🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Impreza

Years Covered:

1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001

Chassis Codes:

GC, GF, GM

Generation:

First Generation (Second Phase)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Car / Sport Compact

Brand Philosophy:

Subaru's reputation for symmetrical all-wheel drive, boxer engines, and rally heritage.

Key Competitors:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mitsubishi Lancer, Mazda Protege, Nissan Sentra.

Drivetrain Advantage:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) on most models, providing superior traction and stability.

Engine Layout:

Horizontally-opposed (Boxer) engine, offering a lower center of gravity and smoother operation.

Performance Variants:

Availability of performance-oriented WRX and STI models (though this manual primarily covers base Impreza variants).

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (likely PDF)

Estimated Page Count:

1500-2000+ (typical for a comprehensive factory service manual)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanics:

Engine overhaul, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valve train, timing belt/chain, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system (injection), ignition system, emission controls.

Transmission Drivetrain:

Manual transmission (all gears, clutch, linkages), automatic transmission (operation, fluid service, solenoids), transfer case, differential, driveshafts, CV joints, AWD system.

Suspension Steering:

Front suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints, bushings), rear suspension (multi-link, trailing arms, bushings), steering gear, power steering system, wheel alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), ABS system (components, diagnostics, bleeding), brake fluid, parking brake, hydraulic lines.

Electrical Electronics:

Wiring diagrams, fuse boxes, relays, battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter), lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), instrument panel, gauges, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), audio system, ECU/ECM diagnostics.

Body Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, glass, rust prevention, corrosion control, chassis lubrication.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system components, refrigerant service, blower motor, climate control panel.

Scheduled Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel, cabin), fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, brake inspection, spark plug replacement, timing belt replacement intervals.

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, circuit testing, component testing, common problem solutions.

Repair Overhaul:

Step-by-step instructions for engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair.

Installation Replacement:

Procedures for installing new parts, replacing worn components, fitting aftermarket accessories.

Diagnostic Tools:

Use of OBD-II scanners, multimeters, pressure gauges, specialized Subaru diagnostic equipment.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all critical fasteners, including engine, transmission, suspension, and wheel lug nuts.

Electrical Schematics:

Detailed wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, including component locations and wire colors.

Dimensional Data:

Specifications for alignments, component measurements, and tolerances.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable for efficient information retrieval.

Printability:

Printable pages for at-the-bench use.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution for clear diagrams and illustrations.

Digital Format:

N/A (Digital Download)

Digital Format:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

EJ22 (2.2L), EJ25 (2.5L SOHC and DOHC)

Displacement Liters:

2.2 L (2210 cc) and 2.5 L (2457 cc)

Cylinders:

4 (Horizontally Opposed Boxer)

Bore X Stroke:

2.2L: 96.9 mm x 75.0 mm; 2.5L SOHC: 99.5 mm x 79.0 mm; 2.5L DOHC (WRX): 99.5 mm x 79.0 mm (approximate)

Horsepower Hp:

2.2L: ~135 hp @ 5600 rpm; 2.5L SOHC: ~165 hp @ 5600 rpm; 2.5L DOHC Turbo (WRX): ~227 hp @ 6000 rpm (for 2001 WRX)

Torque Lb Ft:

2.2L: ~140 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm; 2.5L SOHC: ~170 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm; 2.5L DOHC Turbo (WRX): ~217 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (for 2001 WRX)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with multi-port injection.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended for naturally aspirated; premium for WRX/STI).

Fuel Pump Type:

In-tank electric fuel pump.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Std:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type Opt:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (with electronically controlled torque converter)

AWD System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with viscous coupling center differential (manual) or electronically controlled clutch pack (automatic).

Clutch Type:

Dry single-plate clutch (manual transmission).

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Subaru ATF-HP or equivalent (check specific model year).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 169.2 inches (4300 mm)

Width:

Approx. 67.1 inches (1704 mm)

Height:

Approx. 55.7 inches (1415 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 99.8 inches (2535 mm)

Track Width Front:

Approx. 58.1 inches (1475 mm)

Track Width Rear:

Approx. 57.3 inches (1455 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 6.1 inches (155 mm)

Curb Weight Kg:

Approx. 1250-1350 kg (depending on trim and drivetrain)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Kg:

Approx. 1700-1800 kg (depending on configuration)

Towing Capacity Kg:

Not typically specified or recommended by Subaru for this model.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Driver: 4 stars, Passenger: 4 stars (for comparable models/years, specific data may vary).

NHTSA Side Impact:

Front: 4 stars, Rear: 4 stars (for comparable models/years, specific data may vary).

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System standard on many trims, optional on others.

Traction Control:

Rarely available on standard Impreza models of this era; more common on WRX.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags standard.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters for front seats.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH system not standard; typically utilizes seatbelt anchoring for child seats.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/CD or Cassette player, with optional premium sound system. Basic speaker setup.

Display Screens:

Minimal. Primarily instrument cluster displays and HVAC controls.

Cruise Control:

Available on higher trim levels.

Anti Theft:

Factory immobilizer system or alarm might be present on some models.

Bluetooth:

Not available on factory systems.

Usb Ports:

Not available on factory systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Miles:

Every 3,750 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.

Air Filter Replacement Miles:

Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.

Fuel Filter Replacement Miles:

Every 30,000 miles (in-tank filter, though often replaced less frequently).

Spark Plug Replacement Miles:

Every 30,000 miles (NGK Platinum or Iridium recommended).

Timing Belt Replacement Miles:

Critical: Every 60,000-90,000 miles or 5-7 years (due to interference engine design). Includes tensioner and idler pulleys.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific climate recommendations).

Engine Oil Capacity Liters:

Approx. 4.2 Liters (4.4 US Quarts) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant (Subaru Super Coolant or equivalent), pre-mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Coolant Capacity Liters:

Approx. 6.0 Liters (6.3 US Quarts).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Head Gaskets:

Common failure point, especially on EJ25 SOHC engines (externally leaking coolant). Manual will detail inspection and replacement.

Oil Leaks:

Valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and crankshaft seals can leak over time.

Transmission Synchronizers:

Wear in manual transmission synchronizers, particularly 2nd gear, can lead to shifting difficulties.

Power Steering Pump:

Noise or stiffness can indicate an aging power steering pump or leaks in the system.

Radiator Corrosion:

Plastic end tanks on radiators can become brittle and crack, leading to leaks.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Origin:

Japanese automobile manufacturer, known for its boxer engines and AWD systems since its inception.

Impreza Launch:

First generation Impreza launched in 1992 globally, evolving into the second generation in 2002. This manual covers the later phase of the first generation, which received a significant facelift in 1998.

Facelift Impact:

The 1998 facelift brought revised exterior styling (especially the front end with larger headlights and grille) and interior updates.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily manufactured in Japan (Gunma Plant).

Global Market:

Sold worldwide, with variations in engine options and trim levels.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Ten Best:

While not this specific generation, Subaru Impreza WRX models have frequently been recognized on Car and Driver's 10Best list in subsequent years, highlighting the platform's performance potential.

IIHS Ratings:

Likely received 'Acceptable' or 'Good' ratings in front and side impact tests for its time, but specific data for all trims may vary. The manual would provide detailed structural information for repair.

Emission Standards:

Meets EPA and CARB emission standards for the model years covered. Manual details specific emission control systems and diagnostic procedures.