Segment:
Performance Compact Sedan/Wagon
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, tuners, DIY mechanics, and professional technicians.
Key Competitors:
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Ford Focus RS (later generations), VW Golf GTI (later generations).
Vehicle Selling Points:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, turbocharged engine, rally-bred performance, driver-focused interior.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides detailed, factory-level information for maintaining and repairing the 2002 Impreza WRX, crucial for preserving its performance and value.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine overhaul, disassembly, assembly, component inspection, timing belt replacement, lubrication system, cooling system.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection system, ignition system, emission control systems, ECU diagnostics, sensor testing.
Transmission:
Manual transmission (5-speed), clutch system, differential, gearbox disassembly and assembly, fluid specifications.
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, viscous coupling, driveshafts, CV joints, wheel bearings.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, caliper and master cylinder overhaul.
Suspension:
Front MacPherson struts, rear multi-link suspension, springs, dampers, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, column, tie rod ends, fluid specifications.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, horn, power windows, power locks, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant types, troubleshooting, component replacement.
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, seats, dashboard, soundproofing.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil change, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake pad replacement, tire rotation.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides for common issues, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation, component testing procedures.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for engine component replacement, transmission overhaul, suspension repair, brake system service, electrical component repair.
Troubleshooting Charts:
Comprehensive charts linking symptoms to potential causes and repair steps.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostics Level:
Advanced, including wiring diagrams, sensor data interpretation, and electronic control unit (ECU) troubleshooting.
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not prominently rated for this specific model year, but generally good.
IIHS Side Impact:
Not prominently rated for this specific model year.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
AWD:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
Traction Control:
Not standard on 2002 WRX
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point ELR seatbelts with pre-tensioners
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH system
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe service) / 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal service).
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Every 90,000 miles or 7 years (whichever comes first).
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Every 30,000 miles (copper plugs) / 60,000 miles (iridium plugs - check specific type).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API SG or higher, or check manual for specific Subaru specification)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with Subaru additive.
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil (refer to manual for capacity and specific brands).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Headgasket Leaks:
While less common on EJ205 than later EJ25 engines, still a potential issue to monitor, especially if overheated.
Clutch Wear:
Can wear prematurely with aggressive driving or poor clutch control.
Turbo Failure:
Can occur due to lack of lubrication, oil contamination, or heat soak. Proper warm-up and cool-down are critical.
Oil Consumption:
Some EJ series engines can consume oil over time; regular checks are important.
Subaru Motorsports Connection:
Strong ties to World Rally Championship (WRC) success, influencing WRX's performance DNA.
First Generation Wrx:
Introduced in Japan in 1992, global release later.
Gd Gg Generation Introduction:
2000 (Japan), 2001 (Global), 2002 (US Market Debut).
Manufacturing Location:
Ota, Gunma, Japan