🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Subaru Model: Impreza WRX Generation: GC8 Codes Chassis Code: GC8 Engine Code Common: EJ20G, EJ20K 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact performance sedan/coupe rally homologation special Target Audience: Enthusiasts, rally fans, performance car owners, mechanics specializing in JDM vehicles Competitive Analysis Key Rivals: Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Ford Escort RS Cosworth, Toyota Celica GT-Four Key Features Performance Highlights: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, turbocharged Boxer engine, rally-bred chassis tuning Manual Value Proposition: Essential for maintaining and repairing a classic performance Subaru, crucial for preserving value and optimizing performance 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Market Region: Global (primarily Japan, Europe, Australia) Languages: English (likely translated from Japanese factory originals) Page Count Estimated Pages: 1000+ Manual Type Type: Workshop Service Repair Manual Format Digital Format: Downloadable PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine, transmission, drivetrain, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system Chassis: Suspension, steering, brakes, wheels and tires Electrical: Wiring diagrams, lighting, starting and charging system, ignition system, ECU diagnostics, accessories Body: Body panels, interior trim, glass, exterior trim, collision repair basics Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups Repair: Engine overhaul, transmission rebuilds, brake caliper replacement, suspension component renewal Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnosis, fault code interpretation (OBD-I/early OBD-II) Technical Depth Scope: Comprehensive factory-level detail for mechanics and experienced DIYers Diagnostic Tools: Information on specific Subaru diagnostic tools and procedures for the era 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Quality: High-resolution scans, likely searchable text for key terms Print Quality Reproducibility: Suitable for printing individual sections or the entire manual Binding Type Typical Print: Spiral-bound or comb-bound for lay-flat use in a workshop Paper Type Recommended Print: Durable paper stock (e.g., 20-24 lb) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Type: Horizontally-opposed (Boxer), turbocharged, intercooled, DOHC Displacement: 2.0 Liters (1994 cc) Bore X Stroke: 92.0 mm x 75.0 mm Compression Ratio: 8.5:1 Performance Horsepower Ej20G: 237 hp @ 6000 rpm (JDM Spec) Torque Ej20G: 240 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm (JDM Spec) Horsepower Ej20K: 276 hp @ 6500 rpm (JDM Spec, later models) Torque Ej20K: 244 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (JDM Spec, later models) Fuel System Injection: Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) Ignition: Distributorless Electronic Ignition (Diel) or distributor-based ignition depending on specific market/model year Engine Management ECU Type: Subaru Engine Control Unit (ECU) with early OBD-I or OBD-II compliance 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 5-Speed Manual Optional Type: None (WRX models exclusively manual for this generation) Features AWD System: Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with viscous coupling center differential Rear Differential: Viscous LSD or Helical LSD depending on model/market 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 4350 mm (171.3 in) Width: Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 in) Height: Approx. 1405 mm (55.3 in) Wheelbase: Approx. 2520 mm (99.2 in) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 1280-1350 kg (2820-2975 lbs) depending on trim and options 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Results: Limited formal crash testing data available for this era JDM performance model in major Western markets Active Features Braking: Front: Ventilated Disc, Rear: Solid Disc (WRX models typically featured larger front brakes than standard Impreza) ABS: Available (standard on some higher-spec WRX models and export markets) Passive Features Airbags: Driver airbag standard, passenger airbag optional/market dependent Seatbelts: 3-point front and rear seatbelts 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Basic AM/FM/Cassette or CD player with 4-6 speakers. Optional premium sound system. Driver Assistance Traction Control: Not typically available on WRX models of this generation. Focus is on mechanical grip. Connectivity OBD System: OBD-I or early OBD-II compliant for engine diagnostics. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (severe service recommendations apply for performance driving) Timing Belt Replacement: Every 60,000 miles or 5 years (critical for EJ20 engine integrity) Spark Plug Replacement: Every 30,000-60,000 miles depending on plug type Fluid Specifications Engine Oil: API SG/SH/SJ, Viscosity: 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific climate/performance recommendations) Coolant: Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with deionized water Transmission Fluid: API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (for manual transmission) Differential Fluid: API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (front and rear, center differential typically uses same fluid type as transmission) Known Issues Engine Component Failure: Head gasket leaks, cracked cylinder heads (especially with aggressive tuning), ring land failures due to detonation Turbocharger Issues: Bearing failure, oil seal leaks, wastegate issues Suspension Wear: Worn bushings, ball joints, and strut mounts due to performance driving Rust Corrosion: Common in areas with road salt, particularly on underbody, wheel wells, and strut towers 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Subaru Rally Legacy: Strong lineage in motorsports, particularly World Rally Championship (WRC) Model Evolution Impreza Introduction: First generation (GC/GF/GM) introduced in 1992, WRX variant launched shortly after to homologate for WRC Gc8 Development: The GC8 chassis represents a significant step in Subaru's performance evolution, establishing the WRX as a potent rally-bred street car Production Manufacturing Location: Japan Model Years Covered: 1997, 1998...