Vehicle Segment:
Compact Performance Sedan/Hatchback (WRC homologation special).
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, performance drivers, DIY mechanics, tuners.
Key Competitors:
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Ford Focus RS, Volkswagen Golf R, Subaru WRX (non-STI).
Performance Focus:
Legendary turbocharged Boxer engine, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, advanced DCCD, performance-tuned suspension, powerful Brembo brakes.
Rally Heritage:
Direct lineage from Subaru's World Rally Championship success, translating into robust construction and track-capable performance.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, emissions control, engine management (ECU), turbocharger system, intercooler.
Drivetrain Systems:
Manual transmission, all-wheel drive system (Symmetrical AWD), center differential control (DCCD), clutch, differentials (front and rear), driveshafts, CV joints.
Chassis Systems:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, power steering, braking system (ABS, EBD, Brembo brakes), wheel alignment.
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), instruments and gauges, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), body control module (BCM), fuse and relay locations, wiring diagrams.
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, interior trim, seats, HVAC system, airbags, seat belts.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, timing belt/chain inspection, brake fluid flush), fluid level checks, tire rotation.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, OBD-II diagnostic codes, sensor testing, actuator testing, electrical system diagnostics.
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, steering rack repair, electrical component replacement, body panel repair.
Special Tool Procedures:
Identification and use of specialized tools required for specific repairs (e.g., timing belt tools, suspension alignment tools).
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Includes detailed schematics, torque specifications, and diagnostic flowcharts.
File Type:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Searchability:
Likely searchable text for quick information retrieval.
Print Readability:
Designed for clarity and easy reading, suitable for printing.
Binding Style:
Not applicable for digital download; assumes user prints and binds.
Paper Quality Recommendation:
Standard printer paper suitable for workshop environment; higher quality paper recommended for printing diagrams and schematics.
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
5-Star
IIHS Crash Test Rating:
Good (for frontal offset, side impact, roof strength)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Ebd:
Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Traction Control:
Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) - includes Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags.
Seat Belts:
3-point front seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters, 3-point rear seat belts.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.
Infotainment System:
Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with auxiliary input. Optional navigation system may be available.
Speaker System:
Typically 4 or 6 speaker system.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Keyless Entry:
Standard keyless entry with alarm system.
Bluetooth:
May be available on higher trims or as an accessory.
Oil Change Interval Miles:
Typically 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (severe vs. normal).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles, or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on plug type (Iridium recommended).
Timing Belt Maintenance:
For EJ257, it's a timing chain, which generally does not require replacement unless issues arise. The manual will detail inspection procedures.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic or Semi-Synthetic (refer to owner's manual for specific API/ILSAC ratings).
Engine Oil Capacity Quarts:
Approximately 5.1 quarts (4.8 liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil (75W-90 GL-5) or equivalent.
Differential Fluid Type Front Rear:
Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil (75W-90 GL-5) or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Engine Issues:
Head gasket failures (less common on EJ257 than earlier EJ20 series but still possible), ringland failure (often associated with aggressive tuning or detonation), turbocharger wear, oil consumption.
Drivetrain Issues:
Clutch wear (especially under aggressive driving), differential issues (rare but possible), DCCD system faults.
Suspension Issues:
Worn bushings and control arms due to performance driving, premature strut/shock absorber wear.
Brand Identity:
Subaru is renowned for its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system and horizontally-opposed Boxer engines, often associated with rally racing and all-weather capability.
Impreza Lineage:
The Impreza WRX STI is the pinnacle performance variant of the Impreza compact car line, with its roots firmly planted in rally homologation specials.
2012 Generation Notes:
The 2012 model belongs to the third generation (GH/GR/GV chassis), specifically the GR hatchback and GV sedan sub-models, known for its wider body and more aggressive styling compared to earlier generations.
Manufacturing Location:
Ota City, Gunma Prefecture, Japan
