🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Impreza

Year:

1998

Chassis Code:

GC/GF/GM (Second Generation)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Subaru Impreza of this era was positioned as a compact car offering all-wheel-drive capability, sporty handling, and practicality. It competed with vehicles like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Mitsubishi Lancer.

Competitive Analysis:

The 1998 Impreza stood out due to its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (SAWD) system, a significant differentiator in its segment, providing superior traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions.

Key Features:

Standard All-Wheel Drive, reliable boxer engines, practical hatchback and sedan body styles, agile handling, rally-inspired heritage (especially WRX variants).

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All mechanical and electrical systems, bodywork, and accessories for the 1998 Subaru Impreza

Page Count:

Estimated 1000+ pages (comprehensive manual)

Manual Type:

Full Service & Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely a digital format (PDF) or a professionally printed book

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine (2.2L Naturally Aspirated, 2.5L Naturally Aspirated, 2.0L Turbocharged), Transmission (5-Speed Manual, 4-Speed Automatic), Drivetrain (All-Wheel Drive System), Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Electrical System (ECU, wiring diagrams, lighting, accessories), Climate Control, Body & Chassis, Interior Trim, Safety Systems (Airbags, Seatbelts)

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, scheduled servicing, detailed diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting guides, step-by-step repair instructions for all major components, component removal and installation, rebuilding procedures, specifications, torque values, and diagrams

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and body repair

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

If digital: Searchable PDF, printable pages. If print: High-quality paper stock, clear legible print.

Print Quality:

Professional quality with clear diagrams and illustrations. If digital, ensure high resolution.

Binding Type:

If printed: Perfect bound or spiral bound for lay-flat usability in a workshop.

Paper Type:

If printed: Durable paper stock, resistant to shop grease and handling.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

EJ22E 2.2L SOHC 16-valve Boxer-4

Engine Performance 2.2L:

Approx. 135 hp @ 5600 rpm, 140 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine Performance 2.5L:

Approx. 165 hp @ 5600 rpm, 166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (for Outback Sport/GT)

Engine Performance 2.0L Turbo:

Approx. 215 hp @ 6000 rpm, 208 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (for WRX GC8)

Fuel System:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

AWD System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (SAWD) with viscous coupling center differential and rear limited-slip differential (LSD) on some models.

📐 Dimensions

Exterior Dimensions Sedan:

Length: 172.4 in, Width: 67.1 in, Height: 55.1 in

Exterior Dimensions Wagon:

Length: 175.0 in, Width: 67.1 in, Height: 56.1 in

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2700-3000 lbs (depending on body style and trim)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

Likely 4/5 stars (check specific NHTSA reports for exact year/model)

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, three-point seatbelts with pretensioners, reinforced chassis with crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player or optional CD player. Speaker count typically 4 or 6.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by modern standards. Primarily focused on the safety provided by the AWD system. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was optional or standard depending on trim.

Connectivity Features:

No factory Bluetooth or USB connectivity. May have an auxiliary input for aftermarket head units.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, whichever comes first (depending on driving conditions and oil type).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 60,000 - 90,000 miles or 5-7 years. Crucial for EJ engines to prevent catastrophic failure.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG/SH/SJ, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended (refer to manual for exact specifications and temperature ranges).

Coolant Type:

Subaru Genuine Coolant or equivalent (typically ethylene glycol based, mixed 50/50 with distilled water).

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Subaru Genuine ATF-HP or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid.

Known Issues Headgaskets:

While less common on naturally aspirated EJ22/EJ25 than later generations, head gasket leaks can occur, especially if overheated or neglected. Turbocharged models are more prone.

Known Issues Alternator:

Alternator failures can be somewhat common; preventative replacement is sometimes advised.

Known Issues Wheel Bearings:

Wheel bearing wear, especially at higher mileage, can lead to noise and vibration.

Known Issues Radiator:

Plastic-tank radiators can develop cracks over time, leading to coolant leaks.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Subaru, known for its boxer engines and standard All-Wheel Drive, has a strong heritage in rally racing and outdoor-oriented vehicles. The Impreza carries this performance-oriented DNA.

Model Evolution:

The 1998 model is part of the second generation (GC/GF/GM) of the Impreza, introduced in 1992. This generation saw refinements in styling and chassis, with the iconic WRX performance model gaining significant international acclaim.

Production Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Japan by Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While the 1998 Impreza may not have specific individual awards listed for that exact year, the Impreza platform, especially the WRX variants, has a strong reputation for performance and rally success, contributing to the model's overall prestige.