Segment:
Compact/Subcompact car, known for its rally heritage and All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system.
Competitors:
Mitsubishi Lancer, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus.
All Wheel Drive:
Subaru's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, a key differentiator.
Performance Variants:
Availability of higher-performance models like the WRX (and early STI variants in some markets), known for turbocharged engines and enhanced performance.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine management/ECM.
Drivetrain:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission, front differential, rear differential, driveshafts, axles, transfer case (AWD models).
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension (MacPherson struts, control arms), rear suspension (multi-link), steering system, power steering.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes (vented), rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and diagnostics.
Electrical:
12V battery system, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, central locking, ECU diagnostics.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system (components, operation, service).
Body Chassis:
Body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, exterior trim, frame, structural components.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flushing, brake fluid replacement, belt inspections and replacements.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting common issues, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) lookup and interpretation, wiring diagrams for electrical systems.
Repair Overhaul:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper service, A/C system recharge.
Special Procedures:
Timing belt replacement, clutch replacement, AWD system service, turbocharger service (for WRX/STI variants).
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Engine Family:
EJ Series Boxer Engine
Engine Codes Common:
EJ16, EJ18, EJ20 (naturally aspirated and turbocharged), EJ22, EJ25.
Naturally Aspirated Power Range:
Approximately 95-137 hp (depending on displacement and market).
Turbocharged Power Range:
Approximately 215-276 hp for WRX/STI variants.
Torque Figures:
Varies significantly by engine; naturally aspirated: 100-120 lb-ft; turbocharged: 200-270 lb-ft.
Induction:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) for naturally aspirated; Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (S-MPI) with turbocharger for performance models.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane for NA, 91+ octane recommended for turbo).
Type Na:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
AWD Coupling:
Viscous coupling center differential for AWD models (manual and auto have different front-rear torque splits).
Gear Ratios:
Detailed gear ratios provided for all transmission types and variants within the manual.
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate clutch (for manual transmissions).
Body Styles:
2-door Coupe (GC), 4-door Sedan (GC), 5-door Wagon (GF).
Length:
Approx. 167-173 inches (4240-4395 mm) depending on body style and bumper design.
Width:
Approx. 67.3 inches (1710 mm).
Height:
Approx. 55.3-57.5 inches (1405-1460 mm) depending on body style.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 98.2 inches (2495 mm).
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2700-3100 lbs (1225-1406 kg) depending on model and options.
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-star rating (driver) / 4-star rating (passenger) for 1997 models.
ABS:
Optional or standard on higher trims; ABS system service and troubleshooting covered.
AWD:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive enhances traction and stability.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard on most models; manual covers SRS system components.
Seatbelts:
Front pretensioner seatbelts.
Head Unit:
Basic AM/FM/Cassette or CD players with auxiliary input on some later models. Aftermarket upgrades common.
Cruise Control:
Available on many trim levels.
Power Accessories:
Power windows, power door locks, and power mirrors were available on higher trims.
Oil Change:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Engine Oil Filter:
Replace at every oil change.
Air Filter:
Inspect every 7,500 miles (12,000 km), replace as needed or every 15,000 miles (24,000 km).
Spark Plugs:
Replace approximately every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km), depending on plug type (copper vs. platinum).
Timing Belt:
Critical: Replace every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Engine Oil:
API SG or SH rated, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (check owner's manual for specific temperature ranges).
Coolant:
Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (for 5-speed manual).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Subaru ATF-HP or equivalent Dexron-III/Mercon compatible fluid.
Differential Fluid Front:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90.
Differential Fluid Rear:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (for AWD models, some models may have LSD requiring specific fluid).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Head Gaskets:
While more prevalent in later EJ engines, early models can be susceptible to head gasket leaks. The manual details replacement procedures.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gaskets and front crankshaft seals are common areas for oil leaks.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings and ball joints can wear over time, affecting handling and alignment.
Radiator Leaks:
Plastic end tanks on radiators can degrade and leak.
Subaru Philosophy:
Known for its boxer engines and advanced AWD systems, prioritizing safety and durability.
First Generation Impreza:
The GC/GF generation was the first Impreza sold in North America, launching in 1995 for the 1996 model year.
Gc8 Platform:
This generation, codenamed GC8 (coupe/sedan) and GF8 (wagon), established the Impreza's reputation for performance and handling, particularly with the WRX variant globally.
Assembly Location:
Japan (primarily Gunma Plant).
