What subarus came with the EJ255?
In short, the EJ255 powered several mid-2000s Subaru models, notably the Impreza WRX, Legacy GT, Forester XT, and Outback 2.5XT. Availability varied by market and model year.
This article details the primary Subaru models that used the EJ255 and the typical year ranges you might encounter it in production, along with notes on regional differences and how to verify the engine code.
Models that used the EJ255
The following list highlights the main Subaru models in which the EJ255 engine appeared during its peak production period. Each entry references typical years and the context within the model line.
- Impreza WRX — roughly 2004 to 2007 in North America, within the Impreza lineup as the 2.5L turbo variant.
- Legacy GT — roughly 2005 to 2009, the turbocharged version of the Legacy sedan/wagon.
- Forester XT — roughly 2004 to 2008, the turbocharged option in the Forester SUV line.
- Outback 2.5XT — roughly 2005 to 2009, the turbocharged variant in the Outback wagon.
Engine availability varied by market, and some regions used different turbo engines or codes within the same generation. Always verify the engine code on the VIN and the engine stamping to be certain.
How to verify an EJ255 on your Subaru
If you’re trying to confirm whether a specific Subaru has the EJ255, check the engine code stamped on the engine block (near the bell housing) and cross-reference with the VIN. Subaru’s documentation and owner resources typically list EJ255 for the 2.5L turbo variants in the mid-2000s across the WRX, Legacy GT, Forester XT, and Outback 2.5XT.
Summary
The EJ255 served as the 2.5L turbo powerplant for several mid-2000s Subaru models, most notably the Impreza WRX, Legacy GT, Forester XT, and Outback 2.5XT. For accurate identification, confirm the engine code on the engine and verify it against the VIN, keeping in mind regional variations and model-year differences.
What subarus have an EJ25 engine?
Many Subaru models have used the EJ25 engine, including the Impreza, Forester, Legacy, Outback, and Baja. It has been a staple engine for these vehicles, appearing in naturally aspirated and turbocharged (EJ25T) versions across various model years.
Models that have used the EJ25
- Impreza: From 1996-2012, and turbocharged versions in the WRX and STI from 2004 onward.
- Legacy: Starting in 1996, and the Legacy GT with a turbocharged version.
- Outback: From 1996, and performance versions like the Outback XT with a turbocharged version.
- Forester: From 1998, including the Forester XT with a turbocharged version.
- Baja: From 2003-2006, including a turbocharged version.
What is the weak point of the EJ255?
On the Subaru EJ255 and EJ257, there are three ringlands, which each have a separate job in regards to protecting the engine and piston. In some cases, these ringlands have been identified as the weak point on most Subaru engines. The first ringland is an area that typically fails the most.
What's better, EJ255 or EJ257?
The main differences between the EJ255 and EJ257 engines are the cylinder heads and supporting components: the EJ257 has dual-AVCS heads and a larger oil pump, while the EJ255 has single-AVCS heads and a smaller oil pump. The EJ257, found in Subaru STI models, is designed for higher performance with larger turbos and pistons, whereas the EJ255 is used in WRX and other turbo models. Both share a similar short block, but the EJ257 generally has a slightly lower compression ratio due to its heads.
You can watch this video to learn about the differences between Subaru EJ blocks: 31sMRT PerformanceYouTube · Nov 7, 2017
EJ255 vs. EJ257
| Feature | EJ255 | EJ257 |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Application | WRX and other turbo Subarus | Subaru STI |
| Cylinder Heads | D25 heads with single AVCS | W25 heads with dual AVCS |
| Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Oil Pump | 10mm | 11mm |
| Performance | Factory horsepower up to 265265265 hp | Factory horsepower up to 341341341 hp |
| Short Block | Similar to EJ257 | Similar to EJ255 |
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Key takeaways
- The EJ257 is built for higher performance and includes components like dual-AVCS (Active Valve Control System) on the cylinder heads to help with power output.
- The EJ255 is a more basic performance engine, often used as the base for the WRX, and features single-AVCS on the heads.
- While the basic short block is similar, the differences in the heads and supporting components like the oil pump make the EJ257 the more robust option for high-performance applications.
What Subaru has the EJ255 engine?
Model Applications
| EJ255 | GHE | Impreza WRX |
|---|---|---|
| EJ255 BE2PB | GHE | Impreza WRX 265 |
| EJ255 BE4PB | GVE | Impreza WRX |
| EJ255 BE4PB | GVE | Impreza WRX Limited |
| EJ255 BE4PB | GVE | Impreza WRX Premium |
