🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Impreza

Years Covered:

1997-1998

Generation Designation:

First Generation (GM/GF/GC)

Chassis Codes:

GC (Coupe), GF (Wagon), GM (Sedan)

👋 Introduction

Subaru Impreza 1997 1998 Positioning:

The 1997-1998 Subaru Impreza represented Subaru's compact offering, known for its standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system and sporty driving dynamics, particularly in WRX and STI variants (though domestic market WRX/STI are distinct).

Competitors:

Competed against vehicles like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mitsubishi Lancer, Mazda Protege, and Ford Escort.

Standard AWD:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive was a defining characteristic, offering superior traction and handling in various conditions.

Engine Options:

Offered various boxer engine configurations, known for their low center of gravity.

Body Styles:

Available in sedan, coupe, and wagon body styles, catering to diverse needs.

Value For Owners:

Essential for owners seeking to maintain, diagnose, and repair their vehicle effectively, saving on labor costs and ensuring proper operation.

📋 Manual Details

Diagnostic Procedures:

Extensive diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics, component testing.

Repair Procedures:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for all major mechanical and electrical repairs.

Maintenance Schedules:

Comprehensive scheduled maintenance based on mileage and time.

Technical Specifications:

Precise torque values, fluid capacities, clearances, and diagnostic specifications.

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete electrical system wiring diagrams for all circuits.

Estimated Page Count:

Likely over 1000 pages (typical for factory service manuals of this era).

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, lubrication system, cooling system.

Engine Management:

Fuel injection, ignition system, emission control systems, sensors and actuators, engine control unit (ECU).

Transmission Manual:

Clutch system, manual transmission (gearbox) overhaul, shift linkage.

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission overhaul, torque converter, valve body, transmission control unit (TCU).

Drivetrain:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system (VTD, DCCD where applicable), differentials, drive shafts, CV joints.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, bushings, steering rack, power steering system.

Brakes:

Brake system components (discs, pads, calipers, master cylinder, brake lines), ABS system.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, power windows, central locking, horn, wipers, exterior/interior lights.

Body Exterior:

Body panels, doors, windows, bumpers, hood, trunk, chassis structure, rustproofing.

Body Interior:

Seats, dashboard, trim panels, airbags, HVAC system, audio system.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system, seat belt mechanisms.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid level checks and top-offs.

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Systematic diagnostic flowcharts for common and uncommon faults.

Engine Repair:

Head gasket replacement, timing belt replacement, piston ring replacement, bearing replacement.

Transmission Repair:

Clutch replacement, manual gearbox rebuild, automatic transmission service.

Brake System Repair:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, brake caliper overhaul, brake bleeding.

Electrical Component Replacement:

Alternator, starter motor, battery, sensors, actuators, power mirrors, power window motors.

Body Panel Alignment:

Door, hood, and trunk alignment procedures.

Airbag Replacement:

Proper procedures for handling and replacing airbag modules and related components.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including diagnostics and electrical troubleshooting.

Diagnostic Tools Required:

Mentions diagnostic scan tools and specific measurement equipment needed for accurate diagnosis.

Special Tools:

Lists Subaru-specific special tools required for certain procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchable Text:

Typically includes searchable text for efficient information retrieval.

Printable:

Generally printable, allowing for physical use in a workshop.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution images and diagrams for clarity.

Binding Type:

Not applicable for PDF download (digital format).

Paper Type:

Not applicable for PDF download (digital format).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code And Type:

EJ22 (2.2L SOHC), EJ25 (2.5L DOHC and SOHC). EJ20 variants for performance models (WRX, STI in specific markets).

Displacement Us Liter:

2.2 Liters (EJ22), 2.5 Liters (EJ25)

Horsepower Ej22:

Approximately 135 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque Ej22:

Approximately 140 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Horsepower Ej25 DOHc:

Approximately 165 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque Ej25 DOHc:

Approximately 166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Horsepower Ej25 Sohc:

Approximately 142 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque Ej25 Sohc:

Approximately 150 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Multi-port fuel injection.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Recommended Octane:

87 or higher (89 recommended for some EJ25 variants).

Compression Ratio Ej22:

9.5:1

Compression Ratio Ej25 DOHc:

10.0:1

Timing Belt Interval:

Recommended replacement every 60,000 miles or 4 years.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission (with AWD)

Optional Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (with AWD)

AWD System Type:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (various configurations: viscous coupling center differential, active torque split, driver-controlled center differential on STI).

Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:

Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil (or equivalent API GL-5, SAE 75W-90)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:

Subaru ATF-HP (or Dexron III/Mercon equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Length Sedan:

Approx. 172.4 inches (4379 mm)

Width Sedan:

Approx. 66.7 inches (1694 mm)

Height Sedan:

Approx. 54.1 inches (1374 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 99.8 inches (2535 mm)

Curb Weight Sedan Manual:

Approx. 2700 - 2900 lbs (1225 - 1315 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings 1997:

Not readily available for this specific year/model in a comparable format to modern standards. Early Imprezas generally had adequate safety for their time.

ABS:

Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on select trims.

AWD Handling:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive provides enhanced stability and traction.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags.

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts with pretensioners for front occupants.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Basic speaker configurations.

Cruise Control:

Available cruise control system.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as an optional feature.

Bluetooth Connectivity:

Not available on factory systems of this era.

Manual HVAC Controls:

Manual heating and air conditioning controls.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 - 7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions (severe vs. normal).

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Not typically equipped on these models.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Around 60,000 - 100,000 miles depending on plug type (copper vs. platinum).

Engine Oil Type And Capacity Ej22:

API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30. Capacity: Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 L) with filter.

Engine Oil Type And Capacity Ej25:

API SH or SJ, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30. Capacity: Approx. 4.7 quarts (4.4 L) with filter.

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (or ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors, silicate-free). Mix 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid Spec:

Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III/Mercon ATF

Ej25 Head Gasket Failure:

Certain EJ25 DOHC engines from this era are known for premature head gasket failure due to design flaws. The manual will detail the proper replacement procedure.

Timing Belt Wear:

Regular inspection and timely replacement of the timing belt is crucial to prevent catastrophic engine damage.

Oil Consumption:

Some EJ engines can exhibit increased oil consumption with age; manual will guide on checking PCV systems and oil seals.

Automatic Transmission Harsh Shifting:

Older automatic transmissions may develop harsh shifting; fluid changes and solenoid checks are covered.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Heritage:

Subaru, a division of Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries), has a long history in aviation and automotive manufacturing, known for its horizontally opposed ('boxer') engines and All-Wheel Drive systems.

First Generation Impreza:

The first-generation Impreza (GC/GF/GM) was introduced in 1992 globally, with the 1997-1998 models being part of the first generation's facelifted version, which brought revised styling and updated features.

Production Location:

Primarily manufactured in Japan.

Performance Variants:

This era also saw the introduction and rise of the rally-bred WRX (World Rally eXperimental) and STI (Subaru Tecnica International) models, which gained international acclaim in motorsport and influenced the perception of the Impreza line.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The Subaru Impreza WRX and STI variants, particularly later generations, have been recognized by automotive publications like Car and Driver on their '10Best' lists for performance and handling.

Motorsport Acclaim:

The Impreza platform achieved significant success in the World Rally Championship (WRC) during the late 1990s and early 2000s, solidifying its performance image.