🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Impreza

Years Covered:

1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001

Chassis Codes:

GC, GF, GM

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Subaru Impreza in this generation was positioned as a compact car known for its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, sporty handling, and rally-inspired heritage, appealing to drivers seeking performance and all-weather capability.

Competitors:

Competed with vehicles like the Mitsubishi Lancer, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda Protege, and Ford Focus.

Key Features:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, boxer engine layout, available turbocharged variants (WRX models), robust chassis.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Complete vehicle repair and servicing

Page Count:

3000+

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans suitable for printing with clear diagrams and text.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical ( EJ series naturally aspirated and turbocharged), fuel system, ignition system, lubrication, cooling, exhaust, emissions control, engine diagnostics, engine control unit (ECU) operation.

Transmission Systems:

Manual transmissions (e.g., 5-speed TY754), automatic transmissions (e.g., 4-speed), clutch system, drivetrain, propeller shaft, differentials, driveshafts, AWD system operation and maintenance.

Brake Systems:

Hydraulic brake system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) operation and troubleshooting, parking brake, brake fluid specifications, caliper and rotor service, master cylinder and brake booster.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension components (struts, springs, control arms, sway bars), steering system (power steering pump, rack and pinion), wheel alignment specifications, hub bearings.

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), wipers and washers, horn, power windows, power door locks, keyless entry, fuse box diagrams, wiring diagrams for all circuits.

Body Interior:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, seat removal, dashboard, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), body sealing, glass replacement.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system operation and replacement, seatbelt mechanisms, chassis structural integrity.

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel), spark plug replacement, coolant flush and refill, brake fluid flush, transmission fluid service, differential fluid service, drive belt inspection and replacement, battery maintenance.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides for common issues, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) retrieval and interpretation, sensor testing (e.g., O2 sensor, MAF sensor), component testing (e.g., fuel pump, injectors).

Repair Procedures:

Engine component replacement (e.g., timing belt, head gasket, pistons), transmission overhaul, brake component replacement (pads, rotors, lines), suspension component repair, electrical component replacement (starter, alternator, sensors), bodywork repairs.

Installation Procedures:

Component installation guides, torque specifications for critical fasteners.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Extensive troubleshooting flowcharts and symptom-based diagnostics are included for various systems.

Engine Rebuilding:

Procedures for engine disassembly, inspection, component replacement (pistons, rings, bearings, valves), and reassembly with torque specifications are covered.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical troubleshooting and body repair.

Diagnostic Tools Required:

Covers procedures requiring basic hand tools, specialized automotive tools (e.g., torque wrenches, brake tools), and diagnostic equipment (OBD-II scanner for models equipped).

Electrical Wiring Diagrams:

Includes detailed, component-level electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.

Completeness:

This is a comprehensive workshop manual, providing detailed information for all major mechanical, electrical, and body systems. It is not a condensed version but a full-fledged technical reference.

📊 Manual Specifications

Searchable Text:

Yes, the PDF format is typically text-searchable, allowing for quick access to specific topics.

File Size:

Varies depending on PDF optimization, but likely several hundred megabytes due to the page count and detailed diagrams.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

EJ22E (2.2L SOHC Naturally Aspirated), EJ25D (2.5L DOHC Naturally Aspirated), EJ253 (2.5L SOHC Naturally Aspirated), EJ20G (2.0L DOHC Turbocharged - WRX), EJ205 (2.0L DOHC Turbocharged - WRX).

Horsepower Range:

Approx. 135-165 hp for NA models, 215-227 hp for WRX models.

Torque Range:

Approx. 140-155 lb-ft for NA models, 200-220 lb-ft for WRX models.

Fuel System Type:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI).

Engine Layout:

Horizontally-opposed (Boxer).

Cooling System Type:

Pressurized liquid cooling system with radiator, fan, thermostat, and expansion tank.

Lubrication System Type:

Wet sump lubrication system with oil pump, oil filter, and oil cooler (on some turbocharged models).

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed manual transmission.

Optional Transmission:

4-speed automatic transmission.

AWD System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with viscous center differential (manual) or electronically controlled active differential (automatic).

Manual Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios vary by model and year, typically detailed within the manual for each transmission type (e.g., TY754 gearbox).

Automatic Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios vary by model and year, typically detailed within the manual for each transmission type (e.g., 4EAT).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 173.3 inches (4402 mm).

Width:

Approx. 67.5 inches (1715 mm).

Height:

Approx. 55.7 inches (1415 mm).

Front Track:

Approx. 58.3 inches (1480 mm).

Rear Track:

Approx. 57.7 inches (1465 mm).

Wheelbase:

Approx. 100.0 inches (2540 mm).

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2700-3100 lbs (1225-1406 kg) depending on configuration.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by model and payload, specified in the manual.

Towing Capacity:

Generally not recommended or specified for this model.

Cargo Volume:

Varies by body style (sedan/wagon), approximately 10-13 cu ft for sedan.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Frontal crash: 4 stars (driver and passenger).

IIHS Ratings:

Specific ratings from IIHS should be consulted from official archives for this period. Early Imprezas received mixed results depending on the specific test year.

Active Safety Features:

All-Wheel Drive, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) often standard or optional.

Passive Safety Features:

Dual front airbags, three-point seatbelts with pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic factory-installed audio systems (cassette/CD players) with standard speaker configurations. Optional premium audio might be available on higher trims.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by era; primarily ABS. No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control or lane-keeping assist.

Connectivity Features:

Basic connectivity through standard audio inputs (e.g., AUX ports might be added aftermarket).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3-4 months, or 7,500 miles (12,000 km) with synthetic oil, depending on driving conditions.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Recommended every 60,000 to 100,000 miles (96,000 to 160,000 km) or 7-10 years, crucial for EJ25D and EJ20G/EJ205 engines due to interference design.

Coolant Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2-3 years.

Engine Oil Specification:

API SG or higher; Viscosity: 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific recommendations based on climate).

Coolant Specification:

Subaru Genuine Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil (GL-5, 75W-90) or equivalent.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Subaru ATF-HP or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon specification fluid.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Engine Head Gaskets:

The EJ25D (dual overhead cam 2.5L) engine is prone to head gasket failure, often requiring replacement with revised gaskets. Later SOHC EJ253 engines are generally more reliable.

Oil Leaks:

Valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and front/rear main seals can leak over time.

Clutch Wear:

Clutch assemblies can wear out, especially in performance-oriented driving.

Wheel Bearings:

Front wheel bearings can become noisy and require replacement.

Radiator:

Plastic end tanks on radiators can crack with age, leading to coolant leaks.

Cv Axle Boots:

Torn CV axle boots can lead to joint damage and clicking noises during turns.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change for most 2.2L/2.5L engines.

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 7.0 US quarts (6.6 liters).

Fuel Tank Capacity:

Approx. 14.5 US gallons (55 liters).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Subaru, part of the Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries), has a long history of producing reliable vehicles, particularly known for its pioneering work with Boxer engines and All-Wheel Drive technology, stemming from its aircraft manufacturing roots.

Generation:

This period covers the first generation (GC/GF/GM) of the Subaru Impreza, introduced in 1992 globally and arriving in North America for the 1995 model year. It established the Impreza's reputation for AWD capability and sporty performance, particularly with the advent of the WRX and STI variants in global markets.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Japan (Gunma Plant).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Recognitions:

While specific awards for the '96-'01 model might be less prominent than later generations, the Impreza platform, particularly the WRX variant, gained significant recognition in motorsport (World Rally Championship) which bolstered its sporty image.