Ah, here’s to the Subaru Impreza. A name that reverberates among vehicle lovers and everyday motorists. It’s a car that’s been hailed for its tenacity, nimbleness, and the sheer rush it delivers on the open roads. However, much like that one friend who is the life of the party but occasionally has a clumsy moment, the Impreza isn’t without its peculiarities. Ever been curious as to why your Impreza appears to consume more oil than a teenager does in their breakfast cereal? Or maybe you’ve detected a bit of jerkiness when you press on the accelerator? You’re not the only one. Despite the Impreza standing as a wonder of car engineering, it’s experienced its own set of glitches over time.
In this guide, we’re diving deep under the hood, exploring the most common Subaru Impreza challenges. From the infamous oil consumption saga of the 2006, 2008, and 2012 models to the mysterious cracking windshields of the 2015-2016 editions, we’ve got it all covered. And trust us, some of these tales are juicier than a daytime soap opera!
But don’t fret! For every problem, there’s a solution. We’ll guide you through the best fixes, the model years to watch out for, and how to keep your Impreza purring like a kitten. So, buckle up, rev those engines, and let’s embark on this journey together.
Ready to uncover the secrets of the Subaru Impreza? Keep reading and let’s hit the road!
Broad Overview of Common Subaru Impreza Problems
Before moving forward, here’s a list of the problems we’re going to talk about:
- Excessive Oil Consumption
- CVT Transmission Issues
- Premature Brake Wear
- Infotainment System Problems
- General Electrical Issues
- Cracking Windshields
- Fuel Pump Failure
- Malfunctioning Oxygen Sensors
- Power Steering System Issues
Got it? Good. Let’s keep moving.
Excessive Oil Consumption
Excessive oil consumption ranks as a common problem, especially in the 2006, 2008, and 2012 models of Subaru Impreza. Most drivers reported that their vehicles burned more oil than normal, leading to frequent top-ups and in some instances, engine damage. In the worst-case scenario, some owners had to rebuild their engines, a process that is not only time-consuming but also significantly expensive.
CVT Transmission Issues
The 2012-2013 and 2015 models of Subaru Impreza are prone to transmission problems. Some drivers reported instances where their cars jerked forward after a moment of hesitation when the gas pedal was pressed. In addition, others complained about their vehicles shifting into the wrong gears or randomly accelerating while in reverse.
Premature Brake Wear
Another common issue with Subaru Impreza is premature brake wear. This problem is especially prevalent in the 2008 model year, which has been reported by numerous owners to have poor braking performance. This can be a potentially dangerous situation, especially when driving in challenging weather conditions or during emergency stops.
Infotainment System Problems
The infotainment system of Subaru Impreza has its own set of challenges. Several owners of the 2017 model have reported malfunctions in the infotainment system. The system sometimes freezes, making it impossible to use navigation features, listen to the radio, or make phone calls using Bluetooth.
Related: Subaru Dashboard Lights and Meanings
General Electrical Issues
Electrical issues are also common in Subaru Impreza. Most of these problems affect the dashboard warning lights, which sometimes illuminate without a clear reason. Other electrical issues include faulty ignition switches and problems with the car’s battery.
Cracking Windshields
Some Subaru Impreza owners have reported problems with their car’s windshields cracking easily. This problem appears to affect the 2015 to 2016 models most. In most cases, the cracks appear spontaneously without any impact, raising safety concerns.
Fuel Pump Failure
Fuel pump failure is another issue that plagues the Subaru Impreza, particularly the model years 2012 through 2017. A faulty fuel pump can cause the engine to stall or prevent the car from starting altogether.
Malfunctioning Oxygen Sensors
The oxygen sensor, also known as the AYF sensor, is a critical component that can cause significant problems when it malfunctions. Without a properly functioning oxygen sensor, the engine may run rich (too much fuel) or lean (too little fuel), leading to decreased fuel efficiency and increased emissions.
Power Steering System Issues
Some Subaru Imprezas, particularly the 2004 model, have been reported to have power steering system issues. Faulty steering rack bushes can lead to sloppy handling and decreased control during turns.
Related: Are Subarus Expensive To Maintain?
Subaru Impreza Problem Breakdown By Worst Years
While the Subaru Impreza is generally a reliable car, certain model years have more reported problems than others. Let’s take a closer look at the worst years for Subaru Impreza problems:
- 2008 Subaru Impreza: Models from 2008 stand out as some of the most problematic. The most common issues reported include excessive oil consumption, premature brake wear, and transmission failure. These issues can lead to costly repairs and decreased performance over time.
- 2012 Subaru Impreza: The 2012 model year is also known for its fair share of problems. The most common issues include abrupt and inadvertent acceleration, transmission failure, and issues with the fuel pump. These problems can pose significant safety risks and often lead to expensive repairs.
- 2013 Subaru Impreza: Then there’s the 2013 Impreza, known for its issues with the continuously variable transmission (CVT). These issues often result in jerky acceleration and problematic shifting. In addition, some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system.
- 2014 Subaru Impreza: As for 2014 models, these has been reported to have issues with excessive oil consumption. This problem can lead to engine damage if not addressed promptly. Additionally, some owners have reported problems with the car’s electrical system.
- 2015 Subaru Impreza: The 2015 model year has been reported to have issues with cracking windshields and excessive oil consumption. The windshield problem is particularly concerning as it often occurs spontaneously, without any impact.
- 2017 Subaru Impreza: While the 2017 Subaru Impreza is a favorite among many drivers for its advanced features and improved performance, it has had its share of problems. The most reported issue in this model year is the malfunctioning infotainment system, which can lead to frustrations and distractions while driving.
Related: Subaru Impreza Years to Avoid: A Comprehensive Overview
What Year Subaru Imprezas Have Head Gasket Problems?
Subaru Imprezas built before 2011 are known to have issues with head gaskets, especially once they reach 100,000 miles. In some cases, the head gaskets need to be replaced multiple times. This repair can be fairly expensive, typically costing around $2,000 including labor.
Do Subaru Imprezas Have Transmission Problems?
Yes, certain model years of the Subaru Impreza are known to have transmission problems. The 2012-2013 and 2015 model years are most prone to these issues, which include abrupt acceleration in reverse and hesitation when the gas pedal is pressed.
Wrapping Up
While the Subaru Impreza is generally a reliable car, it’s essential to be aware of the potential issues that may arise with specific model years. By knowing what to expect, you can make an informed decision when purchasing a used Subaru Impreza or plan for potential repairs if you already own one. Always remember to stick to Subaru’s recommended service schedule and never skimp on maintenance to ensure your Impreza stays in top shape for as long as possible.
Remember, every car has its set of problems, but with the right care and maintenance, it can serve you well for many years. Happy driving!
Read next: Best Year Subaru Impreza: Is There More Than One?
Frequently Asked Questions
The Subaru Impreza models from 2012-2013 and 2015 have been reported to experience CVT transmission issues, such as jerking forward after hesitation when accelerating. Subaru has been attentive to these concerns, and owners are encouraged to consult their dealerships for potential solutions or recalls.
Excessive oil consumption has been a notable concern, especially in the 2006, 2008, and 2012 Subaru Impreza models. Regular maintenance and frequent oil checks are essential. In severe cases, some owners have opted for engine rebuilds. It’s crucial to monitor oil levels and consult a mechanic if consumption seems unusually high.
Yes, particularly in the 2017 Subaru Impreza model, owners have reported malfunctions in the infotainment system, such as freezing screens and issues with navigation features. Subaru has been attentive to these concerns, and potential solutions or updates might be available through dealerships.
Some Subaru Impreza models, notably from 2015 to 2016, have been reported to have windshields that crack easily, often without any apparent impact. Owners experiencing this issue should consult their dealership or insurance for potential replacements or solutions.
The 2004 Subaru Impreza model has been reported to experience power steering system issues, particularly related to faulty steering rack bushes. This can affect the vehicle’s handling, especially during turns. Owners noticing such symptoms should seek professional diagnosis and repair.
