Market Position:
The Subaru Impreza is a compact car known for its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, offering a compelling blend of performance, safety, and practicality, often appealing to enthusiasts and those in inclement weather regions.
Competitive Analysis:
Competes with vehicles like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, and Volkswagen Golf. Its AWD system is a key differentiator against many front-wheel-drive competitors in its class.
Key Features:
Standard Symmetrical AWD, horizontally-opposed 'Boxer' engines for a lower center of gravity, robust chassis, available turbocharged variants (WRX models).
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, lubrication system, cooling system, timing components, fuel injection system.
Engine Management:
ECU, sensors (MAP, TPS, O2, Knock), actuators, emission control systems, diagnostics and troubleshooting.
Transmission Manual:
Clutch system, gearbox assembly, gearshift mechanism, final drive, repair procedures, fluid specifications.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission assembly, torque converter, valve body, electronic controls, hydraulic circuits, repair procedures, fluid specifications.
Drivetrain AWD:
Center differential, rear differential, driveshafts, propeller shaft, hub bearings, All-Wheel Drive system operation and service.
Suspension:
Front suspension (struts, control arms, bushings), rear suspension (multi-link, trailing arms, bushings), wheel alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic or electric), steering column, tie rods, steering rack, troubleshooting.
Brakes:
Brake system hydraulics, ABS, EBD, brake calipers, rotors, pads, parking brake, bleeding procedures, specifications.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter motor, lighting, power windows, central locking, horn, wiper system, wiring diagrams.
Body And Trim:
Exterior panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, seat removal, glass replacement.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heating system, ventilation, refrigerant handling, component testing.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, seatbelt pre-tensioners, SRS troubleshooting, safety sensor locations.
Preventive Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, coolant flushes, spark plug replacement, belt inspections, brake fluid checks, scheduled services.
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed instructions for component removal, overhaul, and reinstallation for all major vehicle systems.
Specifications And Tolerances:
Torque specifications, clearances, measurements, alignment angles, and other critical parameters.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle circuits, aiding in diagnosis and repair.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced diagnostics, and electrical troubleshooting.
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5 Stars
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat Occupant:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Impact Barrier Driver:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Impact Barrier Rear Seat:
5 Stars
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
4 Stars
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC).
Passive Features:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags (front and rear), active front head restraints, 3-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first, for severe driving conditions; 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months for normal driving (refer to owner's manual for specific recommendations based on engine and driving habits).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months, or as needed based on dusty conditions.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Iridium-tipped plugs: 105,000 miles (168,000 km).
Coolant Replacement:
Initial change at 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months, then every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months thereafter.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 0W-20 synthetic (preferred), SAE 5W-30 conventional or synthetic.
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.8 quarts (4.5 liters) with filter for 2.5L NA.
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Subaru ATF HP (High Performance) or equivalent DEXRON-III compatible fluid.
Differential Fluid Front Rear:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Known Issues Head Gaskets:
While less prevalent than in older EJ engines, head gasket leaks can still occur, particularly with high-mileage vehicles or those subjected to aggressive driving.
Known Issues Clutch Wear:
Manual transmission clutches can wear prematurely with aggressive driving or heavy-duty use.
Known Issues Catalytic Converter:
Early failure of the catalytic converter can occur due to various engine issues or fuel quality.
Known Issues ABS Sensors:
ABS wheel speed sensors can fail, leading to ABS, VDC, and traction control warning lights.
Known Issues Oil Leaks:
Rear main crankshaft seal and oil pan gasket leaks are not uncommon on EJ series engines.