Segment:
Compact/Small Family Car, Rally Sport Heritage
Competitors 1992-1995:
Mitsubishi Lancer, Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, Nissan Sentra, Ford Escort, Mazda Protege
All Wheel Drive:
Iconic Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system was a major differentiator, especially in higher trims.
Rally Heritage:
Direct lineage from Subaru's successful World Rally Championship program, particularly the WRX (though WRX wasn't directly sold in North America for these years, the DNA was present).
Durability:
Known for robust engineering and Boxer engine reliability.
Engine Service:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions, engine electrical systems
Transmission Service:
Manual transmission (5-speed), Automatic transmission (4-speed), clutch, driveline, AWD system (VTD/Viscous Coupling)
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension (MacPherson strut front, multi-link rear), steering system, power steering
Brake System:
Front and rear brakes (disc/drum, optional 4-wheel disc), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) if equipped
Electrical System:
Charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, body electrical, wiring diagrams
Body Chassis:
Body structure, exterior trim, interior trim, seats, HVAC system, body hardware
Maintenance:
Regular scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tune-ups
Repair:
Component removal and installation, engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake system repairs, electrical diagnostics
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, common problems and solutions, symptom-based troubleshooting
Diagnostics:
OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics I) procedures, sensor testing, ECU troubleshooting
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic fluid checks and filter replacements to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed torque specifications and clearances.
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable PDF, allowing quick access to specific topics.
Resolution:
High-resolution scans or original digital files, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text.
Binding:
N/A (for digital format). If printed, typically spiral-bound or perfect-bound for lay-flat usability.
Paper Quality:
N/A (for digital format). Original manuals often printed on durable, coated paper.
Engine Code Common:
EJ22E
Engine Type:
2.2L SOHC Naturally Aspirated Boxer-4 (EJ22)
Horsepower Ej22:
Approximately 110-115 hp @ 5000-5200 rpm
Torque Ej22:
Approximately 130-137 lb-ft @ 2800-3600 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Engine Options North America:
Primarily 2.2L (EJ22). Some markets or later models might have had a 1.6L or 2.0L. Turbocharged EJ20G/EJ20K models were not standard in the US market for these years but were present in performance variants globally.
Bore X Stroke Ej22:
96.9 mm x 75.0 mm
Compression Ratio Ej22:
9.5:1
Valve Train Ej22:
SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual
Optional Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (with electronically controlled torque converter lock-up)
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive standard on most models, with variations like viscous coupling center differential or electronically managed active torque split depending on transmission and trim.
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated, single dry plate
Length Sedan:
Approx. 4,340 mm (170.9 in)
Width Overall:
Approx. 1,690 mm (66.5 in)
Height Sedan:
Approx. 1,405 mm (55.3 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,520 mm (99.2 in)
Curb Weight Est:
Approx. 1,200 - 1,350 kg (2645 - 2976 lbs), depending on trim and drivetrain
Cargo Volume Wagon Est:
Significantly larger than sedan due to wagon body style, with rear seats folded.
NHTSA Crash Test Results:
Specific ratings from this era are often unavailable or varied by region. Generally considered safe for its class, but modern standards are higher.
ABS:
Available on higher trims or as an option, typically 4-wheel ABS.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard on most models from '94/'95 onwards. Passenger airbag less common for early years.
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts, with pre-tensioners on front belts.
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM cassette player, optional CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim.
Cruise Control:
Available on most models, electronically controlled.
Auxiliary Ports:
No factory auxiliary or USB ports. Aftermarket solutions would be required.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 miles or 3 months for conventional oil, or 7,500 miles/6 months with synthetic oil (check manual for specific recommendations).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for EJ engines. Recommended interval is typically 60,000-100,000 miles or 5-7 years, depending on conditions. This manual would detail the procedure.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 30,000-60,000 miles depending on plug type (copper vs. platinum).
Engine Oil Type Ej22:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (consult manual for specific climate/temperature recommendations).
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (long-life blue coolant) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant. Manual would specify capacity.
Transmission Fluid Atf:
Dexron III or equivalent for automatic transmissions. Manual transmission fluid (e.g., 75W-90 GL-5) for manual gearboxes.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Head Gasket Leaks:
While less common on the EJ22 than later EJ engines, head gasket leaks can occur. This manual would detail inspection and replacement procedures.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and front/rear main seals are common areas for minor leaks over time.
Exhaust Component Corrosion:
Depending on climate, exhaust pipes, mufflers, and catalytic converters can be prone to rust.
Cv Axle Boots:
Torn CV axle boots can lead to premature wear of the constant velocity joints.
Subaru Legacy Connection:
Developed alongside the second-generation Subaru Legacy, sharing platform elements and the Boxer engine philosophy.
Launch Year:
Introduced globally in 1992 (Japan), 1995 (North America) as a replacement for the Subaru Leone/Loyale. The North American introduction was delayed.
Bodystyles:
Offered in Sedan (GC), Wagon (GF), and Coupe (GM) body styles. Sedan and Wagon were most common in North America.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (Gunma Plant)
