🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Impreza WRX

Model Generation:

GC/GF/GM (Second Generation)

Production Years Covered:

1999, 2000, 2001

Chassis Codes:

GC8 (Sedan), GF8 (Wagon), GM6 (Coupe)

👋 Introduction

Market Position Impreza Wrx:

The 1999-2001 Subaru Impreza WRX (GC8 generation) was a pivotal model in Subaru's performance car lineage, establishing the WRX as a potent rally-bred performance sedan and wagon, competing fiercely in the compact performance car segment.

Key Competitors Early 2000S:

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (though often not directly available in all markets), Honda Civic Si, Ford Focus SVT, Volkswagen GTI, Nissan Sentra SE-R.

Impreza Wrx Distinctive Features:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, turbocharged boxer engine, performance-tuned suspension, aerodynamic body kit, sport seats, distinctive hood scoop.

Manual Value:

This comprehensive factory service manual provides the essential technical knowledge and step-by-step procedures required for the accurate diagnosis, maintenance, and repair of the 1999-2001 Subaru Impreza WRX, empowering owners and technicians to maintain peak performance and reliability.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered Overview:

Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Brakes, Steering, Electrical, HVAC, Body.

Vehicle Variants Covered:

Covers sedan (GC8), wagon (GF8), and coupe (GM6) body styles of the Impreza WRX for the specified model years.

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Manual Purpose:

Designed for use by professional technicians and skilled DIY mechanics.

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

EJ20G (Turbocharged Boxer), EJ205 (Turbocharged Boxer), including lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, emissions, and turbocharger systems.

Drivetrain Systems:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, manual and automatic transmissions, differentials (front, center, rear), clutch operation, driveshafts, and wheel hubs.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension (MacPherson struts, multi-link), bushings, dampers, springs, steering rack, power steering system, wheel alignment specifications.

Brake System:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components, hydraulic lines, brake fluid specifications, parking brake.

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, ignition, fuel pump, ECU (Engine Control Unit) wiring diagrams, sensor locations, fuse box layouts, body control modules.

HVAC Body:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, interior and exterior body panels, doors, windows, seats, trim, glass replacement, body repair procedures.

Chassis Body:

Frame and body construction, collision repair guidelines, panel replacement, door/window mechanisms, interior trim removal and installation.

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid replacement, air filter service, belt inspections and replacement, ignition system tuning.

Repair Procedures:

Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, turbocharger replacement, brake caliper overhaul, suspension component replacement, clutch replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair, body panel alignment.

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting charts, electrical schematic interpretation, fuel system diagnostics, emissions system diagnostics.

Engine Diagnostics:

Detailed diagnostic procedures for fuel system, ignition system, air intake system, exhaust system, emissions control system, turbocharger system, and engine mechanical issues.

Transmission Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting for manual and automatic transmission shifting issues, clutch engagement problems, AWD system engagement, and differential behavior.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, including power distribution, engine control, lighting, instrumentation, comfort systems, and safety systems. Step-by-step troubleshooting for electrical faults.

Wheel Alignment:

Specific alignment angles and procedures for front and rear suspension.

Tire Specifications:

Recommended tire sizes and inflation pressures.

Battery Charging Replacement:

Procedures for battery testing, charging, and replacement, including safety precautions.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from routine maintenance and fluid checks to in-depth engine and transmission rebuilding, including detailed wiring diagrams and diagnostic procedures.

Torque Specifications:

Includes specific torque values for all major fasteners, critical for correct assembly and component lifespan.

Measurement Units:

Specifications provided in both metric and imperial units for broad usability.

Special Tools:

Lists required special tools for specific procedures, aiding in accurate and safe repairs.

Wiring Diagrams Quality:

High-quality, detailed wiring schematics covering all vehicle electrical circuits, essential for accurate troubleshooting.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Details:

Searchable PDF with high-resolution diagrams, allowing for easy navigation and printing of specific sections.

Print Quality:

Excellent: Clear text and sharp, detailed diagrams suitable for professional or DIY use.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Typical:

EJ205

Engine Configuration:

Horizontally opposed (Boxer), 4-cylinder

Engine Displacement:

1994 cc (2.0 Liters)

Aspiration:

Turbocharged with intercooler

Horsepower Est:

215-227 hp (Varies by market and specific model year)

Torque Est:

200-210 lb-ft (Varies by market and specific model year)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)

Fuel Type Required:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Timing Drive:

Timing Belt

Engine Management System:

ECU (Electronic Control Unit) with diagnostic port (OBD-II compliant from 1996 onwards).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-speed Manual Transmission (Type RA / DCCD optional on some models)

Transmission Type Optional:

4-speed Automatic Transmission

AWD System Type:

Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive

Differential Configuration:

Front Viscous Coupling Limited Slip Differential (VLS), Center Viscous Coupling Limited Slip Differential (VLS), Rear Helical Limited Slip Differential (LSD) or Viscous Limited Slip Differential (VLS) depending on model/year.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (refer to manual for specific Subaru specs)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Subaru ATF-HP or equivalent

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2515 mm (99.0 in)

Length:

Approx. 4365 mm (171.9 in) - Sedan

Width:

Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 in)

Height:

Approx. 1425 mm (56.1 in) - Sedan

Curb Weight Est:

Approx. 1300-1400 kg (2866-3086 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Crash Test Results:

NHTSA ratings for this era are generally not available in a readily comparable format to modern standards. Consult specific model year test results if available.

Active Safety Features Standard:

Four-wheel disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) standard on most WRX models.

Passive Safety Features Standard:

Front airbags, three-point seatbelts, reinforced chassis.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features Typical:

Basic AM/FM/Cassette/CD player, analog gauges, manual climate controls.

Driver Assistance Features Typical:

Limited by modern standards; primarily ABS. No electronic stability control or advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS).

Connectivity Features Typical:

Basic power accessories, not equipped with Bluetooth or advanced smartphone integration.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Frequent high-performance driving may necessitate more frequent changes.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 60,000-100,000 miles or 5-7 years. Critical to prevent catastrophic engine damage.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on plug type (e.g., platinum vs. iridium).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter change.

Engine Oil Type Recommended:

Synthetic 5W-30 or 5W-40, API SN or higher

Coolant Type:

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

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid:

Subaru Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III ATF

Common Wrx Issues:

Head gasket failures (less common on EJ205 than later EJ25 variants, but still a potential issue), turbocharger wear/failure (especially with poor maintenance), clutch wear, worn suspension bushings, oil leaks (valve cover gaskets, oil pan). Increased risk of ringland failure on modified engines.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Rally Heritage:

Subaru has a rich history in motorsport, particularly in the World Rally Championship (WRC), where the Impreza WRX achieved significant success with drivers like Colin McRae and Richard Burns. This racing pedigree heavily influenced the development of the production WRX models.

Gc8 Generation Significance:

The GC8 generation (1992-2000 globally, extended to 2001 in some markets for WRX) was the foundation for Subaru's performance identity. The 1999-2001 models represent a refinement of this platform, often featuring larger intercoolers, revised suspension tuning, and improved engine management for enhanced performance and handling.

Updates 1999-2001:

These years saw refinements to the EJ205 engine, chassis improvements for rigidity, revised aerodynamic elements, and often introduction or refinement of DCCD (Driver Controlled Center Differential) on certain high-performance variants.

Production Plants:

Primarily manufactured in Japan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Historical Performance Recognition:

The Impreza WRX, in its various iterations, consistently received praise from automotive journalists and enthusiasts for its exceptional handling, rally-inspired performance, and value proposition in the performance sedan market.