Segment:
Performance Compact Sedan/Wagon
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, performance drivers, rally sport fans
Competitors:
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Nissan Sentra SE-R, Volkswagen Golf GTI
All Wheel Drive:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (SAWD) as standard
Turbocharged Engine:
Performance-tuned turbocharged boxer engine
Suspension:
Performance-oriented suspension tuning
Rally Heritage:
Direct lineage and technology from Subaru's WRC program
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing system, lubrication system
Engine Management:
ECU, fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, sensors, actuators, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Transmission:
Manual transmission (TY757/TY856 variations), clutch system, drivetrain components (driveshafts, differentials)
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension, struts, springs, control arms, anti-roll bars, alignment specifications
Brakes:
Brake system hydraulics, calipers, rotors, pads, ABS system, parking brake
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, starting and charging system, fuses, relays, instrumentation, comfort systems
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, interior trim, chassis components, crash structure, rust prevention
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system components and servicing
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel lines, fuel tank, fuel filter replacement
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, pressure testing
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, brake pad inspection
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common malfunctions, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Repair And Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and rebuilding (e.g., engine, transmission, turbocharger)
Diagnostics:
Use of diagnostic tools, interpretation of diagnostic data, fault code identification and resolution
Component Replacement:
Instructions for replacing common wear items and major components
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners
Depth:
Comprehensive (A-Z coverage) from basic maintenance to advanced engine and transmission rebuilds
Visual Aids:
Tons of detailed pictures and diagrams
Electrical Detail:
Detailed electrical schematics and wiring diagrams
Diagnostic Codes:
Coverage of Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and their resolutions
Engine Type:
EJ207 (2.0L DOHC Turbocharged Boxer)
Bore X Stroke:
92.0 mm x 75.0 mm
Horsepower:
280 PS (276 hp) @ 6400 rpm (JDM Spec)
Torque:
35.2 kg-m (345 Nm / 254 lb-ft) @ 4400 rpm (JDM Spec)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (95 RON or higher recommended)
Turbocharger:
Mitsubishi TD05H-16G (Twin Scroll)
Intercooler:
Top-mounted air-to-air intercooler
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not rated for this specific year/trim in all markets, but generally performed well for its era.
IIHS Front Offset:
Not rated for this specific year/trim in all markets.
Traction Control:
Subaru's Traction Control System (TRC)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - 4-wheel disc brakes
Dccd:
Driver Controlled Center Differential for torque distribution management
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts, pre-tensioners
Body Structure:
Reinforced chassis and crumple zones
Audio System:
Factory CD player with radio, potentially basic cassette player depending on trim.
Instrument Cluster:
Analog gauges including tachometer, speedometer, fuel level, coolant temperature, boost gauge (often integrated).
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control system.
Limited Slip Differentials:
Advanced AWD system with DCCD and LSDs for enhanced traction and handling.
Auxiliary Input:
Unlikely on factory units for this era. Aftermarket head unit upgrades are common.
Oil Change:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (severe vs. normal).
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
Concurrent with oil changes.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
NGK PFR7B (or equivalent) recommended every 30,000 miles for performance.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-4 years.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles, especially for performance driving.
Differential Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles.
Engine Oil:
0W-40 or 5W-40 Synthetic API SN/SN PLUS or ACEA A3/B4 recommended for performance applications. 5W-30 conventional may be specified for standard use.
Transmission Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil.
Rear Differential Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (with LSD additive if applicable).
Coolant:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors. 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 High-Temperature Brake Fluid.
Piston Ring Land Cracking:
Common on early EJ207 engines, particularly with aggressive tuning or high mileage. Manual should cover inspection and replacement procedures.
Head Gasket Leaks:
While less prevalent than in some other Subaru models, it can occur. Manual will detail replacement.
Clutch Wear:
Due to the performance nature, clutches can wear faster with hard use. Manual covers replacement and adjustment.
Turbocharger Failure:
Can be caused by poor lubrication or debris. Manual covers diagnosis and rebuild/replacement.
Power Steering Pump Leaks:
Can develop leaks over time. Manual details inspection and replacement.
Rally Dominance:
Subaru's extensive success in the World Rally Championship (WRC) with Colin McRae, Richard Burns, and Petter Solberg
Second Generation Launch:
Introduced in 2000 for the 2001 model year, marking a significant redesign from the GC/GF generation.
Gd Gg Platform:
This generation (GD for sedan, GG for wagon) featured a more aerodynamic and aggressive styling, a stiffer chassis, and advanced AWD systems.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Production Period:
2000-2007 (for GD/GG generation)
Performance Acclaim:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its handling, acceleration, and rally-inspired performance.
Rally Homologation Status:
The Impreza WRX STi is a homologation special, designed to meet the requirements for WRC competition, signifying its performance pedigree.
Enthusiast Following:
Maintains a very strong and dedicated enthusiast following globally.