Vehicle Segment:
Compact Car / Affordable Performance
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts seeking reliable, practical, and often sporty compact vehicles with Subaru's signature All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mitsubishi Lancer, Ford Focus, Mazda Protege.
AWD Standard:
Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive was standard on most Impreza models, a significant differentiator.
Performance Variants:
Introduction of the WRX (World Rally eXperimental) model during this generation cemented the Impreza's performance reputation.
Practicality:
Offered in sedan, coupe, and wagon body styles, providing versatility for different needs.
Vehicle Years Covered:
1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001
Estimated Page Count:
Variable, typically 300-600 pages depending on specific model year and body style variant.
Type:
Parts Manual / Illustrated Parts List (IPL) / Exploded Views
Format:
Digital (e.g., PDF)
Engine Components:
Engine block, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valves, intake manifold, exhaust manifold, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel delivery system, ignition system, emissions control systems.
Drivetrain Components:
Manual and automatic transmissions, transfer case (if applicable), differentials, driveshafts, axles, CV joints.
Suspension Steering Components:
Front and rear suspension struts, springs, control arms, bushings, sway bars, steering rack, tie rods, power steering pump.
Brake Components:
Brake calipers, rotors, pads, master cylinder, brake lines, parking brake system.
Electrical Components:
Wiring harnesses, battery, alternator, starter motor, fuses, relays, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), sensors, ECUs (Engine Control Units).
Body Exterior Components:
Body panels (fenders, doors, hood, trunk lid, roof), bumpers, grille, windows, mirrors, door handles, moldings, weather stripping.
Body Interior Components:
Seats, dashboard, instrument panel, center console, door panels, headliner, floor coverings, HVAC controls, audio system components.
Wheels Tires:
Wheels, lug nuts, tires.
Part Identification:
Detailed exploded diagrams showing the precise location and assembly of every part.
Part Number Reference:
Cross-referencing of part numbers for accurate ordering and replacement.
Assembly Disassembly Order:
Implied order of assembly and disassembly through diagram sequencing.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive parts catalog detailing every component for replacement and identification. Does not typically include repair procedures or diagnostic information.
NHTSA Ratings:
Varies by year and specific crash test, generally good for its era. Frontal and side impact data available.
Active Safety Features:
Standard All-Wheel Drive (enhanced traction), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available/standard on higher trims.
Passive Safety Features:
Dual front airbags, side-impact door beams, front crumple zones.
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM/Cassette or CD players, optional premium systems on higher trims. Limited digital integration by modern standards.
Display Systems:
Simple digital or analog displays for clock and radio information.
Driver Assistance Features:
Very limited. Primarily ABS on select models. No electronic stability control or advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS).
Connectivity Options:
No Bluetooth or USB connectivity. Analog inputs may exist on later models for auxiliary audio.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,750 - 7,500 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (refer to owner's manual for exact recommendation).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial maintenance item for EJ series engines. Typically every 90,000 - 105,000 miles or 7 years. Failure can cause severe engine damage.
Coolant Flush:
Recommended every 30,000 - 60,000 miles or 2-4 years.
Engine Oil Type:
5W-30 or 10W-30 API SG or higher (check manual for specific viscosity based on temperature).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil (or equivalent GL-5 rated gear oil, 75W-90)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Subaru ATF-HP (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon equivalent)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent Ethylene Glycol based coolant.
Head Gasket Leaks:
A common concern on EJ25 engines (especially non-turbo SOHC variants) from this era. Symptoms include coolant loss, white smoke, or milky oil.
Oil Leaks:
Can occur from valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, or crankshaft seals.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings, ball joints, and struts can wear out over time, leading to noise and degraded handling.
Clutch Wear:
Standard on manual transmission models, clutch life varies with driving style.
Cv Axle Boots:
Torn CV boots can lead to grease loss and eventual joint failure.
Subaru Philosophy:
Known for its engineering focus on safety, reliability, and unique AWD technology, stemming from its aerospace origins.
First Generation Debut:
Launched in 1992 for the 1993 model year, replacing the Subaru Leone. Designed to compete in the growing compact segment.
Performance Development:
The WRX variant was developed for the World Rally Championship, with road-going versions introduced to homologate the racing car.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Subaru's main plant in Gunma, Japan.
