Market Segment:
Performance Compact Sedan/Hatchback
Competitive Set:
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Subaru Impreza WRX (non-STI variants), Mitsubishi Eclipse GT, Mazda Mazdaspeed3.
Usp:
World Rally Championship (WRC) heritage, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, potent turbocharged Boxer engine, driver-focused dynamics.
Performance Focus:
Emphasis on handling, acceleration, and driver engagement.
All Wheel Drive:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system providing exceptional traction and stability.
Engine Technology:
Turbocharged Boxer engine with intercooler and advanced engine management.
Engine:
Detailed diagnostics, repair, and overhaul of the EJ257 turbocharged Boxer engine, including fuel injection, ignition, lubrication, cooling, and emissions systems.
Transmission:
Comprehensive coverage of the 6-speed manual transmission (TY856WR) and its associated clutch system, including repair procedures and fluid specifications.
Drivetrain:
Detailed information on the Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, including front and rear differentials, driveshafts, and viscous coupling unit (VCU) maintenance and repair.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, including struts, springs, control arms, sway bars, and alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Front Brembo 4-piston calipers and rear Brembo 2-piston calipers, ABS system, brake fluid specifications, and repair procedures.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, and wheel assembly.
Electrical System:
Complete wiring diagrams, component locations, fuse box layouts, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, and accessory systems.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, chassis components, and structural information.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system diagnostics and repair.
Comfort And Convenience:
Power windows, locks, mirrors, seats, and other interior amenities.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, spark plug replacement, and belt inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and procedures for common and uncommon issues across all vehicle systems.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step guides for engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake component replacement, suspension work, electrical component repair, and bodywork.
Specifications And Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), wiring diagrams, and component testing procedures.
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing major components such as the turbocharger, intercooler, fuel injectors, catalytic converter, and more.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians.
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Impact:
5-Star
ABS:
4-wheel ABS with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Traction Control:
Yes (Vehicle Dynamics Control - VDC)
Stability Control:
Yes (Vehicle Dynamics Control - VDC)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear side-curtain airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.
Head Unit:
Stock Subaru head unit with CD player, radio, and basic audio controls. Optional navigation systems may be available.
Audio System:
Typically a 6-speaker or 10-speaker system with subwoofer, depending on trim. Bose premium audio available.
Traction Control:
Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) system, which integrates ABS, traction control, and stability control.
All Wheel Drive:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) allowing manual adjustment of front-to-rear torque split.
Auxiliary Input:
Standard 3.5mm auxiliary audio input jack.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions (severe service requires more frequent changes).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Platinum: 60,000 miles (96,000 km). Iridium: 100,000 miles (160,000 km). (Check specific plug type installed).
Timing Belt Replacement:
N/A (This engine uses a timing chain).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) for manual transmission.
Differential Fluid Change:
Front & Rear: Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (API SN or newer, ILSAC GF-5 or newer recommended). Check owner's manual for specific viscosity in extreme climates.
Engine Oil Capacity:
5.5 US quarts (5.2 Liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with Subaru additives. Mix 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Subaru Genuine ATF-HP or equivalent Dexron-III/Mercon compatible fluid.
Head Gaskets:
While less common on the EJ257 compared to some other Subaru engines, internal coolant leaks can occur. Regular checks are advised.
Clutch Wear:
Aggressive driving can lead to premature clutch wear. The clutch assembly is a wear item.
Turbocharger Wear:
The VF39 turbocharger can be susceptible to wear if oil changes are neglected or if subjected to extreme heat cycles. Proper warm-up and cool-down are crucial.
Spark Plug Fouling:
Can occur if oil consumption is high or if the engine is run with rich fuel mixtures.
Differential Lock Issues:
Problems with the Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) can arise due to electrical faults or mechanical wear over time.
Front Suspension Components:
Bushings and ball joints can wear, leading to clunking noises and alignment issues, especially under spirited driving.
Heritage:
Subaru's long-standing success in motorsports, particularly in the World Rally Championship (WRC), heavily influenced the development and identity of the WRX STI models.
Generation Designation:
The 2007 model represents the final iteration of the second-generation Impreza platform (GD/GG) for the STI.
Key Changes From Previous:
The 2007 model received powertrain and chassis refinements over earlier GD chassis STIs, including the larger front brakes and updated DCCD (Driver Controlled Center Differential).
Manufacturing Location:
Gunma, Japan
Production Years For Chassis:
2002-2007 (GD/GG chassis)