🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Impreza

Model Generation:

First Generation (GC/GF/GM)

Model Years Covered:

1997, 1998

Platform Chassis Code:

GC (coupe), GF (wagon), GM (sedan)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Car

Key Selling Points:

Standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD) on most models, rally heritage, practical hatchback/sedan/coupe options, durable Boxer engine.

Primary Competitors:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mitsubishi Lancer, Ford Focus

Distinguishing Features:

Subaru's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, horizontally opposed Boxer engine layout, agile handling characteristics.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Complete Service Workshop Repair Manual

Trim Levels Covered:

All US Market Trim Levels (e.g., RS, Outback Sport, Base Sedan/Wagon)

Estimated Pages:

Approximately 1500-2000 (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed diagnostics, overhaul, cooling system, fuel system, ignition system, lubrication system, emissions control, engine mechanicals (short block, cylinder head, timing belt replacement)

Transmission:

Manual and Automatic transmissions: Overhaul, clutch service, gear shift mechanisms, torque converter, transmission fluid service, diagnosis.

Drivetrain:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system diagnosis and repair, front and rear differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, propeller shaft, viscous coupling unit.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components: Struts, springs, control arms, ball joints, bushings, sway bars, wheel alignment procedures and specifications.

Brakes:

Hydraulic brake system: Master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, rotors, brake pads, anti-lock braking system (ABS) components and diagnosis, parking brake.

Steering:

Power steering system: Pump, rack and pinion, steering column, tie rods, diagnosis and repair procedures.

Electrical:

Complete wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (alternator, starter), lighting system, instrument cluster, power windows, mirrors, door locks, fuse box, relays, ECU diagnostics.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system: Compressor, refrigerant service, blower motor, heater core, AC lines, diagnosis.

Body:

Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass replacement, rust prevention and repair guidelines.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance procedures: Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, timing belt replacement intervals, brake fluid flush, coolant flush.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for engine, transmission, electrical, and other systems.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair.

Installation:

Installation procedures for replacement parts and components.

Torque Specifications:

Comprehensive list of torque specifications for all fasteners across all systems.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Advanced diagnostics, including OBD-II system information, sensor readings, and troubleshooting for engine control module (ECM) related issues.

Rebuild Procedures:

Full engine and transmission rebuild procedures with detailed specifications and tolerances.

Electrical Diagrams:

Detailed, high-resolution wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, crucial for electrical diagnostics and repairs.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Fully searchable text content for quick information retrieval.

Print Readability:

High resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual.

Print Binding Suggestion:

Spiral binding recommended for lay-flat usability in a workshop environment.

Print Paper Recommendation:

Durable, matte finish paper to minimize glare and withstand workshop conditions.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Common:

EJ22, EJ25D

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated, Horizontally Opposed (Boxer) 4-Cylinder

Displacement Common:

2.2 Liters (EJ22), 2.5 Liters (EJ25D)

Horsepower Ej22:

Approximately 135 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque Ej22:

Approximately 135 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Horsepower Ej25D:

Approximately 165 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque Ej25D:

Approximately 162 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane minimum recommended)

Engine Cooling:

Liquid-cooled

Engine Position:

Front-mounted, longitudinally oriented

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission Options:

5-speed manual

Automatic Transmission Options:

4-speed automatic

Drivetrain Type:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) standard on most models

AWD Transfer Case:

Viscous coupling center differential

Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (or specified by Subaru)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:

Subaru ATF HP (or Dexron III equivalent, check manual for exact specs)

📐 Dimensions

Length Sedan:

Approx. 172.4 inches

Width:

Approx. 66.7 inches

Height:

Approx. 54.9 inches

Wheelbase:

Approx. 99.9 inches

Curb Weight Approx Manual:

Around 2800 - 3000 lbs (varies by body style and trim)

Curb Weight Approx Automatic:

Around 2900 - 3100 lbs (varies by body style and trim)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

4 Stars (for sedan models)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

4 Stars (for sedan models)

NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:

4 Stars (for sedan models)

IIHS Moderate Overlap Frontal Offset:

Acceptable (for models tested)

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available/standard on some trims

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags

Seatbelts:

Front three-point pretensioner seatbelts, rear three-point seatbelts

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional cassette player, basic speaker systems.

Display Features:

Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, and temperature. Basic warning lights.

Cruise Control:

Available on higher trim levels.

Auxiliary Inputs:

Not typically available from the factory for this model year.

Immobilizer:

Not standard on all models.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe duty) / 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal duty) - check manual for specific details based on driving conditions.

Timing Belt Replacement Interval:

Every 90,000 to 105,000 miles or 7 years, whichever comes first (critical maintenance item for EJ engines).

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 30,000 miles or 2 years

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or SH, ILSAC GF-1 (or higher), SAE 5W-30 recommended for most climates.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 U.S. quarts (with filter) for EJ22/EJ25D

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Head Gaskets:

While not as prevalent as in later generations, early EJ25D engines are known for potential head gasket leaks, especially if overheated or poorly maintained. The manual will detail inspection and replacement.

Oil Leaks:

Common areas for minor oil leaks include valve cover gaskets and oil pan gaskets due to age and mileage. Procedures for inspection and sealing are covered.

Rear Main Seal:

The rear main crankshaft seal can also develop leaks over time; manual provides replacement steps.

Cv Axle Boots:

Torn CV axle boots are common and can lead to joint failure if not addressed promptly. Manual covers inspection and replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Origin:

Japanese automaker founded in 1953, known for its Boxer engines and All-Wheel Drive systems.

Impreza Introduction:

First generation launched in 1992 in Japan, introduced to North America for the 1995 model year.

First Gen Updates:

The 1997-1998 models represent a refresh of the first generation, with updated styling and feature enhancements over earlier models.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The Subaru Impreza WRX variant (introduced later in the generation) was recognized by Car and Driver, highlighting the model's sporty potential.

Rally Dominance:

The Impreza platform, particularly the WRX STI variants, achieved significant success in World Rally Championship (WRC) during this era, cementing its performance image.

Used Car Value:

Generally holds good resale value due to its AWD system and Subaru's reputation for reliability.