🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Impreza WRX

Generation:

GD/GG

Model Years Covered:

2002-2003

Chassis Codes:

GDB (sedan), GGA (wagon)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Performance Compact Sedan/Wagon (World Rally Blue edition).

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, rally sport fans, owners seeking to maintain and modify their performance Subaru.

Competitors 2002 2003:

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (VII), Honda Civic Si, Acura RSX, Ford Focus SVT, Volkswagen GTI.

Performance Focus:

The WRX variant is distinguished by its turbocharged engine, Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, sport-tuned suspension, and aggressive styling, aimed at delivering rally-inspired performance on public roads.

Legendary Status:

The 2002-2003 models represent the first generation of the Impreza WRX officially sold in North America, cementing its reputation as an accessible performance icon.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

All mechanical and electrical systems for 2002-2003 Subaru Impreza WRX models.

Estimated Pages:

Hundreds of pages (specific count not provided but described as extensive).

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (Digital)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

EJ205 2.0L Turbocharged Boxer Engine: including diagnostics, repair, overhaul, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel delivery, ignition system, emissions control, engine management.

Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transmission (TY755VB): clutch system, gear selection, internal components, troubleshooting, rebuild procedures, fluid specifications.

Drivetrain:

All-Wheel Drive System: center differential, front and rear differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, propeller shaft, troubleshooting and repair.

Suspension:

Front and Rear Suspension: MacPherson struts, control arms, subframes, bushings, springs, shock absorbers, alignment specifications, repair and replacement.

Brakes:

Braking System: hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake pads, rotors, calipers, brake lines, parking brake, bleeding procedures, component replacement.

Steering:

Power Steering System: pump, lines, rack and pinion, fluid specifications, troubleshooting, repair.

Electrical:

Electrical System: battery, alternator, starter, wiring diagrams, lighting, gauges, power windows, locks, audio system, ECU (Engine Control Unit) and sensor diagnostics.

Body:

Body and Chassis: exterior panels, interior trim, doors, hood, trunk, glass, seals, corrosion prevention, structural components, repair and adjustment.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC): system components, refrigerant handling, diagnostics, repair of heating and cooling issues.

Emissions:

Emissions Control System: catalytic converter, O2 sensors, EGR system, evaporative emissions control, diagnostic codes related to emissions.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes, timing belt inspection/replacement (if applicable).

Diagnostics:

Comprehensive troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics, electrical system testing.

Repair:

Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, including engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension and brake component replacement, electrical component repair.

Rebuild:

Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures, including torque specifications, clearances, and component assembly.

Refurbish:

Procedures for restoring worn or damaged components to optimal condition.

Depth:

Highly detailed, covering everything from basic fluid checks and filter changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, complex electrical diagnostics, and bodywork repair. Suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Quality:

PDF format ensures clarity, searchability, and ease of navigation. Content is typically derived from original manufacturer documentation, ensuring high-resolution diagrams and text.

Searchability:

Optimized for electronic search, allowing users to quickly find specific information by keywords.

Printable:

Pages are printable, allowing users to create hard copies of sections for convenient use in a workshop environment.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF format, no physical binding)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital PDF format, no physical paper)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

EJ205

Engine Type:

Horizontally-opposed (Boxer), turbocharged, intercooled, DOHC, 16-valve, flat-four.

Displacement:

1994 cc (2.0 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

92.0 mm x 75.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1

Horsepower:

227 hp @ 5600 rpm (SAE Net)

Torque:

217 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (SAE Net)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) with Subaru's Electronic Throttle Control (Drive-by-Wire on some models/regions).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)

Turbocharger:

IHI VF39 (typically) or similar variable geometry turbocharger with intercooler.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission (TY755VB)

Type:

N/A (WRX models in this generation were exclusively manual in most markets).

Drivetrain Type:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with viscous center differential.

Gear Ratios:

Specific gear ratios will be detailed within the manual, essential for performance tuning and understanding vehicle dynamics.

Clutch:

Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Sedan: 4415 mm (173.8 in) / Wagon: 4465 mm (175.8 in)

Width:

1735 mm (68.3 in)

Height:

Sedan: 1440 mm (56.7 in) / Wagon: 1475 mm (58.1 in)

Wheelbase:

2525 mm (99.4 in)

Ground Clearance:

135 mm (5.3 in)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 1400 kg (3086 lbs) depending on body style and options.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

4-star driver, 5-star passenger (typical for the era, actual rating may vary).

IIHS Side Impact:

Acceptable (typical for the era, actual rating may vary).

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).

Traction Control:

Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system contributes to traction and stability.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags, side curtain airbags (optional/region-dependent).

Seatbelts:

Three-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners.

Child Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD player with 4 or 6 speakers. Upgraded premium audio systems may have been available on higher trims or as dealer options.

Navigation:

Factory navigation systems were not common or widely available on WRX models of this era, but aftermarket units were popular.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Climate Control:

Manual or automatic climate control systems depending on trim level.

Bluetooth:

Bluetooth connectivity was not standard in this era. Aftermarket solutions are available.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, with premium synthetic oil recommended for turbo engines.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) using iridium or platinum type spark plugs.

Timing Belt:

Inspection at 60,000 miles (96,000 km), replacement typically recommended around 105,000 miles (168,000 km) or 7 years. Critical for EJ205 engine health.

Engine Oil:

SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil (API SG or higher). Refer to manual for specific API classification and viscosity recommendations under varying temperatures.

Coolant:

Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant. (50/50 mix with distilled water).

Transmission Fluid:

Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil (or equivalent GL-5 75W-90 synthetic) for manual transmission. Front/Rear Diff: SAE 75W-90 GL-5.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron III or Subaru compatible power steering fluid.

Head Gaskets:

While less prevalent than on later EJ engines, early EJ205 models can still be susceptible to head gasket leaks. Regular inspection and using quality coolant are key.

Turbo Failures:

Turbocharger failures can occur due to oil starvation or lack of proper warm-up/cool-down. Consistent oil changes with quality oil are vital.

Clutch Wear:

Performance driving can lead to accelerated clutch wear. Clutch lifespan is highly dependent on driving style.

Suspension Components:

Bushings and struts can wear over time, leading to noise or degraded handling. Upgraded aftermarket components are popular for this model.

Catalytic Converter:

Can become clogged over time, especially if the engine is burning oil or running rich. Performance can be significantly impacted.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Rally Legacy:

Subaru has a deep-rooted heritage in motorsports, particularly in the World Rally Championship (WRC), which heavily influenced the development and appeal of the Impreza WRX. The production models are direct road-going interpretations of rally cars.

Gd Gg Generation:

The 2002-2003 models represent the 'Bugeye' or 'Blobeye' (depending on specific market introduction) styling of the second-generation Impreza (GD/GG platform). This generation introduced significant design changes and performance enhancements over the first generation.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan (Gunma Plant).

North American Debut:

The 2002 model year marked the first official North American release of the Impreza WRX, significantly boosting Subaru's performance image in the US and Canada.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

While not for the WRX specifically, the standard Impreza often received accolades, and the WRX's performance credentials put it in the conversation for performance car awards.

Rally Performance:

Subaru Impreza's dominance in WRC during this period directly translated to consumer interest and recognition for the WRX's capabilities.