2021 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 2021 Subaru Impreza problems
The Subaru Impreza, while generally reliable, has had some common problems reported by owners. One issue that affected various models, including the Impreza, is the faulty Takata airbags.
For the 2012 Subaru Impreza, engine problems have been reported as the most troublesome category, with the most complaints centered around blown head gaskets. Subaru Imprezas built before 2011 may need to replace their engine's head gaskets multiple times once they reach 100,000 miles, with repairs costing around $2,000.
For the 2021 Subaru Impreza, there have been reports of the driver's window sometimes thinking there's something in the way of it closing, requiring light pressure to be applied to the window from the inside to close it. Additionally, some owners have experienced windshield cracking for no apparent reason.
In terms of reliability, the 2021 Subaru Impreza received a better-than-average five-year, 100,000-mile warranty. Although the Impreza itself did not feature in the latest What Car? Reliability Survey, Subaru as a brand finished a very respectable tenth out of 32 manufacturers.
It's important to note that while these issues have been reported, the overall reliability of the Subaru Impreza remains relatively high. Being aware of these potential problems can help prospective buyers make informed decisions and ensure that any issues are addressed before purchasing a used Impreza.
What is the problem with the 2021 Subaru Impreza?
Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2021 Impreza vehicles. The left-front lower control arm weld may fail, allowing the control arm to separate from the crossmember.
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.
Are newer Subaru Imprezas reliable?
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 Subaru Impreza high maintenance?
A Subaru's typical annual maintenance cost is about $617, slightly lower than the industry average for all vehicles but higher than other Japanese brands like Toyota and Honda.
What is the problem with the 2021 Subaru Impreza?
Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2021 Impreza vehicles. The left-front lower control arm weld may fail, allowing the control arm to separate from the crossmember.
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 Subaru Impreza high maintenance?
A Subaru's typical annual maintenance cost is about $617, slightly lower than the industry average for all vehicles but higher than other Japanese brands like Toyota and Honda.
2021 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:
- Forward collision avoidance problems
- Visibility/wiper problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Tires problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2021 Subaru Impreza vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2021 Subaru Impreza complaints
The NHTSA has received 14 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2021 Subaru Impreza.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-04
- 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.
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-07
- VIN: 4S3GTAV67M3
- Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: The Eye Sight front collision warning did a hard brake going 55 mph when a car was well ahead of me slowing down to turn right. I was almost rear ended by the car behind me. This isn't the first time it's happened
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-26
- VIN: 4S3GTAL64M3
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Went to my car this morning and the windshield was cracked on the top center from the edge of the windshield to around where the rear view mirror is. This crack was not there last night when I parked my car. And there was no accident/damage to the windshield before this morning.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-25
- VIN: 4S3GTAB67M3
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: Plastic parts of side mirror melt easily by heat and sunlight. (Not only side mirror, but also other components with the same plastic parts) It bothers driver visibility and safety when driving highway. The problem was reviewed by subaru service center, and they said it is not their problems. Subaru service center said they saw few cases but they said it is customers fault. Service center said customer needs to park in the shade or safe place.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-04
- VIN: 4S3GKAV6XM3
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Vehicle is at 23520 miles, front brake pads are worn to 1mm on passenger side and 2mm on front driver side. Vehicle had been taken on October 04, 2022 for repairs and local Subaru dealer refuses to repair it, even though warranty still applicable for defects until 3 years or 36,000 miles as stated in pages 4 and 5 the Warranty and Maintenance 2021 Book. Also vehicle has oil leak under rear side of motor.
VISIBILITY/WIPER,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-18
- VIN: 4s3gtav61m3
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: Front windshield spontaneous cracking from defroster area in a "J" shape. This is the second windshield since new to do this (2021 model). Available for inspection. The first windshield was inspected and replaced by Subaru at their cost minus eyesight recalibration (ADAS). First windshield was inspected by insurance and no impact point was found and was notified to contact dealer before filing a claim with insurance. The second cracked windshield is in the same area as the first with exactly the same shape and abruptness. Cracked while car was sitting over night. Temps at 6 am were 37 degress. Temps at time of crack were 60 degrees. Car is equipped with eyesight that is affected by the crack once it grows into the eyesight camera view.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-17
- VIN: 4S3GTAB62M3
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: I was using the adaptive cruise control on the highway set to 55 mph. The car suddenly decelerated to ~44 mph so quickly I had whiplash. There was no other vehicle in front of me and the highway was clear of debris. The dealership said this could be caused by a glare.
POWER TRAIN,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-12
- VIN: 4S3GKAV6XM3
- Components: POWER TRAIN,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: JULY 09 2021 REPORTED TO SUBARU EL PASO AT TIME OF FIRST MAINTENANCE (6000 MILES) VEHICLE LOSSES POWER AND STALLS WHEN MAKING TURNS, IT IS MORE NOTICEABLE MAKING A LEFT TURN. TECHNICIAN SAID COUDN'T DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM AND NO FURTER ACTION WAS NEEDED. HOWEVER A YEAR ;LATER FROM TIME TO TIME VEHICLE DOES STALL WHILE MAKING TURNS MAKING, ODOMETER READS 18081. THE OHER ISSUE IS ITS WINDSHIELD, IT CRACKED WHILE DRIVING IT ON JANUARY 29, 2022, THERE IS NO STRESS MARKS FROM PEBBLES, ROCKS, OR ANY OTHER FLYING FROM THE ROAD OR VEHICLES. WROTE AN INQUIRY TO MANUFACTURER, SENT A PICTURE, BUT WE NEVER GOT A RESPONSE TO THIS INQUIRY, TOOK VEHICLE FOR ITS 18000 SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE, LET SUBARU OF EL PASO TO LOOK AT IT, AND THEIR RESPONSE WAS TO CALL OUR AUTO INSURANCE TO HANDLE ITS REPAIR, TECHNICIAN DID NOT BOTHER TO INSPECT THIS ISSUE AND DIDN'T RECORDER ON MAINTENANCE
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-08
- VIN: 4S3GKAB67M3
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Subaru Impreza equipped with Continental Tires, Tire Line: ProContact TX, Tire Size: P205/55/R16, DOT Number: A3T2WC892420. The contact stated while driving approximately 30 MPH, she heard a loud abnormal noise and the vehicle started pulling to the right. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact was able to park on the side of the road. While inspecting the vehicle, she noticed that the passenger’s side front tire had blown out and that the rim was damaged. The contact called AAA Roadside Assistance who was able to replace faulty tire with spare tire. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with needing the front passenger’s side tire and rim replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The tire manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 1,700.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-07-06
- VIN: 4s3gtav67m3
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: New lease beginning in March 2021. The steering column is erratically loose, noticeable at highway speed in April 2021, accompanied by slight swerve. Subaru dealer (cityside) begrudgingly assessed and found it needed alignment Aligned. Steering column now again erratically loose, less so than before, but still disconcerting, and accompanied by slight swerve. Does not feel safe to drive at highway speed.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-05-19
- VIN: 4S3GTAM69M3
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: Tiers are Yokohama P225/40R18 88V This vehicle now has slightly more than 8,000 miles and has only been driven over local roads under normal operating conditions and speeds. A couple of weeks ago, while getting gas, I noticed a knot/bulge developing on front driver's side sidewall. The integrity of the tire was compromised so I contacted the dealership and arranged to have the tire replaced. I can produce the dealership repair bill upon request. Yesterday while taking my wife to an appointment, I noticed a knot/bulge developing on rear driver's side sidewall requiring another trip to the dealership and another tire replacement. I can take a photo of bulge in rear tire or have dealership preserve the tire if you would like it for your investigation of my complaint. Fortunately I have the resources to have the tires repaired. In my case the bulges appeared in the sidewall visible to me. I knew that integrity of the tire was compromised and immediate action was necessary. I am more than 60 years old. I have owned several new cars and this is the first time I have experienced this. It is possible that other motorists encountering the same problem may not have the resources to purchase multiple replacement tires. It is also possible that the bulge might appear on the backside of the sidewall where it would not be noticed. It is possible that another motorist might not recognize the integrity of the tire was compromised and that their life and the lives of others were potentially at risk.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-04-21
- VIN: 4S3GTAB62M3
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: CRACKED WINDSHIELD WITHIN 3 WEEKS OF PURCHASING NEW 2021 SUBARU IMPREZA HATCHBACK AWD
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-24
- VIN: 4S3G7AM63M3
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: THE CAR ACCELERATED WITHOUT ANY INPUT FROM DRIVER. DRIVER DID NOT APPLY PRESSURE TO GAS PEDAL HOWEVER THE CAR STILL MOVES BOTH FORWARD AN BACKWARDS. CAR ACCELERATED ENOUGH TO DRIVE OVER A SPEED BUMP WITHOUT STOPPING, ROUGHLY 5 MPH. THREE VIDEOS WERE TAKEN TO DOCUMENT THE ISSUE. THE EVENT HAPPEN IN A PARKING LOT, THE CAR WAS STOPPED AT FIRST HOWEVER AS SOON AS THE DRIVER REMOVED PRESSURE FROM BRAKES PAFEL, THE CAR ACCELERATED WITHOUT INPUT. THE CAR DIDNT SLOW DOWN EVEN WHEN TURNING, IN FACT THE CAR APPEARS TO HAVE SPEED UP. UNABLE TO UP LOAD VIDEO
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-31
- VIN: 4S3GKAA6XM1
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: THIS CAR WILL NOT TRACK STRAIGHT. NICE FIRM STEERING, BUT SIMPLY WILL NOT TRACK STRAIGHT. THERE IS NO SENSE OF CENTER. IF LEFT ALONE, THE STEERING WILL GO SLIGHTLY LEFT, OR SLIGHTLY RIGHT, BUT NEVER CENTER. THIS IS ANNOYING FAIR WEATHER, BUT OUTRIGHT DANGEROUS IN WEATHER OR WIND. A MAJOR IMPACT ON VEHICLE STABILITY AND SAFETY. THIS CAR IS NEW, WITH 700 MILES AND HAS DONE THIS SINCE DAY ONE. A SUBARU DEALER IS CHECKING THE ALIGNMENT, BUT THEY SAY THE ARE AWARE OF THIS ISSUE, AND HAVE NO ANSWERS. EVEN AN ALIGNMENT MAY NOT FIX THE ISSUE. FOR THE RECORD, MY LEVEL OF CAR AND MECHANICAL KNOWLEDGE IS VERY HIGH, SO THIS IS NOT A CASUAL COMPLAINT. I HAVE HAD THE CAR FOR THREE WEEKS, NOT GETTING BETTER.
2021 Subaru Impreza recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2021 Subaru Impreza.
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Park It: 1
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER ARM
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2021 Impreza vehicles. The left-front lower control arm weld may fail, allowing the control arm to separate from the crossmember.
- Consequence: A separated control arm may cause the tire to contact the wheel well, resulting in a loss of control and increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicle until the repair is complete. Dealers will inspect and replace the control arm as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 3, 2021. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRI-21.
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:SHIFT LINKAGE/CABLE/ROD
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2021 Outback and Impreza vehicles. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) select lever cable nut may not have been tightened properly, allowing the nut to loosen.
- Consequence: A loose nut can lead to a lost of retention in the CVT select lever cable and the gear selector not functioning properly, increasing risk of crash.
- Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect, and, if necessary, tighten the nut, free of charge. The recall began February 12, 2021. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRA-21.
Negative 2021 Subaru Impreza car reviews
Positive 2021 Subaru Impreza car reviews
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This is a great car for inexperienced drivers.
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I love my car! The Impreza is very safe to drive, and the EyeSight technology is impressive! I feel like there is always someone watching over me! The MPG is great; I am averaging 34 on highways. It's safe, comfortable, and beautiful! And did I mention it's comfortable?
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The car has a vertical screen that looks good in photos, but unfortunately, it is poorly made both in terms of software and hardware. Although CarPlay would improve it, it tends to disconnect regularly no matter what I do. Personally, I would prefer an aftermarket double-din unit with a larger CarPlay screen instead of the giant vertical screen that only uses 40% for CarPlay, which is smaller than the external one would be.
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We considered several options including Ford, GM, Honda, Mazda, Hyundai, and Subaru. However, what made us choose a Subaru Impreza was our salesman, Jim Sapienza. He truly made a difference! Jim attentively listened to all of our needs and concerns, and we never felt pressured. It was clear that he was there to help us, not himself. This being our first Subaru, we can confidently say that it won't be our last, all thanks to Jim.
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Hey there! You're looking stylish while you're out and about!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2021 Subaru Impreza problems:
2021 Subaru Impreza Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2021 Subaru Impreza? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
5th Generation (2017-2021) Impreza Problems
Common 2017-2021 Subaru Impreza Problems · Denso Fuel Pump Failure · Subaru STARLINK Problems · Rodents Chew Subaru's Soy Wires · Subaru EyeSight Problems.
2021 Subaru Impreza Reviews? : r/subaru
Nov 1, 2021 ... Head gaskets and timing belts used to be a common failure point. Both of those have been addressed in the new FB engine, and I haven't seen ...
2021 Subaru Impreza Problems, Issues & Complaints - Got A Lemon?
Other Problems. One of the other issues related to engine and vehicle speed control problems. The car accelerates on its own and this reportedly happened ...
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Apr 7, 2023 ... I snagged a 2021 Subaru Impreza Hatchback a few months back with 100k / 7 year power train warranty. Price was right, they are harder to ...
Other years of Subaru Impreza
Are you having problems with your 2021 Subaru Impreza?
Hayden Farrell 2024-11-26
The 2021 Impreza sport hatchback is a fantastic car! I'm currently averaging 30 mpg in the city, which is great. While some people complain about the power, I find that it accelerates just fine and the ride is incredibly smooth. If you're considering this car, I highly recommend getting the Harmon Kardon sound system - you won't regret it!
Art Cronin 2024-06-02
I recently purchased a 2020 Subaru Impreza to replace my 2008 model, which I had always enjoyed driving. Unfortunately, I have encountered some issues with the new car that have made the driving experience less than ideal. The interior design seems to have overlooked the shifting process, as the cover on the console storage bin gets in the way and makes it uncomfortable to maneuver the shift lever. Additionally, the rev hang can make shifting smoothly a challenge. I have brought these issues to the attention of the dealership, but unfortunately, they were unable to offer a solution. Despite these setbacks, I am still considering my options and hope to find a resolution. I must say, however, that I am grateful to still have my trusty 2008 Impreza to rely on. **I would like to update my review to mention that I have experienced an intermittent issue with the car's acceleration between 2000 and 3000 RPMs in warm weather. This has created some dangerous situations when merging or turning. I have done some research and found that others have experienced this issue as well. While the dealership has not been able to find a solution, I appreciate that Subaru of America has taken an interest in the matter. I remain hopeful that a solution can be found soon.
Hector Muller 2024-05-09
I had the opportunity to test drive this vehicle for a week from the dealer. In my opinion, this 5-door hatchback could be labeled as a crossover due to its ride quality, which is more similar to an Outback than an Impreza hatch. The suspension is quite soft and the steering is vague, which may not be to everyone's liking. When I think of a sporty hatchback, I tend to think of the Volkswagen GTI hatch or Mazda 3 hatch, which have stiffer suspension and steering, making them feel like little go-karts. However, it's important to note that everyone has different preferences when it comes to driving. Additionally, the Impreza sedan has a different feel to the hatchback. The motor may feel underpowered to some, with around 180hp, and the acceleration may not be as smooth as some would like. It's also worth noting that the car can be quite noisy. Overall, while this car may not be the right fit for me, it's important to test drive it yourself and see if it meets your needs and preferences.
Ian Witting 2024-04-04
I had the problem with the driver's window checked at least six times. Despite this, the window would only go three quarters of the way up and then go back down again. It was frustrating, and I often had to try closing it five times before it would stay up. However, the last time I had it checked, they replaced the track with a new and improved one. It has been working well for at least six months now. While I was initially dissatisfied with my Subaru, I am now pleased with the outcome of the repair.
Cornelius Jones 2024-02-22
The engine is a bit noisy and the gas mileage is not as good as my previous Camrys. Additionally, the interior features some cheap plastic that can stain easily when exposed to water.