🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Impreza

Year:

1999

Generation Designation:

Second Generation (GD/GG)

Chassis Code:

GFA (FWD), GF6/GF8 (AWD)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact/Small Family Car

Competitors:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mitsubishi Lancer, Ford Focus, Nissan Sentra.

All Wheel Drive:

Iconic Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system available on most models.

Engine Layout:

Horizontally-opposed (Boxer) engine layout.

Body Styles:

Offered in sedan and wagon body styles.

📋 Manual Details

Markets Covered:

North America, Global (specific regional variations may exist)

Estimated Page Count:

1000+

Type:

Full Service & Repair Manual

Completeness:

Full Factory Service Manual Equivalent

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine overhaul, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, lubrication system, cooling system, timing belt replacement, component torque specifications.

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, starting system, charging system, fuel injection system (ECU), sensor diagnostics (MAF, O2, TPS, Crankshaft Position), wiring diagrams.

Transmission Manual:

Disassembly, inspection, repair, clutch service, gear shifting mechanisms, drive shafts.

Transmission Automatic:

Overhaul procedures, torque converter, valve body, transmission control module (TCM), fluid type and capacity.

Drivetrain AWD:

Center differential, rear differential, viscous coupling unit, axle shafts, lubrication.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake system (disc/drum configurations), hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnostics and repair, parking brake.

Suspension:

Front struts, rear shocks, control arms, ball joints, bushings, wheel alignment specifications, subframe components.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, pump and fluid specifications.

Electrical Body:

Lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, power door locks, mirrors, wipers, horn, starter switch.

Climate Control:

HVAC system, blower motor, heater core, A/C compressor, refrigerant handling (R134a), cabin filter replacement.

Body Interior:

Interior trim removal and installation, seat mechanisms, dashboard components, airbag system precautions.

Body Exterior:

Panel removal and installation (fenders, hood, doors, bumpers), glass replacement, door hinges and latches.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel, cabin), fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, tire rotation.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common issues, symptom-based diagnostics, use of OBD-II scan tools and interpretation of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Component Repair Rebuild:

Detailed instructions for overhauling engines, transmissions, differentials, and major driveline components.

System Diagnostics Repair:

In-depth diagnostic procedures for electrical systems, fuel systems, emissions control systems, and braking systems.

Body Panel Repair:

Instructions for minor body repairs, panel alignment, and replacement of exterior trim.

Safety System Service:

Airbag system precautions, ABS bleeding procedures, brake component replacement.

Heating Cooling Service:

A/C system recharging, heater core replacement, radiator and coolant service.

Depth Level:

Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds).

Detail Level:

Highly detailed with exploded views, diagrams, torque specifications, and step-by-step instructions.

📊 Manual Specifications

Searchability:

Searchable text content within PDF

Printable:

Yes, printable pages

Image Resolution:

High-resolution diagrams and images

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Common:

EJ22E, EJ251, EJ253, EJ25 DOHC (Naturally Aspirated)

Engine Displacement:

2.2 Liters (2200cc) / 2.5 Liters (2500cc)

Engine Configuration:

4-cylinder, Boxer (Horizontally-Opposed)

Horsepower Range:

137 hp to 165 hp (depending on specific engine variant and market)

Torque Range:

145 lb-ft to 162 lb-ft (depending on specific engine variant and market)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane or higher recommended)

Timing Belt Interval:

Recommended replacement every 60,000 - 100,000 miles or 5-7 years (refer to manual for precise interval).

Head Gasket Material:

Multi-layer steel (MLS) is typical for this generation.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type Optional:

4-speed Automatic Transmission

AWD System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on most AWD models, FWD available)

Manual Trans Fluid Spec:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil

Automatic Trans Fluid Spec:

Subaru ATF-HP or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 99.6 inches (2530 mm)

Length:

Approximately 170.1 - 174.2 inches (4320 - 4425 mm)

Width:

Approximately 66.7 inches (1694 mm)

Height:

Approximately 55.3 inches (1405 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 2700 - 3000 lbs (1225 - 1360 kg) depending on configuration

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by model and configuration, consult specific vehicle VIN.

Cargo Volume Sedan:

Approximately 11.7 cu ft

Cargo Volume Wagon:

Approximately 37.0 cu ft (rear seats up)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

4-star rating for driver and front passenger (for models with dual airbags)

IIHS Side Impact:

Acceptable (for models equipped with side airbags, though less common in this year)

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available as an option or standard on higher trims.

Traction Control:

Traction control systems were not widely available or standard on most 1999 Impreza models.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags standard on most trims; side airbags were very rare or unavailable.

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts for all occupants, pre-tensioners for front seats.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system not standard, uses conventional seat belts for child seat installation.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory fitted AM/FM stereo with cassette player or CD player (optional), 4 or 6 speaker system.

Cruise Control:

Available on most trim levels.

Anti Theft:

Factory immobilizer system and optional alarm systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (conventional oil), 7,500 miles or 6 months (synthetic oil). Consult manual for exact recommendation.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.

Fuel Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles or 24 months.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (API SG, SH, or SJ certified). Check owner's manual for temperature-specific viscosity.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 4.2 - 4.5 US quarts (4.0 - 4.3 liters) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors.

Coolant Capacity:

Approximately 6.5 - 7.0 US quarts (6.2 - 6.6 liters).

Head Gasket Failure:

While more prevalent in later EJ25 engines, early signs or minor leaks can occur. The manual provides diagnostic procedures.

Timing Belt Wear:

Crucial to adhere to replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic engine damage due to interference design.

Front Strut Mounts:

Can wear over time, leading to knocking noises and poor handling.

Oil Leaks:

Common areas include valve cover gaskets and oil pan gaskets.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Brand Focus:

Subaru is renowned for its all-wheel-drive technology and horizontally-opposed Boxer engines, emphasizing durability, capability, and a unique driving experience.

Impreza First Generation Launch:

The Subaru Impreza was first introduced in 1992 as a replacement for the Subaru Leone.

Impreza Second Generation Launch:

The second generation (GD/GG chassis) debuted in 2000, meaning the 1999 model is the final year of the first generation (GF chassis).

Manufacturing Locations:

Primary manufacturing in Japan (Gunma Prefecture).

Model Year Discrepancy Note:

The '1999' designation typically refers to the final production year of the first-generation Impreza (GF platform), often referred to as the GC/GM/GF chassis. The manual accurately covers this specific generation.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Common Awards For Model:

While specific awards for the 1999 model year might be scarce, the Impreza platform consistently received praise for its AWD capability and rally heritage, often being lauded in automotive journalist reviews for its performance in adverse conditions.