Segment:
Compact Sports Sedan/Wagon (performance-oriented)
Target Audience:
Enthusiast owners, DIY mechanics, performance tuners
Competitors:
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (non-US market, but comparable), Nissan Sentra SE-R, Honda Civic Si
Vehicle Strengths:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, turbocharged engine, rally-bred heritage, agile handling
Manual Value Proposition:
Essential resource for maintaining and repairing a performance vehicle known for its unique engineering.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, disassembly, assembly, component inspection, timing belt, seals, gaskets, oil pump, water pump
Engine Performance:
Turbocharger system, intercooler, fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, diagnostics
Transmission Manual:
5-speed manual transmission service, clutch replacement, gear ratios, driveline components
Transmission Automatic:
4-speed automatic transmission service, torque converter, shift control, fluid service
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, center differential, rear differential, axle shafts, CV joints
Suspension:
Front struts, rear shocks, control arms, bushings, sway bars, alignment specifications
Brakes:
Front/rear disc brakes, ABS system, brake fluid replacement, caliper, rotor, pad service, bleeding procedures
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, wheel alignment
Electrical:
Battery, alternator, starter, lighting system, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, engine control module (ECM), body control module (BCM)
HVAC:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation system service, refrigerant, compressor, blower motor
Body:
Exterior panel removal/installation, doors, hood, trunk, glass, interior trim, body seals
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel tank, evaporative emission control (EVAP)
Preventive Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tire rotations, spark plug replacement, brake pad inspection
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnosis, OBD-II codes interpretation (if applicable for late 1998 models), sensor testing
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment for all major systems
Component Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for rebuilding engines, transmissions, and other major mechanical components
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of Subaru-specific and common automotive tools required for repairs
Depth Level:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced: Includes detailed troubleshooting charts and electrical system analysis.
Engine Code:
EJ20G (likely) or related variant
Engine Layout:
Horizontally Opposed (Boxer), 4-Cylinder
Aspiration:
Turbocharged, Intercooled
Horsepower:
Approx. 215-240 hp (varies by market and specific tune)
Torque:
Approx. 200-220 lb-ft (varies by market and specific tune)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Recommended)
Bore X Stroke:
92.0 mm x 75.0 mm (typical for EJ20)
Compression Ratio:
8.0:1 or 8.5:1 (typical for turbocharged EJ20)
Valvetrain:
DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 16 valves
Transmission Type Std:
5-Speed Manual
Transmission Type Opt:
4-Speed Automatic
Drivetrain Layout:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Manual Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios available in manual, e.g., 3.700 (1st), 2.000 (2nd), 1.370 (3rd), 0.970 (4th), 0.730 (5th), 4.111 (Final Drive) - *Refer to manual for exact ratios by model variant*
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (or specified weight)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF HP or equivalent (refer to manual for exact spec)
Length:
Approx. 4335-4350 mm (varies by body style)
Width:
Approx. 1690-1700 mm
Height:
Approx. 1405-1440 mm (varies by body style)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2520 mm
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1250-1350 kg (varies by transmission and equipment)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Consult vehicle placard or manual
Trunk Volume:
N/A (Sedan) / Approx. 109.8 cu ft (Wagon, with seats folded) - *Varies by body style*
Wheel Size:
15-inch or 16-inch alloy wheels standard on turbo models
Tire Size Std:
205/55R15 or 205/50R16 (common for turbo models)
Offset:
+48 to +55 mm (typical)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 - 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended for turbo engines).
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or annually
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (NGK Iridium recommended for turbo models)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles or 5-7 years (CRITICAL for EJ series engines). Include tensioners and idlers.
Coolant Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles or 2-3 years
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH/SJ, ILSAC GF-2 or higher. Viscosity: 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owners manual for ambient temperature recommendations). Full Synthetic recommended for turbo.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.2 US quarts (4.0 liters) with filter
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
Subaru Genuine ATF or Dexron II/III compatible fluid
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant with corrosion inhibitors.
Head Gaskets:
While not as prevalent as later EJ series engines, some early models can experience head gasket leaks. The manual will detail inspection and replacement.
Turbo Wear:
Turbocharger seals and bearings can wear over time, leading to oil consumption or reduced boost. The manual covers inspection and potential rebuilds.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear in control arm bushings and other suspension components can lead to noise and poor handling. Manual provides replacement procedures.
Electrical Connectors:
Corrosion or damage to electrical connectors can cause intermittent issues. Manual includes wiring diagrams for tracing problems.