Engine rebuild, cylinder head repair, transmission overhaul, brake system repairs, suspension component replacement, steering system repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, body repair
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic approaches for common and uncommon drivability issues, electrical faults, HVAC problems, and mechanical failures
Specifications And Tolerances:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine clearances, suspension alignment angles, electrical resistance values, fluid capacities, and dimensional tolerances
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle systems, including component locations and wire routing
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of Subaru-specific or recommended special tools for various repair and maintenance procedures
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls and advanced electrical diagnostics.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
PDF
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable for efficient information retrieval (typical for factory PDFs)
Print Quality
Quality:
High-resolution scans, typically mirroring original factory print quality.
Approx. 4340 mm (Sedan), 4300 mm (Coupe), 4360 mm (Wagon)
Width:
Approx. 1690 mm
Height:
Approx. 1430 mm (Sedan), 1390 mm (Coupe), 1455 mm (Wagon)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2520 mm
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 150 mm
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1250 kg - 1350 kg (varies by body style and transmission)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Specific GVWR details would be in the manual.
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4-star (for the era, specific to test conditions)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4-star (for the era, specific to test conditions)
Active Features
ABS:
Available on higher trims, standard on some later models.
AWD:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive for enhanced traction and stability.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts for all occupants, pretensioners for front seats.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system not standard in 1996, but ISOFIX compatible points may exist in some markets.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Radio:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player.
Speakers:
Typically 4 or 6 speaker systems.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Connectivity
Bluetooth:
Not available from factory.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Severe conditions recommend 3,000 miles (4,800 km).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for standard copper plugs, 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for platinum plugs (if applicable).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years, due to the interference nature of Subaru engines. CRITICAL item.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 1 year.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type 1:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (API SG or SH rated)
Engine Oil Capacity 1:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter (EJ22)
Engine Oil Type 2:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (API SG or SH rated) - EJ25
Engine Oil Capacity 2:
Approx. 4.8 quarts (4.6 liters) with filter (EJ25)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based, Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent (50/50 mix)
Power Steering Fluid:
Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or ATF Dexron II/III compatible.
Known Issues
Head Gaskets:
While not as prevalent as later generations, early EJ25 engines can experience head gasket failures. The EJ22 is generally more robust.
Timing Belt:
Belt degradation over time can lead to breakage, causing severe engine damage due to interference design. Adherence to replacement intervals is crucial.
Automatic Transmission:
Some automatic transmissions can develop issues with torque converter lock-up or shifting solenoids over high mileage.
Suspension Bushings:
Worn control arm and sway bar bushings are common due to age and mileage, leading to noise and handling degradation.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Manufacturer:
Subaru (Fuji Heavy Industries)
Philosophy:
Focus on practicality, safety, and all-weather capability through AWD.
Model Evolution
First Generation:
First generation (GC/GF/GM) introduced in 1992 globally, 1995 in North America.
Second Generation:
Second generation (GDA/GDB) introduced in 2000.
Performance Variants:
Introduction of the Impreza WRX and WRX STI during this generation, though not typically covered in standard 'repair' manuals unless specified.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Consumer Reports:
Generally rated as a reliable vehicle for its era, particularly the EJ22 engine models. AWD system highly praised.
Car And Driver:
Often featured in '10 Best' lists for affordability, performance, and all-weather capability, especially for AWD variants.