🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Impreza

Year:

1997-1998

Engine Type:

Gasoline

Engine Displacement:

2000cc

Engine Variant:

Naturally Aspirated (Non-Turbo)

Chassis Codes:

GF8 (Wagon), GC8 (Sedan)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Subaru Impreza of this era established itself as a capable and reliable compact car, known for its standard All-Wheel Drive and rally-inspired heritage. This manual targets owners and independent mechanics seeking in-depth knowledge for maintenance and repair.

Competitors:

Competed against models like the Mitsubishi Lancer, Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, and Nissan Sentra, differentiating itself with its AWD system and sporty driving dynamics, particularly in higher trims.

Vehicle Features:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (S-AWD), Boxer engine layout, robust chassis, comfortable ride, practical interior space (especially in wagon form).

Value Proposition:

Provides factory-accurate procedures, diagrams, and specifications, enabling DIY repairs and informed maintenance decisions, ultimately saving time and money compared to dealership services.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

North America

Regional Specifics:

Covers models sold in North America; may vary for other regions.

Estimated Pages:

1500+

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete overhaul, diagnosis, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, emissions control.

Transmission:

Manual (5-speed) and Automatic (4-speed) transmissions: disassembly, assembly, repair, diagnostics, fluid specifications.

Drivetrain:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system: center differential, front and rear differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, propeller shaft maintenance.

Suspension:

Front MacPherson strut, rear multi-link suspension: components, alignment, troubleshooting, component replacement.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes (ABS optional): hydraulic system, caliper overhaul, rotor replacement, brake pad service, bleeding procedures.

Steering:

Power steering system: rack and pinion, hydraulic pump, fluid specifications, troubleshooting.

Electrical:

Complete wiring diagrams, lighting, starting and charging system, accessories, fuses, relays, ECM/ECU troubleshooting.

Body:

Body panels, doors, windows, mirrors, bumpers, interior trim, weather stripping, body repair specifications.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system: components, refrigerant, troubleshooting, component replacement.

Maintenance:

Regular scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, error code interpretation.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems.

Overhaul:

Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures.

Diagnostics:

On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) system interpretation, sensor testing.

Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, clearances, measurements.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance and fluid checks to full engine/transmission rebuilds and advanced electrical diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Printability:

Printable pages for hard copy reference.

Quality:

High-resolution scans with clear diagrams and text.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

EJ20E / EJ20J

Configuration:

Horizontally Opposed (Boxer), 4-cylinder, 16-valve DOHC

Horsepower:

Approx. 125-135 hp (varies slightly by specific model/market)

Torque:

Approx. 135-140 lb-ft

Induction:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 7.0 Liters (14.8 US Pints)

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 Liters (9.5 US Pints) with filter

Timing Belt:

Belt-driven; replacement interval critical (typically 60,000-90,000 miles).

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission

AWD Integration:

All-Wheel Drive system integrated with both manual and automatic transmissions.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (Subaru Genuine Gear Oil recommended)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Subaru ATF HP (or equivalent meeting Dexron III specs, though HP is preferred)

Manual Transmission Capacity:

Approx. 2.2 Liters (4.6 US Pints)

Automatic Transmission Capacity:

Approx. 3.5 Liters (7.4 US Pints) for a drain and fill

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Sedan: ~4370mm (172.0 in) / Wagon: ~4350mm (171.3 in)

Width:

~1690mm (66.5 in)

Height:

Sedan: ~1415mm (55.7 in) / Wagon: ~1435mm (56.5 in)

Wheelbase:

~2520mm (99.2 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1250-1350 kg (2750-2980 lbs) depending on body style and transmission

Gross Vehicle Weight:

Not readily available, typically around 1700-1800 kg.

Cargo Volume Wagon:

Significant, with rear seats folded down; specific liters not commonly published for this generation's manual, but highly practical.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Specific ratings for 1997-1998 models vary; early models generally received moderate to good ratings for the era. Full data may be sparse.

Driver Assistance:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) often optional on non-turbo models.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags standard.

Seat Belts:

3-point front and rear seat belts.

Cage Construction:

Subaru's Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame construction.

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

Typically a factory-installed AM/FM/Cassette or CD player. Aftermarket head units are common upgrades.

Cruise Control:

Available on most models.

Aux Input:

Not standard. Aftermarket solutions or head unit replacement required.

System Type:

Manual climate control; automatic climate control was rare/unavailable on non-turbo models of this generation.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (severe service intervals may be shorter).

Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or at 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Cabin Air Filter:

Not typically equipped on this generation, or an optional accessory. Check manual for specific vehicle.

Timing Belt:

Replace every 60,000-90,000 miles (100,000-150,000 km) or 7 years. Critical due to interference engine design.

Spark Plugs:

Replace at 60,000 miles (100,000 km) for iridium plugs, or 30,000 miles (50,000 km) for standard plugs.

Engine Oil:

SAE 5W-30 is typically recommended, but check owner's manual for ambient temperature suitability. API SG or higher.

Coolant:

Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or a high-quality ethylene glycol-based coolant with silicate inhibitors. Mixture: 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check reservoir cap).

Power Steering Fluid:

Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron II/III ATF.

Engine:

Head gasket leaks (less common on EJ20E/J than EJ25, but possible), timing belt failure if not replaced on schedule, potential for oil leaks from seals.

Suspension:

Wear in control arm bushings, sway bar links, and ball joints over time, leading to clunking noises and alignment issues.

Electrical:

Failing power window motors, intermittent issues with dashboard warning lights, aging wiring harness connections.

Drivetrain:

Rear differential seal leaks, worn CV boots (can lead to CV joint failure).

Repairs:

Timing belt replacement (crucial), clutch replacement (manual), brake system service, front strut replacement, radiator replacement (prone to cracking).

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Subaru, a division of Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries), has a long history of manufacturing aircraft and vehicles, known for its horizontally opposed engines and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive systems.

Generation:

This represents the first generation (GC/GF) of the Subaru Impreza, introduced globally in 1992. The 1997-1998 models represent a facelift (often referred to as the '97 refresh) with updated styling.

Facelift Details:

1997 facelift included revised front fascia (headlights, grille, bumper), updated interior trim, and minor mechanical improvements. The STI versions received more significant performance upgrades.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily Japan (Gunma Plant).

Global Sales:

The Impreza has been a strong seller globally, with this generation contributing significantly to Subaru's growth, particularly in markets valuing AWD capability.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver:

The Impreza (including performance variants) was a frequent Ten Best list recipient from Car and Driver magazine during the 1990s, highlighting its performance and value.

Reliability:

Generally considered reliable, especially the mechanically simpler non-turbo variants, with proper maintenance.

Emissions:

Meets prevailing emissions standards for its model years; manual provides detailed diagnostic procedures for emissions systems.