🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Subaru

Model:

Impreza WRX

Years Covered:

1997, 1998

Chassis Codes:

GC8

Product Code Reference:

Impreza WRX 1997-1998 Workshop Manual PDF

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Performance Sedan/Coupe (rally homologation special).

Reputation:

Iconic rally car, known for its potent turbocharged engine, all-wheel-drive system, and accessible performance.

Competitors:

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (early generations), Ford Escort Cosworth, Toyota Celica GT-Four.

Performance Focus:

Engineered for high-performance driving, with a focus on power delivery, handling, and grip.

AWD System:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system with DCCD for driver-selectable torque distribution, enhancing traction and cornering ability.

Turbocharged Engine:

Robust EJ20G boxer engine, a hallmark of Subaru's performance lineage, known for its spirited acceleration and distinctive sound.

Rally Heritage:

Directly derived from Subaru's World Rally Championship (WRC) efforts, imparting a rugged and capable chassis design.

📋 Manual Details

Scope:

Comprehensive repair and overhaul procedures for Subaru Impreza WRX 1997-1998 models.

Estimated Pages:

Extensive, likely several hundred pages covering all systems. (Specific page count not provided in product info, but typical for a workshop manual.)

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed information on the EJ20G turbocharged engine, including disassembly, assembly, tuning, and troubleshooting.

Transmission:

Coverage of the DCCD (Driver's Control Centre Differential) equipped 5-speed manual transmission, including clutch, gearbox, and differential service.

Drivetrain:

Front and rear differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, and viscous coupling unit (if applicable).

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems, including MacPherson struts, control arms, anti-roll bars, and bushings.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems, including hydraulic components, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), and rotor/pad replacement.

Steering:

Power steering system, including pump, rack and pinion, and steering column.

Electrical:

Full electrical system coverage, including wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, fuses, relays, and ECUs.

Fuel System:

Fuel delivery, injectors, fuel pump, fuel filter, and emission control systems.

Cooling System:

Radiator, thermostat, water pump, coolant hoses, and fan operation.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, and pipework.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, chassis components, door mechanisms, interior trim, and underbody protection.

Climate Control:

Air conditioning and heating system components and service.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system (SRS) components and service considerations.

Maintenance:

Regular servicing, oil changes, filter replacements, brake fluid changes, coolant flushes, tune-ups.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault codes, and symptom-based troubleshooting guides.

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for component replacement and repair of all major systems.

Overhaul:

Detailed instructions for engine and transmission overhauls, including torque specifications and clearances.

Diagnostics:

In-depth diagnostic procedures for all vehicle systems, including electrical and mechanical fault finding.

Specifications:

Precise technical specifications, torque values, clearances, fluid types, and capacities.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds and advanced diagnostics. Assumes a baseline of general automotive knowledge.

📊 Manual Specifications

PDF Quality:

Likely high-resolution scans or digital creation for clarity of text and diagrams. Searchable text functionality is highly probable for a professionally produced PDF.

Printability:

Designed to be printable, allowing technicians to have hard copies in the workshop.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

EJ20G

Configuration:

Horizontally-opposed (Boxer), 4-cylinder

Displacement:

2.0 Liters (1994 cc)

Aspiration:

Turbocharged, Intercooled

Horsepower Est:

Approx. 237-247 hp @ 6000 rpm (market dependent)

Torque Est:

Approx. 250-257 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm (market dependent)

Redline:

Approx. 7000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI), Electronic Fuel Control System (EFCS)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Octane Recommended, typically 95 RON or higher)

Type:

Pressurized Liquid Cooling System

Type:

Electronic Ignition, Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Distributor based ignition depending on exact market build.

ECU:

Engine Control Unit (ECU) managing fuel, ignition, and turbo boost.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Dccd:

Driver's Control Centre Differential (DCCD) with manual override and automatic modes.

Type:

None typically offered for WRX model in these years.

Gear Ratios:

Specific gear ratios detailed within the manual for optimal performance tuning.

Clutch:

Hydraulically operated single-plate dry clutch.

Manual Gearbox Oil:

Typically SAE 75W-90 GL-5 Gear Oil. Manual will specify exact Subaru or equivalent.

Dccd Fluid:

Specific fluid for DCCD unit, detailed in manual.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

2-Door Coupe, 4-Door Sedan.

Length:

Approx. 4,340 mm (Sedan) / 4,335 mm (Coupe) - varies slightly by market.

Width:

Approx. 1,730 mm

Height:

Approx. 1,415 mm (Sedan) / 1,420 mm (Coupe) - varies slightly by market.

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2,520 mm

Curb Weight Est:

Approx. 1300-1350 kg (depending on body style and options).

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Specific GVWR detailed in manual.

Wheel Size:

Typically 16-inch or 17-inch alloy wheels.

Tire Size Est:

205/50R16, 215/40R17, or similar performance-oriented sizes.

Bolt Pattern:

5x100 mm

Offset:

ET 53mm (common OE fitment).

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rating:

Specific NHTSA ratings for 1997-1998 models not readily available but generally considered robust for their era.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

AWD:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with DCCD for enhanced traction and stability.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners for front occupants.

Chassis Design:

Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

Factory-installed AM/FM/Cassette or CD player with basic speaker system. Upgrades were common.

ABS:

Standard ABS system provides enhanced braking control.

AWD Dccd:

DCCD allows the driver to adjust the torque split between front and rear axles, significantly impacting handling characteristics.

Original Features:

Limited by era; primarily focused on vehicle performance rather than digital integration. Features like cruise control might be present.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, especially for performance driving. Manual will provide precise OEM recommendation.

Air Filter:

Inspect every oil change, replace as needed or every 15,000-30,000 miles. Crucial for turbo performance.

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on type (copper vs. platinum/iridium). Manual will specify.

Timing Belt:

Crucial replacement interval, typically 60,000-90,000 miles or 5-7 years. EJ20G is an interference engine, so timely replacement is critical to prevent catastrophic engine damage. Manual will list precise interval and part numbers for belt, tensioner, idlers, and water pump.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2 years or 30,000 miles. Use Subaru Super Coolant or equivalent. Manual will specify capacity and type.

Engine Oil:

Synthetic 5W-30 or 5W-40 is commonly recommended for turbocharged engines, but the manual will provide exact OEM specifications and capacities.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid. Manual will specify type and capacity for bleeding procedures.

Power Steering Fluid:

Specific Subaru power steering fluid or Dexron II/III ATF. Manual is definitive.

Washer Fluid:

Standard windshield washer fluid.

Piston Ring Land Cracking:

Common issue in high-mileage or poorly maintained EJ20G engines, especially if subjected to detonation. Manual provides diagnostics for engine health.

Turbo Wear:

desgaste of the turbocharger seals and bearings leading to oil consumption or reduced boost. Manual details turbocharger testing and replacement.

Clutch Wear:

Clutch wear is typical for a performance vehicle with a manual transmission. Manual covers clutch inspection and replacement procedures.

Suspension Bushings:

Wear in suspension bushings can lead to degraded handling and knocking noises. Manual covers bushing replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Subaru Performance:

Subaru's long history of building durable and capable all-wheel-drive vehicles, with a strong foundation in rally racing.

Gc8 Generation:

First generation Impreza (GC/GF/GM platform) introduced in 1992, with WRX variants evolving alongside Subaru's WRC program.

1997 Update:

The 1997 model often represents the 'Version III' or 'Version IV' of the GC8 WRX, with specific performance and styling enhancements over earlier models.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan (Subaru's main manufacturing facilities).

Rally Homologation:

The WRX was produced to homologate the Impreza for Group A rally regulations.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motorsport Success:

The Subaru Impreza WRX achieved significant success in the World Rally Championship, cementing its performance credentials.

Automotive Press:

Consistently praised by automotive media for its exhilarating performance, all-wheel-drive grip, and value for money in the performance segment.

Oem Quality:

Produced to Subaru's original equipment manufacturer standards, ensuring accuracy and completeness for service professionals.