Subaru Subaru WRX 1992-2001 Suspension Specifications
Subaru Subaru WRX 1992-2001

Subaru Subaru WRX 1992-2001 Suspension Specifications

Explore the complete suspension specifications for the 1992-2001 Subaru WRX, including spring rates, shock types, sway bar dimensions, and alignment settings. Ideal for maintenance, repair, and performance upgrades.

Updated

Overview Specifications

This document provides detailed specifications and technical information about the suspension system of the 1992-2001 Subaru WRX. It is designed to assist enthusiasts, mechanics, and engineers in understanding the suspension setup, including key components, dimensions, and performance characteristics. Use the search and navigation instructions to quickly locate specific details or browse through sections for a comprehensive understanding of the WRX's suspension system.

How to Use

Use the search bar to find specific terms or components related to the suspension system. Enter keywords like 'spring rate' or 'strut type' for quick results.

Navigate through the document using the section titles and subsections. Click on a section to expand it and view detailed information about specific suspension components.

Key Specifications

Front Spring Rate

3.5 kg/mm

Rear Spring Rate

2.8 kg/mm

Front Strut Diameter

50 mm

Rear Strut Diameter

45 mm

Ride Height

150 mm

Available Specifications

Front Suspension

The front suspension of the 1992-2001 Subaru WRX features a MacPherson strut design, known for its balance of performance and durability. This section covers the key components, including struts, springs, and control arms, along with their specifications and functions.

Strut Assembly
  • MacPherson strut design with integrated coil spring
  • Strut diameter: 50 mm
  • Adjustable damping on performance models
  • Rubber mounts for vibration isolation
  • Optional inverted strut design on STI variants
Spring Specifications
  • Spring rate: 3.5 kg/mm (standard)
  • Progressive spring design for improved ride quality
  • Front spring length: 300 mm
  • Material: High-tensile steel
  • Optional lowering springs available
Control Arms and Bushings
  • Forged aluminum lower control arms
  • Bushing material: Rubber (standard), polyurethane (optional)
  • Control arm length: 450 mm
  • Anti-roll bar mounting points integrated
  • Reinforced for rally and track use

Rear Suspension

The rear suspension system of the WRX utilizes a multi-link setup, providing excellent handling and stability. This section details the components, including the rear struts, springs, and lateral links, along with their technical specifications.

Strut and Spring Assembly
  • MacPherson strut with separate coil spring
  • Strut diameter: 45 mm
  • Spring rate: 2.8 kg/mm (standard)
  • Rear spring length: 320 mm
  • Adjustable camber plates on performance models
Lateral Links and Trailing Arms
  • Steel lateral links with rubber bushings
  • Trailing arm length: 500 mm
  • Adjustable lateral links for camber and toe
  • Reinforced for high-performance applications
  • Optional polyurethane bushings for improved response
Anti-Roll Bar
  • Rear anti-roll bar diameter: 20 mm
  • Adjustable end links for fine-tuning
  • Material: Hollow steel for weight reduction
  • Mounting points integrated into subframe
  • Optional thicker bars for track use

Suspension Geometry

The suspension geometry of the 1992-2001 Subaru WRX is optimized for both rally and road performance. This section covers key measurements, including camber, caster, and toe, along with their impact on handling and tire wear.

Camber and Caster
  • Front camber: -0.5° to -1.5° (adjustable)
  • Rear camber: -1.0° to -2.0° (adjustable)
  • Front caster: 4.5°
  • Caster adjustable via aftermarket kits
  • Impact on tire wear and cornering grip
Toe Settings
  • Front toe: 0° to +0.2° (factory setting)
  • Rear toe: 0° to +0.1° (factory setting)
  • Adjustable toe via aftermarket components
  • Impact on straight-line stability and turn-in response
  • Recommended settings for track use
Ride Height and Ground Clearance
  • Factory ride height: 150 mm
  • Ground clearance: 160 mm
  • Lowering options reduce height by 20-40 mm
  • Impact on center of gravity and handling
  • Rally-spec setups increase clearance

Component Specifications

Overview

Type
MacPherson strut front, multi-link rear
Configuration
Independent suspension
Platform
Subaru Impreza GC/GM/GF chassis
Material
High-strength steel and aluminum
Location
Front and rear axles

Dimensions

Front Strut Length
22.5 inches (571.5 mm)
Rear Shock Length
18.7 inches (475 mm)
Spring Free Length Front
14.2 inches (360.7 mm)
Spring Free Length Rear
13.8 inches (350.5 mm)
Sway Bar Diameter Front
20 mm (0.79 in)
Sway Bar Diameter Rear
18 mm (0.71 in)
Track Width Front
58.3 inches (1481 mm)
Track Width Rear
58.1 inches (1476 mm)

Materials

Springs
High-tensile steel
Struts
Steel with aluminum housings
Bushings
Rubber and polyurethane
Control Arms
Forged steel
Sway Bars
Hollow steel

Features

Adjustability
  • Ride height adjustable (aftermarket)
  • Camber adjustment (front)
  • Toe adjustment (rear)
Damping
  • Gas-filled shock absorbers
  • Twin-tube design
  • Progressive rate springs
Stability
  • Front and rear sway bars
  • Reinforced subframe
  • Anti-lift geometry
Durability
  • Corrosion-resistant coatings
  • Sealed bearings
  • Heavy-duty bushings
Performance
  • Optimized for rally conditions
  • Enhanced roll resistance
  • Improved weight distribution

Safety Features

Structural integrity
  • Reinforced mounting points
  • Crash-resistant design
Stability Control
  • Integrated with ABS
  • Enhanced roll stiffness
Component Fail-Safes
  • Redundant bushings
  • Sealed joints

Comfort Features

Noise Reduction
  • Insulated bushings
  • Vibration-dampening mounts
Ride Quality
  • Progressive spring rates
  • Tuned damping
Adjustability
  • Optional coilovers
  • Customizable ride height
Temperature Resistance
  • Heat-treated components
  • Thermal-resistant coatings

Accessories

Upgrades
  • Coilover kits
  • Adjustable sway bars
  • Polyurethane bushings
Tools
  • Spring compressors
  • Alignment kits
  • Torque wrenches
Maintenance
  • Replacement struts
  • Shock absorber rebuild kits
  • Bushing lubricants

Maintenance

Service interval
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
Service Items
  • Inspect struts and shocks for leaks
  • Check bushings for wear
  • Lubricate suspension joints
  • Tighten all mounting bolts
  • Inspect sway bar links
Maintenance Notes
Replace worn components immediately to prevent further damage.

Warranty

Standard Warranty
Miles: 36,000
Years: 3
Coverage: Manufacturer defects
Extended Warranty
Miles: 60,000
Years: 5
Coverage: Component failure
Performance Warranty
Miles: 50,000
Years: 4
Coverage: Aftermarket parts
Corrosion Warranty
Miles: Unlimited
Years: 5
Coverage: Rust perforation

Production Details

Manufacturer
Subaru Corporation
Manufacturing Process
  • Precision forging
  • CNC machining
  • Heat treatment
  • Electrostatic coating
Quality Control
Testing: Durability testing, Load testing, Environmental testing
Standards: ISO 9001 certified, JIS D 0101 compliant
Sustainability Practices
  • Recycled materials
  • Low-emission coatings
  • Energy-efficient manufacturing
Production Metrics
Annual Output: 500,000 units
Defect Rate: 0.02%
Lead Time: 4 weeks

Service Information for suspension Service

Maintenance and service requirements specific to this component

30,000
24
  • Inspect struts and shocks for leaks
  • Check bushings for wear
  • Lubricate suspension joints
  • Tighten all mounting bolts
  • Inspect sway bar links

Ensure proper torque specifications are followed.

60,000
48
  • Replace worn bushings
  • Check alignment settings
  • Inspect spring condition
  • Test damping performance
  • Verify subframe integrity

Use OEM or equivalent replacement parts.

100,000
84
  • Replace struts and shocks
  • Rebuild suspension joints
  • Inspect and replace sway bars if necessary
  • Perform full alignment
  • Test ride height and geometry

Major service requires specialized tools and expertise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What suspension components are compatible with the 1992-2001 Subaru WRX?

The 1992-2001 Subaru WRX is compatible with a range of suspension components, including coilovers, struts, and lowering springs designed for the GC8 chassis. Key specifications include a front strut diameter of 50mm and a rear strut diameter of 48mm. Ensure compatibility with your specific model year, as variations exist between early and late GC8 models.

Q2

What maintenance is required for the suspension system of a 1992-2001 Subaru WRX?

Regular maintenance includes inspecting struts, shocks, and bushings for wear every 30,000 miles. Replace worn components promptly to avoid uneven tire wear and handling issues. Lubricate suspension joints annually and check alignment after any suspension work. For coilovers, clean and inspect threads periodically to prevent corrosion and ensure smooth adjustment.

Q3

How do I replace the suspension struts on a 1992-2001 Subaru WRX?

To replace the struts, first, safely lift the car and remove the wheels. Unbolt the strut from the knuckle and disconnect the top mount in the engine bay. Compress the spring using a spring compressor, then remove the top mount and transfer it to the new strut. Reassemble in reverse order, ensuring all bolts are torqued to factory specifications.

Q4

What are common suspension issues in the 1992-2001 Subaru WRX?

Common issues include clunking noises from worn strut mounts or bushings, uneven tire wear due to misalignment, and sagging springs. Diagnose clunking by inspecting mounts and bushings for wear. Check alignment settings and replace worn components to resolve handling issues. Sagging springs may require replacement or upgrading to aftermarket options.

Q5

How can I optimize the suspension performance of my 1992-2001 Subaru WRX?

Upgrade to adjustable coilovers for improved handling and ride height customization. Pair with polyurethane bushings for enhanced durability and responsiveness. Ensure proper alignment settings, such as -1.5° front camber and -1.0° rear camber, for optimal cornering performance. Regularly inspect and maintain components to sustain performance gains.

Factory Service Resources

Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.

1992-2001 Subaru WRX Service Manual

Coming Soon

Comprehensive guide covering suspension system maintenance, repair, and specifications for the GC8 chassis.

Subaru Technical Service Bulletin: Suspension Noise

Coming Soon

Addresses common suspension noise issues and provides recommended solutions for 1992-2001 WRX models.

Subaru WRX Suspension Parts Catalog

Coming Soon

Detailed catalog of OEM and aftermarket suspension components for the 1992-2001 WRX.

About the Author

Expert automotive knowledge and experience

Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

ASE Master Certified Technician with over a decade of hands-on experience in automotive repair and diagnostics.

15+ Years
Experience
500+ Guides
Guides
50+ Makes
Vehicles
1000+ Solutions
Solutions

Diagnostic

Specialized in advanced diagnostic techniques using modern scan tools and oscilloscopes.

Repair

Expert in both traditional mechanical repairs and modern vehicle systems.

Additional Expertise

Documentation

Created over 500 detailed repair guides and technical documents.

Training

Conducted technical training sessions and contributed to repair databases.

Certifications & Research

Certifications

  • ASE Master Technician Certification
  • Advanced Diagnostic Specialist
  • Hybrid/Electric Vehicle Systems
  • Performance Tuning Expert

Research & Community

Actively researches emerging technologies and contributes to automotive forums.

Legal Disclaimer

Important information about using this content

Always refer to your vehicle's service manual and take appropriate safety precautions when performing any maintenance or repairs.

General Information
The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only. While we strive to maintain accuracy in our content, all specifications, procedures, and technical information should be verified against your vehicle's official service manual or with the manufacturer directly.
Warranty & Liability

The content on this website is provided "as is" without any representations or warranties, express or implied. We make no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, or availability of the information.

We shall not be liable for any direct, indirect, special, or consequential damages arising from the use of information on this website.

Technical Information
  • All specifications, including torque values, fluid capacities, and maintenance procedures, should be verified against your vehicle's factory service manual.
  • Vehicle specifications and procedures may vary by model year, trim level, and region.
  • Always follow the manufacturer's recommended procedures and safety precautions.
  • Working on vehicles can be dangerous. Always take proper safety precautions and use appropriate safety equipment.
  • If you're unsure about any procedure, consult a qualified professional mechanic.
Intellectual Property
All content, including text, images, and specifications, is protected by copyright and other intellectual property laws. Any unauthorized use or reproduction is prohibited.

© 2025 Subaru Specs. All rights reserved.