Market Position:
The 2013 Subaru Impreza WRX STI represents the pinnacle of Subaru's rally-bred performance heritage in the Impreza line, targeting driving enthusiasts seeking all-wheel-drive capability, turbocharged power, and track-tuned handling.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against performance variants of the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Volkswagen Golf GTI, Ford Focus ST, and other sport compacts, emphasizing its unique symmetrical all-wheel-drive system and turbocharged boxer engine.
Key Features:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Turbocharged EJ257 Boxer Engine, performance-tuned suspension, Brembo brakes, Driver-controlled center differential (DCCD), advanced traction control systems.
Engine:
EJ257 Engine (2.5L Turbocharged Boxer), Engine Mechanical, Fuel System, Ignition System, Emission Control System, Cooling System, Lubrication System
Transmission:
6-Speed Manual Transmission (TY856UB1LA), Clutch System, Drivetrain Components (Front Differential, Rear Differential, AWD System)
Brakes:
Brake System (ABS, EBD, Brake Booster, Master Cylinder, Calipers, Rotors), Parking Brake
Suspension:
Front Suspension (MacPherson Struts, Control Arms, Stabilizer Bar), Rear Suspension (Double Wishbone, Coil Springs, Stabilizer Bar), Alignment Specifications
Steering:
Power Steering System (Hydraulic), Steering Column, Steering Gear Assembly
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Electrical Component Locations, Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Audio System, Power Windows, Power Locks, HVAC Controls, ECU (Engine Control Unit) and other modules
Bodywork:
Body Exterior Components, Interior Trim, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Body Repair Procedures, Corrosion Protection
Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning:
HVAC System Operation, Refrigerant Charging, Component Diagnosis, Climate Control
Safety Systems:
Airbag System, Seatbelt System, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) Diagnosis
Maintenance:
Routine Inspections, Oil and Filter Changes, Air Filter Replacement, Spark Plug Replacement, Fluid Level Checks and Top-Offs, Brake Pad and Rotor Replacement, Tire Rotation
Repair:
Engine Rebuilds, Turbocharger Overhaul, Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repairs, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, Body Panel Repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Charts, Component Testing Procedures, Electrical Troubleshooting Guides
Diagnostics:
ECU Diagnosis, Sensor Testing, Actuator Testing, Fuel Pressure Testing, Compression Testing
Specifications:
Torque Specifications for all fasteners, Clearances and Tolerances, Fluid Capacities and Types, Electrical Specifications
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical diagnostics and wiring schematics.
NHTSA Front Crash:
5-Star (2013 Model Year)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (Top Safety Pick designation)
Active Safety Features:
Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist
Passive Safety Features:
Advanced Frontal Airbags, Front Side-Impact Airbags, Side-Curtain Airbags, Driver's Knee Airbag, Whiplash Protection Front Seats, Height-Adjustable Seatbelts
Infotainment System:
Subaru Starlink infotainment system with touchscreen, AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, Bluetooth connectivity, USB port.
Driver Assistance Features:
Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS), Cruise Control.
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio streaming, USB audio input.
Performance Tech:
SI-Drive (Subaru Intelligent Drive) system with three modes (Intelligent, Sport, Sport Sharp), DCCD (Driver-Controlled Center Differential).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first (under severe driving conditions) or 7,500 miles/6 months (normal).
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles depending on plug type (iridium recommended).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (API SN or ILSAC GF-5)
Engine Oil Capacity:
5.5 US quarts (with filter)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil (75W-90 GL-5 for manual transmission and differentials)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Known Issues:
Head gasket failures (less common on EJ257 than earlier EJ25s but still a concern), piston ring land failures under aggressive tuning/driving, turbocharger wear, clutch wear due to performance driving.
