Vehicle Segment:
Performance Compact Sedan/Hatchback
Competitors:
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Subaru WRX (non-STI variants), Ford Focus RS (later generations), Volkswagen Golf GTI (performance variants), Honda Civic Type R.
Drivetrain:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Engine:
Turbocharged Boxer Engine
Performance Orientation:
High-performance variant of the Subaru Impreza, focused on motorsport and enthusiastic driving.
Technician Equivalent:
This manual is the same type used by technicians at Subaru dealerships, ensuring accurate and professional repair information.
Coverage Scope:
Complete FSM (Factory Service Manual) covering diagnosis, maintenance, adjustments, service operations, component replacement, disassembly, and assembly of major components.
Estimated Page Count:
N/A (Digital Download - extensive content)
Type:
Workshop Manual / Factory Service Manual (FSM)
File Format:
RAR (containing PDF files)
Software Requirements:
WinRAR or WinZip for extraction, PDF reader
Engine Lubrication And Cooling:
Yes
Engine Fuel And Emission Control:
Yes
Fuel And Exhaust Systems:
Yes
Automatic Transmission:
Yes
Propeller Shaft And Differential:
Yes
Heater And Air Conditioner:
Yes
Engine Control Module Etc:
Yes
Component Replacement:
Yes
Disassembly And Assembly:
Yes (Major Components)
Troubleshooting:
Yes (implied by diagnosis and service operations)
Depth:
Comprehensive (dealer-level technician information)
Detail Level:
Includes detailed procedures, diagrams, and specifications for repairs and maintenance.
Engine Code:
EJ257 (likely for GRF chassis)
Engine Type:
2.5L Turbocharged Boxer-4 DOHC
Horsepower:
Approx. 305-315 hp (specifications can vary slightly by market/region)
Torque:
Approx. 290 lb-ft (specifications can vary slightly by market/region)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant.
Oil Type Recommendation:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity (e.g., 5W-30, 10W-30, depending on climate and application). High-performance synthetic oil is recommended.
Spark Plugs:
NGK Iridium IX (e.g., PFR7B or similar, verify for specific model year/engine variant)
Type:
6-Speed Manual Transmission (TY856 Series)
Type:
N/A (STI models typically came standard with a 6-speed manual)
Differential:
Center Differential with DCCD (Driver Controlled Center Differential), Front Helical Limited-Slip Differential (LSD), Rear Helical Limited-Slip Differential (LSD).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific GL-5 gear oil specifications and viscosity (e.g., Subaru Extra-S or equivalent).
Rear Differential Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific GL-5 gear oil specifications and viscosity.
NHTSA Crash Test Results:
Refer to specific NHTSA reports for 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI. Generally, Subaru vehicles of this era performed well in frontal and side impacts.
Traction Control:
Yes (likely with selectable modes)
Electronic Stability Control:
Yes (likely with selectable modes)
Antilock Braking System:
Yes (ABS)
Airbags:
Front airbags, side airbags, curtain airbags (depending on trim/options).
Audio System:
Factory-installed audio system with CD player, radio, and speaker configuration (upgrades available).
Dccd:
Driver Controlled Center Differential allowing manual adjustment of the center differential lock-up percentage for varying traction conditions.
Auxiliary Input:
Likely includes an auxiliary audio input jack for connecting external devices.
Oil And Filter Change:
Refer to manual; typically every 3,750 - 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. High-performance driving may necessitate more frequent changes.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Refer to manual; typically every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.
Timing Belt Replacement:
N/A (EJ257 uses a timing chain or belt system requiring periodic inspection and replacement based on mileage and age, e.g., 105,000 miles for timing belt)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Refer to manual; typically every 30,000 - 50,000 miles. More frequent for severe use.
Coolant Capacity:
Refer to manual for exact capacity (approx. 6.7 quarts for EJ257 with manual transmission).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for exact specification)
Head Gaskets:
While the EJ257 is generally robust, older Subaru engines can be prone to head gasket failures. Early detection and repair are crucial.
Piston Ring Land Failure:
High-performance tuning or aggressive driving without proper attention to detonation can lead to piston ring damage.
Clutch Wear:
Due to the performance nature of the STI, clutch wear can be accelerated with aggressive driving styles.
Motorsport Connection:
Subaru has a strong rally heritage, with the WRX STI being a homologation special derived from its World Rally Championship (WRC) program.
Generation Overview:
The 2008 model marked the debut of the third generation (GR chassis), which introduced a significantly revised platform and styling, including the option of a hatchback body style.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
