Market Position:
The Subaru Impreza of this era was positioned as a compact car with a strong emphasis on performance, all-wheel-drive capability, and rally-inspired heritage. It appealed to enthusiasts and those seeking a reliable, capable vehicle for various driving conditions.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against vehicles like the Mitsubishi Lancer, Honda Civic Si, Mazda3, and Volkswagen Golf GTI. Its symmetrical all-wheel-drive system and boxer engine were key differentiators.
Key Features:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (SAWD), Subaru Boxer Engine, robust chassis, available turbocharged 'WRX' and 'STi' performance variants, practical wagon option, good handling characteristics.
Coverage Areas:
Complete service, repair, diagnostic, and maintenance instructions for all major vehicle systems.
Estimated Page Count:
Over 2000 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals).
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (PDF likely, searchable text)
Searchability:
Fully searchable text within the PDF, allowing users to quickly find specific topics, procedures, or specifications.
Systems Covered:
Engine mechanical (including EJ20, EJ25 variants), Engine management (ECM/ECU), Fuel system, Ignition system, Emission control, Cooling system, Lubrication system, Exhaust system, Manual transmission (5MT, 6MT), Automatic transmission (4AT), Drivetrain (AWD system, differentials, driveshafts), Suspension (front, rear, alignment), Steering system, Brake system (ABS, EBD), Electrical system (wiring diagrams, component testing), HVAC system, Body and interior, Body electronics, Safety systems (SRS airbag), Diagnostic procedures, Troubleshooting guides.
Engine Control Modules ECM:
Detailed troubleshooting and diagnostic procedures for engine control modules, including sensor inputs, actuator outputs, and communication protocols (OBD-II).
Body And Interior Trim Removal:
Detailed diagrams and instructions for removing and reinstalling interior panels, dashboard components, door trims, and exterior body panels for access and repair.
HVAC System:
Detailed repair and maintenance for the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, including refrigerant handling, blower motor, heater core, and A/C compressor.
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, scheduled maintenance, engine overhaul and rebuilding, transmission repair and overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake system servicing, electrical diagnostics, HVAC system repair, body panel repair and replacement, safety system calibration, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation and resolution, torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities and types, component testing and replacement, wiring harness repair, emission control system diagnosis.
Fuel Pump Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for fuel pump and fuel filter replacement, including safety precautions for working with the fuel system.
Turbocharger System Diagnosis:
Specific sections dedicated to diagnosing turbocharger issues, including boost leaks, wastegate problems, and lubrication.
Airbag System Service:
Information on SRS airbag system components, diagnostic procedures for airbag warning lights, and safety precautions for working around airbag modules.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic flowcharts and wiring schematics.
Diagnostic Trouble Codes DTC:
Comprehensive lists of OBD-II DTCs relevant to the Subaru Impreza, with detailed explanations of causes, symptoms, and diagnostic procedures for each code.
Wiring Diagrams:
Full color, detailed wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, including engine, chassis, body, and accessories, allowing for accurate troubleshooting of electrical faults.
Engine Options:
Naturally aspirated EJ20 SOHC/DOHC (2.0L) and EJ25 SOHC/DOHC (2.5L) boxer engines. Turbocharged EJ205 (WRX) and EJ207/EJ257 (STi) boxer engines.
Na Engine Performance Range:
Approx. 138-173 hp and 130-170 lb-ft torque (depending on engine and market).
Turbo Engine Performance Range:
WRX: Approx. 227-250 hp. STi: Approx. 300-320 hp.
Fuel System Type:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) or Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI), typically with electronic throttle control on later models.
Fuel Requirement:
Unleaded gasoline. Premium unleaded (91+ octane) recommended or required for turbocharged models.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2510 mm (98.8 in) for Sedan; 2525 mm (99.4 in) for Wagon.
Length:
Approx. 4405-4415 mm (173.4-173.8 in) for Sedan; 4465 mm (175.8 in) for Wagon.
Width:
Approx. 1700-1740 mm (66.9-68.5 in) depending on trim/body style.
Height:
Approx. 1440-1465 mm (56.7-57.7 in) for Sedan; 1485-1510 mm (58.5-59.4 in) for Wagon.
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 1300-1550 kg (2866-3417 lbs) depending on configuration.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Varies by model, typically around 1850 kg (4079 lbs).
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
5-Star (driver and passenger) for models equipped with side airbags (depending on specific build date and equipment).
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
'Good' for models tested with side airbags.
Active Safety Features:
Four-wheel disc brakes, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS) on some models, Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) on higher trims and later models.
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, optional front side-impact airbags, optional front and rear side curtain airbags, front seatbelt pretensioners, LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Severe conditions may require more frequent changes (e.g., 3,000 miles).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Typically every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km) or as needed based on driving environment.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Iridium spark plugs: 60,000 - 105,000 miles (96,000 - 168,000 km). Platinum plugs: shorter intervals.
Timing Belt Replacement:
For models with timing belts (EJ25 SOHC, EJ20 SOHC/DOHC): 60,000 - 105,000 miles (96,000 - 168,000 km) or every 7-10 years. Check specific model/engine. WRX models often use timing chains or have specific intervals.
Brake Fluid Change:
Recommended every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km) due to hygroscopic nature of brake fluid.
Coolant Flush Replacement:
Initially at 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 5 years, then every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 2 years thereafter, depending on coolant type. Always use Subaru Super Coolant or equivalent.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic is common. Check owner's manual for exact viscosity based on climate. API Service SM or higher.
Coolant Specification:
Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant (typically ethylene glycol based).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil or equivalent SAE 75W-90 GL-5.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Subaru ATF HP (High Performance) or equivalent Dexron-III/Mercon compatible fluid.
Differential Fluid Front Rear:
SAE 75W-90 GL-5 for front and rear differentials. Subaru Extra-S is recommended.
Common Issues Engine:
Head gasket leaks (especially on EJ25 SOHC engines), piston ring wear/oil consumption (especially on EJ25), turbocharger failure (WRX/STi), oil leaks from valve covers and oil pump. Ringland failure in high-performance WRX/STi models under heavy load/abuse.
Common Issues Suspension Steering:
Worn front control arm bushings, worn sway bar end links, premature wheel bearing failure.
Common Issues Brakes:
Warped front rotors (especially on WRX/STi), premature wear of brake pads.
Common Issues Electrical:
Faulty mass airflow sensor (MAF), failing evaporative emission control (EVAP) system components, intermittent issues with power window regulators.
Brand Heritage:
Subaru, a division of Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries), has a long history of producing reliable vehicles known for their engineering, particularly their adoption of the boxer engine and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.
Model Evolution:
The second-generation Impreza (GD/GG) was introduced in 2000 and received a significant facelift in 2003, which included revised styling (especially the controversial 'bug-eye' to more conventional headlights), interior updates, and chassis enhancements. The 2005-2007 models represent the final years of this generation.
Production Locations:
Primary production in Gunma Prefecture, Japan. Also assembled in other locations globally depending on market.