🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Impreza

Model Generations Covered:

Third Generation (GH/GE/GR/GV)

Model Years Covered:

2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact car, often positioned as a practical and capable all-wheel-drive option in its class.

Key Competitors:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus.

Awe Drivetrain:

Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system is a core differentiator, offering enhanced traction and stability in various conditions.

Engine Layout:

Horizontally-opposed 'Boxer' engine layout, contributing to a lower center of gravity and improved handling.

📋 Manual Details

Trim Levels Covered:

All trim levels including 2.5i, Outback Sport, WRX, WRX STI

Estimated Page Count:

Over 3000 pages (typical for full factory service manuals)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Print Quality:

High-resolution digital scans, allowing for clear zooming and printing of detailed diagrams and text.

Binding Type:

Not Applicable (Digital format)

Paper Type:

Not Applicable (Digital format)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed diagnostics, disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair of all engine components, including block, cylinder heads, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing systems.

Engine Performance:

Engine tuning, performance analysis, fuel injection systems (SI-Drive), emissions control systems, turbocharger systems (for WRX/STI models).

Transmission Manual:

Clutch system, gearshift linkage, manual transmission disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair.

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission (e.g., Lineartronic CVT on some models) disassembly, assembly, inspection, repair, and control systems.

Drivetrain:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system operation, center differential, rear differential, driveshafts, CV joints, wheel bearings.

Brakes:

Brake system diagnostics, hydraulic components (master cylinder, lines, calipers, wheel cylinders), friction materials, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), brake bleeding procedures.

Steering:

Power steering system (hydraulic or electric), steering column, steering rack, tie rods, wheel alignment specifications.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components (struts, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings), springs, anti-roll bars, alignment procedures and specifications.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting systems, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, body control module (BCM).

Engine Control System:

ECM/ECU diagnostics, sensors (MAF, MAP, O2, Crank/Cam position), actuators, fuel injectors, ignition coils, CAN bus communication.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system operation, refrigerant charging, component diagnosis (compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor).

Body And Interior:

Body panel removal and installation, interior trim components, seats, airbags, door mechanisms, glass replacement.

Chassis And Frame:

Frame specifications, unibody construction, corrosion protection.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system deployment, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) components, seatbelt mechanisms.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, cabin air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts for various symptoms, OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) code interpretation, live data analysis.

Repair And Rebuild:

Complete procedures for component removal, overhaul, installation, and adjustment for all major systems.

Wiring And Electrical Repair:

Detailed wiring diagrams for all circuits, component location guides, connector repair procedures, troubleshooting electrical faults.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage instructions for specialized tools required for specific repairs.

Specifications And Tolerances:

All necessary torque specifications, clearances, and dimensional tolerances for engine, drivetrain, suspension, and brake components.

Body And Frame Repair:

Body panel repair, dent removal, rust repair, structural component specifications, glass replacement procedures.

Depth Of Information:

Comprehensive coverage from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electrical diagnostics and troubleshooting.

Diagnostic Capability:

Provides diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), test procedures for sensors and actuators, and schematics to pinpoint electrical and mechanical issues.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Base:

EL15 (1.5L), EJ20 (2.0L Turbo), EJ25 (2.5L Naturally Aspirated & Turbocharged)

Base Engine Displacement:

2.5 Liters (for naturally aspirated models)

Base Engine Horsepower:

Approx. 170-182 hp (naturally aspirated 2.5L)

Base Engine Torque:

Approx. 174 lb-ft (naturally aspirated 2.5L)

Wrx Engine Displacement:

2.5 Liters (turbocharged)

Wrx Engine Horsepower:

Approx. 265 hp (WRX)

Wrx Engine Torque:

Approx. 244 lb-ft (WRX)

Sti Engine Displacement:

2.5 Liters (turbocharged, intercooled)

Sti Engine Horsepower:

Approx. 305 hp (WRX STI)

Sti Engine Torque:

Approx. 290 lb-ft (WRX STI)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) or Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI), Turbocharged models feature intercooling.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline. Premium unleaded recommended/required for WRX/STI models.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

5-speed manual transmission (MT).

Optional Transmission Type:

4-speed automatic transmission (4EAT) or Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT - Lineartronic) depending on trim and model year.

Awe System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is standard across most trims, with variations in center differential design (viscous coupling or electronically controlled).

Wrx Sti Drivetrain Features:

Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) for adjustable torque split, helical limited-slip front differential, Torsen limited-slip rear differential.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 103.2 inches (2620 mm)

Length:

Varies by body style (Sedan/Hatchback), typically around 179.5 inches (4560 mm) for sedan.

Width:

Approximately 69.1 inches (1755 mm)

Height:

Approximately 58.1 inches (1475 mm) for sedan.

Cargo Volume Sedan:

Approximately 11.3 cubic feet (320 liters)

Cargo Volume Hatchback:

Approximately 19.0 cubic feet (538 liters) with rear seats up.

Curb Weight Base:

Approximately 3,100 - 3,200 lbs (1400 - 1450 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Typically around 4,400 - 4,500 lbs (2000 - 2040 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Rating:

Generally received 4 or 5 stars in NHTSA crash tests for frontal and side impact, depending on specific model year and testing protocols.

IIHS Ratings:

Often achieved 'Good' ratings in IIHS front crash, side crash, roof strength, and head restraint tests.

Active Safety Features:

ABS, EBD, Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Control (VDC - Vehicle Dynamics Control).

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags, active front head restraints, three-point seatbelts with pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Optional touchscreen infotainment systems with navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and CD player depending on trim level.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control, optional rearview camera.

Connectivity Options:

Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming, USB ports for media playback and charging.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,750 miles or 6 months for severe driving conditions, or 7,500 miles / 12 months for normal driving, using synthetic oil. Consult specific owner's manual for exact intervals.

Timing Belt Replacement:

For engines with timing belts (e.g., some EJ25 naturally aspirated engines), replacement is usually recommended around 105,000 miles. Models with timing chains (e.g., FB20) do not have a scheduled belt replacement.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically around 60,000 - 100,000 miles depending on plug type (iridium recommended).

Engine Oil Type:

0W-20 synthetic oil is common for naturally aspirated models. WRX/STI may recommend or require 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic oil. Always verify with the manual.

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent P-HOAT (Phosphated Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil is often specified for manual transmissions. Check for Subaru Extra-S gear oil for performance applications.

Transmission Fluid Automatic Cvt:

Subaru CVT Fluid (CVTF) is critical. Using incorrect fluid can cause severe damage.

Head Gasket Leaks:

While less common on later EJ25 engines compared to earlier generations, some models can still experience head gasket leaks, especially if overheating occurs.

Clutch Wear:

Can be accelerated with aggressive driving, particularly in WRX/STI models.

Catalytic Converter Issues:

Potential for premature failure on some models, often related to misfires or rich fuel conditions.

Cv Axle Boots:

Wear and tear can lead to tears in the CV joint boots, allowing grease to escape and dirt to enter, potentially damaging the joints.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Focus:

Subaru has a long-standing reputation for producing vehicles with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and horizontally-opposed Boxer engines, prioritizing safety, reliability, and performance.

Impreza Third Gen Overview:

The third generation (2007-2011) saw a redesign, and the 2011-2014 models represent a refresh of this generation, with updated styling and technology.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Japan (Gunma Plant), with some assembly in other regions depending on market.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Many Subaru models, including the Impreza, have been recognized by the IIHS as Top Safety Picks during this era.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Subaru generally receives above-average reliability ratings from organizations like Consumer Reports, though specific model years and components can vary.

Emissions Certifications:

Meets EPA and CARB emissions standards for the respective model years.