🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Impreza

Model Code:

GC/GF Chassis

Generation:

First Generation (GC/GF)

Generation Years:

1992-2000

Applicable Years:

1997, 1998

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact car, known for its all-wheel-drive capabilities (though this manual specifies non-turbo, often RWD or AWD variants existed).

Target Audience:

DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, Subaru enthusiasts seeking in-depth knowledge for maintenance and repair.

Key Competitors:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mitsubishi Lancer, Nissan Sentra.

Differentiators:

Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system (though RWD was also an option), Boxer engine architecture, rally heritage reputation.

Vehicle Reputation:

Reliable, durable, practical, often praised for its handling and all-weather capability.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides the exact factory data needed for accurate diagnosis and repair, saving time and money compared to trial-and-error methods.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Type Covered:

2000cc Gasoline, Naturally Aspirated (Non-Turbo)

Body Styles Covered:

Likely includes Sedan and Coupe (GF chassis) variants, and potentially Wagon (GF chassis) if applicable for the specified engine in those years.

Trim Levels Covered:

Covers standard Impreza models equipped with the 2.0L non-turbo engine, common across various trim levels of that era.

Estimated Page Count:

Estimated 1500-2500+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals).

Manual Type:

Full Service and Repair Manual (Factory Technical Manual)

Language:

English (presumed, based on common availability for North American market manuals)

Format:

Digital (likely PDF), potentially available as printed reproduction.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanicals (disassembly, assembly, torque specs, timing), fuel delivery and injection (EFI), ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, emission control systems (including EGR, PCV).

Powertrain Systems:

Manual and Automatic Transmissions (clutch operation, gear shifting, lubrication, torque converter), Transfer Case (if applicable to AWD variants), Driveshafts, Differentials (front and rear).

Chassis Systems:

Suspension (front struts, rear multi-link, bushings), Steering system (power steering pump, rack and pinion, tie rods), Braking system (hydraulic system, ABS components, brake pad/rotor replacement, caliper service), Wheel alignment specifications.

Electrical Systems:

Wiring diagrams for all circuits, power distribution, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system (starter motor), lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), instrument cluster, audio system, climate control electricals, power windows/locks/mirrors.

Body And Interior:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, seat removal, HVAC system components (blower motor, evaporator, heater core), body sealant and weatherstripping.

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks/changes), brake inspections, tire rotations, belt replacements, coolant flushes.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting charts based on symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for OBD-I or OBD-II (depending on market emission standards), component testing procedures (resistance, voltage, continuity).

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and overhaul of major systems including engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, and steering.

Technical Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities and types, clearances and adjustments, diagnostic values, engine timing settings.

Depth Of Information:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid level checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed schematics and diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF for quick information retrieval.

Print Quality Digital:

High-resolution scans or digital creation, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual.

Binding Type Physical:

Spiral-bound or perfect-bound (for printed versions), allowing for lay-flat use.

Paper Type Physical:

Durable paper stock, often on coated or heavier weight paper to withstand shop use.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Family:

Subaru EJ Series

Engine Code Typical:

EJ201 or similar (2.0L SOHC non-turbo variants common in this era)

Displacement:

2.0 Liters (1994 cc)

Configuration:

Horizontally-opposed (Boxer), 4-cylinder

Valvetrain:

SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) - 2 valves per cylinder (8 valves total)

Bore X Stroke:

Approx. 92.0 mm x 75.0 mm (varies slightly by specific EJ20 variant)

Compression Ratio:

Typically around 9.5:1 to 10.0:1 for non-turbo variants.

Horsepower Est:

Approx. 110-125 hp @ 5500-6000 rpm

Torque Est:

Approx. 120-130 lb-ft @ 3500-4500 rpm

Fuel Injection:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Multi-point sequential injection.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane minimum recommended, higher may be specified for optimal performance)

Ignition System:

Distributor-based electronic ignition with coil-on-plug or single coil with spark plug wires.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type Optional:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

Drivetrain:

All-Wheel Drive (Symmetrical AWD) or Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) depending on market and trim.

Clutch Type:

Dry single plate (for manual transmission)

Transmission Fluid Manual:

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

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Subaru ATF-HP (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid, though specific Subaru fluid is always best)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4,340 mm (170.9 in) for Sedan

Width:

Approx. 1,690 mm (66.5 in)

Height:

Approx. 1,405 mm (55.3 in) for Sedan

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2,520 mm (99.2 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1,250 - 1,350 kg (2755 - 2976 lbs) depending on configuration

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rating Est:

Likely achieved a 3 or 4-star rating in frontal crash tests (based on general ratings for vehicles of this era).

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was often an optional or standard feature on higher trims.

AWD Benefit:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive provides enhanced traction and stability in various conditions.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags (standard for these years in most markets).

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts for all occupants, front seatbelt pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Base factory radio with AM/FM, cassette player, and potentially CD player on higher trims. Limited digital connectivity by modern standards.

ABS Functionality:

ABS provides enhanced braking control during emergency stops, preventing wheel lock-up. The manual details ABS system diagnosis.

OBD Standard:

Likely OBD-I or early OBD-II compliant, depending on the specific market's emissions regulations for 1997-1998. Manual will guide diagnosis using appropriate connectors and scan tools of the era.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (check specific owner's manual for exact recommendation).

Engine Oil Filter:

Replace at every oil change. Subaru Part Number: 15208AA031 (example, verify for specific VIN).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically around 60,000 miles for platinum or iridium plugs, or sooner for copper plugs (refer to manual).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial service item for EJ engines, typically every 60,000 to 105,000 miles or 7-10 years (severe service interval is shorter). Subaru Part Number for belt kit (incl. tensioner, idlers): 13028AA152 (example, verify).

Engine Oil Spec:

API Service SG, SH, or SJ rated, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for ambient temperature viscosity recommendations). Capacity: Approx. 4.2 US quarts (4.0 liters) with filter.

Coolant Spec:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life OAT coolant. Capacity: Approx. 5.7 US quarts (5.4 liters).

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Head Gaskets:

While often associated with later EJ engines, early EJ series can sometimes exhibit coolant leaks from head gaskets, particularly if overheated or neglected. The manual will detail inspection and repair procedures.

Oil Leaks:

Common leak points can include valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and crankshaft/camshaft seals. The manual provides detailed replacement guides.

Exhaust Manifold Cracks:

Some older EJ engines can develop cracks in the exhaust manifolds, leading to exhaust leaks and ticking noises. Manual covers inspection and replacement.

Automatic Transmission Issues:

Some older automatic transmissions can develop harsh shifting or slipping; regular fluid changes as per the manual are crucial.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Focus:

Subaru, a division of Fuji Heavy Industries, known for its horizontally-opposed engines and all-wheel-drive systems.

First Generation:

The GC/GF Impreza debuted in 1992, establishing Subaru's presence in the compact rally-inspired segment.

Mid Generation Updates:

Minor styling updates and feature enhancements occurred throughout the first generation, with 1997-1998 representing a specific phase within this generation.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily manufactured in Japan (Gunma Plant).

Rally Success:

The Impreza platform gained significant fame through its success in the World Rally Championship (WRC), especially with the turbo variants.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Recognition:

The Subaru Impreza platform, particularly its rally-bred variants, achieved significant acclaim in motorsport, contributing to brand prestige. Standard models were recognized for their practicality and value.