Subaru

Which Subaru part corresponds to which EJ or EE engine code?

The answer almost always depends on the engine code stamped on the block, as Subaru uses several closely related variants — EJ20, EJ205, EJ207, EJ255, EJ257 — for engines that share similar capacities but differ in tune, boost pressure and turbo architecture. On this page, turbos and gearboxes cover the Impreza, Forester, WRX, Legacy and Outback models from 2008 to 2018.

Turbos: the EJ family at the heart of the catalogue

Turbos make up the bulk of the Subaru range. Identification is tricky because the codes are so similar: EJ205 fits the 2.0 Turbo WRX (non-STi) and certain other 2.0 Turbo variants, while EJ207 is reserved for other 2.0 Turbo variants. On the 2.5, the codes EJ255 and EJ257 distinguish the WRX GT and XT Turbo from the WRX STI: these turbos are not interchangeable. OEM references (VF39, VF44, VF45, VF46, VF48, VF52, or 14411-AA532, 14411AA760…) vary according to the exact engine; a reference mix-up on a high-boost engine can cause serious damage to the block. For the 2.0 D diesel, the codes EE20 and EE20Z correspond to a flat-four boxer architecture that is entirely different from the petrol EJ blocks; the associated turbo (references VC430083, 14411-AA510) is not interchangeable with those in the petrol range. The turbos listed here are either new OEM parts or reconditioned units, depending on the reference.

Gearboxes: 5-speed or 6-speed manual depending on the model

Three gearboxes are available in the range: a 5-speed manual and a 6-speed manual, sold on an exchange basis or rebuilt from the customer's own unit, depending on the case. The reference TY756W1ZAB illustrates just how specific Subaru gearboxes are with their permanent four-wheel-drive transmission: the gearbox is integral with the centre differential and the rear axle output, making precise identification essential before ordering. The naturally aspirated 2.0 engine (codes EJ20 and FB20) and the WRX turbo versions sometimes share the same casing but not the same gear ratios or axle outputs; checking the gearbox code stamped on the unit is essential.