How long will a Subaru Impreza engine last?
Most Subaru Impreza engines will last around 200,000 miles with proper maintenance, and many reach 250,000–300,000 miles. The exact lifespan depends on the engine family (EJ vs FA/FB), maintenance history, and how the car is driven.
What influences a Subaru Impreza’s engine life
Several factors determine how long an Impreza’s engine will keep running. The following points summarize the main influences and how they interact with different engine generations.
- Maintenance history: Regular oil changes with the recommended synthetic oil, timely coolant and fuel-system service, and adherence to the factory schedule are the most important predictors of longevity.
- Engine design and era: Older EJ-series 2.5L engines were more prone to head-gasket issues in some years, while newer FA/FB engines use timing chains and have generally improved reliability, affecting long-term durability.
- Driving conditions and usage: Frequent short trips, heavy towing, aggressive driving, overheating, or sustained high-load operation can increase wear and shorten engine life.
- Quality of consumables: Using OEM or high-quality fluids, plugs, filters, and replacement parts reduces wear and helps maintain integrity over time.
- Cooling and PCV system health: A well-maintained cooling system and PCV circuit prevent overheating and oil consumption that can damage engines over the long term.
In short, a well-maintained Impreza—whether powered by an older EJ or a newer FA/FB engine—has the best chance of reaching or exceeding 200,000 miles.
How to maximize engine life: a proactive maintenance plan
To extend engine life, follow a disciplined maintenance routine tailored to your generation of Impreza. The plan below outlines key actions that holders of either engine family should consider.
- Regular oil changes: Use the recommended synthetic oil and change at manufacturer intervals (commonly about every 5,000–7,500 miles, or per the owner’s manual). In harsher climates or with severe driving, shorten the interval.
- Coolant and cooling-system upkeep: Maintain proper coolant levels, inspect for leaks, and perform coolant flushes at recommended milestones to prevent overheating and head-gasket stress.
- Timing components: If your engine uses a belt (older EJ families), replace the belt, water pump, and related components at the advised interval. Modern FA/FB engines use a timing chain but still require inspection of chain guides/tensioners as part of routine service.
- Spark plugs and ignition: Replace spark plugs at the interval specified for your engine (often around 100,000 miles for many Subarus); address misfires promptly to prevent cylinder damage.
- Air and fuel filtration: Replace the air filter and fuel filters as recommended to keep the combustion process clean and efficient.
- PCV system and vacuum leaks: Inspect and service the PCV valve and hoses to prevent oil leaks and sludge formation.
- Diagnostics and signs of trouble: Address coolant/oil mixing, overheating, excessive oil consumption, or unusual noises early with a qualified technician.
By following these practices, you improve the odds of reaching the higher end of the mileage spectrum for Impreza engines.
Engine generations and longevity benchmarks
EJ-series era (roughly the 1990s–2000s)
During the EJ-series era, particularly in the 2.5L variants, head-gasket failures were a notable reliability concern for some model years. With diligent maintenance and timely gasket work when needed, many EJ-equipped Imprezas have reached or surpassed 200,000 miles. Owners often report strong longevity when coolant leaks were fixed early, oil was kept clean, and components such as the timing belt (where applicable) were replaced on schedule.
FA/FB-era engines (roughly the 2010s–present)
The FA/FB engine family introduced chain-driven timing and newer gasket designs, generally offering improved reliability and lower gasket-related risk compared with the earlier EJs. With consistent maintenance, these engines commonly reach into the 200,000–300,000 mile range. Some owners have documented even higher mileages, though occasional issues such as oil consumption on certain early-FB variants have been noted and addressed through service campaigns or dealer guidance.
Summary
Key takeaways: A Subaru Impreza’s engine life is highly variable but typically centers around 200,000 miles with good care. The EJ-series era carried more gasket-related risk, especially in older 2.5L models, while FA/FB engines generally offer improved durability thanks to design updates. Regular maintenance—oil changes, cooling-system care, timely replacement of worn parts, and prompt attention to overheating or leaks—greatly increases the chance of hitting or exceeding 200k miles. When shopping for a used Impreza, review the maintenance history, be mindful of potential head-gasket concerns on older EJ engines, and choose a model with a thorough service record.
Is the Subaru Impreza engine reliable?
The Subaru engines are notably highly reliable. Yea, every engine will have some problems in some instances, but they are great by any reasonable standard. The 2.5 has more output, so you don't have to work it a hard to produce the same driving experience. That alone should make it more reliable for you.
Is it worth buying a Subaru with over 200k miles?
High Mileage: Cars with mileage above 200,000 miles can still be in good condition, especially if they have been regularly serviced and show no signs of major issues. However, at this point, potential buyers should expect some level of wear and tear and may need to budget for upcoming repairs or replacements.
How long does a Subaru Impreza engine last?
Average Mileage and Years
With decent care, most Subaru Imprezas will rack up between 150,000 and 200,000 miles before major issues surface. That's roughly 13 to 17 years of faithful service if you drive around 15,000 miles yearly, which isn't bad for a compact car. Many owners blow past these numbers.
Can Subarus last 300,000 miles?
On average, a well-maintained Subaru Outback can last anywhere from 200,000 to 300,000 miles!
