Segment:
Performance Compact Sedan/Wagon
Usp:
Homologated rally-bred performance, symmetrical all-wheel drive, turbocharged boxer engine.
Competitors:
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Subaru WRX (non-STI variants), Volkswagen Golf GTI, Ford Focus RS (later generations).
Performance Focus:
Dedicated to high-performance tuning, track-day capabilities, and rally heritage.
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, tuners, and owners seeking in-depth knowledge for maintenance and performance modification.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine overhaul, disassembly, assembly, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emission control.
Engine Performance:
Turbocharger system, intercooler, ECU control, fuel injection tuning.
Transmission Manual:
DCCD (Driver's Control Center Differential), 6-speed manual gearbox, clutch assembly, shifting mechanisms.
Transmission Automatic:
Not applicable for STI model (2006)
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, front differential, rear differential, driveshafts, hubs.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, springs, control arms, sway bars), alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Brake system components (calipers, rotors, pads, master cylinder, ABS), hydraulic system, bleeding procedures.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, tie rods, steering rack.
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter motor, wiring diagrams, lighting systems, fuses, relays.
Engine Management:
ECU (Engine Control Unit), sensors (MAF, MAP, O2, Knock, Cam/Crank position), actuators, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Body:
Exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, HVAC system, climate control.
Chassis:
Frame construction, subframes, reinforcement points.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes, timing belt/chain inspection/replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guide, symptom-based diagnostics, electrical system diagnostics, engine performance diagnostics.
Repair:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper replacement, body panel repair.
Installation:
Component replacement procedures, accessory installation guidelines.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics for all systems.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for critical fasteners.
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics and electrical troubleshooting.
Type:
6-Speed Manual Transmission
Type:
Not Available for STI
Dccd:
Driver's Control Center Differential (DCCD) with manual/auto modes.
AWD System:
Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with front, center (DCCD), and rear differentials.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-5, 75W-90 (refer to specific OEM specification)
Rear Differential Fluid:
GL-5, 75W-90 (refer to specific OEM specification)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (for 2006 model year general Impreza)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good (for 2006 model year general Impreza)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
AWD:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, front side-impact airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pre-tensioners.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones.
Head Unit:
Factory standard audio system with CD player. Aftermarket upgrades common.
Gauges:
Performance-oriented dashboard with prominent tachometer and speedometer, plus auxiliary gauges (e.g., boost pressure, oil temperature, oil pressure) often in the center console.
Stability Control:
Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) integrated with AWD and ABS systems.
Aux Input:
May be present on some factory head units (check specific vehicle configuration).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, whichever comes first (severe use).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles depending on plug type (refer to manual for specifics).
Timing Belt:
Inspect every 60,000 miles, replace as needed (though many EJ257 engines use a timing chain, verification required based on specific sub-model/build).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30, API SN/SM/SL, ACEA A3/B4 or equivalent (refer to manual for exact spec and capacity).
Coolant:
Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent phosphate-based, ethylene glycol coolant.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Head Gaskets:
While less common on the EJ257 than some earlier Subaru engines, head gasket leaks can still occur. Early detection and proper maintenance are key.
Piston Ring Land Cracks:
Can occur under extreme detonation or pre-ignition, especially with poorly tuned or modified engines. Requires careful monitoring of fuel quality and ignition timing.
Turbocharger Failures:
Can be caused by lack of lubrication, debris in oil, or high heat cycles. Regular oil changes with quality oil are critical.
Clutch Wear:
Aggressive driving can lead to premature clutch wear, particularly on the STI model.