How many miles will a 2013 Subaru Impreza last?

With proper care, a 2013 Subaru Impreza can reliably reach around 200,000 to 300,000 miles, and some well-maintained examples exceed 350,000 miles.

The lifespan of a 2013 Impreza depends on maintenance history, driving conditions, and how proactively issues are addressed. While Subarus from this era are known for durability, longevity hinges on regular servicing, timely repairs, and prudent driving habits, especially for the engine, transmission, and underbody protection in harsher climates.

Key factors that influence longevity

These are the main drivers of how far a 2013 Impreza can travel before needing a major overhaul or replacement.

• Maintenance history and quality of repairs


• Drivetrain and transmission type (CVT vs manual) and corresponding service needs


• Operating conditions (high-mileage highway driving vs frequent stop-and-go city traffic)


• Climate and corrosion protection (salt exposure, rust prevention)


• Accidents or major repairs that affect structural integrity or critical components

Keeping up with maintenance and addressing issues early can significantly extend the car’s life.

Typical mileage ranges by care level

Understanding how mileage can accumulate helps set realistic expectations for a 2013 Impreza in today’s market.

• Well-cared-for examples often reach 200,000–300,000 miles; some owners report 300,000–350,000 miles or more with meticulous maintenance.


• Average used examples with consistent maintenance but without aggressive preventive care generally fall in the 150,000–200,000 mile range before major repairs become likely.


• Vehicles with skipped maintenance, lingering leaks, or transmission issues may see earlier failures, sometimes around the 100,000–150,000 mile mark.

These ranges are approximate and depend on how the vehicle was cared for and how it’s used over time.

Maintenance playbook to maximize longevity

Following a disciplined maintenance schedule tailored to the Impreza’s specifications is the best path to higher mileage.

Important: Always follow the owner’s manual and work with a trusted mechanic for model-specific guidance.

1. Follow the recommended oil-change interval and use the oil grade specified for the 2.0L flat-4 engine; synthetic oil is common for longer intervals.


2. Schedule regular transmission (CVT) service and use the service intervals recommended by Subaru; neglecting CVT maintenance is a common risk factor for reduced longevity.


3. Inspect and replace spark plugs at manufacturer-recommended intervals (often around 100,000 miles for many Subaru engines).


4. Monitor the cooling system, radiator hoses, and thermostat to prevent overheating and address leaks promptly.


5. Address oil leaks and seal wear early; common spots include valve cover gaskets and cam seals.


6. Routinely check brakes, suspension components, and tires; ensure alignment and wheel bearings are in good condition.


7. Protect the underbody from rust, especially in regions that use road salt; wash the underside and treat vulnerable areas as needed.

Sticking to this maintenance cadence can help the Impreza approach or exceed the high end of its mileage potential.

What to monitor as mileage increases

Be vigilant for early warning signs that can indicate deeper problems that threaten longevity.

Engine and powertrain indicators

• Unusual oil consumption, knocking, or rough running


• CVT-related symptoms such as shuddering, slipping, or warning lights


• Overheating, coolant leaks, or visible steam

Prompt diagnosis and repair of these issues can prevent more serious damage and help maximize mileage.

Bottom line

The 2013 Subaru Impreza is a durable compact that can deliver high mileage when well maintained. Real-world ownership tends to fall into a broad range: many reach 200,000–300,000 miles, with some examples surpassing 350,000 miles. Your car’s actual lifespan will depend on maintenance discipline, how the vehicle is driven, and how proactively issues are addressed.

Summary

In short, a 2013 Subaru Impreza has the potential for long life if you stay on top of maintenance, manage the CVT (if equipped), and address problems early. With diligent care, expect roughly 200,000 to 300,000 miles as a realistic band, with higher-mileage outcomes possible for well-kept vehicles. The key is a proactive maintenance strategy and mindful driving to maximize longevity.

Is the 2013 Subaru Impreza reliable?

The 2013 Subaru Impreza is considered a reliable car with good all-wheel-drive capability, but it has some common issues, most notably with the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) in some models. Other frequent problems include wheel bearing failures, engine oil consumption, and various suspension/steering components. Overall reliability is mixed, with some owners reporting a trouble-free experience while others have had significant mechanical issues. 
This video discusses the long-term reliability of a Subaru Impreza with over 138,000 miles: 1mCarsNToysYouTube · Aug 7, 2019
Common problems and considerations

• CVT Transmission: Some owners have reported premature failure of the CVT transmission. Subaru did extend the warranty for this issue on some vehicles, so it's worth checking the service history. 
• Wheel Bearings: Multiple sources note that wheel bearings can be a weak point, with some owners having to replace them multiple times. 
• Engine Oil Consumption: Some owners report that the car uses a significant amount of oil. 
• Suspension and Steering: Issues with components like ball joints, steering linkage, and front control arms have been reported. 
• Other issues: Some owners have experienced problems with the audio system, particularly the Bluetooth/voice recognition, and the climate control system. 

You can watch this video to learn about common problems with the Subaru Impreza hatchback: 1m1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Jul 5, 2023
What to consider

• Transmission: If considering a model with a CVT, it's essential to check its service history to see if it was replaced or repaired under warranty.
• Maintenance: Proper maintenance is crucial for any Subaru, and its impact is magnified on a used model. 
• Professional inspection: Before purchasing a 2013 Impreza, have it inspected by a trusted mechanic to identify any potential issues. 

This video discusses maintenance and reliability of a Subaru WRX STI after 10 years: 55sApex CornerYouTube · Oct 23, 2023

Is it worth buying a Subaru with over 200k miles?

You should only consider buying a Subaru with 200k miles if it has a complete maintenance history, has had major components replaced, and passes a thorough pre-purchase inspection. While Subarus can last beyond 200k miles, a vehicle at this mileage will have significant wear and tear and is likely to need costly repairs soon.
 
What to look for

• Maintenance records: A well-maintained Subaru is crucial for longevity. Look for consistent service, especially for the timing belt (if applicable), head gaskets, and other engine components. 
• History: An inspection of the vehicle history report is important to understand the car's past. Look for signs of accidents or a history of consistent use. A vehicle with one or two owners is often a better bet. 
• Pre-purchase inspection: Have a trusted mechanic thoroughly inspect the car, focusing on the engine, transmission, suspension, and any other potential failure points at this mileage. 
• Past repairs: Ideally, major repairs like the head gasket, water pump, and transmission should have already been completed. 

Potential issues at 200k miles

• Engine and transmission: These are the most expensive components to replace. Be prepared for potential failures or significant maintenance costs. 
• Suspension and brakes: Components like the suspension, brakes, and exhaust can rust out or wear out, requiring replacement. 
• Other components: Expect a higher likelihood of smaller issues like worn-out seals, bushings, and other small parts that can lead to costly repairs if not addressed. 

When to avoid

• No service history: Without records, it's a high-risk purchase. You won't know how well the car was maintained. 
• Major issues found in inspection: If a pre-purchase inspection reveals any major problems with the engine, transmission, or other core systems, walk away. 
• High number of owners: A car with many owners is more likely to have been poorly maintained or neglected. 

What year to stay away from a Subaru Impreza?

Years to avoid for the Subaru Impreza include 2012 and 2013, which had issues with the transmission and other reliability problems. The 2008 model is also often cited as a year to avoid, though specific reasons aren't as widely mentioned in the provided results. If considering an older model, be wary of models from 1996-2005 that may have used engines prone to head gasket failure. 
You can watch this video to learn about common problems with the 2012-2016 Impreza: 59sMaxTheCarGuyYouTube · Jan 11, 2023
Years to avoid

• 2012: This model had issues with the transmission, particularly the continuously variable transmission (CVT), with some units potentially experiencing sudden acceleration. 
• 2013: A bad year for the Impreza due to multiple issues, including engine and transmission problems and low owner satisfaction scores from Consumer Reports. 
• 2008: Often listed as a year to avoid, it was the first year of the third generation and may have had specific drawbacks. 
• 1996-2005: These years, especially with the EJ25 engine, had a known issue with head gasket failures, leading to costly repairs. 

What to look for instead

• Post-2013 models: Generally, newer models have improved reliability, with the 2022 model being a good example. 
• 2015 or later CVTs: If buying a model with a CVT, 2015 or newer models generally had better versions of the transmission. 

This video discusses common problems in the 2011-2017 Impreza: 1m1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Jul 5, 2023

How long should a 2013 Subaru Impreza last?

Why Does the Impreza Last So Long? The Subaru Impreza boasts an impressive reputation for longevity, with many drivers reaching over 200,000 miles on their odometers without major issues.