Vehicle Segment:
Performance Compact Sedan/Hatchback (Iconic rally-bred model)
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, performance-oriented drivers, motorsport participants, owners seeking to maintain and repair their vehicles to factory standards.
Key Competitors:
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Ford Focus RS (though STI often positioned slightly more premium in its segment).
Performance Heritage:
Direct lineage to Subaru's World Rally Championship (WRC) success, emphasizing all-wheel-drive, turbocharged performance, and robust engineering.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides professional-level repair and maintenance information, empowering owners and independent mechanics to service the vehicle accurately and efficiently.
Primary Focus:
Service, Repair, Workshop
Geographic Coverage:
Global (Mechanics worldwide use)
Estimated Pages:
Varies by specific manual, but typically 1500+ pages for comprehensive workshop manuals.
Type:
Service and Repair Workshop Manual
Format:
Digital (Likely PDF, though physical versions exist)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, engine management (ECU), transmission (manual & automatic), clutch, drivetrain (AWD system, differentials).
Chassis:
Suspension (front & rear), steering system, braking system (ABS, EBD), wheels, tires.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, charging system, starting system, instrument cluster, audio system, climate control, power accessories, ECUs and sensors.
Body:
Body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, locks, seats, HVAC system components, safety systems (airbags).
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), inspection procedures, lubrication.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides based on symptoms, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation and resolution, electrical system diagnostics.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, overhaul, installation, and adjustment of all major systems.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance and fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system troubleshooting, and body repair.
Format Detail:
Likely a high-resolution PDF, allowing for clear printing and digital searchability. May include interactive elements if sourced directly from manufacturer's electronic service tools.
Print Readability:
Designed for clarity with detailed diagrams, schematics, and illustrations. High-resolution for easy reading of fine print and component details.
Binding:
N/A (for digital format). If physical, typically a comb binding or perfect binding for ease of use in a workshop.
Paper Quality:
N/A (for digital format). For physical manuals, high-quality, durable paper is usually used to withstand workshop conditions.
Engine Type:
Horizontally Opposed (Boxer) 4-Cylinder, turbocharged and intercooled.
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2457 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
99.5 mm x 79.0 mm
Horsepower:
305 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
290 lb-ft (393 Nm) @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential multi-port fuel injection (SFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition with coil-on-plug
ECU Type:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) with proprietary Subaru tuning and diagnostic capabilities.
Transmission Type:
6-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type:
N/A for WRX STI models of this generation.
Drivetrain:
Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Subaru Extra CG (75W-90 GL-5) or equivalent GL-5 gear oil. Specific capacity details in manual.
Front Differential Fluid:
Subaru Extra CG (75W-90 GL-5) or equivalent.
Rear Differential Fluid:
Subaru Extra CG (75W-90 GL-5) or equivalent.
Length:
4,415 mm (173.8 in)
Width:
1,795 mm (70.7 in)
Height:
1,475 mm (58.1 in)
Wheelbase:
2,650 mm (104.3 in)
Track Width Front:
1,530 mm (60.2 in)
Track Width Rear:
1,535 mm (60.4 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,505 kg (3,318 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not specified, consult manual for specific ratings.
Trunk Volume Sedan:
Approx. 12.4 cu ft (for sedan version, this manual covers GV chassis which is hatchback).
Cargo Volume Hatchback:
Consult manual for exact figures for the GVB hatchback, generally larger than sedan due to folding rear seats.
NHTSA Ratings:
Not explicitly rated for WRX STI specifically in all tests for this generation. General Impreza models received good ratings.
IIHS Ratings:
Similar to NHTSA, specific STI ratings may vary. Known for good structure.
Brake System:
Front: Ventilated discs; Rear: Ventilated discs. Brembo brakes standard on STI. Features include ABS, EBD, Brake Assist.
Stability Control:
Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) with traction control.
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with DCCD, offering enhanced traction and handling.
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, curtain airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point height-adjustable front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters, 3-point rear seatbelts.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.
Head Unit:
Standard infotainment system with touchscreen, CD player, USB input, Bluetooth connectivity, and auxiliary input. Higher trims may have navigation.
Audio System:
Often featured a premium sound system (e.g., Harmon Kardon in some trims), with speaker placement designed for an immersive experience.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Camera Systems:
Backup camera typically standard or optional on higher trims.
Bluetooth:
Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions (severe vs. normal). Consult manual for specific OEM recommendation.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 30,000-60,000 miles for iridium plugs, but check manual for specific EJ257 recommendation.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Subaru typically uses timing chains for EJ series engines, which are generally considered maintenance-free, but consult manual for specific checks or any belt-driven ancillaries.
Coolant Flush:
Typically every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years. Use Subaru Super Coolant.
Engine Oil Type:
5W-30 Synthetic (API SN or ILSAC GF-5 compliant). Consult manual for exact specifications and capacity.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid:
Subaru genuine power steering fluid or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon ATF.
Head Gaskets:
Less common on EJ257 compared to earlier EJ25 engines, but still a potential concern. Monitor coolant levels and perform regular checks.
Ringlands:
Weakness in piston ringlands, especially under aggressive tuning or high boost. Proper maintenance and avoiding detonation are crucial.
Clutch Wear:
Can experience accelerated wear with aggressive driving or frequent spirited engagement.
Turbocharger Issues:
Potential for bearing wear or seal failure if oil starvation occurs or if oil maintenance is neglected.
Rally Legacy:
Subaru's deep-rooted connection to motorsport, particularly its multiple World Rally Championship victories, defines the WRX STI's DNA and performance reputation.
Third Generation:
The 2014 model is part of the third generation (GR/GV/GH chassis), characterized by its hatchback (GVB) and sedan (GRB) body styles. This generation saw continuous development of the EJ257 engine and AWD system.
Key Changes For 2014:
Minor revisions often include suspension tuning, wheel designs, and interior trim updates. The core mechanicals remained largely consistent from previous years of this generation.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (Gunma Prefecture)
Motorsport Accolades:
The WRX STI nameplate is synonymous with rally racing success, contributing to its desirability and enthusiast following.
Enthusiast Awards:
Consistently ranked highly by automotive publications and enthusiasts for its performance, handling, and AWD capabilities. Specific awards for the 2014 model may vary but reflect the model's strong performance heritage.
Emissions Standards:
Compliant with U.S. EPA and CARB emissions standards for its model year. Manual will detail specific emissions-related components and checks.