🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Impreza

Year:

2003

Chassis Code:

GDA/GDB (WRX/STI), GG2/GG3/GD2/GD3 (standard models)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Subaru Impreza 2003 is a compact car known for its all-wheel-drive system and sporty handling, particularly in WRX and STI variants. It competed against models like the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Volkswagen Golf GTI, and Ford Focus.

Key Competitors:

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Volkswagen Golf GTI, Ford Focus, Honda Civic Si, Mazda3.

Distinguishing Features:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD), Boxer engine architecture, performance-oriented WRX and STI variants with turbocharged engines and enhanced suspension.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Variants Covered:

2.5L DOHC Turbo (EJ255), 2.0L DOHC Turbo (EJ207 - JDM/European markets), 2.5L SOHC (EJ251 - North American market)

Transmission Variants Covered:

5-speed Manual (TY754 series), 4-speed Automatic (4EAT)

Trim Levels Covered:

RS, TS, WRX, WRX STI (depending on market and specific manual edition)

Estimated Page Count:

1500-2500+ (depending on specific publication, often including supplemental manuals)

Type:

Full Service & Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF) - Typically provided as a downloadable file

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical (EJ251, EJ255, EJ207), fuel injection, ignition, exhaust, turbocharging (if applicable), clutch, manual transmission, automatic transmission, drivetrain (AWD system).

Chassis:

Suspension (front struts, rear multi-link), steering system, brake system (ABS, rotors, calipers, lines), wheel bearings, chassis alignment.

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, wipers, horn, power windows/locks, instrument cluster, ECU, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, body control modules.

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, windows, seats, dashboard, trim, climate control system, HVAC, exterior trim, sound insulation.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs), fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, brake pad replacement, belt replacement.

Repair:

Engine overhauls, cylinder head removal/installation, turbocharger replacement, transmission rebuilds, brake caliper servicing, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and replacement.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor testing, common fault identification.

Rebuilds:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for rebuilding engines, transmissions, and other major components.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Includes detailed torque specifications, component tolerances, and diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

Searchable PDF, allowing for quick navigation and keyword finding. High-resolution scans or digital native format for clear diagrams.

Quality:

Professional grade, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams. Suitable for printing individual pages or sections.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Quality If Printed:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type Na:

2.5L SOHC Naturally Aspirated Flat-4 (EJ251)

Engine Type Turbo:

2.0L DOHC Turbo Flat-4 (EJ207 - JDM/EU), 2.5L DOHC Turbo Flat-4 (EJ255 - US WRX)

Horsepower Ej251:

165 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque Ej251:

166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Horsepower Ej255 Usdm Wrx:

227 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque Ej255 Usdm Wrx:

250 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm

Horsepower Ej207 Jdm Sti:

280 PS (approx. 276 hp) @ 6400 rpm

Torque Ej207 Jdm Sti:

333 Nm (approx. 246 lb-ft) @ 4400 rpm

Type:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended for NA, 91+ octane for WRX/STI)

Ej251 Code:

EJ251

Ej255 Code:

EJ255

Ej207 Code:

EJ207

🔧 Transmission

Type Na:

5-speed Manual (TY754 Series)

Type Wrx Sti:

5-speed Manual (WRX), 6-speed Manual (STI - JDM/EU specific)

Type Auto:

4-speed Automatic (4EAT)

Drivetrain:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) standard on all models

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated, single dry plate

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil (or equivalent GL-5 75W-90) - Refer to manual for specific part number and capacity.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Subaru ATF-HP (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible) - Refer to manual for specific part number and capacity.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Sedan:

2515 mm (99.0 in)

Wheelbase Wagon:

2525 mm (99.4 in)

Length Sedan:

4405 mm (173.4 in)

Length Wagon:

4405 mm (173.4 in)

Width:

1695 mm (66.7 in)

Height Sedan:

1410 mm (55.5 in)

Height Wagon:

1445 mm (56.9 in)

Curb Weight Na:

Approx. 1320 kg (2910 lbs)

Curb Weight Wrx:

Approx. 1400 kg (3086 lbs)

Curb Weight Sti:

Approx. 1430 kg (3153 lbs)

Gvw:

Varies by model and trim, consult manual.

Towing Capacity:

Not officially rated for towing in most markets, consult manual.

Wheel Size Base:

15-inch alloy or steel

Wheel Size Wrx Sti:

17-inch alloy

Bolt Pattern:

5x100mm

Tire Size Base:

205/55R16 (typical)

Tire Size Wrx:

225/45R17

Tire Size Sti:

225/45R17 (specific performance tire)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

4 stars (driver), 4 stars (passenger) - 2003 model year

IIHS Side Impact:

Acceptable (varies by specific test conditions and vehicle configuration)

ABS:

Standard on most models, often with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)

Traction Control:

Available on some models (e.g., VDC - Vehicle Dynamics Control)

Airbags:

Frontal airbags standard, side airbags and curtain airbags available on some trims.

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

Basic AM/FM/CD player. Higher trims may have premium audio systems with additional speakers. Aftermarket upgrades are common.

Display:

Minimal. Primarily driver information via gauges. No central infotainment screen.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models.

ABS:

As detailed in safety section.

Bluetooth:

Not available from factory. Aftermarket integration is common.

Usb Ports:

Not available from factory.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Na:

Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (under severe driving conditions), 7,500 miles or 6 months (under normal driving conditions) - Consult owner's manual for precise intervals.

Oil Change Interval Turbo:

Every 3,750 miles or 3 months is highly recommended for turbocharged models.

Engine Air Filter:

Replace every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.

Cabin Air Filter:

Replace every 15,000 miles or 1 year.

Spark Plugs:

NA: Iridium plugs ~60,000 miles. Turbo: Copper plugs ~30,000 miles, Iridium plugs ~60,000 miles (check specific plug type).

Timing Belt Ej251:

Replace every 90,000-105,000 miles or 7-10 years (whichever comes first). Crucial due to interference engine design.

Timing Belt Ej207:

Refer to manual, typically 60,000-100,000 miles depending on specific version.

Engine Oil Na:

5W-30 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic. Capacity: 4.8 US quarts (4.5L) with filter.

Engine Oil Turbo:

5W-30 or 10W-30 Full Synthetic (depending on climate and driving). Capacity: 4.8 US quarts (4.5L) with filter. Consult manual for optimal viscosity.

Coolant:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent OAT coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water). Capacity: Approx. 7.0 US quarts (6.6L).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Power Steering Fluid:

Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or ATF Dexron II/III compatible. Capacity: Approx. 1.0 US quart (0.9L).

Head Gaskets:

While less prevalent than in earlier generations, some EJ251 engines can still experience head gasket leaks, especially if overheated. Regular coolant level checks are crucial.

Turbo Oil Lines:

WRX/STI models: Turbo oil feed and return lines can become brittle and leak or clog, leading to turbo failure. Regular inspection and replacement are advised.

Clutch Wear:

Performance driving can accelerate clutch wear. The manual details clutch inspection and replacement procedures.

Suspension Bushings:

Aging suspension bushings can lead to clunking noises and degraded handling. The manual provides procedures for inspection and replacement.

Catalytic Converter:

Can become clogged over time, affecting performance and emissions. Manual covers diagnosis and replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer Origin:

Subaru, a division of Fuji Heavy Industries (now Subaru Corporation), is a Japanese automobile manufacturer known for its pioneering use of all-wheel drive technology and horizontally-opposed (Boxer) engines.

Generation:

Second Generation (GD/GG chassis)

Introduction Year Generation:

2000 (globally), 2002 (North America)

Facelift:

A minor facelift occurred in 2002 (for the 2003 model year in North America), featuring revised headlights, taillights, and front bumper styling.

Production Years:

2000-2007

Manufacturing Locations:

Japan (Ota, Gunma)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver તિહાસ:

The Subaru Impreza WRX frequently appeared on Car and Driver's '10Best' lists during its production runs for its performance and value.

Motorsport Heritage:

Strong association with rally racing, particularly the World Rally Championship (WRC), which significantly boosted the Impreza's performance image.

Overall Reliability:

Generally good reliability, though specific issues like head gaskets and turbo components require attentive maintenance. Consult detailed reliability reports for specific engine variants.