🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Subaru Model: Impreza Years Covered: 1997-1998 Generation Generation Designation: First Generation (GM/GF/GC) Codes Chassis Codes: GC (Coupe), GF (Wagon), GM (Sedan) 👋 Introduction Market Position Subaru Impreza 1997 1998 Positioning: The 1997-1998 Subaru Impreza represented Subaru's compact offering, known for its standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system and sporty driving dynamics, particularly in WRX and STI variants (though domestic market WRX/STI are distinct). Competitive Analysis Competitors: Competed against vehicles like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mitsubishi Lancer, Mazda Protege, and Ford Escort. Key Features Standard AWD: Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive was a defining characteristic, offering superior traction and handling in various conditions. Engine Options: Offered various boxer engine configurations, known for their low center of gravity. Body Styles: Available in sedan, coupe, and wagon body styles, catering to diverse needs. Manual Value Proposition Value For Owners: Essential for owners seeking to maintain, diagnose, and repair their vehicle effectively, saving on labor costs and ensuring proper operation. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Diagnostic Procedures: Extensive diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics, component testing. Repair Procedures: Detailed step-by-step instructions for all major mechanical and electrical repairs. Maintenance Schedules: Comprehensive scheduled maintenance based on mileage and time. Technical Specifications: Precise torque values, fluid capacities, clearances, and diagnostic specifications. Wiring Diagrams: Complete electrical system wiring diagrams for all circuits. Page Count Estimated Page Count: Likely over 1000 pages (typical for factory service manuals of this era). Manual Type Manual Type: Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, lubrication system, cooling system. Engine Management: Fuel injection, ignition system, emission control systems, sensors and actuators, engine control unit (ECU). Transmission Manual: Clutch system, manual transmission (gearbox) overhaul, shift linkage. Transmission Automatic: Automatic transmission overhaul, torque converter, valve body, transmission control unit (TCU). Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system (VTD, DCCD where applicable), differentials, drive shafts, CV joints. Suspension Steering: Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, bushings, steering rack, power steering system. Brakes: Brake system components (discs, pads, calipers, master cylinder, brake lines), ABS system. Electrical System: Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, power windows, central locking, horn, wipers, exterior/interior lights. Body Exterior: Body panels, doors, windows, bumpers, hood, trunk, chassis structure, rustproofing. Body Interior: Seats, dashboard, trim panels, airbags, HVAC system, audio system. HVAC: Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling. Safety Systems: Airbag system, seat belt mechanisms. Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid level checks and top-offs. Troubleshooting Diagnostics: Systematic diagnostic flowcharts for common and uncommon faults. Engine Repair: Head gasket replacement, timing belt replacement, piston ring replacement, bearing replacement. Transmission Repair: Clutch replacement, manual gearbox rebuild, automatic transmission service. Brake System Repair: Brake pad and rotor replacement, brake caliper overhaul, brake bleeding. Electrical Component Replacement: Alternator, starter motor, battery, sensors, actuators, power mirrors, power window motors. Body Panel Alignment: Door, hood, and trunk alignment procedures. Airbag Replacement: Proper procedures for handling and replacing airbag modules and related components. Technical Depth Depth Of Coverage: Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including diagnostics and electrical troubleshooting. Diagnostic Tools Required: Mentions diagnostic scan tools and specific measurement equipment needed for accurate diagnosis. Special Tools: Lists Subaru-specific special tools required for certain procedures. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: PDF Searchable Text: Typically includes searchable text for efficient information retrieval. Printable: Generally printable, allowing for physical use in a workshop. Print Quality Image Resolution: High-resolution images and diagrams for clarity. Binding Type Binding Type: Not applicable for PDF download (digital format). Paper Type Paper Type: Not applicable for PDF download (digital format). ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code And Type: EJ22 (2.2L SOHC), EJ25 (2.5L DOHC and SOHC). EJ20 variants for performance models (WRX, STI in specific markets). Displacement Us Liter: 2.2 Liters (EJ22), 2.5 Liters (EJ25) Performance Horsepower Ej22: Approximately 135 hp @ 5600 rpm Torque Ej22: Approximately 140 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm Horsepower Ej25 DOHc: Approximately 165 hp @ 5600 rpm Torque Ej25 DOHc: Approximately 166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Horsepower Ej25 Sohc: Approximately 142 hp @ 5600 rpm Torque Ej25 Sohc: Approximately 150 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Multi-port fuel injection. Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline Recommended Octane: 87 or higher (89 recommended for some EJ25 variants). Engine Internals Compression Ratio Ej22: 9.5:1 Compression Ratio Ej25 DOHc: 10.0:1 Timing Belt Interval: Recommended replacement every 60,000 miles or 4 years. 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission Type: 5-speed Manual Transmission (with AWD) Optional Optional Transmission Type: 4-speed Automatic Transmission (with AWD) Features AWD System Type: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (various configurations: viscous coupling center differential, active torque split, driver-controlled center differential on STI). Fluid...
The 1997-1998 Subaru Impreza represented Subaru's compact offering, known for its standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system and sporty driving dynamics, particularly in WRX and STI variants (though domestic market WRX/STI are distinct).
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mitsubishi Lancer, Mazda Protege, and Ford Escort.
Key Features
Standard AWD:
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive was a defining characteristic, offering superior traction and handling in various conditions.
Engine Options:
Offered various boxer engine configurations, known for their low center of gravity.
Body Styles:
Available in sedan, coupe, and wagon body styles, catering to diverse needs.
Manual Value Proposition
Value For Owners:
Essential for owners seeking to maintain, diagnose, and repair their vehicle effectively, saving on labor costs and ensuring proper operation.
87 or higher (89 recommended for some EJ25 variants).
Engine Internals
Compression Ratio Ej22:
9.5:1
Compression Ratio Ej25 DOHc:
10.0:1
Timing Belt Interval:
Recommended replacement every 60,000 miles or 4 years.
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (with AWD)
Optional
Optional Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (with AWD)
Features
AWD System Type:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (various configurations: viscous coupling center differential, active torque split, driver-controlled center differential on STI).
Fluid Specifications
Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:
Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil (or equivalent API GL-5, SAE 75W-90)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:
Subaru ATF-HP (or Dexron III/Mercon equivalent)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length Sedan:
Approx. 172.4 inches (4379 mm)
Width Sedan:
Approx. 66.7 inches (1694 mm)
Height Sedan:
Approx. 54.1 inches (1374 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 99.8 inches (2535 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight Sedan Manual:
Approx. 2700 - 2900 lbs (1225 - 1315 kg)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Ratings 1997:
Not readily available for this specific year/model in a comparable format to modern standards. Early Imprezas generally had adequate safety for their time.
Active Features
ABS:
Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on select trims.
AWD Handling:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive provides enhanced stability and traction.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners for front occupants.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Basic speaker configurations.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Available cruise control system.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as an optional feature.
Connectivity
Bluetooth Connectivity:
Not available on factory systems of this era.
Climate Control
Manual HVAC Controls:
Manual heating and air conditioning controls.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 - 7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions (severe vs. normal).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Not typically equipped on these models.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 60,000 - 100,000 miles depending on plug type (copper vs. platinum).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type And Capacity Ej22:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30. Capacity: Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 L) with filter.
Engine Oil Type And Capacity Ej25:
API SH or SJ, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30. Capacity: Approx. 4.7 quarts (4.4 L) with filter.
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (or ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors, silicate-free). Mix 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid Spec:
Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III/Mercon ATF
Known Issues
Ej25 Head Gasket Failure:
Certain EJ25 DOHC engines from this era are known for premature head gasket failure due to design flaws. The manual will detail the proper replacement procedure.
Timing Belt Wear:
Regular inspection and timely replacement of the timing belt is crucial to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
Oil Consumption:
Some EJ engines can exhibit increased oil consumption with age; manual will guide on checking PCV systems and oil seals.
Automatic Transmission Harsh Shifting:
Older automatic transmissions may develop harsh shifting; fluid changes and solenoid checks are covered.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Subaru Heritage:
Subaru, a division of Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries), has a long history in aviation and automotive manufacturing, known for its horizontally opposed ('boxer') engines and All-Wheel Drive systems.
Model Evolution
First Generation Impreza:
The first-generation Impreza (GC/GF/GM) was introduced in 1992 globally, with the 1997-1998 models being part of the first generation's facelifted version, which brought revised styling and updated features.
Production
Production Location:
Primarily manufactured in Japan.
Performance Variants:
This era also saw the introduction and rise of the rally-bred WRX (World Rally eXperimental) and STI (Subaru Tecnica International) models, which gained international acclaim in motorsport and influenced the perception of the Impreza line.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10Best:
The Subaru Impreza WRX and STI variants, particularly later generations, have been recognized by automotive publications like Car and Driver on their '10Best' lists for performance and handling.
Motorsport Acclaim:
The Impreza platform achieved significant success in the World Rally Championship (WRC) during the late 1990s and early 2000s, solidifying its performance image.