🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Subaru Model: Impreza WRX STI Year: 2008 Codes Chassis Code: GR/GV Series (for hatchback and sedan, respectively) 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Performance compact sedan/hatchback, rally-inspired street car. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Ford Focus RS, Volkswagen Golf GTI/R, Mazda Mazdaspeed3. Key Features Performance Attributes: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, turbocharged boxer engine, performance-tuned suspension, robust drivetrain. Target Audience: Enthusiasts, drivers seeking all-weather performance and rally heritage. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Full service, repair, and maintenance for the 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI. Page Count Estimated Pages: Hundreds (specific number not provided, but described as comprehensive) Manual Type Type: Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital Download (requires WinZip for extraction) Compatibility Operating Systems: Windows & macOS (All Versions) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Complete engine systems, including timing, lubrication, cooling, and internal components. Engine Electrical: Engine management systems, ignition, starting, charging, sensors, actuators, and wiring diagrams. Fuel And Emissions: Fuel delivery, injection system, evaporative emissions control, catalytic converter, and exhaust systems. Transmission Drivetrain: Manual and potentially DCCD (Driver's Control Centre Differential) systems, including clutch, gearbox, differentials, and driveshafts. Steering Suspension: Power steering system, suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, bushings), alignment specifications. Brakes: Hydraulic brake system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake pad replacement, rotor service, bleeding procedures. Body Exterior: Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, and related trim. Body Interior: Interior trim, seats, dashboard, console, and associated components. HVAC: Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system operation, diagnosis, and repair. Body Electrical: Lighting systems, power windows, locks, mirrors, wipers, horns, and all related electrical components and wiring. Restraints: Airbag system, seat belts, and related safety restraint components and diagnostics. Procedures Included Maintenance: Regular scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections. Troubleshooting: Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides. Repair: Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and installation for all major systems. Specifications: Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, and diagnostic parameters. Illustrations: Detailed diagrams and illustrations to clarify repair and maintenance procedures. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complex engine and electrical system repairs. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: Likely PDF or similar accessible digital format. Print Quality Quality: Assumed to be high-quality, suitable for printing individual pages as needed. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital download, no physical binding) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital download, no physical paper) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: EJ257 Displacement: 2.5 Liters Configuration: Horizontally-opposed (Boxer), 4-cylinder, turbocharged and intercooled. Performance Horsepower Est: 305 hp @ 6000 rpm (JDM/Euro) / 300 hp @ 6000 rpm (USDM) Torque Est: 290 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (JDM/Euro) / 290 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (USDM) Fuel System Injection Type: Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI), Top-feed injectors. Recommended Octane: Premium Unleaded (91 Octane or higher recommended). 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 6-Speed Manual Transmission Optional Type: N/A for STI model. Features Dccd: Driver's Control Centre Differential (DCCD) with manual and automatic modes. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length Hatchback: 4415 mm (173.8 in) Length Sedan: 4580 mm (180.3 in) Width: 1795 mm (70.7 in) Height: 1475 mm (58.1 in) Wheelbase: 2620 mm (103.1 in) Weights Curb Weight Est: Approx. 1505 kg (3318 lbs) for sedan 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings IIHS Front Crash: Good (for 2008 model year, specific STI rating may vary) Active Features AWD System: Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC). Braking System: Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS and Brake Assist. Passive Features Airbags: Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags (roof in deployment side). 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory provided CD player, radio, and speaker system. Options for upgraded head units. Driver Assistance Stability Control: Subaru Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) with AWD integration. Traction Control: Integrated with VDC. Connectivity Aux Input: Likely available on higher trims or as an option for audio input. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change: Typically every 3,750 miles or 6 months for severe driving, 7,500 miles or 12 months for normal driving (refer to manual for exact specifics). Spark Plug Replacement: Usually around 60,000 miles, but varies by plug type (iridium recommended). Timing Belt Serp Belt: EJ257 uses a timing belt; replacement typically every 105,000 miles or 7 years (critical component, consult manual). Fluid Specifications Engine Oil: API SG or SH, ACEA A2 or A3, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 synthetic blend or full synthetic. Consult manual for specific viscosity based on temperature. Coolant: Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with Subaru's specific additive package. Capacity approx. 7.8 Liters. Transmission Fluid: API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil for the manual transmission. Capacity approx. 2.0 Liters. Differential Fluid Front: API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil. Capacity approx. 1.2 Liters. Differential Fluid Rear: API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil (Limited Slip Differential often requires...
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil (Limited Slip Differential often requires specific additive or LSD compatible oil). Capacity approx. 1.3 Liters.
Known Issues
Head Gaskets:
While less common on the EJ257 than earlier EJ25s, improper maintenance or extreme tuning can still lead to issues. The 2008 models benefit from some design improvements.
Piston Ringland Failure:
Can occur in heavily modified engines or due to detonation; proper tuning and fueling are critical.
Clutch Wear:
High-performance nature of the car means clutch wear can be accelerated with aggressive driving.
Turbo Lag Spike:
Characteristic of the era, though the STI's twin-scroll turbo helps mitigate this. Manual covers intercooler, turbocharger system checks.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Motorsport Roots:
Direct lineage from Subaru's successful World Rally Championship (WRC) program.
Model Evolution
Generation:
Third Generation (GE/GH/GR/GV series), introduced for the 2008 model year.
Platform Changes:
New chassis design, adoption of a hatchback body style alongside the sedan, increased rigidity.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Gunma, Japan
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Rally Heritage:
Continuously recognized for its rally-bred performance and handling capabilities.
Performance Car Reviews:
Consistently rated highly by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics and AWD system.