The SUBARU EJ22 EMPI is a 2,198 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 1997 and 2003. It features a SOHC valvetrain, electronic multi-point injection (EMPI), and aluminium cylinder head with cast-iron block construction, delivering balanced performance for all-wheel-drive applications. In standard tune it produced 106 kW (144 PS) with 195 Nm of torque, forming part of Subaru's EJ engine family.
Fitted to models such as the Subaru Legacy and Outback, the EJ22 EMPI was engineered for smooth highway cruising, reliability, and emissions compliance. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a catalytic converter, allowing all units to meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9242).
One documented concern is premature camshaft wear, highlighted in Subaru Service Information Bulletin 98-NA-044. This issue is linked to inadequate lubrication at the camshaft lobes during sustained high-RPM operation and extended oil change intervals. In 2000, Subaru revised the oil pump design and updated lifter profiles to improve durability, marking a key update during the engine's production run.
Subaru
All production years (1997–2003) meet Euro 3 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9242).
The SUBARU EJ22 EMPI is a 2,198 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for all-wheel-drive mid-size vehicles (1997–2003). It combines robust SOHC architecture with electronic multi-point fuel injection to deliver dependable long-distance performance. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it represents a refined iteration of Subaru's larger-displacement naturally aspirated platform.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,198 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 96.9 mm × 75.0 mm | |
| Power output | 106 kW (144 PS) @ 5,400 rpm | |
| Torque | 195 Nm @ 4,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Electronic multi-point injection (EMPI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Single-row roller chain (non-interference design) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-30 (API SG) | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The SOHC inline-four design demands strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent camshaft and lifter wear. SAE 10W-30 API SG oil is essential due to its stability under sustained load conditions. Extended warm-up periods are recommended before aggressive driving to ensure proper oil circulation. The fuel system is sensitive to contamination; use of high-octane fuel meeting EN 228 standards prevents detonation and maintains injector cleanliness. Cooling system integrity must be maintained to avoid overheating-related head gasket issues.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-30 API SG specification (Subaru Service Manual 1997-0375).
Emissions: Certified to Euro 3 standards (VCA #VCA/EMS/9242).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 106 kW output requires 87 RON fuel (Subaru TIS Doc. A24720).
Subaru Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A24720, A25172, SIB 98-NA-044
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9242)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The SUBARU EJ22 EMPI was used across Subaru's BE/BH and BG/BH platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shortened intake manifolds in the Legacy and revised cooling routing in the Outback-and from 2000 the facelifted Legacy models adopted updated ECU calibration, creating minor software differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (Subaru TIS A25120). The 8th digit of the VIN indicates engine family ('E' for EJ series). Pre-2000 models have silver valve covers with black gasket seals; post-2000 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from EJ22X: Original EJ22 EMPI has Denso ECU with 40-pin connector and naturally aspirated design, while EJ22X uses turbocharging. Service parts require production date verification—lifters before 09/1999 are incompatible with later revisions due to internal redesign (Subaru SIB 98-NA-044).
The EJ22 EMPI's primary reliability risk is camshaft and lifter wear, with elevated incidence in sustained highway driving with frequent short trips. Internal Subaru quality reports from 1998 indicated a significant share of pre-2000 engines required camshaft replacement before 100,000 km, while NHTSA field reports show drivability faults contributing to emissions-related failures. Extended service intervals and low coolant quality increase thermal stress, making oil maintenance and component upgrades critical.
Analysis derived from Subaru technical bulletins (1997–2003) and NHTSA field reports (1998–2002). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about SUBARU EJ22-EMP-I.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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SUBARU Official Site
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
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