Positioning:
The Subaru Impreza WRX STI RS of the 2006-2007 model years represented the pinnacle of Subaru's rally-bred performance offerings for that generation, targeting enthusiasts seeking a potent and capable all-wheel-drive sports sedan.
Competitors:
Competed directly with vehicles like the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Mitsubishi Eclipse GT, Ford Focus SVT, Volkswagen Golf GTI, and other performance-oriented compact and mid-size sedans/hatchbacks.
Performance Attributes:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, turbocharged Boxer engine, performance-tuned suspension, powerful Brembo brakes, DCCD (Driver Controlled Center Differential), aggressive styling, rally-inspired heritage.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive, factory-authorized procedures and specifications essential for maintaining, diagnosing, and repairing these high-performance vehicles, ensuring accuracy and preventing costly mistakes.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine removal/installation, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing belt/chain, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection system, turbocharger system, emission control systems (PZEV, California/Federal variations), engine diagnostics.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starting system, charging system, ECU (Engine Control Unit) operation, sensors (MAF, MAP, O2, crank, cam), actuators, engine wiring diagrams.
Transmission:
6-speed manual transmission (TY856WB1AA - DCCD equipped), removal/installation, internal components, clutch system, hydraulic clutch operation, shift mechanism, transmission fluid specifications, differential service (front, center, rear).
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, center differential control (DCCD), propeller shaft, rear differential, drive axles, wheel bearings.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, springs, control arms, sway bars, bushings, alignment procedures, specifications, and troubleshooting.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, steering column, wheel alignment specifications, troubleshooting.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (Brembo calipers standard on STI), disc brake service, rotor replacement, pad replacement, caliper overhaul, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, troubleshooting.
Body:
Body panel removal/installation, doors, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, interior trim, glass, weatherstripping, body repair procedures, chassis data, rust prevention.
Electrical Body:
Exterior lighting, interior lighting, power windows, power locks, mirrors, wipers, horn, audio system, HVAC controls, instrument cluster, body control module (BCM), wiring diagrams for all body electrical systems.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system, refrigerant, compressor, evaporator, condenser, blower motor, diagnostic procedures.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS), seat belts, pre-tensioners, system diagnostics, troubleshooting.
Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes (coolant, brake, power steering, transmission, differential), air filter replacement, cabin air filter replacement, belt inspection/replacement.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) troubleshooting, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) lookup and interpretation, component testing using multimeter and diagnostic tools, intermittent fault diagnosis.
Repair Rebuild:
Complete engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, clutch replacement, turbocharger service, brake system overhauls, suspension component replacement, steering system repair, electrical component replacement, body panel repair and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
System-specific troubleshooting flowcharts and guides for common and uncommon issues.
Specifications Data:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, alignment data, diagnostic data, component specifications, wiring diagrams.
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers routine maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds and complex diagnostics.
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (Driver and Passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact:
5-Star (Front and Rear Passengers)
IIHS Small Overlap Front:
Good (for models tested under this category)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Stability Control:
Standard Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters.
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced body structure designed for rally-inspired performance.
Oil Change:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (depending on driving conditions) or 6 months. Use of synthetic oil highly recommended.
Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Replace every 30,000 miles under normal conditions.
Cabin Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Replace every 30,000 miles under normal conditions.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 60,000 miles (iridium type).
Timing Belt:
This model uses a timing CHAIN, which is generally designed to last the life of the engine. However, inspection for wear and tension is recommended by the manual.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Oil (API SN or higher).
Coolant:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent. Mix ratio 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid (PSF) or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon ATF.
Head Gaskets:
While less common on the EJ257 than earlier EJ25s, head gasket failures can still occur. The manual details inspection and replacement procedures.
Turbo Wear:
Premature turbocharger failure can occur due to oil starvation or contamination. Regular oil changes with quality oil are critical. The manual covers turbo diagnostics.
Clutch Wear:
The clutch can wear faster under aggressive driving conditions. Manual covers clutch inspection and replacement.
Piston Ringland Failure:
Can occur on heavily modified or poorly maintained engines, especially with detonation. The manual provides detailed engine specifications for proper operation.
Evap Emissions System Leaks:
Common cause of Check Engine Lights (CEL) due to faulty EVAP components. Manual details EVAP system testing.