Subaru Impreza 2023 Cooling System Base Sedan

The 2023 Subaru Impreza Base Sedan’s cooling system is essential to keeping the engine running at its ideal temperature, which promotes longevity and effective performance. It is made up of various essential parts, such as the coolant, water pump, thermostat, and radiator. Through a system of fins and tubes, the radiator absorbs heat from the engine coolant, while the thermostat controls coolant flow to maintain the proper temperature. The coolant, which is a mixture of water and antifreeze and is intended to prevent freezing in cold weather and overheating in hot weather, is circulated throughout the engine by the water pump. As a testament to Subaru’s dedication to dependability and longevity, routine maintenance—such as periodic flushing and refilling—is necessary to maintain the cooling system’s proper operation and shield the Impreza’s engine from potential overheating damage.

2024 Subaru Impreza Specs, Price, Features, Mileage (Brochure)

Safety precautions

WARNING
Never remove the radiator cap until the engine has been shut off and has cooled down completely. Since the coolant is under pressure, you may suffer serious burns from a spray of boiling hot coolant when the cap is removed.

CAUTION

• Vehicles are filled at the factory with SUBARU SUPER COOLANT which does not require the first change for 11 years/137,500 miles (11 years/220,000 km). This coolant should not be mixed with any other brand or type of coolant during this period. Mixing with a different coolant will reduce the life of the coolant. When necessary to top up the coolant for any reason, use only SUBARU SUPER COOLANT. If SUBARU SUPER COOLANT is diluted with another brand or type, the maintenance interval is shortened to that of the mixing coolant.
• Do not splash the engine coolant over painted parts. The alcohol contained in the engine coolant may damage the paint surface.

 Cooling fan, hose, and connections
Your vehicle employs an electric cooling fan which is thermostatically controlled to operate when the engine coolant reaches a specific temperature.

Coolant temperature high warning light (red)

If the radiator cooling fan does not operate even when the coolant temperature high warning light blinks or illuminates in RED, the cooling fan circuit may be defective. Refer to “Coolant temperature low indicator light/Coolant temperature high warning light” Check the fuse and replace it if necessary. If the fuse is not blown, have the cooling system checked by your SUBARU dealer. If the frequent addition of coolant is necessary between vehicle service visits, it is recommended that you have your vehicle inspected by an authorized SUBARU dealer to check for leaks, damage, or looseness.

Engine coolant

Checking the coolant level

WARNING
Never remove the radiator cap until the engine has been shut off and has cooled down completely. Since the coolant is under pressure, you may suffer serious burns from a spray of boiling hot coolant when the cap is removed.

1. “FULL” level mark
2. “LOW” level mark

Check the coolant level at each fuel stop.

1.  Check the coolant level on the outside of the reservoir while the engine is cool.
2.  If the level is close to or lower than the “LOW” level mark, add coolant up to the “FULL” level mark. If the reserve tank is empty, remove the radiator cap and refill coolant up to just below the filler neck as shown in the following illustration.
   
3. After refilling the reserve tank and the radiator, reinstall the cap and check that the rubber gaskets inside the radiator cap are in the proper position.

CAUTION

• Be careful not to spill engine coolant when adding it. If coolant touches the exhaust pipe, it may cause a bad smell, smoke, and/or a fire. If engine coolant gets on the exhaust pipe, be sure to wipe it off.
• Do not splash the engine coolant over painted parts. The alcohol contained in the engine coolant may damage the paint surface.

Changing the coolant
It may be difficult to change the coolant. Has the coolant been changed by your SUBARU dealer if necessary? The coolant should be changed according to the maintenance schedule in the “Warranty and Maintenance Booklet”.

Air cleaner element
Do not operate the engine with the air cleaner element removed. The air cleaner element not only filters intake air but also stops flames if the engine backfires. If the air cleaner element is not installed when the engine backfires, you could be burned.

CAUTION
When replacing the air cleaner element, use a genuine SUBARU air cleaner element. If it is not used, there is the possibility of causing a negative effect to the engine. The air cleaner element functions as a filter screen. When the element is perforated or removed, engine wear will be excessive and engine life shortened. It is not necessary to clean or wash the air cleaner element.

Replacing the air cleaner element
Replace the air cleaner element according to the maintenance schedule in the “Warranty and Maintenance Booklet”. Under extremely dusty conditions, replace it more frequently. It is recommended that you always use genuine SUBARU parts.

Clips

1. Unsnap the two clips holding the air cleaner case (rear).
2. Open the air cleaner case and pull the cover rearward while lifting it up.
   
3. Remove the air cleaner element.
4. Clean the inside of the air cleaner case (both front and rear) with a damp cloth and install a new air cleaner element.
   
5. To install the air cleaner case (rear), insert the three projections on the air cleaner case (rear) into the slits on the air cleaner case (front).
6. Install in the reverse order of removal.

NOTE
Install the air cleaner element so that the surface with “UPR” printed on it faces upward.

Spark plugs
It may be difficult to replace the spark plugs. It is recommended that you have the spark plugs replaced by your SUBARU dealer. The spark plugs should be replaced according to the maintenance schedule in the “Warranty and Maintenance Booklet”.

CAUTION
Make sure the cables are replaced in the correct order.

Drive belt
It is unnecessary to check the deflection of the drive belt periodically because your engine is equipped with an automatic belt tension adjuster. However, the replacement of the belt should be done according to the maintenance schedule in the
“Warranty and Maintenance Booklet”. Consult your SUBARU dealer for replacement. If the drive belt is loose, cracked or worn, contact your SUBARU dealer.

Manual transmission oil
It is not necessary to check the transmission oil level. Check that there are no cracks, damage or leakage. However, the oil inspection should be performed according to the maintenance schedule in the “Warranty and Maintenance Booklet”. Consult your SUBARU dealer for details.

Recommended grade and viscosity
Each oil manufacturer has its own base oils and additives. Never use different brands together.

Continuously variable transmission fluid
It is not necessary to check the transmission fluid level. Check that there are no cracks, damage or leakage. However, the fluid inspection should be performed according to the maintenance schedule in the “Warranty and Maintenance Booklet”. Consult your SUBARU dealer for details.

Front differential gear oil (CVT models) and rear differential gear oil
It is not necessary to check the gear oil level. Check that there are no cracks, damage or leakage. However, the oil inspection should be performed according to the maintenance schedule in the “Warranty and Maintenance Booklet”. Consult your SUBARU dealer for details.

Recommended grade and viscosity
Each oil manufacturer has its own base oils and additives. Never use different brands together.

CAUTION
Using a differential gear oil other than the specified oil may cause a decline in vehicle performance.

FAQ

Why is the cooling system important in the 2023 Subaru Impreza Base Sedan?
The cooling system is crucial because it regulates the engine’s temperature, preventing it from overheating, which can cause severe damage.

What are the main components of the cooling system in the Impreza?
The main components include the radiator, thermostat, water pump, coolant, hoses, and the cooling fan.

How does the radiator function in the cooling system?
The radiator dissipates heat from the engine coolant through its fins and tubes, allowing the coolant to cool down before circulating back through the engine.

What is the role of the thermostat in the cooling system?
The thermostat regulates the flow of coolant, ensuring that the engine operates at the optimal temperature by opening and closing as needed.

How does the water pump contribute to the cooling system’s operation?
The water pump circulates the coolant throughout the engine, maintaining a consistent flow to carry heat away from critical components.

What is the coolant, and why is it important?
Coolant is a mixture of water and antifreeze. It prevents the coolant from freezing in cold temperatures and overheating in hot conditions while also inhibiting corrosion.

How often should I check the coolant level in the Impreza?
Regularly check the coolant level as part of your routine maintenance, and top it off if needed with the appropriate coolant mixture.

What is the recommended interval for flushing and refilling the cooling system?
The recommended interval for flushing and refilling the cooling system can vary, but it’s typically done every 2 to 5 years or according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Are there any signs of a malfunctioning cooling system in the Impreza to watch out for?
Signs of a malfunctioning cooling system may include overheating, a temperature warning light on the dashboard, or coolant leaks under the vehicle.

How can I prevent overheating in the Impreza?
Regularly inspect and maintain the cooling system components, including the radiator, thermostat, and water pump. Ensure the coolant level is adequate.

Can I use water alone as a coolant in the Impreza’s cooling system?
Water alone is not recommended as a coolant, as it lacks the properties of antifreeze, which is crucial for temperature regulation and corrosion prevention.

How can I safely check the coolant level in the Impreza?
To check the coolant level, wait until the engine is cool, open the radiator or coolant reservoir cap carefully, and visually inspect the level.

Is the cooling system covered under the Impreza’s warranty?
Cooling system components may be covered under the vehicle’s warranty, but coverage can vary, so it’s essential to check your warranty documentation for details.

Can I perform cooling system maintenance on my own, or should I seek professional assistance?
Basic maintenance tasks like checking the coolant level can be done by the owner, but more complex tasks like flushing and refilling the system are best left to professionals.

How does Subaru ensure the reliability of the cooling system in the 2023 Impreza?
Subaru designs and tests its cooling systems to meet stringent reliability and performance standards, ensuring they operate effectively in a variety of conditions.

Useful Link

View Full User Guide: Subaru Impreza 2023 Base Sedan User Guide

Download Manuals: https://www.subaru.com/owners/vehicle-resources/manuals.html

2024 Subaru Impreza Specs, Price, Features, Mileage (Brochure)