Segment:
Compact/Small Family Car, known for its sporty handling and AWD capabilities.
Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mitsubishi Lancer, Ford Escort, Nissan Sentra.
All Wheel Drive:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive across most trims, a significant differentiator.
Performance Variants:
Introduction of the WRX STI model in this generation, setting benchmarks for performance compacts.
Benefit To Owner:
Empowers owners with the knowledge to perform maintenance, troubleshoot issues, and understand complex systems, potentially saving on repair costs and extending vehicle life.
Engine:
2.2L EJ22, 2.5L EJ25D (Naturally Aspirated and Turbocharged EJ257 for WRX STI variants, though primary focus is NA and EJ25D for standard models)
Transmission:
5-Speed Manual (Aisin), 4-Speed Automatic (JATCO)
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (Symmetrical AWD) system diagnosis and repair
Suspension:
Front MacPherson struts, Rear multi-link independent suspension, alignment specifications
Brakes:
Front and Rear disc brakes, ABS system diagnosis and repair
Steering:
Power assisted rack and pinion steering system
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, component locations, fuse/relay information, diagnostic procedures
HVAC:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation system diagnosis and repair
Bodywork:
Exterior and interior trim removal/installation, panel repair, glass replacement
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, timing belt replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (OBD-I/OBD-II), component testing
Repair:
Engine mechanical repairs, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair
Overhaul:
Engine and transmission rebuild procedures, torque specifications
Calibration:
Wheel alignment specifications, steering angle sensor calibration (if applicable)
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers
Detail Level:
Step-by-step instructions, exploded views, diagrams, torque values, clearances
2.2L Ej22:
Naturally Aspirated, SOHC, 16-valve Boxer engine. Power: ~135-137 hp @ 5500-5800 rpm, Torque: ~140-145 lb-ft @ 4000-4400 rpm.
2.5L Ej25D:
Naturally Aspirated, DOHC, 16-valve Boxer engine. Power: ~165-170 hp @ 5600-6000 rpm, Torque: ~162-166 lb-ft @ 4000-4400 rpm. Known for its dual overhead cams and slightly more power.
Ej257 Turbocharged:
For WRX STI models, turbocharged EJ257, offering significantly higher horsepower and torque (specifics vary, but typically 270+ hp).
Injection Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane (91 Octane for Turbocharged STI variants)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free OAT coolant.
Oil Capacity Ej22:
Approx. 4.5 US quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter change.
Oil Capacity Ej25D:
Approx. 4.8 US quarts (4.5 Liters) with filter change.
Recommended Oil:
SAE 5W-30 API SG or SH (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on temperature).
Spark Plugs:
Specific NGK or Denso plugs; refer to manual for exact part numbers and gap.
Manual Transmission:
5-speed manual gearbox (TY75 series typically)
Automatic Transmission:
4-speed automatic transmission (4EAT)
AWD System:
Viscous coupling center differential with front open differential (manual trans), Active front differential (auto trans standard, with viscous coupling center diff for AWD).
Manual Trans Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil. Capacity approx. 2.1 liters.
Auto Trans Fluid:
Subaru ATF HP or Dexron III equivalent. Capacity approx. 4.4 liters for drain/fill.
Length:
Approx. 170-174 inches (depending on body style)
Height:
Approx. 56-57 inches (sedan), 58-59 inches (wagon)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2800-3100 lbs (depending on configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle VIN plate or owner's manual.
NHTSA Front Crash:
Generally good for its era, though specific ratings may vary by test and year. The manual will detail safety system components.
IIHS Side Impact:
Check individual year and trim for specific IIHS ratings.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System available on most models.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners for front seats.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette/CD player, speaker configurations vary by trim. Aftermarket upgrade guidance may be present.
Cruise Control:
Available on higher trim levels.
OBD Ii Port:
Introduced during this period, facilitating engine diagnostics. Manual covers OBD-I and early OBD-II interpretation.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Recommended every 105,000 miles or 7 years for EJ series engines. Crucial service.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Manual: 30,000-60,000 miles. Automatic: 30,000 miles (drain/fill recommended). Check manual for exact intervals.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (verify with owner's manual).
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II or III compatible fluid.
Clutch Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (shared reservoir with brakes).
Ej25D Head Gaskets:
Certain EJ25D engines (particularly early versions) were prone to head gasket leaks. The manual details inspection and replacement procedures.
Crankshaft Position Sensor:
Potential failure leading to no-start or stalling conditions.
Idle Air Control Valve:
Can become clogged, leading to rough idle or stalling.
Rear Wheel Bearings:
Can wear out over time, especially on AWD models due to added stress.
Subaru Philosophy:
Emphasis on Boxer engines, All-Wheel Drive, and rally-inspired performance, dating back to the early days of Subaru.
First Generation:
The first generation of the Impreza (1992-2000) established the Impreza's reputation for reliable performance and AWD capability. This manual covers the facelifted version of the first generation.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (primarily Gunma Plant)
Key Variants Introduced:
Introduction of the high-performance WRX and WRX STI models, which became iconic in the automotive world, especially due to rally success.
