Engine Subaru EL15

The 1.5-liter Subaru EL154 petrol engine (or EL15 for short) was produced from 2006 to 2012 and was installed on the second and third generation of the popular Impreza model. This power unit in its design is not so much different from the motors of the EJ series.

The EL line includes only one engine.

Specifications

Production years 2006-2012
Displacement, cc 1498
Fuel system injector
Power output, hp 105 – 110
Torque output, Nm 140 – 145
Cylinder block aluminum H4
Block head aluminum 16v
Cylinder bore, mm 77.7
Piston stroke, mm 79
Compression ratio 10.1
Features DOHC
Hydraulic lifters no
Timing drive belt
Phase regulator AVCS
Turbocharging no
Recommended engine oil 5W-30
Engine oil capacity, liter 4.0
Fuel type petrol
Euro standards EURO 4
Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Subaru Impreza 2008)
— city
— highway
— combined
9.8
6.3
7.5
Engine lifespan, km ~250 000
Weight, kg 105

The engine was installed on:

Disadvantages of the EL15 engine

  • Almost all the problems of this power unit are somehow related to oil;
  • Oil consumption here starts from the first kilometers and progresses strongly to 100,000 km;
  • The unit is prone to leaks, and with a low level of lubrication, it can turn the liners;
  • The engine is very thermally loaded, and the cooling system is not famous for its reliability;
  • The reason for floating rpm is usually electronic throttle glitches.

Frequently asked questions about the Subaru EL15

How much power does the Subaru EL15 make?

The Subaru EL15 develops 105 - 110 hp and 140 - 145 Nm of torque.

How much oil does the Subaru EL15 take and which one?

Engine oil capacity: 4.0 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.

Does the Subaru EL15 have a timing belt or chain?

The Subaru EL15 uses a timing belt.

Is the Subaru EL15 turbocharged?

No, the Subaru EL15 is naturally aspirated.

Does the Subaru EL15 need valve clearance adjustment?

Yes, there are no hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances have to be checked and adjusted periodically.

How long does the Subaru EL15 last?

The typical lifespan of the Subaru EL15 is ~250 000 km with proper maintenance.

What is the fuel consumption of the Subaru EL15?

Subaru Impreza 2008: city 9.8, highway 6.3, combined 7.5 L/100 km.

What cars was the Subaru EL15 installed on?

Subaru Impreza 2 (GD) in 2006 - 2007, Impreza 3 (GE) in 2007 - 2012.

What are the common problems of the Subaru EL15?

Almost all the problems of this power unit are somehow related to oil. Oil consumption here starts from the first kilometers and progresses strongly to 100,000 km. All known problems.

El Guardiola Author: El Guardiola
Doctor of Technical Sciences, former engineer at the Volkswagen plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee (10 years of experience), holder of certificates and patents for inventions, author of a training manual for employees of the Volkswagen Group of America.
I consider the internal combustion engine to be the greatest technological achievement and I want to provide information about them to a wide range of car owners.

1 thought on “Engine Subaru EL15”

  1. Can you please tell me what the part numbers are for the Tappet (rocker) Cover Gasket Seals .My car is a RHD (JDM)

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