Segment:
Compact car, known for its rally heritage and all-wheel-drive capabilities.
Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mitsubishi Lancer, Ford Focus, Mazda3.
Distinguishing Features:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (except for some base models in certain markets), boxer engine, strong performance variants (WRX, STI).
Primary Users:
Subaru Impreza owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, aspiring DIY mechanics, automotive repair shops.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical (EJ20, EJ25 variants), fuel system, ignition system, lubrication, cooling, exhaust, engine management (ECU), forced induction (turbocharging where applicable).
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual transmissions (5-speed, 6-speed STI), automatic transmissions (4-speed), all-wheel drive (Symmetrical AWD) system, differentials, driveshafts, axles.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, stabilizer bars, power steering system, steering rack, wheel alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS, brake fluid specifications, brake pad replacement, rotor specifications, parking brake, hydraulic component testing and repair.
Electrical Electronic:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, fuses, relays, instrument panel, power windows, mirrors, locks, audio system, climate control, immobilizer system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Body Chassis:
Body construction, exterior trim, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, dashboard, chassis frame, rust prevention, bodywork repair, paint codes.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common symptoms, electrical system diagnosis, engine performance issues, transmission problems, brake system malfunctions.
Repair Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly for nearly all vehicle systems.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II system diagnostics, sensor testing, actuator testing, use of scan tools, wiring diagrams for electrical troubleshooting.
Body Repair:
Information on body panel replacement, collision repair guidance, torque specifications for body fasteners, and potentially paint code references.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians.
Engine Codes:
EJ20 (2.0L naturally aspirated and turbocharged), EJ25 (2.5L naturally aspirated and turbocharged - including EJ255, EJ257 for WRX/STI).
Horsepower Torque:
Varies significantly by engine and trim. Naturally aspirated models typically 120-170 hp. Turbocharged WRX models: 227-230 hp. STI models: 300-305 hp.
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI), electronic throttle control (ETC).
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant. Capacity: Approx. 7.4 quarts (7.0 liters).
Oil Type Capacity:
SAE 5W-30 synthetic or semi-synthetic is recommended. Oil capacity: Approx. 4.8 quarts (4.5 liters) for 2.5L NA, 4.2 quarts (4.0 liters) for 2.0L NA/Turbo, 4.7 quarts (4.4 liters) for STI.
Spark Plugs:
NGK Iridium IX (e.g., PFR6G-11S for STI, BKR6E-11 for WRX). Gap: 0.044 inches (1.1 mm).
Transmission Types:
5-speed manual transmission (most trims), 4-speed automatic transmission (optional on some trims).
Performance Transmissions:
6-speed manual transmission (WRX STI models).
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with Active Torque Split (4EAT) or viscous center differential (5MT/6MT).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil (GL-5) or equivalent. Capacity: Approx. 2.2 quarts (2.1 liters) for 5MT, 2.3 quarts (2.2 liters) for 6MT.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF HP or equivalent. Capacity: Approx. 3.4 quarts (3.2 liters) for a drain and fill.
NHTSA Front Impact:
5 Stars (for models equipped with side airbags).
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags).
ABS:
Standard on most trims. Advanced ABS system with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD).
Traction Control:
Available on some models, often integrated with AWD system.
Airbags:
Front airbags standard. Optional side-impact airbags and curtain airbags on select trims.
Seatbelts:
Three-point height-adjustable front seat belts with pretensioners. Three-point rear seat belts.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months for severe driving conditions, or 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months under normal conditions, with the correct synthetic oil.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months, or more frequently in dusty conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for iridium plugs (e.g., WRX/STI), or 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for platinum or copper plugs.
Timing Belt Replacement:
For models with EJ20/EJ25 engines, it's crucial to follow Subaru's recommended timing belt service interval, typically around 105,000 miles (168,000 km) or 7 years. Inspecting the belt and tensioner/idler pulleys at each service is also advised.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Subaru DOT 4 recommended. Flush and replace every 2-3 years.
Power Steering Fluid:
Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III ATF. Capacity: Approx. 0.8 quarts (0.75 liters).
Engine Wear:
Head gasket leaks (especially on earlier EJ25 SOHC engines, less common on DOHC EJ25s in this generation but still possible), piston ring land failure (ringland failure) on high-mileage or modified EJ257 engines (common in STI). Oil consumption can be a concern.
Turbocharger Issues:
Oil starvation or contamination can lead to turbo failure in WRX/STI models. Proper maintenance and pre-lube are critical. Intercooler hoses can degrade.
Suspension Wear:
Worn sway bar links, bushings, and front struts are common due to vehicle age and driving conditions, especially for performance variants. Subaru's viscous center differential can also wear over time.
Electrical Quirks:
Window regulator failures, minor sensor issues, and occasional ABS or SRS warning lights can occur with age.
Motorsport Connection:
Subaru has a long and successful history in rallying, particularly with the Impreza WRX and WRX STI, which heavily influenced the performance variants of the road-going models.
Second Gen Introduction:
The second generation Impreza (GD/GG) was introduced for the 2002 model year (North America) and featured a significant redesign from its predecessor, adopting a more rounded and aerodynamic profile. It continued the tradition of offering AWD and performance variants.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan.
Mid Cycle Refresh:
The second generation received a significant facelift for the 2004 model year, often referred to as the 'hawkeye' redesign, which revised the front fascia (headlights, grille, bumper) and rear lights, especially on WRX/STI models.
