Segment:
Compact/Small Family Car
Usp:
Known for its standard All-Wheel Drive system, rally-inspired heritage, and reliable Boxer engines.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, Mitsubishi Lancer, Ford Focus
AWD:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive across all trims, enhancing traction and stability.
Engine Layout:
Horizontally-opposed (Boxer) engine layout for a lower center of gravity and improved handling.
Performance Variants:
Availability of performance-oriented WRX and STI models (though this manual likely covers base Impreza).
Powertrain:
Engine (EJ20, EJ25), Transmission (5-speed Manual, 4-speed Automatic), Drivetrain (Symmetrical AWD)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front MacPherson Strut, Rear Multi-link), Brakes (Front Ventilated Disc, Rear Disc), Steering (Power Rack and Pinion)
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Interior Trim, Climate Control (HVAC)
Electrical And Electronics:
Engine Control Unit (ECU), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio System, Power Accessories, SRS Airbag System
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Top-offs, Tune-ups
Repair And Overhaul:
Engine Rebuilds, Transmission Overhauls, Brake System Repairs, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Fault Code Interpretation, Symptom-based Troubleshooting Guides, Component Testing Procedures
Technical Data And Specs:
Torque Specifications, Fluid Capacities, Component Dimensions, Electrical Schematics, Emission Control Information
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Engine Code Common:
EJ253 (2.5L SOHC)
Engine Code Alternative:
EJ204 (2.0L DOHC NA)
Displacement 2.5L:
2457 cc
Horsepower 2.5L:
173 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque 2.5L:
166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Displacement 2.0L:
1994 cc
Horsepower 2.0L:
125 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque 2.0L:
140 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended for NA models, premium recommended for WRX/STI variants if covered)
ECU Type:
Denso or Hitachi ECU (specific part numbers vary)
Timing Belt Or Chain:
Timing Belt (EJ series engines require periodic replacement)
Type AWD Manual:
5-speed Manual with Symmetrical AWD
Type AWD Auto:
4-speed Automatic with Symmetrical AWD
AWD System:
Active Torque Split All-Wheel Drive (for automatic transmission) or viscous coupling center differential (for manual transmission)
Manual Gearbox Oil:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (Subaru Extra-S or equivalent)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF-HP (Highly Recommended, DEXRON III/MERCON NOT compatible)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (for driver and passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact:
4-Star (front and rear passengers)
IIHS Front Crashworthiness:
Good
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
E-Brake:
Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear side-curtain airbags (on select trims)
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
Child Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD audio system, with optional premium sound systems and satellite radio on higher trims.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on some trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control functionality.
All Wheel Drive:
Core technology providing enhanced traction and stability in various weather conditions.
Aux Input:
Some models may feature an auxiliary audio input jack.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (consult owner's manual/this manual for specifics).
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Typically every 60,000-105,000 miles (96,000-169,000 km) or 7 years, but this must be verified in the manual as it's critical for the EJ engine.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval Auto:
Check owner's manual; typically around 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) for severe use.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval Manual:
Check owner's manual; usually around 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (Synthetic recommended for most conditions, check manual for specific viscosity grades and API service classifications)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.8 US quarts (4.5 liters) with filter for 2.5L engine. Check manual for exact capacity.
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent OAT/HOAT coolant. Do not mix with conventional green coolant.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Head Gaskets:
While less common on this specific generation compared to earlier ones (EJ22, EJ25D), EJ253 can still be prone to head gasket leaks, particularly if overheated or poorly maintained. The manual will detail inspection and replacement.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gaskets and oil pan gaskets can weep over time. The manual provides procedures for diagnosis and replacement.
Catalytic Converter:
Can become clogged, affecting performance. Manual covers diagnosis of exhaust system issues.
Suspension Components:
Wear in bushings and ball joints, especially with high mileage or aggressive driving. Manual details inspection and replacement.
Subaru Rally:
Subaru's long and successful history in World Rally Championship (WRC) heavily influenced the Impreza's design and performance perception.
Generation:
This 2006 model represents the latter part of the second generation (GD/GG chassis), known for its distinct styling compared to earlier generations.
Facelift:
The 2006 model received a minor facelift compared to earlier second-gen models, including updated headlights, grille, and bumpers.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan (Gunma Plant) and also in various global assembly plants.