🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Impreza

Year:

2001

Body Style:

Sedan, Coupe, Wagon (GF/GC/GDA/GDB chassis codes)

Chassis Codes:

GC8 (2-door coupe), GF8 (5-door wagon), GDA (4-door sedan WRX), GDB (4-door sedan WRX STI)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Subaru Impreza of this era was positioned as a compact car offering performance, all-wheel-drive capability, and rally-inspired heritage, often competing with models like the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Ford Focus SVT, and Volkswagen GTI. The WRX and WRX STI variants further solidified its performance niche.

Competitive Analysis:

Key selling points were Subaru's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system and the potent turbocharged boxer engines in the WRX/STI models, offering superior traction and handling in various conditions compared to many front-wheel-drive competitors. The manual provides critical information for maintaining these performance aspects.

Key Features:

The 2001 Impreza introduced revised styling and mechanical updates, making this manual essential for accurate service. This generation is known for its enthusiast following and rally heritage, requiring detailed technical knowledge for optimal performance and longevity.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

North America, Europe, Japan (with potential regional variations noted)

Page Count:

Hundreds (exact number not specified in product description, estimated 1000+ pages for comprehensive factory manual)

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual (Full Factory)

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable (Digital PDF format implied)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

EJ20, EJ25 naturally aspirated and turbocharged variants, including engine mechanical, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, ignition system, emissions control.

Transmission:

5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic transmission service and repair procedures.

Drivetrain:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system (DCCD on STI models), front and rear differentials, driveshafts, CV joints.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system, parking brake.

Suspension:

Front MacPherson struts, rear multi-link suspension, alignment specifications, shock absorber/strut replacement.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods.

Electrical:

Complete vehicle wiring diagrams, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system, lighting, instruments, power windows, locks, wipers, HVAC controls, ECU diagnosis.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, exterior trim, chassis repair, welding procedures, glass replacement.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system diagnosis and service (with crucial safety precautions).

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance tasks, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, timing belt inspection/replacement (critical for EJ engines).

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts for various systems, common fault diagnosis, OBD-II diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation and resolution.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle components, including engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake system repairs, electrical component diagnosis and replacement.

Overhaul:

Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures, including disassembly, inspection, component specifications, and reassembly.

Diagnostics:

Detailed diagnostic procedures for engine, transmission, ABS, SRS, and other electronic systems using factory scan tools and specialized equipment.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive and detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, designed for clear printing of text and diagrams.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Searchability:

Likely searchable text within PDF for quick information retrieval.

Navigability:

Hyperlinked table of contents and section navigation for ease of use.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Variants:

2.5L EJ25D (SOHC), 2.0L EJ20 (DOHC Turbocharged - WRX), 2.0L EJ20 (DOHC Turbocharged, intercooled - WRX STI)

Naturally Aspirated Power:

Approx. 165 hp @ 5600 rpm (EJ25D)

Naturally Aspirated Torque:

Approx. 166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (EJ25D)

Wrx Power:

Approx. 227 hp @ 6000 rpm (EJ20 Turbo)

Wrx Torque:

Approx. 217 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (EJ20 Turbo)

Sti Power:

Approx. 276 hp @ 6200 rpm (EJ20 Turbo - JDM/European spec)

Sti Torque:

Approx. 242 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (EJ20 Turbo - JDM/European spec)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended for turbo models)

ECU Type:

Engine Control Unit (ECU) with diagnostic capabilities, refer to manual for specific models and sensors.

Timing Belt Replacement Interval:

Recommended every 60,000 miles or 5 years (critical interval for EJ engines due to potential catastrophic failure).

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transmission (TY754/TY757 variants)

Optional Transmission:

4-speed Automatic Transmission

AWD System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with viscous coupling center differential. WRX STI models feature Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD).

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Subaru ExtraS (or equivalent GL-5 75W-90) for front and rear differentials and center differential. Specific fluid for DCCD systems on STI models.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Subaru ATF (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 173.4 in (Sedan), 174.6 in (Wagon)

Width:

Approx. 67.7 in

Height:

Approx. 54.5 in (Sedan), 55.9 in (Wagon)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 99.9 in

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2800 - 3200 lbs (depending on body style and drivetrain)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by model, refer to vehicle data plate.

Towing Capacity:

Not typically specified or recommended for this model generation.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

4/5 stars (Driver/Passenger)

NHTSA Side Impact:

Not rated for all models/configurations.

IIHS Front Offset:

Good (for models tested)

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on most trims, Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.

Passive Features:

Driver and front passenger airbags, side impact door beams, crumple zones.

Seatbelts:

Front 3-point pretensioner seatbelts, rear 3-point seatbelts.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Base models typically featured a 1-DIN or 2-DIN CD player with AM/FM radio. Higher trims might have premium sound systems.

Display:

Basic digital clock display for radio and climate controls. No integrated infotainment screens.

Driver Assistance:

Limited by modern standards. Primarily focused on ABS and the inherent stability of the AWD system. Cruise control available on many models.

Connectivity Options:

No integrated Bluetooth, USB, or smartphone connectivity. Auxiliary input might be present on some aftermarket head units.

Instrumentation:

Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, engine temperature. Warning lights for various systems. WRX/STI models feature additional gauges like boost pressure.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months (under severe conditions), or 7,500 miles or 7.5 months (under normal conditions).

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 15 months.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 15 months (if equipped).

Spark Plug Replacement:

105,000 miles (NGK Iridium or Platinum recommended).

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 (viscosity may vary based on climate, consult manual).

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Power Steering Fluid:

Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon).

Known Issues:

Head gasket leaks (especially on EJ25D), turbocharger failure (on WRX/STI models due to high performance and potential oil starvation), clutch wear, rear differential pinion seal leaks, catalytic converter failure, A/C system refrigerant leaks.

Timing Belt Concern:

Crucial to follow timing belt replacement intervals rigorously to avoid catastrophic engine damage. Check tensioner and idler pulleys during replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Subaru, a division of Subaru Corporation, has a long history of producing robust vehicles with a focus on unique engineering like the boxer engine and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. This heritage of performance and durability is evident in the Impreza.

Model Evolution:

The 2001 Impreza represents the second generation (GD/GG chassis) of the Impreza, which began production in late 2000. This generation saw significant design and engineering updates, including more aerodynamic styling and improved chassis rigidity. The WRX and STI variants became increasingly popular, cementing the Impreza's performance identity.

Production Years:

Globally, the second generation Impreza was produced from 2000 to 2007. The 2001 model year is early in this generation's lifecycle.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primary manufacturing was in Gunma, Japan.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 2001 model are scarce, Subaru Impreza models, particularly the WRX and STI variants, have consistently been recognized for their performance, handling, and rallying prowess throughout their production history.

Ratings:

Often lauded by automotive journalists for its rally heritage and AWD capability in its class.

Certifications:

N/A (No specific industry certifications mentioned for this manual).