Positioning:
High-performance variant of the Subaru Impreza, positioned as a rally-bred, all-wheel-drive sports sedan/hatchback.
Competitors:
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Ford Focus RS, Volkswagen Golf R.
Performance Focus:
Iconic EJ257 turbocharged boxer engine, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, performance-tuned suspension, powerful braking system.
Audience:
Enthusiasts, performance drivers, DIY mechanics, and owners seeking in-depth knowledge for maintenance and repair.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing belt/chain, lubrication system, cooling system
Engine Management:
Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics, sensors, actuators
Transmission:
Manual transmission (Type: TY75) service, clutch, drivetrain (front/rear differentials, driveshafts, axles)
Brakes:
Brake system inspection, repair, hydraulic system, ABS, brake pad/rotor replacement, bleeding procedures
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, power steering system, wheel alignment
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, body electrical systems
Body Chassis:
Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, exterior components, chassis lubrication, rust prevention
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system service, refrigerant handling, component replacement
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, seatbelt mechanisms, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) diagnosis
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid level checks, brake inspections, tire rotation
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuilding, transmission overhauls, component replacement (e.g., turbocharger, intercooler), suspension repairs, electrical diagnostics and repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, fault code interpretation, common issue diagnosis
Specifications Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, wiring diagrams, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Depth:
Comprehensive (covers from basic maintenance to full engine and drivetrain rebuilds)
Engine Type:
2.5L DOHC Turbocharged Boxer (EJ257)
Horsepower:
Approx. 305 hp @ 6000 rpm (US Spec)
Torque:
Approx. 290 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (US Spec)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) with twin-scroll turbocharger
Engine Block:
Closed-deck aluminum alloy block (a key performance feature)
Cooling Type:
Liquid-cooled, pressurized system
NHTSA Overall:
4 Stars (for 2014 model year, generally)
Active Safety:
Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS), Brembo Brakes, All-Wheel Drive
Passive Safety:
Front, side, and curtain airbags, Whiplash Protection System
Infotainment System:
Subaru's standard infotainment system with touchscreen, CD player, AM/FM/SiriusXM, USB port, Bluetooth connectivity.
Driver Assistance Features:
Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), All-Wheel Drive, performance-oriented braking system. (Note: Advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control were not standard on this performance variant).
Driver Controlled Center Differential:
DCCD allows manual adjustment of front-to-rear torque split for optimal traction and handling.
Engine Management:
Engine control unit (ECU) with performance tuning capabilities, often referred to as the 'ECU Tune' or 'mapping'.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe driving) / 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal driving), consult manual for specifics.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual, typically around 30,000-60,000 miles for iridium plugs.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30, API SN/SM, ILSAC GF-5 certified (e.g., Subaru Synthetic 5W-30)
Coolant:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Transmission Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (Manual Transmission)
Differential Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (Front and Rear)
Engine Reliability:
Ring land failures (especially with aggressive tuning/modification), oil consumption, head gasket issues (though less common on EJ257 compared to some older Subaru engines), turbocharger wear.
Drivetrain Wear:
Clutch wear due to aggressive driving, potential issues with DCCD actuator.
Suspension Components:
Bushing wear over time, especially on performance-oriented components.
Key Checks:
Regular oil changes with quality oil, inspection of turbo oil feed/return lines, checking intercooler hoses for leaks, proper break-in procedures for new or rebuilt engines.
