Segment:
Performance Compact Sedan/Hatchback (depending on specific body style in 2006-2007)
Niche:
Rally-bred performance icon, known for its turbocharged boxer engine and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system.
Key Competitors:
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Subaru WRX (non-STI variants), Ford Focus RS (in some markets)
Performance Focus:
Engineered for performance driving, track days, and spirited road use.
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with Driver's Control Center Differential (DCCD) for adjustable torque split.
Engine Technology:
High-output turbocharged EJ257 Boxer engine.
Manual Availability:
Essential resource for owners and independent technicians to maintain and repair this specialized vehicle.
Engine:
2.5L EJ257 Turbocharged Boxer Engine, including diagnostics, repair, and overhaul
Transmission:
6-speed manual transmission (TY856WL1CA), differentials (front, center DCCD, rear), clutch system
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive system, including Driver's Control Center Differential (DCCD)
Suspension:
Front struts, rear shocks, control arms, sway bars, bushings, alignment specifications
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, alignment
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, ignition, lighting, starter, fuses, relays, body control modules, power windows, locks
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, injectors, fuel lines, fuel pressure regulator, emissions control
Cooling System:
Radiator, coolant, thermostat, water pump, fan operation
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater, climate control
Exhaust System:
Catalytic converter, mufflers, exhaust manifold, turbocharger integration
Body:
Exterior panels, interior trim, doors, hood, trunk, glass, seals
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seatbelts, ABS, SRS diagnostics
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for all systems, fault code interpretation (OBD-II)
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair
Overhaul:
Engine and transmission rebuild procedures
Adjustments:
Engine tuning, suspension alignment, clutch adjustment
Installation:
Component replacement and installation guidance
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to full engine and transmission overhauls. Designed for professional technicians.
Diagrams And Illustrations:
Includes detailed diagrams, exploded views, and wiring schematics
Special Tools:
Lists specific Subaru special tools required for certain procedures
Configuration:
2.5L Flat-Four (Boxer), Turbocharged, Intercooled
Bore X Stroke:
99.5 mm x 79.0 mm
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 16 valves (4 per cylinder), Subaru Variable Valve Lift and Timing (VVL/T)
Horsepower:
300 hp @ 6000 rpm (approximate)
Torque:
290 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approximate)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Turbocharger Model:
IHI VF39 (or similar variant for specific market)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (API SN or newer)
Engine Oil Capacity:
5.8 US quarts (5.5 liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant
Type:
6-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Code:
TY856WL1CA (typical for this model)
Dccd:
Driver's Control Center Differential (DCCD) with automatic and manual modes for torque distribution.
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil (or equivalent API GL-5 75W-90)
Manual Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 3.2 US quarts (3.0 liters)
Rear Differential Fluid Type:
API GL-5 75W-90
Rear Differential Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 1.0 US quart (0.95 liters)
Wheelbase:
103.1 inches (2619 mm)
Length:
173.8 inches (4415 mm)
Width:
69.1 inches (1755 mm)
Height:
57.7 inches (1466 mm)
Curb Weight:
3397 lbs (1541 kg) (approximate, depending on trim/body style)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
4500 lbs (2041 kg) (typical)
Standard Wheel Size:
17 x 8.0 inches (standard WRX), 18 x 8.5 inches (STI)
Standard Tire Size:
225/45R17 (standard WRX), 245/40R18 (STI)
Bolt Pattern:
5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)
Offset:
ET55 (typical for 18-inch STI wheels)
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
5-star (for 2006 model year, typical for Subaru safety focus)
NHTSA Side Impact Rating:
4-star or 5-star (depending on specific configuration)
IIHS Front Crashworthiness:
Good
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (4-wheel disc brakes)
Traction Control:
Yes, integrated with AWD and DCCD systems.
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard (Vehicle Dynamics Control - VDC)
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags (optional/standard depending on trim)
Seatbelts:
Pretensioner and load-limiter front seatbelts
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, possibly with premium audio options (e.g., Infinity).
Display Type:
Digital clock display, possibly basic LCD for audio information.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Dccd Control:
Manual control over the center differential torque split via a rotary dial.
Auxiliary Input:
Optional auxiliary audio input jack, depending on trim and audio system.
Type:
Manual or automatic climate control depending on trim level.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months, or 7,500 miles/12 months for synthetic oil depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendation).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months, or more frequently under dusty conditions.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
NGK Iridium spark plugs (e.g., PFR7B or similar) typically at 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on application and condition.
Timing Belt Replacement:
N/A for EJ257; uses a timing chain (typically no scheduled replacement unless issues arise).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Ej257 Ring Land Failure:
Prone to ring land failure in cylinders 3 & 4, especially with aggressive tuning or sustained high heat. Manual provides guidance on piston ring installation and torque specs critical for prevention.
Head Gasket Leaks:
While less common on later EJ engines than earlier ones, it's a potential issue. Manual details inspection and replacement procedures.
Clutch Wear:
Can experience premature clutch wear due to high-performance nature and driving style. Manual covers clutch inspection and replacement.
Turbocharger Issues:
Potential for turbocharger failure if oil supply/return is restricted or if proper cool-down procedures are not followed. Manual details turbo diagnostics and replacement.
Dccd Failures:
The DCCD unit can develop issues over time; manual provides diagnostic steps.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for precise specification)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Subaru Genuine ATF-HP or equivalent (check manual for exact spec)
Performance Legacy:
Subaru has a strong heritage in motorsport, particularly in the World Rally Championship (WRC), which heavily influenced the WRX STI's development and reputation.
Third Generation Introduction:
The 2006-2007 models represent the later phase of the second generation (GD) platform, with the STI receiving significant upgrades, including the EJ257 engine and the refined DCCD system, leading into the third generation (GR/GV) hatch/sedan introduced later.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (Mainly Gunma Plant)
Production Numbers Sti:
Limited production compared to standard Impreza models, highly sought after by enthusiasts.