Segment:
Compact Car (C-Segment)
Usp:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) as standard across most trims, rally-bred heritage.
Key Competitors 1999:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mitsubishi Lancer, Ford Focus, Nissan Sentra
Distinctive Features Vehicle:
Standard AWD, Boxer Engine, Practicality, Durable Construction.
Manual Utility:
Essential for maintaining the unique AWD system and Subaru boxer engine's specific needs.
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain (AWD System)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Front Disc, Rear Disc/Drum), Wheels & Tires
Body And Electrical:
Body Structure, Exterior Components, Interior Trim, HVAC System, Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Components), Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio System
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Level Checks, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Replacement
Repair And Overhaul:
Engine Reassembly, Transmission Overhaul, Brake Component Replacement, Suspension Bushing Replacement, Steering Rack Repair
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Fault Code Diagnosis, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Guides, Component Testing Procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance to major component overhauls and diagnostics.
Diagnostic Coverage:
Detailed diagnostic flowcharts, Ohm readings, voltage specifications, and component resistance checks.
Special Tools:
Lists required special tools for specific repair procedures.
Searchability:
Text-searchable PDF for easy navigation
Resolution:
High-resolution scans of original factory documents
Digital Binding:
N/A (Digital File)
Digital Paper Simulation:
Simulates factory paper quality with clear diagrams and text
Scope:
Factory-level detail covering all major systems, including engine management, transmission rebuilds, and detailed wiring diagrams.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Boxer-4 (Horizontally Opposed)
Displacement:
2.2 Liters (2212 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
96.0 mm x 75.0 mm
Valvetrain:
SOHC (Single Overhead Cam), 16 Valves (4 per cylinder)
Horsepower Net:
135 hp @ 5,500 rpm
Torque Net:
140 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
60,000 miles or 5 years (whichever comes first)
Timing Belt Component Kit Pn:
Subaru genuine or equivalent recommended (e.g., Gates, Continental)
Type Standard:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Type Optional:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (with Lock-up Torque Converter)
AWD System Type:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (Permanent)
Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Hypoid Gear Oil
Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:
Dexron III or equivalent
Transfer Case Fluid Spec:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Hypoid Gear Oil
Rear Differential Fluid Spec:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Hypoid Gear Oil
Length:
Approx. 168.7 inches (4285 mm)
Width:
Approx. 66.1 inches (1679 mm)
Height:
Approx. 55.1 inches (1400 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 98.4 inches (2500 mm)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x100mm
Tire Size Standard:
185/70R14 or 195/60R15 (trim dependent)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2700-2900 lbs (1225-1315 kg) (depending on trim/transmission)
NHTSA Front Impact:
Likely 4-star (based on contemporary vehicles, manual may have specific data)
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable/Good (typical for the era, check manual for specifics)
ABS:
Optional on some trims, standard on higher trims
Airbags:
Driver and Front Passenger Airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts with pretensioners, 3-point rear seatbelts
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM Cassette Player with optional CD player. 4-speaker or 6-speaker systems.
Display:
Basic digital clock display and radio tuner.
Cruise Control:
Standard on higher trims, optional on others.
Stability Control:
Not available for the 1999 model year.
Phone Integration:
No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Not standard on all trims for this year; if equipped, every 15,000 miles.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 24-36 months or 30,000 miles.
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.7 US Quarts (4.4 Liters) with filter change
Engine Oil Viscosity:
5W-30 (preferred) or 10W-30, API SG/SH or higher
Coolant Type:
Subaru Genuine Coolant or equivalent (ethylene glycol based, long-life)
Power Steering Fluid:
Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or ATF Dexron II/III
Head Gaskets:
While the EJ22 is generally more robust than later EJ variants, head gasket leaks can occur, particularly on higher mileage examples. The manual details inspection and replacement procedures.
Timing Belt:
Critical component. Failure can lead to catastrophic engine damage due to interference design. Strict adherence to replacement intervals is paramount.
Rust And Corrosion:
Common in certain climates, particularly around wheel wells, rocker panels, and suspension components. Manual offers body repair guidance.
Ignition System:
Spark plug wires, coil packs, and ignition control modules can fail over time. The manual provides diagnostic steps for ignition system faults.
Subaru Foundation:
Founded in 1953 as Fuji Heavy Industries, focused on aerospace and automotive.
First Generation Impreza:
Launched in 1992, replacing the Subaru Leone. Known for its rally success.
Second Generation Impreza Gc8 Gf8:
This 1999 model is part of the first generation (GC/GF/GM chassis codes). Characterized by iconic styling and AWD prowess.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (primarily Gunma Prefecture)
Production Years First Gen:
1992-2001
Rally Heritage:
The Impreza platform (especially WRX/STI variants not covered in detail here) is highly acclaimed for its World Rally Championship success, contributing to the model's performance image.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings varied for this generation; manual provides insights into common maintenance items that contribute to long-term reliability.
