Subaru Impreza problems
The Subaru Impreza (Japanese: スバル・インプレッサ, Hepburn: Subaru Inpuressa) is a compact car that has been manufactured by the Japanese automaker Subaru since 1992. It was introduced as a replacement for the Leone, with the predecessor's EA series engines replaced by the new EJ series. It is now in its sixth generation.
Subaru has offered a 5-door hatchback body variant since 2008. The firm also offered a coupé from 1995 until 2001, a 4-door sedan up to the fifth generation, and a 5-door wagon from the Impreza's introduction which was replaced by a hatchback with the third generation in 2008. Mainstream versions have received "boxer" flat-four engines ranging from 1.5- to 2.5-liters, with the performance-oriented Impreza WRX and WRX STI models upgraded with the addition of turbochargers. Since the third generation series, some markets have adopted the abbreviated Subaru WRX name for these high-performance variants. The first three generations of Impreza were also available with an off-road appearance non-SUV package called the Outback Sport, exclusive to the North American market. For the fourth generation, this appearance package was raised up to be subcompact crossover SUV and renamed the XV (Crosstrek in North America), and is sold internationally. Colloquially, the car is sometimes referred to as Scooby.
Subaru has offered front- and all-wheel drive layouts for the Impreza. Since the late-1990s, some markets have restricted sales to the all-wheel drive model, putting the Impreza in a unique selling proposition in the global compact class, which is usually characterized by front-wheel drive. Japanese models remain available in both configurations.
A 2019 iSeeCars study named the Impreza as the lowest-depreciating sedan in the United States after five years.
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Subaru Impreza model years
Common Subaru Impreza problems
The Subaru Impreza is a reliable car, but like any vehicle, it can still develop problems. Some common issues that owners have reported include CVT issues, fuel pump problems, underpowered brakes, rusted brake lines, infotainment system problems, oil consumption issues, EyeSight issues, unintended acceleration, soy wiring problems, faulty brake switches, and weakened suspension.
CVT issues are a common problem in some Subaru models, including the Impreza. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) can experience slipping, overheating, stalling, and trouble controlling engine speed. These issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including the age and mileage of the vehicle, as well as the specific driving conditions and maintenance history.
Fuel pump problems are another issue that has been reported by some Impreza owners. These problems can cause the car to not start or run erratically. The fuel delivery system is often the source of these issues, which can be caused by manufacturing defects or wear and tear over time. In some cases, Subaru has issued recalls to address these problems, but if your car is not covered by a recall, replacing the fuel pump can cost around $800.
Underpowered brakes are a safety concern that has been reported by some Impreza owners. This issue can cause longer braking distances and sluggish brake pedal response. Poorly maintained or infrequently tested brakes can fail when you need them the most, so it's important to use premium brake fluid and replace the brake kits if necessary.
Rusted brake lines are another issue that has been reported by some Impreza owners. While all cars are prone to rust, it's important for the automaker to ensure that rust or corrosion does not affect vital parts of the vehicle. Unfortunately, the Impreza is not one of those vehicles.
Infotainment system problems are a common issue in many modern cars, including the Impreza. These problems can include unresponsive touch screens, software glitches, and connectivity issues. While these problems are not typically safety concerns, they can be frustrating and affect the overall driving experience.
Oil consumption issues are another problem that has been reported by some Impreza owners. This issue can cause the engine to use up more oil than normal, which can lead to engine damage if not addressed. In some cases, this issue can be fixed by replacing the piston rings and rod bearings to eliminate leaks.
EyeSight issues are a problem that has been reported by some Impreza owners. EyeSight is a driver assistance system that uses cameras and sensors to monitor the road and alert the driver to potential hazards. If the system is not working properly, it can fail to detect obstacles or provide accurate alerts.
Unintended acceleration is a safety concern that has been reported by some Impreza owners. This issue can cause the car to suddenly accelerate without the driver's input, which can be dangerous in certain driving conditions.
Soy wiring problems are a unique issue that has been reported by some Impreza owners. Subaru has used soy-based wiring insulation in some of its vehicles, which can attract rodents. If a rodent chews on the wiring, it can cause electrical issues and potentially affect the vehicle's performance.
Faulty brake switches are a safety concern that has been reported by some Impreza owners. This issue can cause the brake lights to stay on or not come on when the brake pedal is pressed. This can be confusing for other drivers and potentially lead to accidents.
Weakened suspension is a problem that has been reported by some Impreza owners. This issue can cause the car to feel unstable or bouncy, which can affect the overall driving experience.
It's important to note that not all Subaru Imprezas will experience these problems, and many owners have reported having positive experiences with the car. However, it's always a good idea to do your research and be aware of potential issues before making a purchasing decision.
Is the Subaru Impreza a reliable car?
The Impreza's reliability score is ranked 33rd out of 36 compact cars by RepairPal, earning a 3.5 out of five-star rating. The average annual repair cost is $653, which isn't terribly high, but there is a 17% chance of severe repairs.
What is the problem with Subaru Impreza?
Common Subaru Impreza Problems
These include excessive oil consumption that sometimes requires replacing piston rings and rod bearings to address leaks. Older models also frequently had issues with blown head gaskets, especially once they reached around 100,000 miles.
How long do Subaru Imprezas last?
The first hard limit for most Subarus is between 150,000 and 200,000 miles, but with major maintenance, this can be extended to 300,000 miles. According to Way.com, the Subaru Impreza is relatively affordable to maintain.
What were the bad years for Subaru?
Subaru Outback Years to Avoid
- 1996 – 2008. Image Courtesy: Subaru. These Outbacks had an issue with the head gasket and engine overheating. ...
- 2010 – 2013. Outback from this period had issues with transmissions. ...
- 2015 – 2019. Unexpected acceleration issues, which are safety hazards, were reported by owners.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Subaru Impreza years
We have researched Subaru problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Subaru Impreza cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Subaru Impreza model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Subaru Impreza model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Subaru Impreza years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Subaru Impreza car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Subaru Impreza , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Air bags problems
- Power train problems
- Service brakes problems
- Engine problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Subaru Impreza vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Impreza model years
A total of 184 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Impreza model years
There were a total of 40 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Impreza model years
There were a total of 138 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Impreza model years
There were a total of 3 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 2633 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Subaru Impreza . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Subaru Impreza vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Subaru Impreza 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-08
- VIN: 4S3GTAD63K3
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Rear wheel bearing premature wear. Originally installed wheel bearings were replaced, under warranty, at 44,137 miles. Same bearings then had to be replaced again at 62,486 miles. Both replacements were done by Beardmore Subaru in Nebraska. A failed wheel bearing at high speed could result in a catastrophic accident, and requiring replacement at these low mileage levels is indicative of poor design or substandard parts.
Subaru Impreza 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-28
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-11
- VIN: JF1GPAL67E8
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: After driving for about an hour stopped a light and accelerated to proceed and drivers side air bag exploded. Subaru states it was my fault because “dirt” got in the system. Refused to cover replacement or rental car. Minor hand injury.
Subaru Impreza 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-10
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 4S3GTAD66M3
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owned a 2021 Subaru Impreza. The contact stated that while stopped at a red light, another vehicle crashed into the rear of the vehicle. The force of the impact caused the contact to hit another vehicle which then caused that vehicle to also hit another vehicle; in total, four vehicles were involved in the accident. The contact's air bags did not deploy upon impact. The contact was taken to hospital via an ambulance where they were treated for a nasal fracture. The contact also suffered additional bruises to the face, both arms and right upper thigh. During a recent surgery for an appendix removal, the contact's surgeon discovered bruising on the contact's colon; likely caused by the accident. The driver that caused the collision claimed to have suffered from a seizure which caused the accident; that driver did not suffer any physical injuries. The whereabouts of the other two drivers involved in the accident were unknown. A police report was filed. The contact's vehicle was towed to an independent tow yard where it was deemed a total loss. The dealer nor the manufacturer had yet to be notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Subaru Impreza 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-07
- VIN: JF1GUABC5R8
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: I have not had an accident yet. I bought this vehicle in May and recently drove it at night. This vehicle is a nighmare!!!! The LED steering responsive headlights are absolutely horrible and you cannot drive this vehicle at night using the low beams. If you are on a completely level road, you'll be ok. If you are on a road with at least a slight dip in the road, these headlights face downward in front of you about 30 yards out max. That means you cannot see anything beyond where the beam hits the road. You would have to drive with high beams on constantly and this is an absolute safety hazard to my family and other vehicles and pedestrians. This problem goes back to 2017 and has been recalled up to 2019. There is not a fix for it and why they still installed these lights till today is beyond comprehension. I literally purchased a vehicle that my wife or I cannot drive. All you have to do is google this problem and you'll read a vast amount of complaints from people who have these headlights. Why are you not doing anything to correct this? I ask that somebody help us!! I took my vehicle back to the dealer and all they did was adjust the headlights 6 inches which is comical. You can come and drive my car at night if you think I'm just blowing smoke. Please tell me what you are going to do and don't tell me I have to have an accident first before you will act on this.
Subaru Impreza 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-06
- VIN: JF1GPAD65CH
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Subaru Impreza. The contact stated that there was an abnormal whining sound coming from the vehicle. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to several independent mechanics and the contact was informed that there was a defective gasket on the transfer case and the transmission needed to be replaced. The transmission was replaced. The contact stated that while a relative was seated in the front passenger’s seat, the passenger’s side air bag warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken back to the independent mechanic where a code reader determined that there was a defect with the front passenger’s side air bag sensor. A dealer was notified of the failure and an appointment was made to have the vehicle serviced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 88,000.
Subaru Impreza 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-04
- VIN: 4S3GTAD64K3
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Vehicle sways significantly and continuously left and right in lane at highway speeds, including in low or no wind conditions, since the car was new. This happens regardless of whether eyesight/lane keep assist is enabled or not, and all tire pressures are regularly monitored and at manufacturer recommended levels. Changing tires from the OEM Continental Pro Contact to Michelin CrossClimate 2, while maintaining OEM wheels and 205/55R16 tire size, has not impacted the car's behavior. This weaving occurs at speeds of 50-70 mph on the highway, including on straight, smooth road. Swaying does not disappear with absence of adjacent vehicles influencing air turbulence. Neighboring vehicle air wakes will cause significant additional pushing of the car to the opposite side of the lane. The steering feel of this car on the highway is extremely "floaty" and unsettling. It is challenging to maintain lane with no surrounding cars, and it is extremely dangerous when passing vehicles.
Subaru Impreza 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-30
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-04
- VIN: JF1GUHHC1R8
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2024 Subaru Impreza. The contact stated while driving at approximately 50 MPH, while slowing for traffic ahead, the brake pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to stop as needed. The contact pumped the brake pedal until the Forward Collision Avoidance system engaged and stopped the vehicle. The contact stated that the Forward Collision Avoidance warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was intermittent, but occurred at various speeds, but always occurred while slowing down with the brake pedal depressed. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer, but the dealer was unable to duplicate the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 3,000.
Subaru Impreza 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-23
- VIN: 4S3GTAA6XJ1
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Subaru Impreza. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V624000 (Exterior Lighting); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Subaru Impreza 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-14
- VIN: 4S3GTAU62L3
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The windshield spontaneously cracked while sitting in my driveway. Windshield had no chips, damage, etc. The weather has been in the upper 70's, so no inclement weather. Upon researching, I found that many other Subaru owners have had the same issue.
Subaru Impreza 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-13
- VIN: 4S3GTAA60K1
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Owner’s manual calls for 87 octane fuel. Vehicle engine pings on anything less than 91 octane. Subaru should issue an update to prevent engine damage.
Subaru Impreza 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2020-06-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-06
- VIN: 4S3GTAM62K3
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Impreza. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V624000 (Exterior Lighting) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The local dealer was contacted, and it was confirmed that the part was not available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact stated while driving at night, the headlights failed to provide adequate illumination. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who confirmed that the failure was related to the recall. The failure mileage was 5,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Subaru Impreza 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-02
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 4S3GTAA68H3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Parked at a store. Car caught on fire while in store. Car had been parked approximately 10 minutes. Left side headlight spontaneously ignited.
Subaru Impreza 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-01
- VIN: 4S3GTAB60J3
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: March 2023 I had all 4 rotors & brakes replaced. About 2 weeks after, doing 65 mph on highway 79 I had to lightly apply my brakes. After letting off the brake all of a sudden my whole car, steering wheel, etc started shaking. I pulled off the road thinking something broke but nothing was. A couple months later on 79 it did it again without applying my brakes. It's happening more often and the shaking is getting more severe to where my car is either going to fall apart or bounce off the road or into another car. I'm terrified when this happens because I don't know what's going to happen. I won't even put my grand children in my car. One if my co-workers had the same thing happen to her Subaru. She said after her mechanics did some investigating, they found that there was an issue with the replacement rotors warping and causing the car to shake terribly. This is a severe safety issue and really needs to be investigated. Also a year warranty on these defective parts is too short.
Subaru Impreza 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-31
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-31
- VIN: 4S3GTAC61K3
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Impreza. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V624000 (Exterior Lighting); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Subaru Impreza 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-30
- VIN: 4S3GTAD60L3
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: While car was parked. Front windshield developed crack in the lower mid section of windshield. There was no damage to windshield that would have resulted in cracking. Crack has since spread.
Latest 5 recalls Subaru Impreza
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 175 recalls for different components of the Subaru Impreza.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Subaru Impreza 2024
- Report Received Date: 2023-11-09
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2024 Crosstrek, Impreza, 2023-2024 Forester, and 2023 WRX vehicles. The front driveshaft assemblies' outer race may develop cracks and break.
- Consequence: A broken driveshaft can cause a loss of drive power while driving or vehicle rollaway when the vehicle is in park without the parking brake engaged. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the left and right front driveshafts as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 8, 2024. Owners may contact Subaru's customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRP-23.
- Model: Subaru Impreza 2023
- Report Received Date: 2023-09-21
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2023 Outback, Legacy, Ascent, and Impreza vehicles. The center support bolts for the driveshaft may loosen, resulting in the disconnection of the front end of the driveshaft.
- Consequence: Separation of the front end of the driveshaft increases the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will clean the bolt mounting surfaces of the center support brace and install new bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 20, 2023. Owners may contact Subaru's customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRN-23.
- Model: Subaru Impreza 2024
- Report Received Date: 2023-08-04
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2024 Crosstrek and Impreza vehicles. Due to insufficient clearance, the instrument panel harness may contact the steering beam bracket, damaging the wire insulation and causing a short circuit.
- Consequence: A short circuit may cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the harness and install an additional clamp on the steering beam bracket. If damage is found, dealers will add protective tape or replace the instrument panel harness, as necessary. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed October 3, 2023. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRL-23.
- Model: Subaru Impreza 2023
- Report Received Date: 2023-04-25
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2023 Impreza vehicles. The brake light switch may be improperly adjusted and illuminate the brake lights without application of the brake pedal. The vehicle may also allow drivers to start and shift the transmission out of the PARK position without pressing the brake pedal. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment" and 102, "Trans Shift Lever Seq/Starter Interlock/Trans Braking Effect."
- Consequence: An unintentional brake light illumination can fail to alert other motorists of actual brake application. A vehicle that shifts out of the park position unexpectedly can allow the vehicle to rollaway. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the gap between the brake light switch and stopper, adjusting the switch as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed June 23, 2023. Owners may contact Subaru's customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRI-23.
- Model: Subaru Impreza 2005
- Report Received Date: 2023-02-13
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2004-2005 Impreza and WRX vehicles that received replacement front passenger air bag inflators under a previous recall. The replacement air bag inflators may have been installed incorrectly.
- Consequence: An incorrectly installed inflator may not properly inflate the passenger air bag, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the passenger inflator and if necessary, install a new inflator kit, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed April 14, 2023. Owners may contact Subaru's customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRF-23.
Latest negative Subaru Impreza car reviews
Latest positive Subaru Impreza car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2020
I hope you're doing well! I wanted to share my experience with my new car. I've only had it for three weeks, but I'm already getting great fuel mileage of 28-30 mpg per tank. Even though it's not fully broken in yet, I've been driving it pretty hard, as I believe it's better for the car. I'm a very satisfied customer and wish you the best of luck!
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Vehicle year: 2013
I recently purchased my first Subaru after conducting extensive research, test drives, and careful consideration. I am extremely pleased with my decision. While no car is perfect, this vehicle met all of my criteria and exceeded my expectations. It is comfortable, practical, and fun to drive, and its versatility is unmatched by any car I have previously owned. I primarily use it as a city car and it handles potholes with ease, maneuvers perfectly, and fits into tight parking spots that larger cars cannot. Although the Impreza may not win any beauty contests, it is the most practical and well-rounded car on the market. I absolutely love my Subaru!
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Vehicle year: 2003
From the first look at this car, you can tell it's not your typical grocery getter. The unique styling and loud but tasteful blue make this car very attractive. And after sitting in the high bolster sport-style seats, you know for sure this isn't your momma's wagon. It's loads of fun to drive, yet still useful for loading your friends and snowboards. It may be a little pricey, but it's well worth the extra money. You get more than what you paid for.
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Vehicle year: 2004
After my VW GTI broke down, I started looking for a suitable replacement. Since I had been driving VWs for so long, I decided to test drive the much talked about WRX in wagon form. What a fun car! It has strong acceleration and handling, AWD, hatchback versatility, and good fuel economy. Now, after driving it for 9,000 miles in 6 months, including hot summer trips, great fall getaways, and snowy commutes, I can confidently say that it's a great car! The only downside, which has been mentioned in other forums, is that the A/C is a bit weak. On 85-95 degree days, the car just doesn't seem to get cold enough inside.
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Vehicle year: 2004
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with my Outback Sport. I've had it for nearly 5 years now and, even though I was thinking of replacing it for vanity reasons, the cost to own it has been so low! I easily get 28mpg on the highway, and the brakes and tires are cheap (unlike BMW, Audi, and VW which are 10K more from the start). Plus, the car is solid (unlike the Toyotas and Mazdas at the time which are comparable price wise). I have seriously abused this car and it still runs fantastic. Thanks for listening!
Are you having problems with your Subaru Impreza?
Alfonso Gibson 2025-08-01
Vehicle year: 1998
Hey there! I bought this car last year and it's been quite the adventure. It had a few issues like an exhaust leak and some rust, but it lasted me a whole year before it started having more problems. Unfortunately, the CV shafts gave on the right side, the entire exhaust system needs replacing, and the driver's side window stopped working. The floor carpeting seemed to be falling apart too. Despite all of this, it still runs fine and handles any weather like a pro. I even drove it through the NH Ice Storm last year with no problems whatsoever! I just wish I could afford to fix it.
Quinn Harvey 2025-08-01
Vehicle year: 2013
I was pleasantly surprised by the car's performance and handling, finding it great fun to drive on curvy roads, even with the CVT. As a former Porsche owner, I can say that it definitely holds its own. The hatchback model is impressively spacious and can carry a lot of cargo for trips. Additionally, it offers good visibility with no major blind spots. However, I do have a couple of complaints. Firstly, the side mirrors are made of flimsy plastic and have fallen off three times in the six months I've owned the car, breaking the last time. Secondly, as others have mentioned, the audio system leaves something to be desired. Lastly, the paint scratches very easily and the car sits quite low to the ground, which can result in scraping the bumper on driveways.
Arvid Parisian 2025-07-27
Vehicle year: 2009
The first 7 years with the vehicle were good, but unfortunately, it did not last as long as I had hoped. On 7-31-15, the engine suddenly blew without any warning signs. Two weeks prior, I had checked all the fluids, including the oil, and everything seemed fine. However, on my way home from work, I suddenly heard loud clanking sounds and felt a drop in acceleration/power while going up a hill on the highway. Luckily, I was approaching a rest area exit and was able to pull off the highway just as the engine stalled. When I checked the oil level, the dipstick was completely dry. When the tow truck arrived, the mechanic immediately noticed that something was wrong with the engine. The next day, I was informed that the engine needed to be replaced with a rebuilt or new engine, which would cost between $4,500 to $5,000. What upsets and disturbs me the most about this is that I took meticulous care of the vehicle, as I do with all of our vehicles. Furthermore, there were no warning lights that appeared when the engine blew, until the engine stalled out. No low oil pressure lights, no low oil level lights, no check engine lights, nothing! And how is it that it burned through four quarts of oil within a two-week span? At the time of the incident, the car only had 120,000 miles on it and was only 7 years old. Although I haven't had any issues with it until now, I also hadn't planned on having to spend $4,000-$5,000 for a rebuilt engine or purchase a new vehicle for at least another 10 years. All of the vehicles I've owned (Pontiac, Mercury, Dodge, Nissan) I've used for at least 15 years each and well into the 250,000 mile range, and I've never had any major problems with them.After conducting research following the incident, I came across a class action lawsuit against Subaru for an engine issue that closely resembles what happened with my Subaru engine. Prosecuting attorneys are disclosing facts that Subaru has known about the issue but has neither disclosed information about the engine defect to their customers nor has Subaru done anything to correct the known issue. This is a serious concern as it could be life-threatening under certain circumstances. Prior to this incident, I had planned on keeping my Subaru for another 10 years, but due to this incident and the class action lawsuit against Subaru, I have decided to never purchase another Subaru. Since then, I have purchased two new vehicles, a 2016 Honda Fit EX and a 2018 Honda HR-V EX, and I have discovered how superior Honda vehicles are in terms of comfort, technology, handling, and most importantly, reliability. I never realized how uncomfortable and stiff the Impreza ride was until I checked out Honda vehicles.
Misael Batz 2025-07-27
Vehicle year: 2009
At 34k miles, my 2009 Subaru Impreza sedan experienced a serious issue. The check engine light and traction control light came on, and the car started knocking. Upon checking the oil, I discovered it was bone dry and 3 QUARTS LOW. Unfortunately, this caused damage to the motor, specifically a spun ring and a knocking rod. However, I am pleased to report that Subaru is warranting the motor. While I have some concerns about the repair process, such as the possibility of damaged heads, I trust that the dealer will handle the situation with care and expertise. I have always taken good care of my car, using fully synthetic oil and having it serviced only by the dealer. If anyone has experienced a similar issue, I would appreciate hearing about it.
Jettie Marquardt 2025-07-26
Vehicle year: 2012
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my 2012 Impreza hatchback that I bought brand new in July of that year. I've noticed that since hitting around 12,000 miles, I've needed to add a quarter of oil every 2,500-3,000 miles. While the dealer says this is typical usage, the manual suggests that I should be able to go 7,500 miles between changes. Additionally, I've noticed that the car doesn't quite have the same pep as my 2004 Impreza, despite getting the same gas mileage. One other issue I've had is that the car sits quite low, which can make it difficult to navigate curbs and concrete parking barriers. Despite these issues, I'm still hopeful that I can find a solution and continue to enjoy my Subaru. Thank you for listening!