🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Subaru Model: Impreza Generation: First Generation (GC/GF/GM) Model Years Covered: 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001 Codes Chassis Codes: GC (Sedan), GF (Wagon), GM (Coupe) 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Car / Affordable Performance Key Attributes: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (standard on most trims), sporty handling, rally heritage, robust engineering. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Mitsubishi Lancer, Honda Civic Si, Toyota Corolla (performance variants), Mazda Protegé (performance variants). Key Features Manual Utility: Indispensable resource for owners and independent repair shops seeking to maintain, diagnose, and repair the Subaru Impreza from 1996-2001 accurately. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Type: Repair Service Manual Language: English Format: PDF Download Page Count Estimated Page Count: Over 2000 pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine mechanical, engine performance, fuel system, emission control systems, exhaust systems, manual transmission, automatic transmission, all-wheel drive system (Symmetrical AWD). Chassis: Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (including ABS), wheel alignment, wheel and tire specifications. Electrical: Complete electrical system, wiring diagrams, lighting, instruments, gauges, power windows, power locks, audio system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), fuses and relays. Body: Body construction, exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, roof, bumpers, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system. Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, brake pad replacement, spark plug replacement, timing belt inspection/replacement (where applicable). Repair: Engine disassembly and reassembly, transmission overhaul, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair, HVAC system repair, body panel repair. Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation, component testing procedures, fuel system pressure testing, ignition system testing. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures for professional technicians. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format: PDF Searchability: Likely searchable text, allowing quick navigation to specific topics. Print Quality: High resolution for clear diagrams and text. Binding Type Digital Binding: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Digital Paper Type: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: EJ22E (Naturally Aspirated), EJ22G (Turbocharged - WRX/STI variants), EJ25D (Naturally Aspirated DOHC), EJ251/EJ253 (Naturally Aspirated DOHC - later years) Engine Type: Horizontally Opposed (Boxer) 4-Cylinder Performance Displacement Na: 2.2 Liters (2200 cc) or 2.5 Liters (2500 cc) Horsepower Na: Approx. 135-142 hp (depending on engine variant and year) Torque Na: Approx. 135-145 lb-ft (depending on engine variant and year) Displacement Turbo: 2.0 Liters (EJ20G - limited markets) or 2.5 Liters (EJ25G - WRX STI) Horsepower Turbo: Approx. 200-260 hp (for WRX/STI variants) Torque Turbo: Approx. 200-250 lb-ft (for WRX/STI variants) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating may vary based on engine variant, higher octane recommended for turbo models) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Std: 5-Speed Manual Transmission Optional Transmission Type Opt: 4-Speed Automatic Transmission Features Drive System: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) AWD System Description: Viscous coupling center differential for permanent AWD engagement. Clutch Type: Dry single-plate (for manual transmission) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 173.4 - 175.8 inches (depending on body style) Width: Approx. 67.5 inches Height: Approx. 55.5 - 57.0 inches (depending on body style) Wheelbase: Approx. 99.9 inches Ground Clearance: Approx. 6.1 inches (can vary with suspension) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 2700 - 3000 lbs (depending on trim and options) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Impact: 4/5 Stars (driver/passenger) for 1997 model. IIHS Side Impact: Acceptable for some models/years. Active Features ABS: Available (standard on higher trims and WRX/STI models). Traction Control: Less common on early models, may be present on later or higher trims. Passive Features Airbags: Dual front airbags standard on most models. Side airbags were optional or standard on later models. Seatbelts: Three-point height-adjustable front seatbelts with pretensioners. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Head Unit: Factory AM/FM/Cassette/CD players were common. Aftermarket head unit upgrades are widely available. Speakers: Typically 4-6 speaker systems depending on trim. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard on most trims. Anti Theft: Factory immobilizer or alarm systems may be present on some models. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically every 3,750 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specific recommendations). Timing Belt Replacement: Recommended every 60,000 - 100,000 miles or 5-7 years for EJ engines. Critical to follow this interval to prevent catastrophic engine damage. Coolant Flush: Typically every 30,000 - 60,000 miles or 2-4 years. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 API SG or higher (refer to manual for specific viscosity based on climate). Transmission Fluid Manual: GL-5 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 Transmission Fluid Automatic: Subaru ATF-HP or Dexron III equivalent Coolant Type: Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant. Known Issues Head Gaskets: Prevalent issue on...