Segment:
Compact/Subcompact Sedan, Coupe, and Wagon; known for its AWD system and rally heritage.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda Protege, Mitsubishi Lancer.
Distinguishing Features:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) across most trims, boxer engine configuration, sporty handling characteristics, especially in WRX variants.
Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, Subaru owners seeking to maintain and repair their vehicles.
Engine:
Detailed diagnosis, overhaul, timing belt replacement, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel delivery, emissions control (including EJ20 and EJ22 variants).
Transmission:
Manual (5-speed, 6-speed for WRX) and Automatic transmission diagnosis, overhaul, fluid service, and shift control.
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, front and rear differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, clutch assembly.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc), ABS troubleshooting, brake fluid flush, caliper and rotor replacement.
Suspension:
Front strut suspension, rear multi-link suspension, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, wheel alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack diagnosis and repair, tie rods.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system, ignition system, lighting, fuses, relays, power windows, power locks.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system diagnosis and repair, heater core, blower motor, climate control.
Body:
Body panel repair, interior trim removal, door mechanisms, glass replacement, underbody protection.
Emissions:
Catalytic converter, O2 sensors, EVAP system, EGR system diagnostics and repair.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and flushes, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, wiper blade replacement.
Diagnostics:
System troubleshooting, fault code interpretation (OBD-II), component testing procedures, diagnostic flowcharts.
Repair:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhaul, brake caliper rebuild, suspension component replacement, timing belt replacement, head gasket repair, radiator replacement.
Restoration:
Detailed steps for component refurbishment and restoration to original specifications.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical schematics and troubleshooting.
Engine Code:
EJ22E (Naturally Aspirated), EJ20G/EJ20K (Turbocharged for WRX/STI variants)
Configuration:
Horizontally-opposed (Boxer) 4-cylinder
Displacement Na:
2.2 Liters (2211 cc)
Displacement Turbo:
2.0 Liters (1994 cc)
Horsepower Na:
Approx. 135-140 hp @ 5600 rpm (EJ22E)
Torque Na:
Approx. 137-140 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (EJ22E)
Horsepower Turbo:
Approx. 215-250 hp @ 6000 rpm (EJ20G/K - varies by specific model/market)
Torque Turbo:
Approx. 200-240 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm (EJ20G/K - varies by specific model/market)
Induction:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
NHTSA Driver Side Impact:
Likely 4-star for driver (based on contemporary testing of similar vehicles).
NHTSA Passenger Side Impact:
Likely 4-star for passenger (based on contemporary testing of similar vehicles).
Anti Lock Brakes:
Optional ABS on many trims.
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags standard on most models.
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts with pretensioners, 3-point rear seatbelts.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), or 7,500 miles/12 months for synthetic oil.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 to 105,000 miles or 5-7 years, depending on driving conditions and engine variant. Crucial due to interference engine design.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Manual: Every 30,000-60,000 miles. Automatic: Every 30,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (check owner's manual for specific recommendations).
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (for differential and gearbox).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Subaru ATF-HP or Dexron III equivalent.
Head Gaskets:
While less prone than some later Subaru models, head gasket leaks can occur, particularly on higher-mileage EJ25 engines (though EJ22 and EJ20 are more robust).
Clutch Wear:
Clutch wear can be accelerated with aggressive driving or AWD system strain.
Cv Joint Boots:
Torn CV joint boots are common, leading to joint failure if not addressed promptly.
Rear Main Seal:
Rear main seal leaks can develop over time.
Subaru Heritage:
Founded in 1953, Subaru is known for its pioneering use of the boxer engine and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) systems.
First Generation Introduction:
The first generation Impreza (GC/GF) was introduced in 1992 in Japan, and globally later, replacing the Subaru Leone. This 1997 model falls within the first generation (1992-2000).
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (primarily Gunma Prefecture)
