Subaru Impreza Years to Avoid – Buyer’s Guide
Some Subaru Impreza years have proven to be less reliable. They come with high maintenance costs.
Knowing which years to avoid can save you from future trouble and big expenses. The Impreza has been around for over 30 years and is generally reliable.
But, some years have not done well. In this guide, you will find out which years to avoid. The 2008 Subaru Impreza is notably the worst, with head gasket repairs over $2,000.
However, the 2011 and 2017 models are more reliable. They are good choices for a used car. We will discuss common problems by year and maintenance tips.
These tips can help keep your car running longer. Also, we’ll talk about how knowing recall info can help before you buy. This knowledge helps you make a smart choice when getting a Subaru Impreza.
Introduction To The Subaru Impreza
Since 1992, the Subaru Impreza has been a major player in the compact car game. It comes in different styles, catering to those who like sedans or hatchbacks.
Its well-known all-wheel-drive system makes it safer and better to drive on various terrains. People really like it for its sturdy build and comfy rides.
The Subaru Impreza’s reliability has seen ups and downs over the years. This matters a lot to those buying a used car. Repairs can cost up to $653 a year, which might worry some.
Knowing about the Impreza helps to figure out which years were best in terms of reliability and making owners happy.
Even though the Impreza is tough, some years have been marked as less reliable. It has a reliability score of 3.5 out of 5.
This places it 33rd among 36 compact cars, showing that it’s wise to look into these issues. But with the right care, hitting over 100,000 miles is doable.
This makes the Impreza a good buy for the right person. Keep these points in mind to choose wisely when thinking about an Impreza for your next car.
What is Subaru Impreza Reliability Ratings?
The Subaru Impreza has a reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5 from RepairPal. This puts it at 33rd out of 36 in the compact car category.
Owners might spend about $653 every year on repairs. This car has a 17% chance of facing severe issues. So, it’s wise for buyers to look at different years of the model.
They should find out which have fewer problems. The 2006 model has transmission and head gasket issues.
The 2008 version had 293 complaints, mostly about the windshield and fuel system. The 2010 model had big electrical problems.
And, the 2012 one had issues with the transmission and using up oil too fast. Still, many owners say their Impreza passed 200,000 miles without big problems.
That’s a lot more than most cars. But, the reliability score is 49.45, meaning you need to take good care of it.
Doing things like oil changes every 5,000 to 7,500 miles helps a lot. Knowing these reliability ratings and the common issues helps you make a smart choice.
The 2011 Impreza is very reliable, with a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from Kelley Blue Book. Picking models with fewer issues can save you money and make driving more enjoyable.
| Model Year | Repair Cost (Annual) | Severe Repair Probability | Common Issues |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2006 | $653 | 17% | Transmission issues, Head gasket leaks |
| 2008 | $653 | 17% | Windshield visibility, Fuel system failures |
| 2010 | $653 | 17% | Electrical system problems |
| 2012 | $653 | 17% | Transmission issues, Oil consumption |
| 2013 | $653 | 17% | Brake light failures, Engine stalls |
Subaru Impreza Years To Avoid
If you’re looking at Subaru Imprezas, know which years to steer clear of. We’re diving into the years with big reliability issues.
This info will guide you away from the least reliable Subaru Impreza models.
2006 Subaru Impreza: Key Issues
The 2006 Subaru Impreza had 80 complaints and 10 recalls. Owners often faced bad transmissions and head gasket leaks before 80,000 miles.
These problems make it one of the worst Subaru Impreza years.
2008 Subaru Impreza: A Year of Complaints
2008 was rough, with 297 complaints and 15 recalls. Drivers dealt with a filmy windshield and head gasket issues early on, around 2,900 miles. This makes the 2008 model one of the most troublesome.
2010 Subaru Impreza: Electrics and Recalls
The 2010 Impreza ranks low for reliability, scoring just 1 out of 5. It’s plagued by electrical problems and 15 recalls.
Problems with USB ports and tire pressure monitors highlight its issues.
2012 Subaru Impreza: Transmission Failures
The 2012 model faced 332 complaints and 6 recalls. Known for bad transmissions and sudden acceleration, problems often surface around 40,000 miles. Repair costs can soar above $7,500, marking it as unreliable.
2013 Subaru Impreza: Resurfacing Problems
With 320 complaints and 4 recalls, the 2013 struggles mainly with transmission, including CVT issues.
High oil consumption can lead to costly engine fixes. This reinforces its spot as a problematic year.
Common Subaru Impreza Problems
It’s key for both potential buyers and current owners to know the common troubles of Subaru Impreza per year.
These problems change a lot with each model year. Being aware helps you avoid buying a problematic Subaru Impreza model.
Engine Issues Across Model Years
Subaru Impreza models from 2006, 2008, and 2012 often have engine problems. The main issues are using too much oil and head gaskets failing.
These problems usually show up after the car hits 100,000 miles. Fixing these engine troubles can get really expensive. It often means spending a lot to keep the car running well.
Transmission Troubles: What To Watch For
Subaru Imprezas, particularly from 2010 to 2013, have noticeable transmission issues. Owners have complained about the car not shifting right. This can make driving risky.
Transmission repairs are complicated and pricey. For example, fixing the 2012 model’s transmission might cost up to $7,500.
Electronics and Infotainment Woes
The 2010 Subaru Impreza often has electronic and infotainment issues. These can trouble both new and seasoned drivers.
Fixing these electronic system problems can be expensive and affect your driving joy. Knowing about these issues can save you from future hassle.
Which Subaru Impreza Years Are Safe To Buy Used?
Looking for a used Subaru Impreza? Focus on years known for dependability. The safest years include two standout models.
They’re known for great performance, comfort, and few problems.
Reliable Options: 2011 Subaru Impreza
The 2011 Subaru Impreza is a top pick for reliability. It has fewer complaints and recalls than earlier models.
It offers a smooth ride and good fuel efficiency. This makes it a great choice for daily use.
Reliable Options: 2017 Subaru Impreza
Want a newer car with the latest features? Check out the 2017 Subaru Impreza. It’s packed with advanced safety features and better fuel economy.
Its performance is solid, and it has few reported problems. This year is definitely a highlight for Subaru Impreza buyers.
Maintenance Tips For Subaru Impreza Owners
Owning a Subaru Impreza brings many rewards, especially with good maintenance. Solid maintenance strategies improve your drive and stress the need for long-term care.
Changing your Subaru’s oil is vital. Do this every 6 months or after driving 6,000 miles. It keeps your engine healthy and running smoothly.
Keeping your tires in good shape is key for safety and performance. Rotate them every 6,000 to 8,000 miles to avoid uneven wear and keep your car handling well.
Don’t forget about your car’s electrical system. Regularly checking the infotainment and electrical components can find problems early.
Think of multi-point inspections as your car’s health check-ups. They spot small issues before they turn into big problems. Following these steps helps your Subaru Impreza run great for a long time.
Learning Subaru Impreza Recalls
The Subaru Impreza has seen many recalls over the years, pointing out big safety and operational issues.
Knowing these Subaru Impreza recalls is crucial when thinking about buying one. The 2010 Subaru Impreza had a high number of 15 official recalls, which shows why it’s important to look at recall history before deciding on a car.
Common problems include bad airbag inflators, hitting all 2005-2008 Outback and Legacy models, including the Subaru Impreza.
Models from 2012-2013 had issues like sudden acceleration without warning and transmission failures, leading to more checks.
These recalls have made people question the reliability of recent Subaru models.
Here is a brief overview of select recalls:
| Model Year | Recall Issues | Vehicles Affected |
|---|---|---|
| 2010 | Airbag inflator defects | 15 recalls |
| 2012 | Transmission issues, sudden acceleration | 332 complaints |
| 2013 | Steering column and airbag issues | 4 recalls |
| 2006 | Engine performance concerns | 10 recalls |
| 2008 | Multiple complaint types and recalls | 15 recalls |
Knowing about the many recalls a Subaru Impreza might have helps you make a smarter choice when buying.
Each recall reminds us how important it is to check a car’s history and understand its maintenance background before buying a used car.
What To Consider Before Buying A Used Impreza
Thinking of buying a used Subaru Impreza? There are several important things to consider first. Following certain tips can help you dodge common mistakes and make a smart buy.
Begin with a thorough inspection of the car. Key areas to check include:
- Transmission Performance: Notice how smoothly it shifts. Odd sounds during acceleration or shifting could be a bad sign.
- Engine Condition: Look for oil leaks and evaluate how well the engine runs. Warning signs like overheating or white exhaust smoke mean trouble.
- Electrical System Functionality: Make sure all electronic parts work well, like the dashboard and entertainment system. Fixing electrical issues can be costly and frustrating.
During your test drive, stay alert for any weird noises, shakes, or warning lights. These could mean there are big mechanical issues.
Also, don’t forget to check the car’s history report. Look for any serious damage or theft signs. Issues like these can lower the car’s value and reliability over time.
Lastly, look at the car’s maintenance records. Missing records may show it wasn’t taken care of well, meaning you might spend more on it later.
Buying an Impreza is a big deal, so using these tips can help you choose wisely.
Buying A Used Subaru Impreza: Final Recommendations
Choosing a used Subaru Impreza needs careful thought. Look mainly at the 2011 and 2017 models. They mix performance with reliability well.
Research their histories before you decide. Get the car inspected before you buy it. This finds hidden issues that might cost you a lot later.
It’s a key step, making sure you know about any problems. Think about the repair costs for the model you want.
Set aside a budget for maintenance. Knowing about these costs helps you enjoy your Impreza without surprise bills.
| Model Year | Quality Score | Reliability Score | Retained Value Score | Average Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2011 Subaru Impreza | 8.0 | 8.0 | 8.7 | $19,252 |
| 2017 Subaru Impreza | 8.6 | 8.0 | 8.7 | $19,252 |
Conclusion
Your Subaru Impreza search will be better if you know which years to skip. Avoid the 2006, 2008, 2010, 2012, and 2013 models because they have some reliability issues.
Instead, look for the 2011 and 2017 models which are more reliable. Keeping your Impreza in top shape is key.
With regular maintenance, you can improve its life and performance. Making smart choices with the help of this Subaru Impreza summary is the way to a great car experience.
Follow the advice in this guide closely. It will help you deal with any problems you might find with your Subaru Impreza. This way, you can fully enjoy your car’s journey.
FAQs
What are Subaru Impreza years to avoid?
Stay away from the 2006, 2008, 2010, 2012, and 2013 models of the Subaru Impreza. These years have reliability issues and problems reported by owners.
Which Subaru Impreza models are known for having significant issues?
The 2008 model has a lot of complaints about visibility and head gasket failures. The 2012 model often has transmission failures.
What are some common problems per year for the Subaru Impreza?
In 2006 and 2008, look out for excessive oil use and head gasket leaks. From 2010 to 2013, transmission issues are common. The 2010 model also has electrical failures.
Which model years are recommended for a used Subaru Impreza purchase?
For better reliability, consider the 2011 and 2017 Subaru Impreza models. They have fewer issues than other years.
How often should I perform maintenance on my Subaru Impreza?
Do oil changes every 6 months or 6,000 miles. Tire rotations should happen every 6,000-8,000 miles. Also, get multi-point inspections to keep your car running well.
Are there specific recalls I should be concerned about with the Subaru Impreza?
Yes, look into recalls about airbag inflators, transmission, and electrical systems. Always check the recall history before you buy a used model.
What should I inspect before buying a used Subaru Impreza?
Make sure the transmission works well and the engine doesn’t leak oil. Also, check the electrical systems, including the dashboard and infotainment features.
