🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Impreza

Model Years Covered:

1992, 1993, 1994, 1995

Chassis Codes:

GC, GF, GM

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Subaru Impreza of this era established Subaru's reputation for all-wheel-drive capability and rally-inspired performance in the compact car segment.

Competitors:

Competed against vehicles like the Mitsubishi Lancer, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Ford Escort.

Distinguishing Features:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system across most trims, boxer engine layout, comfortable ride, durable construction.

Audience:

Professional technicians and knowledgeable DIY enthusiasts seeking in-depth repair and maintenance information.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Repair and Service

Secondary Coverage:

Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting

Estimated Page Count:

Over 1500

Type:

Repair Service Manual

Intended User:

Professional technicians; provides in-depth, precise information. Suitable for advanced DIYers.

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, piston, crankshaft, camshaft, timing belt, lubrication system, cooling system

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, fuel injection system, engine control module (ECM), sensors, starter motor, alternator

Transmission Manual:

Clutch, gearbox internals, shift linkage, maintenance

Transmission Automatic:

Gearbox assembly, torque converter, valve body, electronic controls, maintenance

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive, All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, differentials, driveshafts, CV joints

Suspension:

Front struts, rear shocks, control arms, bushings, stabilizer bars, wheel alignment

Steering:

Steering rack, power steering pump, steering column, tie rods

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear disc brakes, ABS system (if equipped), brake fluid, hydraulic lines, parking brake

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, lighting system, power windows, central locking, battery, fuses, relays

HVAC:

Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, climate controls, refrigerant

Body And Chassis:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, chassis lubrication

Fuel And Emissions:

Fuel delivery system, evaporative emissions control (EVAP), exhaust system, oxygen sensors, catalytic converter operation.

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, tune-ups

Repair Procedures:

Engine component replacement, transmission overhaul, suspension component repair, brake system repair, electrical component troubleshooting and replacement

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting common issues, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), component testing

Special Procedures:

Timing belt replacement, AWD system service, clutch replacement, engine removal and installation

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Detailed wiring diagrams for all major systems, component location charts, and diagnostic procedures for electrical faults.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls.

Detail Level:

Includes step-by-step instructions, torque specifications, diagrams, and wiring schematics.

Rebuild Instructions:

Likely includes complete rebuild procedures for major components such as the engine, transmission, and differentials.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable for keywords and components.

Quality:

High-resolution scans suitable for printing.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code And Type:

EJ22 (2.2L Naturally Aspirated Boxer-4), EJ18 (1.8L Naturally Aspirated Boxer-4 - less common in North America), EJ20 (2.0L Turbocharged Boxer-4 - WRX models, not typically covered in a general manual for this period).

Engine Configuration:

Horizontally-opposed (Boxer)

Bore X Stroke:

EJ22: 92.0 mm x 80.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

EJ22: 9.1:1

Valve Actuation:

Dual Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) for EJ20 Turbo, Single Overhead Camshaft (SOHC) for EJ22 Naturally Aspirated engines. The manual will detail specifications for both.

Horsepower Ej22:

Approximately 110 hp @ 5000 rpm

Torque Ej22:

Approximately 130 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Fuel Pump Pressure:

Typically around 35-45 psi

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Type:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

AWD Integration:

Integral part of the Symmetrical AWD system; manual transmission models typically feature a viscous coupling center differential, while automatics use a planetary gear center differential with a hydraulic clutch.

Manual Fluid Type:

API GL-4 gear oil, typically 75W-90 or 75W-85 viscosity.

Automatic Fluid Type:

Subaru Genuine ATF or equivalent (Dexron II/III compatible in some cases, but consult manual for exact spec).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 99.6 inches (2530 mm)

Length:

Approximately 167.5 inches (4255 mm)

Width:

Approximately 66.7 inches (1694 mm)

Height:

Approximately 56.5 inches (1435 mm)

Curb Weight:

Varies by trim and drivetrain, typically 2700-3000 lbs (1225-1360 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Not typically specified in detail for this era, but generally around 4000 lbs (1814 kg).

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

No specific 5-star ratings from NHTSA for this era due to testing protocols, but generally considered robust for its class.

Active Safety:

Standard Symmetrical AWD (enhances traction and stability), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - optional on some trims.

Passive Safety:

Driver and front passenger airbags, crumple zones, reinforced passenger safety cell.

Seat Belts:

Three-point front and rear seat belts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional CD player in later years. Limited integration by modern standards.

Assistance Features:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was optional on some models. No electronic stability control or advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) available.

Connectivity Options:

No factory Bluetooth or USB connectivity. Aftermarket head unit upgrades are common.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) depending on plug type (copper vs. platinum).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Critical: Typically every 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) or 5-7 years. Interference engine design means belt failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG, SH, or SJ certified. Viscosity: 5W-30 or 10W-30 typically recommended. Consult manual for exact ambient temperature recommendations.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a green type. Subaru recommends their Super Coolant or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Common Issues:

Head gasket leaks (especially on older EJ series engines, though less prevalent on EJ22 than EJ25), timing belt wear and failure, catalytic converter failure, minor oil leaks from seals and gaskets, suspension component wear (bushings, struts).

Idle Control Valve:

Can sometimes become dirty, leading to rough idle or stalling.

Oxygen Sensors:

Can degrade over time, affecting fuel economy and emissions.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Heritage:

Subaru, a division of Fuji Heavy Industries, has a long history of producing unique vehicles, including boxer engines and a strong emphasis on all-wheel-drive technology, stemming from their aerospace background.

First Generation Launch:

The Subaru Impreza was first introduced globally in 1992 as a replacement for the Subaru Leone. This first generation (GC/GF/GM) was designed to be a more modern and capable compact car.

Platform:

Shared its platform with the Subaru Legacy but was positioned as a smaller, more agile option.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Japan.

Performance Variants:

The later years of this generation saw the introduction of rally-inspired performance models like the WRX (not usually covered in standard service manuals but worth noting the lineage).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Awards:

The Subaru Impreza has historically been a frequent contender on Car and Driver's '10Best' list for various model years and generations, although this specific 1992-1995 generation might not have received the same level of acclaim as later WRX variants.

Consumer Reports:

Generally rated as average to above average for reliability for its era, with praise for its AWD system and durability.