Market Segment:
Compact/Small Family Car, known for its All-Wheel Drive capability and sporty variants
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mitsubishi Lancer, Ford Focus
Differentiating Features:
Standard All-Wheel Drive (Symmetrical AWD), Boxer engine configuration, rally heritage (WRX variants)
Model Significance:
The 1998 model year represents the first generation (GC/GF chassis) of the Impreza, establishing its reputation for performance and AWD.
Engine:
Detailed diagnostics, repair procedures, overhaul, timing belt replacement, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel delivery, emissions control
Transmission:
Automatic and Manual transmissions: overhaul, repair, fluid service, clutch replacement (manual), component testing
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system: front and rear differentials, viscous coupling unit, driveshafts, CV joints, hub assembly service
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension: struts, shocks, coil springs, control arms, ball joints, bushings, wheel bearing replacement, alignment specifications
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes: pads, rotors, calipers, brake lines, master cylinder, ABS system diagnostics and repair, parking brake system
Steering:
Power steering system: pump, rack and pinion, hoses, fluid service, steering column components
Electrical:
Full electrical system: wiring diagrams, lighting, starting and charging system, ignition system, power distribution, fuse box layouts, diagnostic connectors (OBD-II)
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system: compressor, condenser, evaporator, refrigerant service, blower motor, controls, cabin air filter replacement
Body:
Body and frame: exterior panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, interior trim, chassis components
Maintenance Tasks:
Oil and filter changes, fluid level checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, tire rotation, brake inspection
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment for all major systems
Engine Overhaul:
Detailed disassembly, inspection, measurement, and reassembly of engine components
Transmission Rebuild:
Complete guide to dismantling, repairing, and reassembling automatic and manual transmissions
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams, pin-out data, component testing procedures for electrical faults
Body Repair:
Procedures for dent repair, panel replacement, door adjustments, and sealing
Depth:
Extremely high, suitable for complete vehicle teardown and reassembly, including torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic codes
Engine Type:
Horizontally Opposed (Boxer), Naturally Aspirated (NA) and Turbocharged (optional)
Engine Codes:
EJ22 (2.2L NA), EJ25D (2.5L SOHC NA), EJ20G/EJ20K/EJ205 (2.0L Turbocharged - for performance variants like WRX/STI)
Displacement:
1.8L, 2.0L, 2.2L, 2.5L (depending on market and trim)
Horsepower Na:
Approx. 110-137 HP (for 1.8L, 2.2L, 2.5L NA engines)
Torque Na:
Approx. 120-150 lb-ft (for 1.8L, 2.2L, 2.5L NA engines)
Horsepower Turbo:
Approx. 215-250 HP (for 2.0L Turbocharged engines like WRX)
Torque Turbo:
Approx. 200-240 lb-ft (for 2.0L Turbocharged engines like WRX)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
ECU:
ECU (Engine Control Unit) with diagnostic capabilities
Transmission Type Standard:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
AWD Integration:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system integrated with both manual and automatic transmissions
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (typically)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru Genuine ATF or equivalent (check manual for specific type)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions.
Timing Belt Interval:
Every 60,000-100,000 miles (100,000-160,000 km) or 5-7 years, critically important on Boxer engines.
Coolant Change Interval:
Every 2-5 years or 30,000-60,000 miles
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30, API SJ or higher (consult manual for exact type based on temperature)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter for 2.2L/2.5L engines
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant or equivalent (ethylene glycol-based)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Head Gaskets:
Common on EJ25D (2.5L SOHC) engines due to design; manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.
Crankshaft Seal Leaks:
Rear main crankshaft seal and front crank seal leaks can occur.
Cv Joint Wear:
Front and rear CV joints can wear over time, especially with AWD operation in adverse conditions.
Ac System Leaks:
O-ring leaks in the AC system can lead to refrigerant loss.
