Market Position:
The Subaru Impreza of this era was positioned as a sporty, all-wheel-drive compact car, appealing to enthusiasts and those seeking capability in varied weather conditions. Known for its rally heritage.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against vehicles like the Mitsubishi Lancer, Honda Civic Si, and Mazda Protege. The Impreza's key differentiator was its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system.
Key Features:
Standard Symmetrical AWD, boxer engines, agile handling, accessible performance (especially in RS and WRX variants).
Manual Value Proposition:
Essential resource for owners and independent mechanics to perform accurate maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs, saving on dealership service costs and ensuring longevity.
Engine Variants Covered:
2.2L EJ22, 2.5L EJ25 SOHC and DOHC (including turbocharged EJ20 variants for specific markets, though focus is likely on North American specs)
Trim Levels Covered:
All models including Outback Sport, RS, TS, WRX (where applicable to North American market, may include some global WRX/STI technical data)
Estimated Page Count:
1000+
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head, block assembly, timing belt replacement, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system, emission control systems
Engine Performance:
Ignition system, fuel injection, turbocharger system (if applicable), engine diagnostics
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual transmission (5-speed), Automatic transmission (4-speed), clutch system, driveshafts, differentials, AWD system (Symmetrical AWD)
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, control arms, steering gearbox, power steering system
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) troubleshooting, brake fluid specifications
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, starter system, charging system, lighting, instrument cluster, body electrical components, power windows, locks, mirrors
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system components and service
Body Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, glass replacement, chassis lubrication, corrosion protection
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, timing belt replacement, drive belt replacement
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides for common problems, OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and explanations, component testing
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment for all major systems
Special Tools:
Listing and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, advanced electrical diagnostics, and bodywork.
Engine Displacement Common:
2.2 Liters (2212cc) EJ22, 2.5 Liters (2457cc) EJ25
Engine Configuration:
Horizontally-opposed (Boxer) 4-cylinder
Engine Aspirated:
Naturally Aspirated (EJ22, EJ25) and Turbocharged (EJ20 for WRX)
Horsepower Ej22:
Approx. 135 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque Ej22:
Approx. 140 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Horsepower Ej25 Naturally Aspirated:
Approx. 165 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque Ej25 Naturally Aspirated:
Approx. 166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Horsepower Ej20 Turbo Wrx:
Approx. 215-227 hp (market dependent)
Torque Ej20 Turbo Wrx:
Approx. 200-213 lb-ft (market dependent)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) / Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended for NA, higher for WRX)
Length Sedan:
Approx. 4370 mm (172.0 in)
Width Sedan:
Approx. 1690 mm (66.5 in)
Height Sedan:
Approx. 1405 mm (55.3 in)
Wheelbase Sedan:
Approx. 2510 mm (98.8 in)
Length Wagon:
Approx. 4405 mm (173.4 in)
Width Wagon:
Approx. 1690 mm (66.5 in)
Height Wagon:
Approx. 1445 mm (56.9 in)
Wheelbase Wagon:
Approx. 2510 mm (98.8 in)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 1270 - 1450 kg (2800 - 3200 lbs) depending on body style and drivetrain.
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x100mm
Standard Tire Size Common:
205/55R15, 215/50R16 (RS/Outback Sport)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
4-star (1997-1998 models, later years may vary)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
4-star (1997-1998 models, later years may vary)
Active Safety Features Common:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - often optional or standard on higher trims
Passive Safety Features Common:
Driver and front passenger airbags, three-point seatbelts with pretensioners, reinforced chassis structure
Infotainment Features:
Basic AM/FM radio with CD player, cassette player (optional), manual climate controls.
Driver Assistance Features:
Primarily focused on the AWD system providing enhanced traction. ABS was an option on some trims.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era; typically an auxiliary input for external devices might be available on aftermarket head units.
Engine Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3-6 months (whichever comes first) under severe driving conditions; 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6-12 months under normal conditions. Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Service Intervals Filters
Oil Filter Replacement Interval:
Replace with every oil change.
Service Intervals Timing Belt
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Every 90,000 - 105,000 miles (144,000 - 168,000 km) or 7 years. Critical due to interference engine design.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific climate recommendations)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant. Mix 50/50 with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Subaru ATF-HP or equivalent Dexron-III/Mercon compatible fluid
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Common Issues Ej25 DOHc:
Head gasket failures (especially on early EJ25 DOHC engines), oil consumption, piston ring wear.
Common Issues General:
Catalytic converter failure, ABS sensor failures, clutch wear (manual transmissions), rear wheel bearing noise.
Timing Belt Importance:
Crucial to replace on schedule as the EJ engines are generally interference engines; a failed belt will cause severe valve damage.
Brand Heritage:
Subaru has a long history of producing reliable and capable vehicles, with a particular focus on its boxer engine technology and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive systems, stemming from its origins in aerospace.
Model Evolution:
The first generation Impreza (GC/GF/GM) was introduced globally in 1992 and received a facelift in 1996. This 1997-2000 manual covers the post-facelift models, which featured updated styling and some mechanical refinements. This generation is famous for its rally success, particularly the WRX and STI variants.
Production Locations:
Primary production: Gunma Plant, Japan
