimate 1000+ pages (typical for a comprehensive workshop manual)
Image Resolution:
High-resolution for clear diagrams and illustrations
Binding:
N/A (for digital format); If printed, typically comb or perfect bound
Paper Quality:
N/A (for digital format); If printed, usually on durable, matte paper
Engine Options:
EJ15 (1.5L), EJ18 (1.8L), EJ20 (2.0L, naturally aspirated and turbocharged), EJ22 (2.2L), EJ25 (2.5L, naturally aspirated and turbocharged SOHC/DOHC)
Typical Horsepower:
Ranging from 95 hp (EJ15) to over 200 hp (WRX/STi variants)
Typical Torque:
Ranging from 90 lb-ft (EJ15) to over 200 lb-ft (WRX/STi variants)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) and Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Layout:
Horizontally-opposed (Boxer) 4-cylinder
ECM:
Engine Control Module (ECM) with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) outlined in the manual
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed manual transmission (e.g., TZ1A2ZDCF)
Optional Transmission Type:
4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., TZ1A2ZC4)
AWD System Integration:
Active Torque Split All-Wheel Drive (ATS AWD) on manual transmissions; Continuous All-Wheel Drive (CAWD) on automatics
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil (e.g., Subaru Extra-S or equivalent)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF-HP (or Dexron III equivalent for earlier models)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 99.9 inches (2535 mm)
Length:
Approx. 171.7 inches (4360 mm)
Width:
Approx. 66.7 inches (1695 mm)
Height:
Approx. 55.7 inches (1415 mm)
Curb Weight:
Varies by model and trim, typically 2700-3100 lbs (1225-1400 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Specifc to each model variant, detailed in manual
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions. Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) depending on plug type (copper vs. platinum/iridium).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial service around 90,000-105,000 miles (145,000-170,000 km) for EJ series engines due to interference design. Manual will specify exact interval and required components (belt, tensioner, idlers, water pump).
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on ambient temperature). Capacity approx. 4.5-5.0 quarts with filter.
Coolant:
Subaru's Genuine Coolant (blue) or a compatible 50/50 mix of ethylene glycol and distilled water. Capacity approx. 6.0-7.0 quarts.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF or specific Subaru power steering fluid.
Head Gaskets:
Early EJ25 SOHC engines (pre-2000) were prone to head gasket failure. Manual will cover inspection and replacement procedures.
Oil Leaks:
Common oil leak points include valve cover gaskets and rear main seal. Manual provides torque specs and seal replacement guides.
Radiator:
Cracking plastic tanks on radiators can lead to leaks.
Clutch Wear:
Normal wear item; manual details replacement process for manual transmissions.
AWD System Maintenance:
Regular fluid changes for front and rear differentials and center viscous coupling are recommended. Manual will specify fluid types and intervals.
Subaru Heritage:
Subaru, part of Fuji Heavy Industries, known for its engineering prowess in aviation and its unique boxer engine and AWD technology
Generation Introduction:
First generation (GC for coupe, GF for wagon, GM for sedan) launched globally in 1992, with this manual covering the mid-cycle updates and variants up to 2001.
Performance Variants:
Introduction of the high-performance WRX (World Rally eXperimental) and WRX STI (Special Tuning) models, which became icons of rally sport.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan
