How long will a Subaru Impreza last?
Most well-maintained Imprezas will reach 200,000 miles or more; with diligent care, 250,000–300,000 miles is common, and a few have surpassed 350,000 miles.
What affects how long an Impreza lasts
Lifespan depends on engine design, transmission type, climate exposure, driving habits, and how the car has been serviced over its life. The Impreza has evolved from older engines with higher head-gasket risk to newer, more durable units; AWD complexity adds maintenance tasks but won’t inherently shorten life if cared for properly.
Estimated lifespan ranges observed among well-maintained Imprezas:
- 200,000 miles (320,000 km) or more: Common threshold for many with regular maintenance.
- 250,000–300,000 miles (400,000–480,000 km): Achievable with consistent care and favorable operating conditions.
- 300,000+ miles (480,000+ km): Realized by a subset of cars with meticulous upkeep and mild-use histories.
Actual results vary by model year, maintenance quality, climate, and how the vehicle has been driven. Regular maintenance is the single biggest factor in extending life.
Maintenance and practices that extend life
To maximize the odds of reaching high mileage, owners should follow critical maintenance and care practices. The following steps are commonly cited by technicians and owners who achieve longer lifespans.
- Adhere to the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule, including timely oil changes with the recommended oil type and interval (often 5,000–7,500 miles for conventional oil or up to 10,000 miles with synthetic, depending on model and driving).
- Address cooling system health: fix coolant leaks promptly, replace faulty radiators or water pumps, and maintain proper coolant levels to prevent overheating that can damage the engine or head gaskets (especially on older engines).
- Monitor the head gasket history: older 2.5L engines have a higher risk; watch for signs such as coolant/oil mixing, white exhaust smoke, or bubbling within the radiator; replace gaskets if needed.
- Use the correct transmission fluid and schedule CVT service if applicable; older CVTs have a reputation for failure if neglected, so adhere to Subaru recommendations for changes and inspections.
- Keep the drivetrain in good shape: regularly service the AWD system, replace worn belts, and maintain fuel and ignition systems to prevent inefficiency and stress on the engine.
- Address rust and corrosion: clean undercarriage in winter climates, treat exposed metal, and address road-salt exposure to protect structural integrity that supports long-term usability.
Following these maintenance practices can significantly raise the odds of reaching high-mileage milestones.
Model-year considerations for longevity
Owner experience and recalls vary by generation. In earlier years, some 2.5L engines carried head-gasket risk; later generations shifted toward 2.0L units with updated cooling and design improvements. Transmission choices, particularly CVTs, have their own maintenance considerations. Always check a used Impreza’s service history and perform a thorough pre-purchase inspection focusing on the cooling system, head-gasket history, transmission behavior, and rust.
How to assess a specific used Impreza
When evaluating a particular car, look for a clean service history, evidence of regular oil changes, intact cooling system components, and records of CVT service if applicable. A compression test and leak-down test can reveal head-gasket health, while a test drive can reveal transmission or AWD system concerns.
Summary
Across generations, the Subaru Impreza can last well beyond 200,000 miles with careful maintenance. The combination of a modern four-cylinder engine and a robust AWD platform means longevity is possible, especially when addressing cooling, head-gasket risk in older engines, and transmission health. Real-world results vary, but a disciplined maintenance routine and mindful driving can help many Imprezas reach 250,000–300,000 miles, with some achieving 350,000 miles or more.
