🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Impreza

Model Variant:

1600cc

Years Covered:

1997, 1998

Chassis Codes:

GC, GF

Engine Codes:

EJ16

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact / Small Family Car

Target Audience:

Subaru Impreza owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops.

Competitors:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mitsubishi Lancer, Nissan Sentra

Brand Signature:

Subaru's reputation for reliability, all-wheel drive (though less common on base 1.6L models), and boxer engine architecture.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides detailed, manufacturer-level information essential for accurate and efficient servicing of the specific 1.6L Impreza models.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Service, Maintenance, Repair, Troubleshooting

Secondary Coverage:

Diagnostics, Electrical Systems, Component Overhaul

Estimated Page Count:

500+

Type:

Full Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (EJ16), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System

Drivetrain:

Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain Components (CV joints, Axles)

Chassis:

Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Front & Rear)

Electrical:

Starting System, Charging System, Lighting, Instrumentation, ECUs, Wiring Diagrams

Body And Interior:

Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, HVAC System

Maintenance:

Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Coolant Flush, Belt Replacement

Repair:

Engine Rebuilds, Transmission Overhauls, Brake Component Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic Flowcharts, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Guides

Depth:

Comprehensive - from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring schematics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Likely PDF; Searchable text and image quality are crucial for usability.

Print Readability:

High resolution for clear diagrams and text.

Binding:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Boxer-4 (Horizontally Opposed)

Engine Code:

EJ16

Displacement:

1597 cc

Bore X Stroke:

79.0 mm x 81.3 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.5:1

Valvetrain:

SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 2 valves per cylinder (16 valves total)

Horsepower Output:

Approx. 95-100 PS (94-99 bhp) at 5600-6000 RPM (specific output may vary by market and tune)

Torque Output:

Approx. 130-135 Nm (96-99 lb-ft) at 4000-4800 RPM (specific output may vary)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Ignition System:

Distributorless ignition system (DIP/Coil-on-Plug depending on exact sub-model/market)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic

Drive Type:

Typically Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) for 1.6L models, with All-Wheel Drive (AWD) potentially available as an option in some markets or higher trims.

Clutch Type:

Dry, single-plate clutch (for manual transmission)

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

2-door Coupe, 4-door Sedan, 5-door Wagon

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2510 mm (98.8 inches)

Length:

Approx. 4340-4415 mm (170.9-173.8 inches) depending on body style

Width:

Approx. 1690-1700 mm (66.5-66.9 inches)

Height:

Approx. 1400-1445 mm (55.1-56.9 inches) depending on body style

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1100-1250 kg (2425-2756 lbs) depending on body style and transmission

🛡️ Safety Features

Fhtsa Ratings:

Specific NHTSA ratings for 1997-1998 Impreza 1.6L are not readily available; however, vehicles of this era generally received mixed results in crash testing.

Active Safety:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) likely optional or standard on higher trims.

Passive Safety:

Front airbags, crumple zones, side impact beams.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic factory radio with AM/FM and cassette player. CD player may be optional on higher trims.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited to features available at the time; no advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control or lane-keeping assist.

Connectivity Options:

No integrated Bluetooth or USB connectivity. Ancillary options (e.g., aftermarket head units) would be covered in body/electrical sections.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial for EJ engines; recommended replacement every 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) or 5-7 years. Failure can cause severe engine damage.

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 is common (refer to manual for specific viscosity based on climate).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.2 liters (4.4 US quarts) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant or equivalent silicate-free ethylene glycol-based coolant.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Subaru ATF HP or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid.

Head Gaskets:

While more prevalent in later EJ25 engines, early EJ engines can develop head gasket leaks. The manual will cover inspection and replacement procedures.

Timing Belt Tensioner:

Failure of the tensioner can lead to premature belt failure. The manual details the correct tensioner and replacement process.

Oil Leaks:

Common leak points include valve cover gaskets and oil pan gaskets. Manual provides torque specs and gasket replacement guides.

Catalytic Converter:

Can become clogged over time, affecting performance. Manual covers exhaust system diagnostics.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Heritage:

Subaru Corporation, a Japanese manufacturer known for its horizontally-opposed engines and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive systems, has a long history dating back to 1953. The brand is associated with reliability and off-road capability.

Impreza First Gen Era:

The first generation (GC/GF/GM) Impreza was introduced in 1992 as a replacement for the Leone. The 1997-1998 models represent a facelift of the first generation, with revised styling and minor mechanical updates.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Accolades:

The Subaru Impreza line has historically been praised for its rally-inspired performance and all-wheel-drive capabilities, though specific accolades for the 1.6L model are less prominent than for higher-performance variants (e.g., WRX).