Chassis Codes Covered:
First Generation Impreza (GC/GF/GM), including Outback variants. Specific chassis codes may vary by market and year (e.g., GF8 for wagon, GC8 for sedan).
Engine Codes Covered:
EJ Series (EJ15, EJ16, EJ18, EJ20, EJ22). Specific engines depend on market and trim level.
Segment:
Compact Crossover / All-Wheel Drive Wagon. The Impreza Outback was a variant of the standard Impreza, elevated for increased ground clearance and more rugged styling, targeting an active lifestyle market.
Competitors:
Competed with models like the Toyota Corolla All-Trac/Trekker, Honda Civic Wagon AWD, and early crossover SUVs.
Subaru Strengths:
Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, boxer engine for low center of gravity, practicality of a wagon form factor.
Primary Coverage:
Comprehensive factory service and repair for the Subaru Impreza Outback.
Secondary Coverage:
Includes routine maintenance, troubleshooting, diagnostics, and complete repair procedures.
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive; typical factory service manuals for this era and coverage scope can range from 1000-2500+ pages, depending on included variants and detail level.
Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual
Language:
English (typical for international distribution, can vary if specified otherwise)
Format:
Digital Download (PDF implied by description), allowing access on computer, tablet, or smartphone.
Powertrain:
Engine (mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions), Transmission (manual and automatic), Drivetrain (All-Wheel Drive system, differentials, axles, driveshafts).
Chassis And Body:
Suspension (front and rear), Steering, Brakes (hydraulic, ABS if equipped), Wheels and Tires, Body and Frame (construction, panels, trim, doors, windows, glass), Exterior Accessories (roof rails, bumpers).
Electrical And Electronics:
Wiring diagrams, Charging system, Starting system, Lighting, Instrumentation, HVAC controls, Audio system, Power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), ECU/ECM diagnosis and repair, Sensor systems.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes (oil, coolant, transmission, brake, power steering), filter replacements, inspections.
Repair:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake system repairs, electrical component troubleshooting and replacement, body panel repair and replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common problems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation (OBD-I for most of this period), symptom-based diagnostics, component testing procedures.
Depth:
Professional-level detail, including torque specifications, clearances, alignment procedures, electrical schematics, and component-specific diagnostic trees. Suitable for experienced DIYers and professional technicians.
Digital Format Details:
Likely PDF, designed for electronic viewing. Searchable text functionality is a significant benefit if present.
Print Readability:
High quality, clear diagrams and text for easy interpretation.
Binding Type:
Not applicable for digital download. Original factory manuals were typically bound.
Paper Quality:
Not applicable for digital download. Original factory manuals used durable paper stock.
Engine Type:
Horizontally Opposed (Boxer), Naturally Aspirated
Displacement Options:
1.5L (EJ15), 1.6L (EJ16), 1.8L (EJ18), 2.0L (EJ20), 2.2L (EJ22). Specific availability varied significantly by market and model year.
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 90-135 hp, depending on engine displacement and tuning.
Torque Range:
Approximately 95-135 lb-ft, depending on engine displacement.
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual Transmission with All-Wheel Drive
Optional Transmission:
4-speed Automatic Transmission with All-Wheel Drive (Active AWD or full-time AWD depending on year/market)
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. Configurations varied, including viscous coupling center differentials and electronic control systems in later models.
Body Styles:
5-door Wagon (Outback variant)
Ground Clearance:
Elevated compared to standard Impreza, typically around 7-8 inches (178-203 mm), facilitating light off-road use.
Curb Weight Range:
Approximately 2,700-3,000 lbs (1,225-1,360 kg), depending on engine, transmission, and trim.
Crash Test Ratings:
Varies by specific year and testing agency. Early 90s vehicles generally had less stringent testing than modern standards. Frontal impact data is most relevant.
Active Safety:
All-Wheel Drive system for enhanced traction, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) often optional or standard on higher trims.
Passive Safety:
Driver and passenger airbags (driver standard, passenger optional/standard later), reinforced safety cell, crumple zones, side-impact door beams.
Audio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM/Cassette or CD players. Basic analog controls. Manual will cover removal and installation.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) availability varied; if equipped, the manual will detail its operation and troubleshooting.
OBD Standard:
Primarily OBD-I, with diagnostic codes accessed via specific connectors and a jumper or scanner. The manual will be crucial for interpreting these codes.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used. Check manual for exact specification.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for EJ engines. Intervals are typically around 60,000-100,000 miles (100,000-160,000 km). Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage. This manual will detail the procedure and recommended intervals.
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity (e.g., 5W-30, 10W-30, 10W-40) and API service classification. Use of synthetic or semi-synthetic oil is often recommended.
Coolant:
Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent. Capacity around 5-7 quarts (4.7-6.6 liters). Check manual for exact type and capacity.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-5 gear oil, typically 75W-90. Capacity around 2.0-2.5 quarts (1.9-2.4 liters).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron-III or equivalent. Capacity around 3-4 quarts (2.8-3.8 liters) for a fluid change; higher for a complete overhaul.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Head Gaskets:
While EJ22 engines are generally more robust, head gasket leaks can occur on EJ18 and EJ20 engines. This manual will provide diagnostic and repair procedures.
Oil Leaks:
Common leak points include valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and front/rear main seals. Detailed procedures for replacement will be in the manual.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings, ball joints, and struts can wear over time, especially with off-road use. The manual will specify inspection and replacement procedures.
Subaru Specialties:
Subaru is renowned for its boxer engines and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, often associated with reliability and capability in adverse weather conditions.
Impreza Origins:
The Impreza was introduced in 1992 as Subaru's compact car offering, replacing the Leone. The Outback variant debuted later in the first generation to expand its market appeal.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Gunma, Japan.
Segment Popularity:
The Impreza line, particularly with its AWD capabilities, gained a loyal following for its practicality and performance in challenging conditions.
Long Term Value:
Subaru vehicles of this era are often praised for their longevity and ability to be maintained with proper care, making a comprehensive manual invaluable.
