Positioning:
Performance-oriented compact sedan/coupe, rallying heritage
Competitors:
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Ford Focus RS (later generations), Volkswagen Golf GTI
Powertrain:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD), turbocharged Boxer engines
Driving Dynamics:
Agile handling, responsive steering, performance-tuned suspension
Value:
Provides professional-level repair information for DIY enthusiasts and independent workshops
Engine:
EJ20/EJ25 Turbocharged Boxer Engines (detailed diagnosis, overhaul, component replacement)
Transmission:
5-Speed & 6-Speed Manual Transmissions (TY75/TY85), Automatic Transmissions (4EAT/5EAT) (diagnosis, overhaul, clutch, driveline components)
Suspension:
MacPherson Strut Front, Multi-link Rear (diagnosis, alignment, component replacement, shock absorber/spring replacement)
Brakes:
Front Ventilated Discs, Rear Solid Discs (ABS, component replacement, bleeding procedures, parking brake)
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, ECU diagnosis, lighting, accessories, charging system, starting system
Fuel System:
Fuel injection (MPI), fuel pump, injectors, pressure regulator, emissions controls
Cooling System:
Radiator, thermostat, water pump, hoses, fan control
Exhaust System:
Catalytic converter, mufflers, exhaust manifold, turbocharger integration
Body And Chassis:
Panel replacement, door mechanisms, interior trim, structural components
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based diagnosis, fault code interpretation
Repair:
Engine component repair, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension arm replacement
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) interpretation, sensor testing, actuator testing
Alignment:
Wheel alignment specifications and procedures
Special Tools:
Identification of specialized tools required for specific repairs
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds)
Engine Family:
Subaru EJ Series Boxer
Engine Variants:
EJ20G (early GC8), EJ205 (GD WRX), EJ255 (late GD WRX)
Horsepower Range:
210-230 hp (varies by year and specific model)
Torque Range:
200-230 lb-ft (varies by year and specific model)
Injection Type:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
ECU:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) with programmable options (e.g., 'Open ECU' for tuning)
Transmission Type Standard:
5-Speed Manual (TY75 series)
Transmission Type Optional:
6-Speed Manual (TY85 series, later models), 4-Speed Automatic (4EAT), 5-Speed Automatic (5EAT)
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with viscous center differential (manual) or electronically controlled center differential (automatic)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Subaru Extra S Gear Oil (75W-90 GL-5) or equivalent
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF-HP or equivalent
NHTSA Ratings:
Varies by year; generally good for its era, but later models often had more advanced safety features.
Active Safety:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Subaru Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) on later models
Passive Safety:
Front airbags, side airbags (on some trims/years), crumple zones, reinforced chassis
Infotainment Systems:
Basic AM/FM/CD players with optional premium audio systems. Limited digital connectivity by modern standards.
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited to ABS and VDC (on later models). No advanced electronic aids like adaptive cruise control or lane keeping assist.
Connectivity Options:
Basic auxiliary input jacks on some later models. No Bluetooth or USB connectivity in early production.
Oil Change Interval:
5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions)
Timing Belt Replacement:
60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) or 5-7 years (critical for EJ engines)
Engine Oil Type:
5W-30 or 10W-30 (API SN/SP or ILSAC GF-5/GF-6) - refer to owner's manual for specific climate/usage
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Engine Internal Wear:
Ringland failure, head gasket issues (especially on EJ25 engines, particularly non-STI variants)
Turbocharger:
Oil feed line issues, turbo seal wear, leading to smoking or oil consumption.
Clutch:
Wear and tear, especially under aggressive driving.
Maintenance Parts Catalog Reference
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Subaru 15208AA031 (or equivalent aftermarket)
Air Filter Part Number Example:
Subaru 16546AA020 (or equivalent aftermarket)
Heritage:
Subaru's strong motorsports legacy, particularly in World Rally Championship (WRC)
Generation 1:
GC8 (1993-2000): Introduced the WRX to a wider audience, known for its raw performance and rally pedigree.
Generation 2:
GD (2000-2007): 'Bugeye', 'Blobeye', 'Hawkeye' phases. Refined styling, increased power, improved chassis.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Motorsport Success:
Multiple World Rally Championship (WRC) Manufacturer and Driver titles (though the manual covers road cars, this heavily influenced its reputation).
Car And Driver 10 Best:
Frequently listed on Car and Driver's 10Best lists during its production run, particularly later GD models.
Jd Power Ratings:
Varies by year and specific model; often received average to above-average ratings for initial quality.
