🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Subaru Model: WRX STI Year: 2008 Chassis Code: GR/GV (Hatchback/Sedan) Engine Codes: EJ257 (H4SO - Turbocharged, H4DOTC - Turbocharged DOHC) 👋 Introduction Market Market Position: The 2008 Subaru WRX STI represented the pinnacle of Subaru's rally-bred performance for that generation, positioned as a high-performance compact sports sedan and hatchback targeting enthusiasts and motorsport fans seeking exceptional handling, powerful turbocharged acceleration, and the renowned All-Wheel Drive system. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Competed directly with vehicles like the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, BMW 3 Series (performance variants), Audi S4, and Volkswagen Golf R. Key Features Key Features: Iconic turbocharged EJ257 boxer engine, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD), performance-tuned suspension, aggressive aerodynamics, Recaro seating, Brembo brakes, multi-function display, driver-selectable engine maps (SI-DRIVE). 📋 Manual Details Coverage Coverage Areas: Engine (EJ257 variants including H4SO and STI specific), Transmission (6-speed manual), Drivetrain (Symmetrical AWD), Chassis (Suspension, Steering, Brakes), Body (Structure, Exterior, Interior), Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, ECUs), HVAC, Fuel System, Cooling System, Emissions Control, Body Repair, Mechanisms and Functions, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Maintenance. Format Manual Type: Service Repair Manual Language: English Format: Downloadable PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Systems Covered: Engine Mechanical, Engine Control (ECU), Fuel Injection, Ignition, Cooling, Lubrication, Exhaust, Intake, Turbocharger System, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Differential (Front, Center, Rear), Suspension (Front MacPherson Strut, Rear Double Wishbone), Steering, Brakes (Front 4-Piston Calipers, Rear 2-Piston Calipers, ABS, EBD), ABS/VDC Systems, SRS Airbag System, Body Electrical, Lighting, Power Accessories, HVAC, Body Structure, Exterior Panels, Interior Trim, Chassis Components. Procedures Procedures Included: Routine Maintenance (Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plugs), Engine Diagnostics and Repair (Compression Testing, Timing Belt/Chain Service, Turbocharger Rebuild, Piston/Connecting Rod Replacement), Transmission Overhaul, Drivetrain Component Service, Brake System Bleeding and Pad/Rotor Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement (Shocks, Springs, Bushings), Steering System Service, Electrical Troubleshooting, HVAC System Diagnosis, Body Panel Alignment and Repair, Body Hardware Replacement, Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Interpretation and Resolution, Wiring Harness Repair, Component Specific Removal and Installation Procedures. Depth Technical Depth: Comprehensive, covering everything from basic scheduled maintenance and fluid checks to in-depth engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, complex electrical diagnostics, and body repair procedures. Includes detailed torque specifications, diagnostic flowcharts, and component testing methods suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. 📊 Manual Specifications File File Format: PDF (Portable Document Format) Searchability: Fully searchable text for quick access to specific information and repair procedures. Print Print Quality: High-resolution diagrams, illustrations, and text, suitable for printing individual sections or the entire manual. Binding Binding Type: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Paper Type: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Primary Engine: 2.5L (2457cc) EJ257 turbocharged and intercooled Boxer 4-cylinder Performance Horsepower: Approx. 305 hp @ 6000 rpm Torque: Approx. 290 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Fuel System Fuel System: Sequential multi-point fuel injection (MPI), Denso/Bosch fuel injectors, high-flow fuel pump. Engine Management Engine Management System: ECU (Engine Control Unit) with SI-DRIVE system for driver-selectable engine performance maps (Intelligent, Sport, Sport Sharp). Turbocharger Turbocharger Model: IHI VF48 (Ball-bearing, twin-scroll turbocharger) Compression Ratio Compression Ratio: 8.2:1 Bore X Stroke Bore X Stroke: 99.5 mm x 79.0 mm Valvetrain Valvetrain: DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 4 valves per cylinder, hydraulic lash adjusters. Intercooler Intercooler Type: Top-mounted, air-to-air intercooler. Cooling System Cooling System Type: Pressurized liquid cooling system with electric cooling fans. 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: 6-speed manual transmission (TY856WD) Optional Optional Transmission: N/A (STI models exclusively offered with manual transmission) Features Dccd: Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) with automatic and manual modes for torque distribution adjustment. Gear Ratios Gear Ratios: 1st: 3.636, 2nd: 2.200, 3rd: 1.545, 4th: 1.151, 5th: 0.971, 6th: 0.777 (Specific ratios may vary slightly by region) Fluid Type Transmission Fluid Spec: Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil (75W-90 GL-5) or equivalent high-quality synthetic GL-5. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 2650 mm (104.3 inches) Length: 4415 mm (173.8 inches) - Hatchback, 4580 mm (180.3 inches) - Sedan Width: 1800 mm (70.9 inches) - Hatchback, 1795 mm (70.7 inches) - Sedan Height: 1475 mm (58.1 inches) - Hatchback, 1440 mm (56.7 inches) - Sedan Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 1550 kg (3417 lbs) - Hatchback, 1530 kg (3373 lbs) - Sedan Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Approx. 2000 kg (4409 lbs) Cargo Cargo Volume: Approx. 300 L (10.6 cu ft) - Hatchback (with rear seats up), Approx. 400 L (14.1 cu ft) - Sedan Wheels Tires Wheel Bolt Pattern: 5x114.3 mm Standard Wheel Size: 18 x 8.5 inches (Enkei) Standard Tire Size: 245/40R18 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact Rating: 5 Stars (2008 Model Year, as per NHTSA data for similar Subaru models of the era) IIHS Top Safety Pick: Good (Frontal Offset, Side Impact, Roof Strength - specific rating for 2008 WRX STI may vary, but general Subaru Impreza platform performed well) Active Features Active Safety Features: Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) with yaw rate and G-force sensors, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic...
The 2008 Subaru WRX STI represented the pinnacle of Subaru's rally-bred performance for that generation, positioned as a high-performance compact sports sedan and hatchback targeting enthusiasts and motorsport fans seeking exceptional handling, powerful turbocharged acceleration, and the renowned All-Wheel Drive system.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Competed directly with vehicles like the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, BMW 3 Series (performance variants), Audi S4, and Volkswagen Golf R.
Routine Maintenance (Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plugs), Engine Diagnostics and Repair (Compression Testing, Timing Belt/Chain Service, Turbocharger Rebuild, Piston/Connecting Rod Replacement), Transmission Overhaul, Drivetrain Component Service, Brake System Bleeding and Pad/Rotor Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement (Shocks, Springs, Bushings), Steering System Service, Electrical Troubleshooting, HVAC System Diagnosis, Body Panel Alignment and Repair, Body Hardware Replacement, Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Interpretation and Resolution, Wiring Harness Repair, Component Specific Removal and Installation Procedures.
Depth
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic scheduled maintenance and fluid checks to in-depth engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, complex electrical diagnostics, and body repair procedures. Includes detailed torque specifications, diagnostic flowcharts, and component testing methods suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
📊 Manual Specifications
File
File Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Searchability:
Fully searchable text for quick access to specific information and repair procedures.
Print
Print Quality:
High-resolution diagrams, illustrations, and text, suitable for printing individual sections or the entire manual.
Binding
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary
Primary Engine:
2.5L (2457cc) EJ257 turbocharged and intercooled Boxer 4-cylinder
4415 mm (173.8 inches) - Hatchback, 4580 mm (180.3 inches) - Sedan
Width:
1800 mm (70.9 inches) - Hatchback, 1795 mm (70.7 inches) - Sedan
Height:
1475 mm (58.1 inches) - Hatchback, 1440 mm (56.7 inches) - Sedan
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1550 kg (3417 lbs) - Hatchback, 1530 kg (3373 lbs) - Sedan
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 2000 kg (4409 lbs)
Cargo
Cargo Volume:
Approx. 300 L (10.6 cu ft) - Hatchback (with rear seats up), Approx. 400 L (14.1 cu ft) - Sedan
Wheels Tires
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x114.3 mm
Standard Wheel Size:
18 x 8.5 inches (Enkei)
Standard Tire Size:
245/40R18
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
5 Stars (2008 Model Year, as per NHTSA data for similar Subaru models of the era)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Good (Frontal Offset, Side Impact, Roof Strength - specific rating for 2008 WRX STI may vary, but general Subaru Impreza platform performed well)
Active Features
Active Safety Features:
Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) with yaw rate and G-force sensors, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS).
Passive Features
Passive Safety Features:
Advanced front airbags (driver and passenger), front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags (all models), Subaru's Ring-shaped Reinforcement Frame, front and rear crumple zones, height-adjustable seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Factory fitted audio system typically included AM/FM radio, CD player, and auxiliary input jack. Higher trims may have featured an upgraded sound system (e.g., JBL) and optional navigation system.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
SI-DRIVE system, Traction Control System (TCS), Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC).
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
Standard auxiliary audio input jack. Bluetooth connectivity was not standard on all models for this year.
Gauges Displays
Instrument Cluster:
Comprehensive analog gauges including tachometer, speedometer, fuel level, and coolant temperature. Multi-information display (MID) often showed trip computer, fuel economy, and SI-DRIVE mode.
🔧 Maintenance
Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first, under severe driving conditions. For normal driving, 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. (Consult manual for specific details and severe vs. normal classification).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for iridium-tipped spark plugs.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months for the manual transmission.
Differential Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months for front and rear differentials.
Fluid Specs
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-30, API SG or higher, ACEA A3/B3 or A3/B4 certified synthetic oil. (Subaru recommends their own synthetic oil).
Coolant Spec:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent P-HOAT (Phosphated Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, pre-diluted 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid Spec:
Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or equivalent ATF Dexron III compatible fluid.
Clutch Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Known Issues
Common Issues:
Head gasket leaks (though less common on EJ257 compared to earlier EJ25), piston ring land failure (especially on modified or abused engines), turbocharger wear, clutch wear (due to performance driving), catalytic converter failure, rear differential bearing noise, some electrical gremlins (e.g., window regulators, HVAC controls).
Parts
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Subaru: 15208AA100 or 15208AA15A, aftermarket examples: Fram PH3593A, K&N HP-3001.
Engine Air Filter Part Number Example:
Subaru: 16546AA120, aftermarket examples: Fram CA9465, K&N 33-2311.
Cabin Air Filter Part Number Example:
Subaru: 72880FG010, aftermarket examples: Fram CF10121, Purolator C25802.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand
Brand Heritage:
Subaru, part of Fuji Heavy Industries, has a long history in aviation and automotive manufacturing. Its core philosophy often emphasizes safety, reliability, and unique engineering, most notably the horizontally opposed ('boxer') engine and the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, both derived from its motorsport heritage, particularly in the World Rally Championship (WRC).
Model Evolution
Model Evolution Summary:
The WRX STI (Subaru Tecnica International) is the performance variant of the Subaru Impreza. The 2008 model year marked the debut of the third generation (GR/GV) Impreza chassis, which saw the WRX STI return to its rally roots with a more potent engine and refined AWD system compared to its predecessor. This generation offered both hatchback and sedan body styles, a departure from the sedan-only previous generation.
Production
Production Location:
Gunma Plant, Japan
Model Production Years:
2008-2014 (Third Generation)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Motorsport Recognition:
Subaru WRX STI models are direct descendants of Subaru's highly successful World Rally Championship (WRC) cars, which won multiple driver and manufacturer championships, cementing the STI's reputation for rally-bred performance and durability.
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