Segment:
Compact Car / Rally-Inspired Performance
Key Attributes:
All-Wheel Drive (Symmetrical AWD) as a standard or common feature, sporty handling, practical interior, enthusiast appeal.
Primary Competitors:
Mitsubishi Lancer, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort.
Distinctive Selling Points:
Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, horizontally-opposed 'Boxer' engines, robust construction, rally heritage.
Generation Focus:
This manual covers the first generation of the Subaru Impreza, a significant model for Subaru's global presence.
Primary Coverage:
Full factory service and repair coverage for the Subaru Impreza 1993-1998 models.
Estimated Page Count:
Thousands (exact count varies by specific model year and engine variant, as it compiles multiple factory publications).
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
Digital Download (likely PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system.
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic Transmission systems, including removal, installation, overhaul, and troubleshooting.
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, differentials (front, center, rear), driveshafts, CV joints, and axles.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS), wheel alignment specifications.
Electrical:
Complete electrical system diagrams, wiring harnesses, lighting, power accessories, charging system, starting system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Body:
Body construction, exterior panels, doors, windows, interior trim, HVAC system, body sealing.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, inspections.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major mechanical and electrical components, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension repairs, and brake services.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic procedures for common issues, interpreting diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), use of diagnostic tools.
Installation:
Procedures for component removal and installation, including torque specifications and proper assembly techniques.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic scheduled maintenance to in-depth engine and transmission overhauls, electrical system diagnostics, and bodywork.
Engine Code And Type:
EJ Series (e.g., EJ15, EJ16, EJ18, EJ20, EJ22) - Horizontally-Opposed (Boxer) 4-Cylinder, SOHC or DOHC.
Common Displacements:
1.5L (1493cc), 1.6L (1597cc), 1.8L (1781cc), 2.0L (1994cc), 2.2L (2212cc).
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 90 hp to 217 hp (for WRX STI models).
Torque Range:
Approximately 130 Nm to 320 Nm.
Injection Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) or Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI).
Fuel Recommendation:
Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating varies by engine variant, typically 91 or higher for turbocharged models).
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Distributor-based ignition (depending on specific model/year).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant (Subaru blue coolant or equivalent).
Oil Type Recommendation:
API SJ or SL, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to owner's manual for specific viscosity and classification).
ECU Type:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) with diagnostic capabilities (OBDI/OBDII depending on year).
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission (MT).
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (AT).
AWD Integration:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system integrated with both manual and automatic transmissions (with viscous coupling center differential for MT, or planetary gear type for AT).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF-HP or Dexron III/Mercon compatible (refer to manual for precise spec).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 Gear Oil.
Differential Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 Gear Oil.
Body Styles:
2-door Coupe, 4-door Sedan, 5-door Wagon/Hatchback.
Wheelbase Range:
Approx. 2515-2525 mm (98.9-99.4 in).
Length Range:
Approx. 4345-4405 mm (171.1-173.4 in).
Width Range:
Approx. 1690-1700 mm (66.5-66.9 in).
Height Range:
Approx. 1420-1495 mm (55.9-58.9 in).
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 1180-1380 kg (2600-3040 lbs).
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model and configuration, typically around 1700-1850 kg.
NHTSA Ratings:
Varies by year and specific crash test conducted. Early models generally had lower ratings than later generations.
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive enhances traction and stability.
Braking System:
Front ventilated disc brakes, rear solid disc or drum brakes. Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on certain trims/years.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard on most models from mid-period onwards. Side airbags were not common in this generation.
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts. Pre-tensioners for front seatbelts.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system or equivalent anchor points may be present on later models within this range.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player and optional CD player. Speaker configurations vary by trim level.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control systems (depending on trim). Includes HVAC system operation, diagnosis, and repair of components like A/C compressor, blower motor, and heater core.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature on many models, providing enhanced braking control.
Cruise Control:
Available on most models, detailing operation and troubleshooting.
Wiring Diagrams:
Extensive wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, crucial for diagnosing issues with sensors, actuators, and communication lines.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specifics).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by spark plug type (copper, platinum, iridium); typically 30,000-100,000 miles.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-5 years or 30,000-60,000 miles.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4, Glycol-based.
Power Steering Fluid:
Subaru ATF or Dexron II/III compatible (refer to manual).
Head Gaskets:
While not as prevalent as in later EJ25 engines, early EJ series engines can be susceptible to head gasket leaks. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.
Turbocharger Maintenance:
For WRX/STI models, proper oil maintenance, warm-up/cool-down procedures are critical. The manual covers turbocharger system diagnostics and repair.
Suspension Wear:
Common wear items include ball joints, tie rod ends, bushings, and struts due to the AWD system's complexity and performance bias.
Brake Wear:
Brake pads and rotors can wear faster under spirited driving conditions. The manual provides specifications for replacement.
Subaru Legacy:
The Impreza was developed as a smaller, more accessible AWD vehicle than the Subaru Legacy, building on Subaru's reputation for ruggedness and AWD technology.
First Generation:
Launched in 1992 (Japan) and 1993 (North America), the first generation (GC/GF/GM chassis) established the Impreza's identity with its distinctive styling and AWD capability.
Performance Variants:
Introduction of the WRX (World Rally Cross) and WRX STI variants, cementing the Impreza's performance credentials in motorsport.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan (Gunma Prefecture).
Production Period:
1993-2001 for the first generation chassis, with this manual specifically covering the 1993-1998 model years.
Car And Driver Best:
Subaru Impreza WRX variants were frequently lauded by automotive publications like Car and Driver for their performance and rally-inspired handling.
Motor Trend Car Of The Year:
While the Impreza itself may not have won outright, Subaru as a brand consistently received accolades for its engineering and AWD technology during this period.
Emisiones Compliance:
The manual will contain specifications and procedures to ensure compliance with emissions regulations of the era.
