1996 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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Common 1996 Subaru Impreza problems
The 1996 Subaru Impreza is known for several common problems, primarily related to the engine and fuel system, as well as some issues with the transmission and drivetrain.
- Engine Issues: Some owners of the 1996 Subaru Impreza have reported various engine problems, including misfires, stalling, and difficulty starting. It is important to thoroughly diagnose and address these issues to ensure the engine runs smoothly and reliably.
- Rear Rotor Rusting: Some owners have reported issues with the rear rotors rusting, which can lead to problems with the braking system. This issue is particularly common in areas with heavy snowfall or high humidity, as the salt and moisture can accelerate the corrosion process. Regular maintenance and inspection of the braking system can help prevent this issue and ensure the car remains safe to drive.
- AC Compressor Failure: Another common problem with the 1996 Subaru Impreza is the failure of the air conditioning compressor. This can lead to issues with the car's cooling system, making it uncomfortable to drive in hot weather. Regular maintenance and inspection of the air conditioning system can help prevent this issue and ensure the car remains comfortable to drive in all weather conditions.
- Power Steering Pump Failure: Some owners have reported issues with the power steering pump failing, which can make it difficult to steer the car. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, such as leaks, wear, or damage to the power steering system. Regular maintenance and inspection of the power steering system can help prevent this issue and ensure the car remains easy to drive.
In summary, the 1996 Subaru Impreza is known for several common problems, primarily related to the engine and fuel system, as well as some issues with the transmission and drivetrain. Regular maintenance and inspection can help prevent these issues and ensure the car remains safe, reliable, and comfortable to drive.
What is the main problem with Subaru Impreza?
Common problems with the Subaru Impreza include engine issues, sudden and abrupt acceleration, transmission failure, and air bag problems. The 2008 and 2012 models of the Subaru Impreza should be avoided, but the rest have generally good reliability.
Is The Subaru Impreza a reliable car?
Subaru Impreza
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.
How many miles per gallon does a Subaru Impreza 1996 get?
23 mpg city, 30 mpg highway
EPA fuel economy: 23 mpg city, 30 mpg highway. Highs: Sporty handling, off-highway capabilities. Good highway manners.
How many miles will a Subaru Impreza run?
The new 2023 Subaru Impreza is a long-lasting sedan or hatchback with an excellent life expectancy. You can project it to go somewhere between 200,000 miles and 250,000 miles, giving it a projected lifespan of 13 to 17 years if it's driven about 15,000 miles per year.
What is the main problem with Subaru Impreza?
Common problems with the Subaru Impreza include engine issues, sudden and abrupt acceleration, transmission failure, and air bag problems. The 2008 and 2012 models of the Subaru Impreza should be avoided, but the rest have generally good reliability.
Is The Subaru Impreza a reliable car?
Subaru Impreza
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.
Is Impreza worth buying?
The Subaru Impreza is an under-rated, well-equipped and unsung hero of the brand's model range and can do more than most hatchbacks could ever dream of. They should sell more dirt-friendly Imprezas because symmetrical AWD is so damn useful in the wet, or on a gravel road.
How long is a 1996 Subaru Impreza?
The height, measured from the ground to the top of the car, ranges from 1400 mm to 1420 mm depending on the variant. The width is 1690 mm across all variants. The length ranges from 4340 mm to 4350 mm.
1996 Subaru Impreza car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Subaru Impreza problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Air bags problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Wheels problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1996 Subaru Impreza vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1996 Subaru Impreza
The NHTSA has received 27 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1996 Subaru Impreza. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1996 Subaru Impreza vehicles.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-06-16
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AND WITHOUT WARNING HEAD GASKET BLEW CAUSING FLUID TO LEAK. DEALER NOTIFIED.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JF1GF4859TH
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHEN DRIVING VEHICLE BEGINS TO VIBRATE AND THEN DRASTICALLY LOSES POWER NOT BEING ABLE TO MAINTAIN SPEED ABOVE 40MPH. DEALER HAS DIAGNOSED PROBLEM AS A MISFIRE ON CYLINDER 2, BUT HAS BEEN UNABLE TO CORRECT.*AK
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-10-26
- VIN: JF1GF4858TG
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: AT 61629 AND 63512 MILES WHEEL BEARINGS HAD TO BE REPLACED. THEY HAVE BEEN REPLACED THREE TIMES AT DEALERSHIP. BEARINGS WERE BEING GREASED WITH WRONG KIND OF GREASE AND THE AMOUNT OF GREASE WAS NOT SUFFICIENT FOR PROPER USE. *AK THE DEALER REPLACED BOTH LEFT AND RIGHT REAR WHEEL BEARINGS. *YH
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-06-24
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: JF1GF4850VH
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: PLEASE NOTE; BOTH AIRBAGS DEPLOYED AT THE SAME TIME WHILE THE SUBARU IMPREZA WAS IN PARK. *AK
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-01-02
- VIN: JF1GF485XTG
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: ALL FOUR TIRES SPLIT AROUND THE SIDEWALLS AND REQUIRED REPLACEMENT( DOT NUMBER: TIRE SIZE: 185-70 R14 )
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-01-25
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: THE NUT THAT ATTACHES THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS TO THE MOTOR CAME OFF. WINDSHIELD WIPERS BECAME INOPERABLE, OBSTRUCTING THE VIEW OF THE DRIVER. DEALER AND MANUFACTURER HAVE BEEN NOTIFIED. *AK
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-07-30
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JF1GZ4354TG
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A FRONTAL COLLISION AT 35MPH, AND THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. ALSO SEAT BELT DID NOT RETRACT. DRIVER SUSTAINED MINOR INJURIES. THE DEALER HAS BEEN NOTIFIED. *AK
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JF1GC4554TH
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: REAR WHEEL BEARINGS REQUIRED REPLACEMENT. *YC
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-06-26
- VIN: JF1GF485XTH
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: ONGOING PROBLEM WITH WHEEL COVER: CAPS NOT STAYING ON. DEALER/MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-05-25
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JF1GF4358TG
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: BRAKES FAILED AND STARTED TO SMOKE ON A HILL. I HAVE DRIVEN FOR 20 YEARS, WITH MANY DIFFERENT CARS. IF TRAFFIC HAD BEEN SLIGHTLY DIFFERENT MY WIFE AND I COULD BE DEAD. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: JF1GF4358TG
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: A STUCK VALVE CAUSED THE CAR TO MISFIRE AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT TO GO ON. IT TOOK SUBARU 3 MONTHS TO FIGURE IT OUT. *AK
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-11-27
- VIN: JF1GF485XTH
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: HUB CAPS ARE DIFFICULT TO REMOVE AND REINSTALL. THE SERVICE DEALER'S TECH. BROKE ONE TRYING TO REMOVE THE COVER. THE COVERS (4) HAVE NOT STAYED ON AFTER REINSTALLATION. IF THE DEALER CAN NOT INSTALL THEM PROPERLY, HOW IS THE CONSUMER GOING TO INSTALL THEM PROPERLY?
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-07-01
- VIN: 4S3BG4857T6
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: AIR CONDITIONE O RING FAILED. QCAW
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-04-20
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: BOTH AIR BAGS DEPLOYED IN A LESS THAN FIVE MPH FRONT END COLLISION. THE VEHICLE SUSTAINED NO FRONT END DAMAGE. THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG SHATTERED THE FRONT WINDSHIELD, BROKE THE REAR VIEW MIRROR FREE OF ITS MOUNTING BRACKET, AND SENT GLASS THROUGHOUT THE VEHICLE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-12-01
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JF1GM2253TG
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHILE MAKING A LEFT HAND TURN DRIVER'S AND PASSANGER'S AIRBAGS DEPLOYED, CAUSING VEHICLE TO CRASH. DRIVER SUSTAINED INJURIES, AND VEHICLE WAS TOTALED.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-11-14
- VIN: JF1GF4856TG
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: ANTI LOCK BRAKES GRINDING WITH NOISE, INTERMITTENT BRAKE LOSS.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: ANTI-LOCK BRAKES FAILED, CAUSING ACCIDENT.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-06-01
- VIN: JF1GF4852TG
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER NEEDED SERVICE.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-10-01
- VIN: JF1GF4852TG
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL INJECTORS FAILED.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-05-05
- VIN: JF1GF4850TH
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: CONSUMER WAS DRIVING AT 65 MPH WHEN SHE PRESSED ON THE BRAKES TO AVOID HITTING CAR AHEAD, ABS BRAKES LOCKED UP AND THE VEHICLE BEGAN FISHTAILING. THIS IS THE THIRD TIME VEHICLE FISHTAILED DUE TO ABS FAILURE. WHEN VEHICLE HIT BRIDGE, THE PASSENGER'S SIDE. *AK
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-06-15
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: VEHICLE HAS NO HEAD RESTRAINTS; ALSO, SEATBACK IS SHORT. ONE COULD GET A BROKEN NECK IF IN THE REAR DURING AN ACCIDENT. *AK
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-06-15
- VIN: JF1GF452TH8
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: VEHICLE HAS NO HEADRESTS. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-05-05
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JF1GF4850TH
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,AIR BAGS
- Summary: CONSUMER WAS DRIVING AT 65 MPH WHEN SHE PRESSED ON THE BRAKES TO AVOID HITTING CAR AHEAD. ABS BRAKES LOCKED UP AND THE VEHICLE BEGAN FISHTAILING. THIS IS THE THIRD TIME VEHICLE FISHTAILED DUE TO ABS FAILURE. THE VEHICLE HIT A BRIDGE, THE PASSENGER'S SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED WITH SUCH FORCE THAT IT SHATTERED THE SHATTERED PROOF WINDSHIELD. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-03-03
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: CONSUMER WAS INVOLVED IN A REAREND COLLISION TRAVELING ABOUT 10 MPH AND BOTH DRIVER'S AND PASSESNGER'S SIDE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED, CONSUMER ALSO STATED THAT THERE WAS LITTLE TO NO DAMAGE TO THE FRONT BUMPER OF THE VEHICLE, PE96-075. *AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: VEHICLE HAS EXPERIENCED SUDDEN ACCELERATION SEVERAL TIMES.
1996 Subaru Impreza recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1996 Subaru Impreza.
- Manufacturer: DOPE, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
- Manufacturer: K2 MOTOR CORPORATION
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: K2 MOTOR IS RECALLING 1,921 AFTERMARKET HEADLAMPS OF VARIOUS MODELS SOLD FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS ARE MISSING THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTOR WHICH FAILS TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTORS, THE LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY BE AFFECTED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: K2 MOTOR WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND. THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMEBER 17, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT K2 MOTOR AT 1-909-839-2992.
Negative 1996 Subaru Impreza car reviews
Positive 1996 Subaru Impreza car reviews
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Hey there! I'm glad to hear that you haven't had any issues with your 1996 Impreza since you bought it 8 1/2 years ago. With all the snow in Virginia, having AWD is definitely a must! I understand that you're considering getting a newer Subaru and may need to sell this one, which can be tough. I noticed that the tires wear out quicker and the road noise can be loud at times, but overall it sounds like you've had a great experience with your Impreza!
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I got this car as a college graduation gift in spring of 1996. It has been a reliable workhorse since. It has taken the abuse of Midwestern snow and ice, and well as tackled storms in Colorado. I just passed 144,000 miles this week. I would definitely recommend a Subaru to anyone who values quality and reliability.
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This is an excellent car for a first-time buyer or a student. The boxer-4 engine performs like many small V-6 engines, and the handling is fantastic. I have had no issues with the car, except for normal replacements due to the high mileage on my car. (The car has 107,000 miles on it, and everything is still original besides the brakes and fuel lines - which were recently replaced).
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The 1.8L engine, paired with the 5-speed transmission and AWD, provides adequate power. While it may not be a thrilling ride off the line, it has plenty of passing power at highway speeds. The AWD is especially useful in rainy or snowy conditions, providing a stable and confident driving experience. The back seat comfortably seats two people. The only downside is the gearbox, as the 1, 3, and 5 gears are spaced far apart and take some getting used to. However, the Impreza handles excellently and is a reliable car worth considering. With its variety of body styles, including wagon, sedan, and coupe, you can easily find a car that suits your needs.
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This car has been a dream for me! It always runs smoothly and never slides. I drive it all the time and rarely go under 40, which makes the AWD a life saver.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1996 Subaru Impreza problems:
Engine issues are driving me crazy! '96 Impreza 2.2L - 1990 to ...
Apr 1, 2016 ... Probably the MAF sensor going bad. Pretty common issue on the mid 90's cars. The common problem with those is a the solder joints will crack ...
Reliability Issues of the 93-01 Impreza's... - NASIOC
Sep 20, 2005 ... What year was it or engine that had problems with head gaskets blowing? any phase I ej25 i know had head gasket problems '98 Impreza 2.5rs '96/' ...
1996 Subaru Impreza randomly does not start! Help please! - 1990 ...
Jul 11, 2014 ... The starters in these are not known for mechanical failures but the electrical contacts in them do wear and can cause this problem. Was the ...
Known issues with 1996 Subaru Outback Legacy... you'll think I'm ...
Jul 23, 2012 ... headgaskets are a huge issue on that motor, they fail all the time. sypmtoms are bubbling in overflow tank and completely random overheating.
1996 Subaru Impreza Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost
Most Common 1996 Subaru Impreza Problems ... The check engine light may illuminate because of a failed knock sensor. although the sensor often tests okay, it can.
Other years of Subaru Impreza
Are you having problems with your 1996 Subaru Impreza?
Laurel Erdman 2024-09-28
I absolutely adore Imprezas, having owned two myself. Although the interior and stereo of my current one leave something to be desired (an 85w cassette player and 4 paper cone filters, one of which was blown), I've upgraded to 4 new Pioneer speakers, a 10
Torrance Rice 2024-06-01
The AWD is a great feature, but it may not be necessary for those living in climates with shorter winters. It's important to note that parts can be expensive, especially in the USA, and some may only be available from the dealer. Additionally, the AWD requires frequent alignment checks, and may become misaligned sporadically. I purchased my vehicle at 99K miles and it currently has 150K miles. While I have enjoyed driving it, the frequency and cost of maintenance, as well as the risk of it breaking down unexpectedly, is making me consider replacing it. The suspension is quite sensitive and can make even small bumps in the road feel jarring. Lastly, the cup holder is located in a less than ideal spot, as it can cover dashboard controls when in use.
Mariano Fisher 2024-02-20
I purchased this Subaru for $1700.00 when it had 175,000 miles on it. Since then, it has covered 204,000 miles. With winter force tires, this car can outperform any 4WD truck in the snow. I have done some brake work and replaced the timing belt, but there is some rust showing over the rear tires that needs attention. Currently, the Impreza requires two new rear struts (costing $500) and the transmission has a bearing issue, which will cost $1000 with a new clutch kit. I am considering doing the repairs myself as I prefer to avoid car payments. To check if a (manual) transmission bearing is starting to fail, start the car, put the transmission in neutral, push in the clutch, and listen for any unusual noises. If the engine is quiet at idle with the clutch engaged compared to when it is disengaged, there may be a bearing issue.