Segment:
Compact SUV/Crossover precursor, based on the Impreza platform.
Target Audience:
Owners seeking to perform DIY maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops, Subaru enthusiasts.
Competitors:
Honda Civic Wagon, Toyota Corolla All-Trac Wagon, Nissan Sentra Wagon, Mazda Protege Wagon.
Subaru Dna:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on most models), horizontally opposed (Boxer) engine, rugged styling with increased ground clearance compared to standard Impreza.
Value:
Comprehensive coverage across a significant production run, enabling DIY repairs and maintenance saving significant costs.
Applicable Years:
1985-1996
Geographic Coverage:
Primarily North American and global markets for this generation, adaptable for other regions.
Estimated Page Count:
High (typically 1500+ pages for a complete workshop manual covering this many years and systems)
Type:
Complete Workshop Repair Manual
Format:
Downloadable (likely PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system.
Drivetrain:
Clutch, manual transmission, automatic transmission, transfer case, drive shafts, axles, differential (front and rear), all-wheel drive (AWD) system.
Suspension And Steering:
Front suspension, rear suspension, shock absorbers, struts, springs, control arms, steering linkage, power steering system, wheel alignment.
Brakes:
Front brakes (disc), rear brakes (disc or drum depending on specific model/year), parking brake system, hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped).
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), instrumentation, power accessories (windows, locks), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, locks, seats, trim, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), body sealant, rust prevention.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), tune-ups, inspections.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common problems, symptom-based diagnosis, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) if applicable to the era.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, including engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake component replacement, suspension work, electrical repairs.
Installation:
Component removal and installation procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive (covers everything from routine maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed specifications and diagrams).
Engine Type:
Horizontally Opposed (Boxer) 4-Cylinder
Displacement Early:
1.8 Liters (EA82 series engine, common in earlier years of this era)
Displacement Later:
2.2 Liters (EJ22 series engine, introduced later and became dominant)
Valvetrain:
SOHC or DOHC, 8 or 16 valves (depending on engine variant and year).
Horsepower 1.8L:
Approx. 90-97 hp (depending on fuel injection/carburetion)
Horsepower 2.2L:
Approx. 110-130 hp
Torque 1.8L:
Approx. 100-110 lb-ft
Torque 2.2L:
Approx. 130-137 lb-ft
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel Injection (MPI - Multi-Point Injection) for most models, some earlier models may have had carburetion.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (refer to manual for specific type and mix ratio, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water).
Oil Type:
Refer to manual: Typically 5W-30 or 10W-30 synthetic blend or conventional motor oil.
Engine Family Early:
EA82
Engine Family Later:
EJ22
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with viscous center coupling (standard on most, if not all, Outback models).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual: Typically GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) or equivalent Dexron-II/III compatible fluid.
NHTSA Ratings:
Not directly applicable to this specific era's standardized rating system. Early models had basic safety features.
Active Safety:
All-Wheel Drive system provides enhanced traction.
Passive Safety:
Seat belts, collapsible steering column, reinforced chassis.
Airbags:
Driver airbag available on later models within this range (late 80s/early 90s adoption).
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player on later models. Basic speaker configuration.
Climate Control:
Manual HVAC system with fan speed, temperature, and vent selection controls.
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited to the inherent stability of the AWD system and potentially ABS on higher trims/later years.
Connectivity Features:
No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB. May have an auxiliary input for aftermarket head units.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 to 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendation).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (depending on spark plug type).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial! Every 60,000 to 100,000 miles for interference engines (EJ22 is interference). Failure results in catastrophic engine damage. Manual will specify exact interval and replacement procedure.
Coolant Capacity:
Refer to manual: Typically around 7-8 quarts.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Subaru Power Steering Fluid or Dexron-II/III ATF.
Head Gaskets:
While more prevalent in later EJ series engines, early EJ22 can develop head gasket leaks. The manual will detail inspection and repair procedures.
Oil Leaks:
Common areas for leaks include valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and front/rear main seals due to age and material degradation.
Awt Component Wear:
Viscous center differential and other AWD components can wear over time, leading to noises or drivetrain binding. Manual will cover inspection and service.
Ignition System:
Distributor cap, rotor, and spark plug wires are wear items that can degrade and cause misfires or poor performance. Ignition coil can also fail.
Suspension Components:
Struts, bushings, and ball joints are subject to wear, especially on lifted 'Outback' variants, leading to noise and handling issues.
Subaru Reputation:
Known for reliability, durability, and its signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, particularly in its rally heritage.
Impreza Launch:
The Impreza platform was introduced globally in 1992, replacing the Subaru Leone. The 'Outback' designation for a raised, more rugged wagon variant within the Impreza line started gaining prominence, evolving into the distinct Outback model later.
Outback Sport Origin:
This era represents the early adoption of the lifted wagon concept that would become the highly successful Outback Sport/Outback line. The 'Outback' here is often a trim level or specific variant of the Impreza wagon.
Production Period:
The Subaru Impreza was produced from 1992 to present. This manual covers the first generation (GC/GF chassis) and overlaps with earlier Subaru models that might have shared lineage or components.
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan
