🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Impreza

Model Generation:

First Generation (GC/GF/GM)

Model Years Covered:

1997, 1998

Chassis Codes:

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

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Subaru Impreza of this era was positioned as a compact car offering exceptional all-wheel-drive capability, sporty handling, and practical utility, appealing to enthusiasts and those seeking reliable transportation in various weather conditions. It competed with vehicles like the Mitsubishi Lancer, Honda Civic, and Toyota Corolla, often differentiating itself with its standard AWD and performance variants (WRX).

Competitive Analysis:

While competitors often focused on fuel efficiency and mainstream comfort, the Impreza carved a niche with its rally-bred heritage and symmetrical all-wheel-drive system. This manual caters to owners who value the mechanical integrity and performance potential of their Impreza, often undertaking DIY maintenance and modifications.

Key Features:

The 1997-1998 Impreza is notable for its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system across most trims, available turbocharged engines in performance variants (e.g., WRX/STi in some markets, though the US primarily got naturally aspirated variants for these years), and a robust chassis designed for dynamic handling. This manual provides the definitive guide to understanding and maintaining these core features.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All components and systems for the 1997-1998 Subaru Impreza, including engine, transmission, drivetrain, suspension, steering, brakes, electrical, HVAC, body, and interior. Covers all trim levels and engine variants offered in these model years.

Page Count:

Approximately 1500-2000 pages (estimated for a comprehensive factory-level service manual).

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical (EJ22, EJ25D, EJ20G/K), Engine Control System (ECU, Sensors, Actuators), Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Ignition System, Drivetrain (AWD, LSD), Manual Transmission (5MT), Automatic Transmission (4AT), Clutch System, Suspension (Front MacPherson Struts, Rear Multi-link), Steering System (Power Steering), Brake System (Front Ventilated Discs, Rear Discs/Drums), ABS System, Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Fuses, Relays), Lighting, Climate Control (HVAC), Body & Interior, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS/Airbags), Body Electrical.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance (oil change, filter replacement, tune-up), component removal and installation, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting charts, electrical system diagnostics, wiring harness repair, engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, brake system bleeding and repair, suspension alignment and component replacement, steering system repair, HVAC system service, body panel repair, airbag system safety precautions and service.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic maintenance and fluid checks to in-depth component diagnostics, repair procedures, and complete system overhauls. Includes torque specifications, electrical schematics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and component testing procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Searchable PDF, optimized for digital viewing and printing.

Print Quality:

High-resolution, clear diagrams and text for easy readability.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

Subaru EJ22 SOHC Flat-4 (Naturally Aspirated)

Engine Variants:

EJ25D DOHC (Naturally Aspirated, Phase 1), EJ20G/K DOHC Turbocharged (Limited Market Availability)

Horsepower Ej22:

123 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque Ej22:

137 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Horsepower Ej25D:

165 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque Ej25D:

166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel System:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane minimum recommended)

Engine Codes Ej22:

EJ22E

Engine Codes Ej25D:

EJ25D

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transmission (5MT)

Optional Transmission:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (4AT)

Drivetrain Layout:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) standard on most trims.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil (refer to specific Subaru specs for capacity and type).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Subaru ATF-HP or equivalent (refer to specific Subaru specs for capacity and type).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 99.9 inches (2538 mm)

Length:

Sedan: Approx. 174.6 inches (4435 mm); Wagon: Approx. 175.8 inches (4465 mm)

Width:

Approx. 66.7 inches (1694 mm)

Height:

Sedan: Approx. 54.1 inches (1374 mm); Wagon: Approx. 55.5 inches (1410 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2700-3000 lbs (1225-1360 kg), varies by trim and body style.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Refer to vehicle's compliance plate for specific GVWR.

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x100mm

Wheel Size:

Typically 15 or 16 inches

Tire Size:

Commonly 195/60R15 or 205/50R16, varies by trim.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Crash Test Ratings:

Information for this specific model year's crash test ratings may be limited in public archives, but generally, vehicles of this era received moderate ratings. The manual will provide details on SRS components and safety system design.

Active Safety Features:

Standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD), optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags (driver and passenger), 3-point seatbelts with pretensioners, crumple zones, side impact protection beams.

Srs System Precautions:

The manual details critical safety procedures for working with the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) to prevent accidental deployment. It outlines component locations, diagnostic procedures for airbag warning lights, and replacement guidelines.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette player or CD player (optional). Manual covers basic electrical connections and speaker replacement procedures.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited to ABS (optional). No advanced electronic driver aids were common in this era.

Connectivity Features:

No integrated Bluetooth or USB connectivity. Manual covers radio wiring for aftermarket head unit installation.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, using recommended oil and filter.

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 60,000 miles for platinum-tipped plugs (if equipped), or consult manual for other types.

Coolant Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles or 2 years, using Subaru Super Coolant or equivalent.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Critical: Every 60,000 miles or 5 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.

Engine Oil Type And Capacity Ej22:

SAE 5W-30, approx. 4.4 US quarts (4.2 L) with filter change.

Engine Oil Type And Capacity Ej25D:

SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30, approx. 4.8 US quarts (4.5 L) with filter change.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron II or equivalent.

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or compatible ethylene glycol-based coolant with de-ionized water (50/50 mix).

Known Issues:

Head gasket leaks (particularly on EJ25D phase 1 engines), oil leaks from valve covers and oil pan, alternator failure, A/C compressor issues, timing belt component wear, catalytic converter failure, wheel bearing wear. The manual provides diagnostic and repair procedures for all these common issues.

Oil Filter Part Number:

Commonly Subaru 15208AA031, or equivalent aftermarket (e.g., Purolator PBL10015, Fram PH7317).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Subaru, a division of Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries), has a long history in aviation and automotive manufacturing. Known for its engineering prowess, particularly in boxer engines and all-wheel-drive systems, Subaru has cultivated a loyal following for its durable and capable vehicles.

Model Evolution:

The first generation Impreza (GC/GF/GM) was introduced globally in 1992. The 1997-1998 models represent a mid-cycle facelift for this generation, receiving updated styling (e.g., new headlights, grille, bumpers) and revised interior elements. This period also saw the emergence of the iconic WRX performance variant in many markets, although the US received primarily naturally aspirated models during these specific years.

Production Years First Gen:

1992-2000

Production Locations:

Primarily Japan (Gunma Plant).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 1997-1998 Impreza may not be widely documented, Subaru vehicles of this generation were generally praised for their all-wheel-drive performance, reliability, and value. The Impreza platform, especially the WRX variant, gained significant recognition in motorsport, particularly in the World Rally Championship, influencing the perception of the model's capabilities.