🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Impreza

Years Covered:

1997-1998

Vehicle Generation:

First Generation (GC/GF/GM)

Chassis Codes:

GC8 (Coupe/Sedan), GF8 (Wagon/Sport Wagon)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Car / Sports Compact

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, performance-oriented drivers, rally fans, DIY mechanics

Key Competitors:

Honda Civic Si, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (though often positioned higher), Nissan Sentra SE-R, Toyota Corolla GT-S

All Wheel Drive:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) on most variants, a significant differentiator

Performance Variants:

Introduction of the iconic WRX (World Rally Cross) performance model in certain markets, and the higher-performance STI (Subaru Tecnica International) variant later in the generation

Design Philosophy:

Practicality combined with rally-inspired performance and engineering, known for boxer engine layout and AWD capabilities

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM)

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF)

Estimated Page Count:

1500-2500+

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable for efficient information retrieval

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions control, engine management (ECU/ECM), forced induction (turbocharger for WRX/GT/STI variants)

Drivetrain Systems:

Manual transmission (5-speed, 6-speed for STI), automatic transmission (4-speed), clutch, driveshafts, differentials (front, center, rear), all-wheel-drive (AWD) system

Suspension Steering:

Front suspension (MacPherson strut), rear suspension (multi-link), steering system (rack and pinion), power steering

Braking Systems:

Front disc brakes (solid or vented), rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and operation

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power windows/locks, mirrors, wipers, horn, audio system, body control modules, fuse/relay locations, wiring diagrams

HVAC Systems:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) components, operation, and service

Body Exterior:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk/tailgate, bumpers, glass, seals, exterior trim, chassis and frame construction

Body Interior:

Seats, dashboard, trim panels, carpeting, headliner, safety restraints (seat belts, airbags)

Maintenance Procedures:

Routine maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), spark plug replacement, timing belt replacement, belt inspection/replacement

Repair Procedures:

Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component repair/replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair, body panel repair

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides for various systems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings, testing procedures for sensors and actuators

Troubleshooting Guides:

System-specific troubleshooting trees and common problem diagnosis

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Advanced diagnostic procedures for engine control, ABS, and other electronic systems

Rebuild Instructions:

Detailed instructions for complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including specifications and torque values

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems

📊 Manual Specifications

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital Format)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Common:

EJ22, EJ25 (non-turbo), EJ20G/EJ20K (turbocharged for WRX/STI variants)

Engine Layout:

Horizontally-opposed (Boxer), SOHC or DOHC

Displacement Non Turbo:

2.2 Liters (2211 cc), 2.5 Liters (2457 cc)

Displacement Turbo:

2.0 Liters (1994 cc)

Horsepower Non Turbo Ej22:

Approx. 135-140 hp @ 5600-6000 RPM

Torque Non Turbo Ej22:

Approx. 137-140 lb-ft @ 4400 RPM

Horsepower Non Turbo Ej25:

Approx. 165 hp @ 5600 RPM

Torque Non Turbo Ej25:

Approx. 162 lb-ft @ 4000 RPM

Horsepower Turbo Ej20G:

Approx. 208-215 hp @ 6000 RPM (WRX)

Torque Turbo Ej20G:

Approx. 200-205 lb-ft @ 4800 RPM (WRX)

Horsepower Turbo Ej20K:

Approx. 237 hp @ 6500 RPM (STI)

Torque Turbo Ej20K:

Approx. 240 lb-ft @ 5000 RPM (STI)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended for turbo models)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Common:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type Optional:

4-speed Automatic Transmission

AWD System Transmission Link:

Integrated with AWD system (viscous coupling center differential in most manual transmissions, planetary gear center differential in some later models/STI)

Sti Transmission:

6-speed Manual Transmission (STI variants)

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

2-door Coupe, 4-door Sedan, 5-door Wagon (Sport Wagon)

Wheelbase Coupe Sedan:

Approx. 98.2 inches (2495 mm)

Wheelbase Wagon:

Approx. 99.8 inches (2535 mm)

Length Sedan:

Approx. 170.5 inches (4330 mm)

Length Coupe:

Approx. 169.1 inches (4300 mm)

Length Wagon:

Approx. 173.6 inches (4410 mm)

Width:

Approx. 67.5 inches (1715 mm)

Height Sedan Coupe:

Approx. 54.9 inches (1395 mm)

Height Wagon:

Approx. 55.1 inches (1400 mm)

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 2800 - 3300 lbs (1270 - 1500 kg), varies significantly by model and drivetrain

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Likely received 4-star ratings in frontal impact tests for driver and passenger from NHTSA for sedans of this era (specific model ratings vary)

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags standard

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts with pretensioners

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) not standard in this generation, may have ISOFIX points in some markets

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/Cassette or CD player, with optional premium sound systems. Manual covers removal, installation, and basic troubleshooting.

Climate Control:

Manual or automatic climate control systems depending on trim level. Manual details HVAC component diagnosis.

Cruise Control:

Available cruise control system. Manual details operation and troubleshooting.

Immobilizer:

Some models may have an immobilizer system. Manual covers key registration and system checks.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

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

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) or 5-7 years, crucial for boxer engines.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km), depending on plug type (platinum, iridium).

Engine Oil Viscosity Non Turbo:

5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific climate recommendations)

Engine Oil Viscosity Turbo:

5W-30 or 5W-40 (synthetic recommended for turbo models)

Coolant Type:

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

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-5 75W-90 gear oil (specific Subaru specifications exist)

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Subaru ATF-HP or Dexron III/Mercon equivalent

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Head Gasket Failure:

While more prevalent in later EJ25 engines, early symptoms can appear in this generation. The manual will detail inspection procedures.

Turbo Charger Wear:

For WRX models, turbocharger wear, oil leaks, and intercooler efficiency can be concerns. Manual covers inspection and servicing.

Suspension Bushings:

Wear in suspension bushings leading to clunks or imprecise handling is common with age. Manual details replacement.

Oil Consumption:

Some EJ engines can experience increased oil consumption with mileage. Manual covers diagnosis.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Rally Legacy:

Subaru's deep roots in motorsport, particularly the World Rally Championship (WRC), heavily influenced the Impreza's development and appeal.

First Generation Introduction:

The first-generation Impreza debuted in late 1992 for the 1993 model year in Japan, arriving in North America for the 1995 model year. The 1997-1998 models represent the facelifted version of the first generation.

Facelift:

The 1997 model year saw a significant facelift, introducing redesigned headlights, taillights, front and rear bumpers, and often updated interior trim. This is the version covered by the manual.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Japan.

Key Variants 1997 1998:

Outback Sport (wagon), RS (performance naturally aspirated sedan/coupe), WRX (turbocharged sedan, limited availability outside Japan/specific markets).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Awards:

While not specific to 1997-1998, the Impreza line, particularly the WRX variants, consistently received accolades from automotive publications like Car and Driver for performance and handling in subsequent years, building on the reputation established in this generation.

Rally Homologation Status:

The Impreza chassis (GC/GF) served as the basis for Subaru's highly successful WRC rally cars, cementing its status as a performance icon.