Segment:
Performance Compact Sedan/Wagon, Rally Homologation Special
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional technicians working on the Subaru Impreza WRX STi
Competitors:
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (Evo), Ford Focus RS, Honda Civic Type R (in specific markets)
Differentiators:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, turbocharged Boxer engine, rally-bred performance heritage, DCCD system
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides dealership-level diagnostic and repair information, enabling accurate maintenance and troubleshooting for enthusiasts and professionals.
Engine:
EJ207 turbocharged Boxer engine (including assembly, disassembly, diagnostics, tuning aspects)
Transmission:
6-speed manual transmission (TY856WB1CA), clutch operation, driveline components
Suspension:
Front MacPherson strut, rear double wishbone with STi specific tuning and components, all-wheel-drive system (DCCD - Driver's Control Centre Differential)
Brakes:
Front Brembo 4-piston calipers, rear 2-piston calipers, ABS system, brake fluid specifications
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, ECU pinouts, sensor diagnostics, lighting, audio system, power windows, central locking
Bodywork:
Exterior panel removal and installation, body repair procedures, interior trim, glass replacement
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heating, ventilation diagnostics and repair
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, EVAP system
Cooling System:
Radiator, thermostat, water pump, coolant specifications
Exhaust System:
Catalytic converter, mufflers, exhaust manifold, gaskets
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common issues, DTC code interpretation, specific component testing procedures
Repair:
Engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper servicing, electrical component repair
Assembly Disassembly:
Step-by-step instructions for removing and installing all major components and sub-assemblies
Calibration Adjustment:
Wheel alignment specifications, DCCD adjustments, idle speed settings
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic preventative maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds and advanced electrical diagnostics.
Engine Type:
EJ207 Twin-Scroll Turbocharged Boxer-4
Displacement:
1994 cc (2.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
92.0 mm x 75.0 mm
Horsepower:
280 PS (276 hp; 206 kW) - JDM specification (often higher in practice, especially with modifications)
Torque:
333 Nm (246 lb-ft) - JDM specification
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (98 RON recommended)
Turbocharger:
IHI VF37 Twin-Scroll Ball-Bearing Turbocharger
ECU:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) with specific tuning for performance
Type:
6-speed Manual (TY856WB1CA)
Type:
None (Only Manual Transmission Offered)
Driveline:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with Driver's Control Centre Differential (DCCD), front helical limited-slip differential, rear mechanical limited-slip differential
Transmission Fluid:
Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil (75W-90 GL-5) or equivalent specified by Subaru.
NHTSA Ratings:
Varies by market and testing procedures, generally good for its era.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) and Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) may be present depending on market and trim.
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Front Airbags, Side Airbags (market dependent)
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts with pre-tensioners, 3-point rear seatbelts
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 km (3,000 - 5,000 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions. Track use requires more frequent changes.
Spark Plugs:
Typically every 60,000 - 100,000 km (37,000 - 60,000 miles) for iridium-tipped plugs, depending on specific type and usage.
Timing Belt:
Every 100,000 km (60,000 miles) or 5-7 years. Crucial for EJ207 engine, failure causes severe damage.
Engine Oil:
5W-40 or 10W-40 Synthetic Oil meeting API SN or ACEA A3/B4 standards. Refer to manual for exact specs.
Coolant:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent long-life, silicate-free antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Engine Reliability:
Ringland failure in EJ207 (especially under high boost/abuse), head gasket leaks, oil consumption, detonation prone if not properly tuned.
Transmission Reliability:
Clutch wear, potential synchro issues in high-mileage or heavily used transmissions.
Suspension Wear:
Wheel bearing failures, worn bushings (especially control arm bushings), strut wear.
Tasks:
Timing belt replacement, spark plug replacement, intercooler cleaning, turbocharger inspection, DCCD system checks.
Rally Success:
Subaru's extensive success in the World Rally Championship (WRC) directly influenced the development and marketing of the WRX STi models.
Generation:
Second Generation Subaru Impreza (GD/GG), this model is part of the facelifted 'Bugeye' to 'Blobeye' transition, with the 2004 model being the 'Blobeye' introduction.
Production Period:
2004-2005
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (Gunma Prefecture Plant)
Performance Accolades:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists and enthusiasts for its sharp handling, potent engine, and rally-inspired performance. Often featured in 'best performance car' lists for its segment and era.
Handling Dynamics:
Renowned for exceptional grip, balance, and driver engagement due to Symmetrical AWD and performance-tuned suspension.
