🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Impreza

Year:

2009

Chassis Code:

GE (hatchback), GH (hatchback), GR (hatchback - WRX STI), GV (sedan - WRX STI)

Engine Codes:

EJ205 (2.0L Turbo, WRX), EJ255 (2.5L Turbo, WRX), EJ257 (2.5L Turbo, STI)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Car / Rally-inspired performance car

Key Competitors:

Honda Civic Si, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Volkswagen Golf GTI, Mazdaspeed3

All Wheel Drive:

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) on most trims, a significant differentiator in its class.

Performance Variants:

Includes information on the performance-oriented WRX and WRX STI models, featuring turbocharged engines and enhanced chassis dynamics.

Audience:

Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional repair shops, Subaru owners seeking in-depth maintenance and repair knowledge.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

North America, Global Markets

Estimated Pages:

1500+

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical (EJ205, EJ255, EJ257), Engine control systems (ECU, sensors, actuators), Fuel system, Ignition system, Exhaust system, Turbocharger system (where applicable), Manual Transmission (MT), Automatic Transmission (AT), Drivetrain (AWD system, differentials, driveshafts)

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), Steering system, Brake system (ABS, EBD, standard), Wheels and tires

Electrical:

Body electrical systems, Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio system, HVAC controls, Powertrain control module (PCM) wiring diagrams, Chassis control module (CCM) wiring diagrams, Safety systems wiring

Body And Interior:

Body panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Trim, HVAC system operation, Airbags, Restraint systems

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, Oil changes, Filter replacements, Spark plug replacement, Coolant flush, Brake fluid service, Transmission fluid service, Differential fluid service

Repair:

Engine overhaul, Transmission rebuild, Clutch replacement, Brake caliper and rotor replacement, Suspension component replacement, Steering rack replacement, Electrical component diagnosis and replacement, Body panel repair and replacement

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) explanation and procedures, On-board diagnostics (OBD-II) testing, Component testing procedures, Wiring diagram interpretation

Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, Fluid capacities and types, Component measurements, Tolerances

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic scheduled maintenance and fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced diagnostics, and electrical system troubleshooting. Includes detailed diagrams, schematics, and step-by-step instructions.

📊 Manual Specifications

PDF Quality:

High-resolution, searchable PDF with indexed chapters for easy navigation. Includes all original factory diagrams and schematics.

Print Options:

Printable in its entirety or individual sections. Designed for clear reproduction on standard printers.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Base Engine 2.5I:

2.5L Naturally Aspirated Subaru Boxer (EJ253)

Base Engine Specs:

Displacement: 2457cc, Bore x Stroke: 99.5mm x 79.0mm, Compression Ratio: 10.0:1, Horsepower: 170 hp @ 5800 rpm, Torque: 170 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Wrx Engine:

2.5L Turbocharged Subaru Boxer (EJ255)

Wrx Engine Specs:

Displacement: 2457cc, Bore x Stroke: 99.5mm x 79.0mm, Compression Ratio: 9.5:1, Horsepower: 265 hp @ 5200 rpm, Torque: 244 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm

Sti Engine:

2.5L Turbocharged Subaru Boxer (EJ257)

Sti Engine Specs:

Displacement: 2457cc, Bore x Stroke: 99.5mm x 79.0mm, Compression Ratio: 8.2:1, Horsepower: 305 hp @ 5400 rpm, Torque: 290 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm

Injection Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with sequential port injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended for WRX/STI)

ECU Type:

Subaru's Engine Control Unit (ECU) with integrated immobilizer system

🔧 Transmission

Base Models:

5-speed Manual Transmission (5MT)

2.5I:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (4AT)

Wrx:

5-speed Manual Transmission (5MT)

Sti:

6-speed Manual Transmission (6MT)

AWD System Manual:

Viscous coupling limited-slip center differential (VCSL) - Subaru's Symmetrical AWD

AWD System Automatic:

Active Torque Split All-Wheel Drive (ATS) with electronically controlled clutch pack

Manual Transmission Fluid:

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

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Subaru ATF-HP (High Performance)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 103.1 inches (2619 mm)

Length:

Approx. 177.4 inches (4506 mm) for sedan, 173.8 inches (4415 mm) for hatchback

Width:

Approx. 69.1 inches (1755 mm)

Height:

Approx. 58.1 inches (1476 mm) for sedan, 57.7 inches (1465 mm) for hatchback

Curb Weight:

Ranges from approximately 3000 lbs (1360 kg) for base models to over 3300 lbs (1495 kg) for WRX/STI models

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by model, consult specific vehicle documentation.

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x100mm

Tire Sizes Base:

205/55R16, 215/45R17 (depending on trim)

Tire Sizes Wrx Sti:

225/45R17 (WRX), 245/40R18 (STI)

🛡️ Safety Features

IIHS Ratings:

Generally good ratings for frontal offset and side impact tests for the era. Specific ratings may vary by trim and test methodology.

NHTSA Ratings:

Received 4-star ratings in frontal and side crash tests for many configurations.

Standard Active Safety:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Traction Control System (TCS), Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) on most models.

Standard Passive Safety:

Front dual-stage airbags, Front side-impact airbags, Side curtain airbags (front and rear, on select models), Active front head restraints

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 stereo with auxiliary input. Optional Rockford Fosgate premium audio system available on select trims. Bluetooth connectivity was optional or limited on lower trims.

Optional Features:

Limited advanced driver-assistance systems for this model year. Focus is on mechanical systems and handling.

Bluetooth:

Available on higher trim levels or as an accessory upgrade, not standard across all models.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles or 6 months, or 7,500 miles/12 months under severe conditions (consult manual for specific recommendation based on usage).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 12 months

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 12 months

Spark Plug Replacement Naturally Aspirated:

Every 60,000 miles (using iridium-tipped plugs)

Spark Plug Replacement Turbocharged:

Every 30,000 miles (using special high-performance plugs)

Coolant Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles or 24 months (Subaru Super Coolant)

Brake Fluid Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles or 24 months

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 (API SG, SH, SJ, SL, SM, SN or ILSAC GF-3/GF-4/GF-5)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.8 US quarts (4.6 liters) for 2.5L naturally aspirated, 4.8 US quarts (4.6 liters) for 2.5L turbo (consult manual for precise amounts with filter change).

Coolant Type:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue)

Head Gaskets:

While less prevalent on the EJ253 compared to earlier EJ25 models, internal coolant leaks can still occur. The EJ205, EJ255, and EJ257 are generally more robust but require diligent maintenance.

Turbocharger Reliability:

WRX and STI models require proper oil changes and consideration for heat soak. Catastrophic turbo failure can occur if maintenance is neglected or if the engine is pushed to extreme limits without proper cooling modifications.

Clutch Wear:

Performance models (WRX/STI) can experience premature clutch wear with aggressive driving.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Identity:

Known for its Boxer engines and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive systems, originating from a strong rally racing heritage.

Third Generation:

The 2009 model year represents the introduction of the third generation (GR/GH/GE/GV chassis) Impreza, featuring a completely redesigned body, including a hatchback option previously unavailable in North America.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Japan (Gunma Plant).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Segment Accolades:

The Impreza WRX and STI variants are consistently recognized for their performance, handling, and rally-inspired capabilities, earning numerous accolades from automotive publications for their class-leading performance.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Reliability ratings varied for this generation. Naturally aspirated models generally performed better than turbocharged variants, which can be more sensitive to driving style and maintenance.