🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Subaru Model: Impreza Year Range: 1996-2001 Codes Chassis Codes: GC8 (coupe/sedan), GF8 (wagon) 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact/Subcompact car, known for its rally heritage and All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Mitsubishi Lancer, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus. Key Features All Wheel Drive: Subaru's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, a key differentiator. Performance Variants: Availability of higher-performance models like the WRX (and early STI variants in some markets), known for turbocharged engines and enhanced performance. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Regions Covered: Global (with potential regional variations noted in manual where applicable) Page Count Estimated Page Count: 1500+ Manual Type Type: Workshop Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine management/ECM. Drivetrain: Manual transmission, automatic transmission, front differential, rear differential, driveshafts, axles, transfer case (AWD models). Suspension Steering: Front suspension (MacPherson struts, control arms), rear suspension (multi-link), steering system, power steering. Brakes: Front disc brakes (vented), rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and diagnostics. Electrical: 12V battery system, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, central locking, ECU diagnostics. HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system (components, operation, service). Body Chassis: Body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, exterior trim, frame, structural components. Procedures Included Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flushing, brake fluid replacement, belt inspections and replacements. Diagnostics: Troubleshooting common issues, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) lookup and interpretation, wiring diagrams for electrical systems. Repair Overhaul: Engine rebuilds, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper service, A/C system recharge. Special Procedures: Timing belt replacement, clutch replacement, AWD system service, turbocharger service (for WRX/STI variants). Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Searchable text content within the PDF. Print Quality Printability: Printable pages for workshop use. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital PDF) Paper Type Paper Quality: N/A (Digital PDF) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Family: EJ Series Boxer Engine Engine Codes Common: EJ16, EJ18, EJ20 (naturally aspirated and turbocharged), EJ22, EJ25. Performance Naturally Aspirated Power Range: Approximately 95-137 hp (depending on displacement and market). Turbocharged Power Range: Approximately 215-276 hp for WRX/STI variants. Torque Figures: Varies significantly by engine; naturally aspirated: 100-120 lb-ft; turbocharged: 200-270 lb-ft. Fuel System Induction: Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) for naturally aspirated; Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (S-MPI) with turbocharger for performance models. Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane for NA, 91+ octane recommended for turbo). 🔧 Transmission Standard Type Na: 5-speed Manual Transmission Optional Type Optional: 4-speed Automatic Transmission Features AWD Coupling: Viscous coupling center differential for AWD models (manual and auto have different front-rear torque splits). Gear Ratios: Detailed gear ratios provided for all transmission types and variants within the manual. Clutch Type: Single dry plate clutch (for manual transmissions). 📐 Dimensions Exterior Body Styles: 2-door Coupe (GC), 4-door Sedan (GC), 5-door Wagon (GF). Length: Approx. 167-173 inches (4240-4395 mm) depending on body style and bumper design. Width: Approx. 67.3 inches (1710 mm). Height: Approx. 55.3-57.5 inches (1405-1460 mm) depending on body style. Wheelbase: Approx. 98.2 inches (2495 mm). Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 2700-3100 lbs (1225-1406 kg) depending on model and options. 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: 4-star rating (driver) / 4-star rating (passenger) for 1997 models. Active Features ABS: Optional or standard on higher trims; ABS system service and troubleshooting covered. AWD: Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive enhances traction and stability. Passive Features Airbags: Driver and front passenger airbags standard on most models; manual covers SRS system components. Seatbelts: Front pretensioner seatbelts. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Head Unit: Basic AM/FM/Cassette or CD players with auxiliary input on some later models. Aftermarket upgrades common. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Available on many trim levels. Connectivity Power Accessories: Power windows, power door locks, and power mirrors were available on higher trims. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change: Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Engine Oil Filter: Replace at every oil change. Air Filter: Inspect every 7,500 miles (12,000 km), replace as needed or every 15,000 miles (24,000 km). Spark Plugs: Replace approximately every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km), depending on plug type (copper vs. platinum). Timing Belt: Critical: Replace every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil: API SG or SH rated, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (check owner's manual for specific temperature ranges). Coolant: Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Transmission Fluid Manual: API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (for 5-speed manual). Transmission Fluid Automatic: Subaru ATF-HP or equivalent Dexron-III/Mercon compatible fluid. Differential Fluid Front: API GL-5, SAE 75W-90. Differential Fluid Rear: API...