Front and Rear Suspension, Steering System, Brake System (ABS, Brake Booster, Master Cylinder, Calipers, Rotors, Lines), Wheel Hubs, Bearings
Body And Interior:
Body Panel Removal/Installation, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Seats, Interior Trim, Glass Replacement, HVAC System
Electrical And Electronics:
Engine Control Unit (ECU), Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Wiring Diagrams, Fuses, Relays, Lighting Systems (Headlights, Taillights, Interior), Audio System, Power Accessories, SRS (Airbag) System
Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months (severe driving) / 7,500 miles or 7.5 months (normal driving), based on Subaru recommendations and oil type.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 15 months
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 15 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (NGK PFR7B or equivalent)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Not Applicable (EJ257 uses a timing chain)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 30 months
Fluid Specifications
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (Subaru DOT3 recommended)
Power Steering Fluid:
Subaru ATF-HP or Dexron III equivalent
Coolant:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant
Known Issues
Engine Failure Risk:
Piston ring land failure (ringland failure), connecting rod bearing wear, head gasket failure (less common on EJ257 than earlier EJ25s but still a concern).
Turbocharger Failures:
Bearing wear in VF39 turbo due to oil contamination or lack of lubrication.
Clutch Wear:
Early clutch wear or failure, especially with aggressive driving or modifications.
Susceptibility To Oil Sludge:
Requires diligent adherence to oil change intervals and using quality oil to prevent sludge buildup.
Differential Failure:
Potential for center and rear differential failure under extreme stress or poor maintenance.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Subaru Rally Success:
Dominant presence in World Rally Championship (WRC) with multiple manufacturer and driver titles, directly influencing STI models.
Model Evolution
Impreza Development:
Introduced in 1992, the STI (Subaru Tecnica International) variants were developed for homologation and performance.
Gd Generation:
Second generation (GD/GG) launched in 2000, with significant updates in 2002 and 2004 (affecting bodywork, suspension, and engine management).
2004 Update:
Introduction of the 'F' model year for the GD chassis, featuring revised front-end styling (grille, headlights, bumper), wider track, and updated DCCD controls.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Ota City, Gunma Prefecture, Japan
Production Years Gdb:
2000-2007
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Sport Compact Car Achievement:
Often recognized by automotive publications like Sport Compact Car for performance and handling.
Car And Driver 10Best:
While not consistently on 10Best, the Impreza line often received nods for its performance and value.
Certifications
Wrc Homologation:
STI models are WRC homologation specials, meeting FIA requirements for rally competition.