🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Impreza WRX STI

Year:

2005

Chassis Code:

GDB

Generation Designation:

GD

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Performance Compact / Rally-Inspired Sedan

Key Competitors:

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Ford Focus RS (in some markets), Volkswagen Golf GTI

Performance Focus:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, turbocharged Boxer engines, performance-tuned suspension

Rally Heritage:

Direct lineage from Subaru's World Rally Championship (WRC) successes

Driver Engagement:

Emphasis on driver feedback, handling dynamics, and responsive powertrain

📋 Manual Details

Trim Levels Covered:

RS, WRX STi, WRX Sport, Hatchback

Estimated Page Count:

1000+

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital File (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain Systems:

Engine, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain (AWD System, Differentials), Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System

Chassis Systems:

Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Braking System (ABS included), Wheels & Tires

Electrical Systems:

Body Control Modules, Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio System, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories, Engine Control Unit (ECU) and related sensors, SRS Airbag System

Body And Interior:

Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Interior Trim, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning)

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled Maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), Brake Service, Suspension Component Replacement, Belt Replacement, Spark Plug Replacement

Repair Procedures:

Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Drivetrain Component Repair, Brake Caliper/Rotor Replacement, Suspension Shock/Strut Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair, Body Panel Repair

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-based diagnosis, Electrical circuit tracing, Component testing

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive (from basic fluid checks to full engine/transmission rebuilds)

Diagnostic Information:

Detailed diagnostic flowcharts, Wiring diagrams, Sensor specifications, Actuator testing procedures

Special Tools:

Identification and use of Subaru-specific tools and equipment

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Image Resolution:

High-resolution, clear line drawings and photographic images

Text Searchability:

Searchable PDF text for easy information retrieval

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

EJ257 (for STi), EJ205 (for WRX)

Engine Type:

DOHC 16-valve turbocharged horizontally-opposed (Boxer) 4-cylinder

Displacement:

2.5 Liters (EJ257), 2.0 Liters (EJ205)

Horsepower Sti:

300 hp @ 6000 rpm (approximate, US Spec)

Torque Sti:

300 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approximate, US Spec)

Horsepower Wrx:

227 hp @ 6000 rpm (approximate, US Spec)

Torque Wrx:

236 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approximate, US Spec)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) with Electronic Throttle Control

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Sti:

6-Speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission Wrx:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (less common)

AWD System:

Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) on STi models

Differential Types:

Front: Helical Limited Slip, Rear: Viscous Limited Slip (STi); Front: Open, Rear: Viscous Limited Slip (WRX)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

103.1 inches (2619 mm)

Length:

173.8 inches (4415 mm)

Width:

69.7 inches (1770 mm)

Height:

56.1 inches (1425 mm)

Curb Weight Sti:

3263 lbs (1480 kg)

Curb Weight Wrx:

3109 lbs (1410 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

4320 lbs (1960 kg) (approximate)

Trunk Volume:

11.3 cu ft (Sedan)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5-Star (Driver and Passenger)

NHTSA Side Impact:

4-Star (Front), 5-Star (Rear)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control System (TCS)

Electronic Stability Control:

N/A (Not widely available on 2005 USDM models)

Airbags:

Front Dual-Stage SRS Airbags, Front Side SRS Airbags, Optional Curtain SRS Airbags (market dependent)

Seatbelts:

3-point ELR Seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

Standard AM/FM/CD player with 4-6 speakers. Optional premium audio systems may be available.

Display:

Basic LCD display for radio and clock functions. No integrated navigation or advanced screen features.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control functionality

Keyless Entry:

Available keyless entry system

Aux Input:

Rarely present on factory units, often requires aftermarket modification.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe service), 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal service)

Engine Air Filter:

Replace every 15,000 miles or 12 months

Cabin Air Filter:

Replace every 15,000 miles or 12 months

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 30,000 miles (Platinum/Iridium)

Timing Belt:

Inspect every 30,000 miles, Replace every 60,000 miles or 4 years (if equipped with timing belt, some later models had chains)

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (API SG, SH, SJ, SL or ILSAC GF-2/GF-3 compliant)

Engine Oil Capacity:

4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter change (EJ257), 4.2 US quarts (4.0 L) with filter change (EJ205)

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant

Transmission Fluid Manual:

Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil (75W-90 GL-5) or equivalent

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Subaru ATF-HP (if applicable)

Differentials Fluid:

Subaru Hypoid Gear Oil (75W-90 GL-5)

Head Gaskets:

While improved over earlier generations, EJ series engines can still be susceptible to head gasket leaks, particularly if subjected to high performance use or overheating. The manual covers inspection and replacement procedures.

Piston Slap:

Some EJ engines can exhibit piston slap when cold. The manual details diagnosis and potential remedies.

Clutch Wear:

Due to the performance nature, clutch wear can be accelerated with aggressive driving. Manual covers clutch inspection and replacement.

Turbocharger Issues:

Proper oil changes and allowing the turbo to cool down are critical. The manual provides diagnostic procedures for turbocharger related faults.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Focus:

Subaru is renowned for its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive technology and horizontally-opposed Boxer engines, often associated with rally racing and outdoor lifestyles.

Gd Generation Context:

The 'Bugeye' (1st gen GD, 2002-2003) evolved into the 'Blobeye' (2nd gen GD, 2004-2005) and then the 'Hawkeye' (3rd gen GD, 2006-2007). The 2005 model represents the peak of the 'Blobeye' facelift, introducing significant styling and mechanical refinements.

Production Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Performance Awards:

The 2005 WRX STI was widely praised by automotive media for its sharp handling, potent turbocharged engine, and impressive all-wheel-drive system, earning numerous 'best performance car' accolades in its class.

Rally Icon:

The model is an icon in the tuner and rally enthusiast community, carrying significant cultural cachet.