🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Impreza

Generation:

First Generation (GC/GF/GM)

Model Years Covered:

1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002

Chassis Codes:

GC (Sedan), GF (Wagon), GM (Coupe)

Platform:

Subaru Global Platform (precursor to modern platform)

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Compact car, known for its rally heritage and AWD capability, appealing to enthusiasts and practical drivers alike.

Key Competitors:

Mitsubishi Lancer, Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, Mazda Protegé, Ford Focus.

Vehicle Highlights:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD), sporty handling, practical hatchback and sedan body styles, robust engine options (especially the turbo WRX).

Manual Value Proposition:

Extremely high value for DIY mechanics and owners wanting to maintain or repair their vehicle cost-effectively. Covers a wide range of models and systems, making it a one-stop shop.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Summary:

Comprehensive service and repair for all listed Subaru Impreza trims and model years.

Trim Levels Covered:

L, Outback, OBS (Outback Sport), WRX, 2.5RS, Brighton.

Estimated Page Count:

Detailed and extensive, likely exceeding 1000 pages (typical for factory service manuals of this era).

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, emissions, turbocharging (WRX), intercooling (WRX).

Drivetrain Systems:

Clutch, manual transmission, automatic transmission, center differential, rear differential, AWD system, DCCD (Driver's Control Center Differential) for WRX models.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, steering rack, power steering system.

Braking Systems:

Brake system diagnosis, hydraulic components, brake pads, rotors, calipers, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System).

Electrical Systems:

Wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, accessories, ECU (Engine Control Unit) and sensor wiring.

Body Chassis:

Body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), chassis components.

HVAC System:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis, component replacement (compressor, condenser, heater core), refrigerant handling (with safety precautions).

Dashboard Gauges:

Operation, troubleshooting, and potential repair of instrument cluster components and warning lights.

Key Fob Programming:

Procedure for programming keyless entry fobs (if equipped).

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid level checks and changes, belt inspections and replacements, brake pad/rotor service, tire rotation.

Repair Procedures:

Engine component overhaul (e.g., cylinder head, pistons), transmission rebuild, clutch replacement, suspension component replacement, brake caliper overhaul, radiator replacement, turbocharger service.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting common faults, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor testing, electrical circuit diagnosis, fuel system pressure testing.

Emission Controls:

Details on emission control systems, catalytic converters, EGR valves, oxygen sensors, and related diagnostic procedures.

Body And Paint:

Some basic body panel alignment, door adjustments, and potentially interior trim removal/installation procedures.

Wheel Alignment:

Specifications and procedures for wheel alignment (caster, camber, toe) for all models.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic preventative maintenance to advanced engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed wiring diagrams and component specifications.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable for efficient information retrieval.

Printability:

Printable for physical reference.

Image Resolution:

High resolution, suitable for clear viewing of diagrams and text.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Common Engines:

EJ22 (2.2L SOHC), EJ25D (2.5L DOHC SOHC), EJ251/EJ253 (2.5L SOHC - later models), EJ20G/EJ20K/EJ205 (2.0L DOHC Turbocharged - WRX).

Horsepower Range:

Approx. 110 hp (2.2L) to 215 hp (WRX STI variants of this era, though WRX models in this manual are typically around 200-215 hp).

Torque Range:

Approx. 130 lb-ft (2.2L) to 215 lb-ft (WRX).

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with multi-point injection.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (91 octane recommended for WRX models).

Turbocharged Variants:

WRX models feature turbocharged EJ20 engines with intercoolers for enhanced performance.

Popular Engine Codes:

EJ22E, EJ25D, EJ251, EJ20G, EJ20K, EJ205

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission:

4-speed Automatic Transmission

Drivetrain Layout:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) standard on most models, with viscous coupling center differential.

AWD System Details:

Active Torque Split AWD (on some automatics) or viscous-coupling center differential (manuals). WRX models feature more performance-oriented AWD and DCCD.

Dccd Operation:

Driver-controlled center differential on select performance WRX models, allowing adjustment of front-to-rear torque split.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

2-door Coupe, 4-door Sedan, 5-door Wagon

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 2700 - 3100 lbs (depending on body style and drivetrain).

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Varied by year and testing protocols. Early models generally had lower safety ratings compared to modern standards. The manual will detail specific crash test data available at the time.

Active Safety Features:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available on many models, particularly higher trims and WRX variants. Standard AWD contributes to active safety in poor weather.

Passive Safety Features:

Driver and front passenger airbags, three-point seatbelts, reinforced safety cage construction.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Systems:

Basic AM/FM/Cassette or CD players. Optional premium audio systems. No advanced infotainment like touchscreens or navigation available from factory in this generation.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by modern standards. Primarily ABS on some models. Focus is on mechanical and AWD system performance.

Connectivity Options:

No factory Bluetooth or USB connectivity. Aftermarket head unit installation is common for modern connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,750 to 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions. Consult manual for specific recommendations.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial for EJ engines. Recommended replacement interval is typically around 90,000 to 105,000 miles or 7 years. The manual will provide the exact interval and procedure.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Manual transmissions: inspect fluid at 30k miles, change as needed. Automatics: typically every 30,000-60,000 miles. AWD/differential fluids: inspect and potentially change at similar intervals.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or SH rated, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 viscosity is common. WRX models may recommend synthetic 5W-30 or 5W-40. Specifics in manual.

Coolant Type:

Subaru Genuine Coolant or equivalent silicate-free, ethylene glycol-based coolant. Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-5 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 viscosity is common.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Subaru ATF-HP or equivalent DEXRON II/III compatible fluid. Manual specifies exact type.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid orDexron II/III ATF.

Clutch Fluid Type:

DOT 3 brake fluid for hydraulic clutch systems.

Head Gasket Failures:

Certain EJ25 engines (especially the EJ25D) are prone to head gasket failure. The manual will detail inspection and repair procedures for this common issue.

Oil Consumption:

Some EJ engines can experience increased oil consumption, especially as they age. The manual addresses diagnosing and managing this.

Turbo Failure Wrx:

Improper maintenance, oil starvation, or excessive heat can lead to turbocharger failure on WRX models. The manual covers turbo inspection and replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Identity:

Subaru is renowned for its horizontally opposed (boxer) engines and its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, a philosophy of reliability and performance.

Impreza Introduction:

The first generation Impreza (GC/GF/GM) debuted in 1992 in Japan and 1993 in North America, replacing the Subaru Leone. It was designed to compete in the compact segment with a focus on AWD and rally performance.

Wrx Significance:

The WRX (World Rally eXperimental) variant, launched in 1992 in Japan, brought turbocharged performance and rally-bred technology to the Impreza platform, establishing its performance credentials.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Japan (Gunma Plant).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Rally Heritage:

The Impreza platform, particularly the WRX, has a storied history in motorsports, including multiple World Rally Championship (WRC) manufacturer and driver titles, which influenced its market perception.

Car And Driver 10Best:

Certain Impreza models, especially WRX variants, were recognized by automotive publications like Car and Driver for their performance and value.