Sedan (4-door), Wagon (5-door), Coupe (2-door - depending on market and year within the range)
Covered Markets:
Global (North America, Europe, Australia, Japan - covers common specifications)
Page Count
Estimated Pages:
1000+
Manual Type
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
Digital (PDF)
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine overhaul, disassembly, assembly, timing belt replacement, piston/ring inspection, cylinder head service, valve train, lubrication system, cooling system.
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection system, ignition system, emissions control systems (catalytic converter, EGR, EVAP), turbocharger (if applicable to specific models covered).
Front differential, rear differential, center differential (viscous coupling unit or mechanical), driveshafts, CV joints, propeller shaft, wheel hub bearings.
Suspension Front:
MacPherson strut system, control arms, stabilizer bar, ball joints, bushings, alignment specifications.
Power steering system (pump, rack, hoses), steering column, tie rod ends, alignment.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system (if equipped), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, caliper overhaul, rotor/pad replacement, parking brake.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator, regulator), starting system (starter motor), lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), horn, wipers, power windows, power locks, fuse box diagrams, relay functions.
Body Interior:
Door panels, dashboard removal, seat removal, headliner, carpeting, interior trim components, HVAC controls.
Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper overhaul, master cylinder replacement, ABS sensor replacement, brake line repair.
Suspension Steering Repair:
Control arm bushing replacement, ball joint replacement, tie rod end replacement, wheel bearing replacement, power steering pump replacement, steering rack replacement.
No specific ratings readily available for this early generation by modern standards. Focus on structural integrity of the time.
Active Features
ABS:
Optional on many models, standard on higher trims/performance variants.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver airbag standard, Passenger airbag optional/standard on later models/trims.
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Head Unit:
Factory fitted radio/cassette player or CD player depending on trim and year. Basic analog displays.
Driver Assistance
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (optional/standard based on model/year).
Connectivity
Aux Input:
Rarely standard; often aftermarket head unit installation required for auxiliary or USB connectivity.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 - 7,500 miles (6,000 - 12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (consult manual).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (100,000 - 160,000 km) or 4-5 years, critical for interference engines (refer to specific engine code in manual).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (50,000 - 100,000 km) depending on spark plug type (copper vs. platinum/iridium).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Viscosity:
Commonly 5W-30, 5W-40, or 10W-30 depending on climate and specific engine variant (API SG/SH or later).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Subaru Super Coolant recommended for later Subaru vehicles, but for this era, standard green coolant is often used. Verify with manual.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Known Issues
Head Gaskets:
While less prone than some later generations, early EJ22 and EJ25 engines could experience head gasket failures. The EJ20 and EJ18 are generally more robust.
Clutch Wear:
Can wear prematurely with aggressive driving or heavy use, particularly on AWD models.
Turbo Issues:
For turbocharged models (GT, WRX variants), proper maintenance and avoiding heat soak are crucial to turbo longevity. Turbo seals and wastegate issues can occur.
Awt Differential Fluid:
Regularly changing the viscous coupling unit fluid is essential for AWD system health.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring harnesses and grounds can lead to intermittent electrical issues over time.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Subaru Legacy:
Built upon the rally-winning heritage of Subaru, inheriting the AWD and Boxer engine DNA from models like the Leone and Legacy.
Model Evolution
Launch Year:
1992
Facelifts:
Significant facelift occurred in 1997 (GF8B/GDBA), introducing updated styling and improved chassis.
Rally Origins:
The Impreza became the platform for Subaru's highly successful World Rally Championship (WRC) campaigns, significantly boosting its performance image.
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan (Main production)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10Best:
The Impreza WRX (though more prominent in the next generation) cemented Subaru's reputation, and the early models laid the groundwork for this recognition, with the base Impreza often featuring on 'best value' lists.
Ratings
Reliability Perception:
Generally good, particularly for naturally aspirated, non-turbocharged AWD models. Turbocharged models require more diligent maintenance.