🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Impreza

Model Generations Covered:

Second Generation (GD/GG)

Model Years Covered:

2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

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

Value Proposition:

Provides professional-level repair information, saving significant costs compared to dealership service or incorrect DIY methods.

Alternatives:

Dealership service manuals (often more expensive and less accessible), generic repair guides (lacking Subaru-specific detail), online forums (unverified information).

Completeness:

Comprehensive coverage across all major vehicle systems and year/model variations within the specified range.

Accuracy:

Based on official Subaru service documentation, ensuring accuracy of procedures and specifications.

📋 Manual Details

Applicable Regions:

Global (North America, Europe, Asia, Australia)

Trim Levels Covered:

All major trim levels including RS, TS, WRX, WRX STI (specific sub-models may vary by region and year)

Estimated Page Count:

1500-2500 (approximate, depending on exact version and digital format)

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF likely, potentially with searchable text and hyperlinked sections)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete teardown and reassembly of all engine variants (EJ251, EJ253, EJ205, EJ257, EJ259), including cylinder heads, pistons, crankshaft, timing belt/chain, lubrication system, cooling system.

Engine Management:

Fuel injection (MPI), ignition system (coil-on-plug, distributorless), emissions control systems (EVAP, EGR), ECU diagnostics, sensor operations, wiring diagrams.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch system, gearbox disassembly/reassembly, gear ratios, shift linkage, lubrication, torque specifications.

Transmission Automatic:

Transmission fluid changes, torque converter operation, valve body diagnostics, planetary gearsets, electronic control unit (ECU) interface, troubleshooting.

Drivetrain:

Front and rear differentials, viscous coupling unit (VCU), center differential (AWD systems), driveshafts, CV joints, wheel bearings.

Suspension:

Front McPherson struts, rear multi-link independent suspension, stabilizer bars, bushings, alignment specifications, shock absorber/strut replacement.

Steering:

Power steering system (pump, rack, hoses), steering column, universal joints, tie rod ends, alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes (vented/solid depending on model), ABS system (components, diagnostics, bleeding procedures), parking brake, brake fluid specifications, hydraulic lines.

Electrical System:

12V battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, circuit diagrams, body control module (BCM).

HVAC:

Air conditioning system (refrigerant types, servicing, component replacement), heater core, blower motor, climate control panels, ducting.

Body And Interior:

Exterior panel removal/installation (bumpers, fenders, doors, hood, trunk), interior trim panels, seats, airbags (SRS system diagnostics and safety precautions), glass replacement.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fuel filter replacement, coolant flush and fill, brake fluid flush, power steering fluid change.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) explanation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical diagnostic flowcharts, common issue diagnosis.

Component Replacement:

Detailed step-by-step guides for replacing major components like engines, transmissions, alternators, starters, radiators, fuel pumps, brake calipers, CV axles, wheel bearings.

Engine Rebuilds:

Instructions for complete engine teardown, inspection of internal components, piston ring replacement, bearing replacement, cylinder head resurfacing, and reassembly with torque specifications.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial procedures for timing belt replacement, including proper camshaft and crankshaft alignment to prevent engine damage.

Bodywork And Paint:

Repair of minor body damage, panel alignment, procedures for body panel removal and installation, possibly some paint touch-up guidance.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Detailed wiring diagrams for all major systems, fuse box layouts, relay functions, diagnostic procedures for common electrical faults.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Includes detailed specifications, torque values, and diagnostic procedures.

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on using OBD-II scanners, Subaru Select Monitor (SSM), and specific diagnostic tools for various systems.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (Portable Document Format) is standard for such manuals.

Searchability:

Likely searchable text content for quick information retrieval.

Printability:

Printable pages allowing users to create physical copies for workshop use.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution diagrams, schematics, and photographs for clarity.

Binding:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Examples:

EJ251, EJ253 (2.5L SOHC NA), EJ205 (2.0L DOHC Turbo), EJ257 (2.5L DOHC Turbo - WRX STI), EJ259 (2.5L SOHC NA - later years).

Engine Type:

Horizontally-opposed (Boxer) 4-cylinder, naturally aspirated and turbocharged.

Displacement Examples:

2.0L (1994cc), 2.5L (2457cc).

Horsepower Range:

Approx. 165-175 hp (NA), 227-270 hp (Turbo WRX/STI models).

Torque Range:

Approx. 184-190 lb-ft (NA), 236-300 lb-ft (Turbo WRX/STI models).

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI), Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, Octane rating 91 or higher recommended for turbocharged models.

Timing Belt Replacement Interval:

Typically 60,000 miles or 5 years, whichever comes first (for EJ251/253/259). Turbo models might have different intervals or chain-driven camshafts depending on specific year/STI variant.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transmission (for most models including WRX).

Optional Transmission:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (for naturally aspirated models).

Drivetrain Type:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) standard on all trims.

AWD System Details:

Viscous coupling center differential, variable torque split depending on transmission type.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil (check specific manual for exact type).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Subaru ATF-HP (Highly Recommended), Dexron III compatible for earlier models, check manual for specific fill capacity.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Inches:

Approx. 100.0 inches.

Length Inches:

Approx. 175.0 - 178.0 inches (sedan/wagon).

Width Inches:

Approx. 68.1 - 69.7 inches.

Height Inches:

Approx. 56.1 - 57.7 inches (sedan), 58.7 - 60.0 inches (wagon).

Curb Weight Lbs:

Approx. 2900 - 3300 lbs (depending on engine and trim).

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr Lbs:

Varies by model, consult specific vehicle plate.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:

Generally good for the era, specific year ratings apply. Check NHTSA website for individual year performance.

IIHS Small Overlap Frontal Rating:

N/A for this generation as tests were not standard at launch.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCS) on some models.

Stability Control:

Available Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) on select higher trims and later years.

Airbags:

Front driver and passenger airbags standard. Side airbags and curtain airbags available on some models/trims.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

Crumple Zones:

Designed with front and rear crumple zones for energy absorption.

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

Standard single-CD or cassette players, with optional CD changers or premium audio systems (e.g., McIntosh) on higher trims. Many owners opt for aftermarket head unit upgrades.

Speaker System:

Standard 4-6 speaker systems, with optional 8-speaker premium systems.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Limited Advanced Features:

This era predates most modern driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, or automatic emergency braking.

Auxiliary Input:

Some later models may feature an auxiliary audio input jack.

Bluetooth:

Not standard; aftermarket solutions are common.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (consult manual for specific recommendation).

Engine Air Filter Replacement Interval:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement Interval:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Iridium spark plugs (standard on many models) typically last 60,000-100,000 miles. Check manual for exact type and interval.

Engine Oil Spec:

Viscosity: 5W-30 or 10W-30 (depending on climate and engine variant). API SN or higher, ILSAC GF-5 or higher. Check manual for exact specification and capacity.

Coolant Spec:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent. Mixture: 50/50 with distilled water. Capacity: Approx. 6.4-7.5 US quarts.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for exact spec). Always use fresh, sealed fluid.

Power Steering Fluid Spec:

Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or equivalent DEXRON III compatible fluid. Check manual for exact type and capacity.

Head Gaskets:

Although less prevalent than in earlier generations, Subaru's EJ series engines can still be prone to head gasket leaks, particularly if overheated or subjected to high stress.

Turbocharger Issues:

For WRX/STI models, turbocharger longevity can be affected by oil maintenance, driving style (avoiding heat soak), and use of quality oil. Turbo seals and wastegate issues can occur.

Clutch Wear:

Manual transmission clutches can wear prematurely with aggressive driving or heavy towing.

Suspension Bushings:

Worn suspension bushings can lead to noise, poor handling, and alignment issues over time.

Automatic Transmission Failures:

Certain automatic transmissions in this era, particularly if not properly maintained, can experience issues with solenoids or torque converters.

Emphasis:

The manual will detail specific mileage and time-based maintenance schedules critical for maintaining Subaru's Boxer engine and AWD system health.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Brand Focus:

Subaru is known for its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and horizontally-opposed Boxer engines, emphasizing rally heritage and all-weather capability.

Second Generation Gd Gg:

Introduced in 2000/2001, this generation marked a significant redesign with a more aerodynamic and rounded styling compared to the previous GC/GM chassis. It also saw the rise of the performance-oriented WRX and WRX STI models globally.

Facelifts:

The GD/GG chassis received mid-cycle refreshes (facelifts) in 2002/2003 (often referred to as 'Bug Eye' for early models and 'Blob Eye' for the next iteration) and again in 2005/2006 ('Hawk Eye'), with styling and some mechanical updates.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primary production in Japan (Gunma Plant).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Γραφή:

The WRX and WRX STI variants were frequent entries on Car and Driver's '10Best' list during this period, recognized for their performance and value.

Sport Compact Car Γραφή:

Often lauded by enthusiast publications for its handling and performance, especially WRX/STI models.

Emissions Compliance:

Compliant with prevailing emissions standards for their respective model years and regions.