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Subaru Impreza Problems

The Subaru Impreza is a compact sedan and hatchback that has built a strong reputation for reliability and safety. Despite 6,762 complaints, many model years remain excellent choices for buyers. We'll walk you through the years most affected by issues and those that represent the best value.

6,762
Total Complaints
129
Total Recalls
34
Model Years
10
Reported Deaths
!

Years to Avoid

These years have significantly more complaints than average.

2013 2012 2008
✓

Best Years

These years have the fewest reported problems.

1990 1993 1994

Common Problem Categories

Air Bags 1,018
Power Train 606
Engine 512
Electrical System 450
Unknown Or Other 428

Complaints by Model Year

All Model Years

Year ↓ Complaints Recalls Crashes Fires Rating
2025 8 0 0 0 Good
2024 62 2 6 10 Good
2023 10 2 0 0 Good
2022 28 1 0 4 Good
2021 38 2 2 0 Good
2020 188 1 4 2 Average
2019 424 5 12 2 Below Average
2018 356 5 26 2 Below Average
2017 316 7 30 10 Below Average
2016 212 1 28 0 Average
2015 196 2 12 0 Average
2014 310 3 48 0 Below Average
2013 684 4 46 20 Avoid
2012 672 6 38 12 Avoid
2011 142 14 12 4 Average
2010 122 15 6 2 Average
2009 298 14 12 6 Average
2008 498 13 22 12 Avoid
2007 162 9 12 4 Average
2006 136 9 10 0 Average
2005 190 6 34 2 Average
2004 226 6 18 8 Average
2003 128 1 18 2 Average
2002 678 1 22 6 Avoid
2001 26 0 12 0 Good
2000 108 0 16 6 Average
1999 54 0 4 0 Good
1998 110 0 4 0 Average
1997 76 0 16 2 Good
1996 50 0 12 2 Good
1995 138 0 28 4 Average
1994 16 0 2 0 Good
1993 96 0 18 0 Good
1990 4 0 0 0 Good

Subaru Impreza Years to Avoid

2013 was the worst year for complaints, coinciding with the new generation launch. 2011-2015 show higher complaint rates. The redesigned generation had initial quality issues that improved over time. Pre-2011 and post-2015 models are more reliable.

Best Subaru Impreza Years

2020-2025 models are the most reliable, with 2025 being the current best option. 1990-1995 early models also showed strong durability. 2006-2010 is a solid middle ground with good reliability and value.

What Owners Are Reporting

Airbag system defects

Powertrain issues

Engine concerns

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did the 2011-2015 Impreza generation have so many complaints?

The 2011 redesign brought a new platform with initial quality issues. Airbag warnings and transmission problems were most prevalent. Subaru addressed many issues through recalls and software updates over the generation's life.

Are Impreza airbag problems a safety issue?

Airbag warning lights are annoying but don't typically indicate imminent danger. However, they warrant professional diagnosis. Some cases involved actual deployment issues that were addressed through recalls. Have warnings diagnosed before purchase.

Which Impreza generation is best?

2020+ models are the most reliable. 2006-2010 is a solid middle choice. 2015-2019 improved as the generation matured. Avoid 2011-2014 if possible due to initial generation issues. Pre-2000 models have fewer electronics to fail.

What about the Impreza STI - should I buy one?

The STI (4407) had very limited production (2008-2009) and was performance-focused. Both years had some issues, but 2009 was slightly better. If you can find one in good condition, it's a collector-friendly performance car, though it requires meticulous maintenance.

How does Impreza reliability compare to competitors?

Impreza has historically strong reliability for compact sedans. Problem years exist (especially 2011-2015 generation launch) but aren't dramatically worse than Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla equivalents. Subaru's AWD standard is unique.