Vehicle Segment:
Compact Car
Key Selling Points:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on most models), rally heritage, durability, practicality (especially wagon variants).
Primary Competitors Era:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mitsubishi Lancer, Nissan Sentra, Ford Focus, Mazda Protege.
Powertrain Philosophy:
Subaru's Boxer engine design, rear-biased AWD system (often with viscous coupling or electronically controlled differentials).
Design Era Influences:
Refined 'bug eye' and subsequent 'dog eye' designs, early performance tuning potential, practical wagon body style.
Primary Coverage Regions:
Global (with potential regional variations noted)
Trim Levels Covered:
All trims including LX, Brighton, L, LS, Outback, WRX, WRX STI (non-US market focus on WRX/STI for certain years)
Estimated Page Count:
1500+
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual (FSM)
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, engine control systems (ECU/ECM), transmission (manual and automatic).
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, differentials (front, center, rear), driveshafts, axles, CV joints.
Suspension Steering Brakes:
Front suspension (MacPherson struts), rear suspension (Multi-link), steering system (power steering), braking system (front discs, rear drums/discs), ABS (where applicable).
Electrical Electronic:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, wipers, horn, power windows, central locking, ECU/ECM diagnostics, wiring diagrams for all circuits.
Body Chassis Interior:
Body panel removal and installation, doors, windows, seats, dashboard, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), interior trim, exterior trim, bumpers, chassis lubrication.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), tune-ups, belt replacement, spark plug replacement, brake pad replacement.
Repair Rebuild:
Engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, brake caliper rebuild, suspension component replacement, radiator replacement, starter motor replacement.
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation, circuit testing, performance troubleshooting.
Technical Specifications Data:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, clearance specifications, fluid capacities and types, electrical specifications, timing specifications.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic flowcharts and wiring diagrams.
Engine Codes Common:
EJ15, EJ16, EJ18, EJ20 (including EJ20G turbo), EJ22, EJ25 (naturally aspirated and turbocharged variations).
Naturally Aspirated Horsepower Range:
Approx. 90 hp (1.5L) to 140 hp (2.5L SOHC)
Turbocharged Horsepower Range:
Approx. 210 hp (WRX) to 280 hp (WRX STI - specific years/markets)
Torque Specifications Common:
Range from 100 lb-ft to 250 lb-ft depending on engine and aspiration.
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) or Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating varies by engine, higher for turbo models).
Layout:
Horizontally opposed (Boxer) 4-cylinder.
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Typically 90,000 - 105,000 miles or 105 months. Crucial for EJ engines.
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed Manual Transmission.
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (with electronically controlled torque converter).
AWD Integration:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system integrated with both manual and automatic transmissions. Viscous coupling center differential in most manual transmissions, electronically controlled clutch pack in automatics.
Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:
GL-5 Gear Oil (e.g., 75W-90, 80W-90). Refer to manual for exact viscosity and capacity.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:
Subaru ATF-HP or equivalent (e.g., Dexron II/III compatible if specified).
NHTSA Crash Test Results:
Varies by year and test. Early models generally had lower ratings compared to modern standards. Specific ratings available within the manual for individual year/model configurations.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on higher trims and later models.
AWD Traction Benefits:
Standard Symmetrical AWD provides enhanced traction and stability in various road conditions.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags standard. Side airbags available on some later models/trims.
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners for front belts.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette or CD players, with optional premium sound systems on higher trims.
Display Screens:
Basic analog gauges, basic LCD displays for odometer and trip computer.
Cruise Control:
Available on most models.
Traction Control:
Limited availability on some later models, primarily focused on AWD system management.
Connectivity Features:
Basic, with options for auxiliary input on later CD players. No Bluetooth or smartphone integration from the factory.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,750 - 7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used. Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or annually.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG/SH or higher, Viscosity 5W-30 or 10W-30 often recommended (check manual for specific engine variant).
Coolant Specification:
Subaru Super Coolant or equivalent silicate-free ethylene glycol coolant. 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Head Gasket Leaks:
Common issue on EJ25 engines, particularly the SOHC versions. The manual details inspection and replacement procedures.
Timing Belt Failure:
Critical to adhere to replacement intervals. Broken belts on EJ engines can cause catastrophic internal damage.
Oil Consumption:
Some EJ engines, particularly turbo variants and those with higher mileage, may consume oil. The manual provides diagnostic steps.
Clutch Wear:
Manual transmission clutches can wear over time, especially with spirited driving. The manual covers clutch inspection and replacement.
Subaru Heritage:
Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries) known for its engineering prowess, particularly in AWD and aircraft manufacturing.
First Generation Introduction:
Launched in 1992 as a replacement for the Subaru Leone.
Key Milestones:
Introduction of the high-performance WRX model (non-US market initially), Outback wagon variant for increased utility, various styling refreshes throughout its lifespan.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan (Gunma Prefecture).
Global Market Presence:
Successfully sold in North America, Europe, Australia, and Asia, becoming a key model for Subaru's global expansion.
Car And Driver 10Best:
The Impreza WRX variant received Car and Driver 10 Best honors in certain years (e.g., 2002 model year, though this manual covers up to 2001).
Safety Ratings General:
Generally considered a safe vehicle for its era, particularly with AWD, but modern safety standards are significantly higher. The manual is essential for understanding specific safety system maintenance.
Manufacturer Certification:
Official Factory Service Manual, indicating direct from Subaru engineering and repair departments.
