🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Impreza

Year:

2012

Generation Code:

GJ/GP

Generation Years:

2012-2016

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2012 Subaru Impreza represented Subaru's continued commitment to all-wheel-drive (AWD) as standard equipment across its mainstream compact car lineup, differentiating it from many front-wheel-drive competitors. It offered a blend of practicality, fuel efficiency, and unique Subaru driving dynamics.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against segment stalwarts like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, and Ford Focus, often appealing to buyers prioritizing all-weather capability and a more engaging driving experience.

Key Features:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, horizontally opposed 'Boxer' engines, spacious interior for its class, available hatchback and sedan body styles, good visibility.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All aspects of repair, maintenance, diagnostics, and troubleshooting for the 2012 Subaru Impreza.

Page Count:

Estimated 2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical, engine control (ECM), fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, transmission (manual and automatic), drivetrain (AWD system), braking system (ABS, EBD, BA), steering system, suspension system (front and rear), HVAC system, body electrical systems, body panels and structure, interior components, SRS airbag system, emissions control.

Procedures Included:

Scheduled maintenance, routine inspections, component removal and installation, diagnostic troubleshooting procedures (DTCs), electrical circuit diagrams, wiring harness routing, specific repair procedures (e.g., head gasket replacement, timing belt/chain inspection, brake caliper overhaul), bodywork and collision repair guidelines, HVAC system diagnostics and repair, torque specifications, specialized tool requirements.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and structural repairs.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Print Quality:

High-resolution, searchable text, allowing for clear printing of diagrams and procedures.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

EJ204 (for most markets), EJ253 (potentially for some markets/variants)

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated, Horizontally Opposed (Boxer) 4-cylinder

Displacement:

2.0 Liters (1994 cc)

Horsepower Peak:

Approx. 148 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque Peak:

Approx. 145 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Regular 87 octane recommended)

ECU Type:

Subaru's Engine Control Unit (ECU) with diagnostic capabilities.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission Type:

Subaru Lineartronic™ Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

AWD System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with driver-selectable modes or automatic torque distribution.

Transmission Fluid Spec:

Manual: Subaru Genuine Gear Oil API GL-5 75W-90. CVT: Subaru CVT Fluid (NS-2 or equivalent).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 104.0 inches (2640 mm)

Length:

Approx. 179.5 inches (4560 mm) (Sedan) / 173.8 inches (4415 mm) (Hatchback)

Width:

Approx. 68.7 inches (1745 mm)

Height:

Approx. 57.1 inches (1450 mm) (Sedan) / 57.9 inches (1470 mm) (Hatchback)

Cargo Volume Sedan:

Approx. 14.7 cubic feet

Cargo Volume Hatchback:

Approx. 22.0 cubic feet (rear seats up)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,000 - 3,200 lbs (1361 - 1451 kg), depending on trim and transmission.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by model, typically around 4200-4400 lbs.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Rating:

Generally rated 4 or 5 stars in NHTSA crash tests for the generation.

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Often achieved IIHS Top Safety Pick status in this generation.

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Traction Control System (TCS), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC).

Passive Safety Features:

Advanced front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags, driver's knee airbag (on some trims), front and rear crumple zones, body structure designed for crash energy absorption.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Subaru's standard audio system typically included AM/FM, CD player, and auxiliary input. Higher trims offered optional touch-screen infotainment with Bluetooth connectivity and iPod integration.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited driver assistance features in 2012 models, primarily focused on safety systems like ABS, TCS, and VSC. Optional rearview camera on some trims.

Connectivity Options:

Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming available on higher trims. USB and auxiliary audio inputs.

Instrumentation Details:

Combination meter with tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge, engine temperature gauge, and multi-information display for trip computer and warning lights.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil.

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Iridium spark plugs: 100,000 miles (160,000 km).

Coolant Replacement:

Initial replacement at 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 10 years, then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) or 5 years.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 0W-20 Synthetic (API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.4 US quarts (4.2 liters) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant.

Brake Fluid Type:

SAE J1703 or FMVSS No. 116 DOT 3.

Known Issues:

Some models may experience oil consumption issues. Premature wear of suspension components (e.g., control arm bushings, sway bar links) can occur. CVT transmissions may require specific maintenance procedures and fluid changes. Head gasket integrity, though improved over earlier generations, can still be a concern for some Boxer engines if not properly maintained.

Parts Catalog Reference:

The manual will detail OEM part numbers for common wear items and replacement components, facilitating accurate part sourcing.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Subaru, a division of Fuji Heavy Industries, has a long history of producing robust vehicles with a focus on all-wheel-drive technology and boxer engines, often appealing to enthusiasts and those in challenging climates.

Model Evolution 2012:

The 2012 model marked the beginning of the fourth generation (GJ/GP) for the Impreza, introducing a completely new chassis, updated styling, and a more fuel-efficient engine lineup compared to the outgoing model. It also saw the discontinuation of the turbocharged WRX STI as a direct Impreza variant in some markets, with the WRX line beginning to diverge.

Production Locations:

Primary manufacturing facility in Gunma Prefecture, Japan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The fourth-generation Impreza was generally well-received for its standard AWD and practical interior. Specific awards would depend on trim and regional performance.

Ratings:

Good fuel economy for an AWD vehicle in its class.