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How many miles will a 2016 Subaru Impreza last?

With proper maintenance, a 2016 Subaru Impreza can reliably reach around 200,000 miles or more, and many owners report 250,000–300,000 miles or higher with meticulous care.


The longevity of any given vehicle depends on maintenance history, driving conditions, and how proactively wear and potential issues are addressed. The 2016 Impreza, popular for its all-wheel-drive system and practical design, typically lasts longer when it adheres to scheduled servicing and sensible use. This article breaks down typical lifespans, factors that influence durability, and concrete steps to extend the car’s useful life.


Lifespan: What mileage can be expected?


Here is a snapshot of what well-maintained examples and everyday usage tend to yield in terms of mileage.



  • Typically, a well-maintained 2016 Impreza can reach 200,000 miles or more.

  • Many examples reach 250,000 miles, and 300,000 miles is achievable with consistent care.

  • A minority push beyond 300,000 miles, especially when owners follow maintenance schedules and drive conservatively.


These figures vary widely based on maintenance quality, climate, and how the vehicle is driven; regular upkeep dramatically increases the odds of hitting higher mileages.


Factors that influence longevity


Understanding what most affects how long a 2016 Impreza lasts helps buyers and owners prioritize maintenance and driving habits.



  • Maintenance history: Complete service records and adherence to the owner's manual schedule correlate strongly with longer life.

  • Driving conditions: Long highway trips and steady speeds tend to wear components more gently than frequent short trips or harsh, stop-and-go driving.

  • Drivetrain variant and wear: The Impreza’s all-wheel-drive system and transmission type (CVT vs. manual) influence wear patterns and maintenance needs.

  • Oil type and change cadence: Using the recommended oil grade and following the factory interval reduces engine wear and heat stress.

  • Cooling system health: Regular coolant maintenance protects the engine from overheating and preserves cooling system components.

  • Rust and undercarriage exposure: Vehicles in salty or high-moisture environments may experience rust that affects longevity if not addressed.


In short, proactive maintenance and sensible driving are the most reliable predictors of achieving high mileage.


Maintenance practices to maximize longevity


Adhering to a disciplined, manufacturer-approved maintenance plan is the best defense against early wear and costly repairs.



  • Follow the Maintenance Minder/owner manual schedule for oil changes, typically with synthetic oil and intervals aligned to driving conditions.

  • Replace transmission fluid according to the manual for CVT models, using the recommended fluid and timing to preserve transmission life.

  • Keep the cooling system in good shape with regular coolant checks and flushes as recommended to prevent overheating.

  • Replace spark plugs at the advised interval to maintain efficiency and reduce engine stress.

  • Inspect and replace filters (air, cabin) and maintain proper tire tread and rotation to protect drivetrain and suspension components.

  • Address rust early and protect the undercarriage, especially in regions with snow, road salt, or coastal salt exposure.


Following these practices align a 2016 Impreza with the best chance of reaching higher mileages and maintaining overall reliability.


Summary


Across the board, a 2016 Subaru Impreza can last well into the 200,000–300,000-mile range with meticulous maintenance, attentive service history, and prudent driving. While individual results vary, owners who keep up with oil changes, fluid replacements, cooling system upkeep, and preventative wear can maximize the vehicle’s lifespan. For prospective buyers, reviewing service records and obtaining a thorough pre-purchase inspection can provide a clear picture of remaining life and expected maintenance needs.

What is considered high mileage for a Subaru Impreza?


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.



Are 2016 Subaru Impreza reliable?


The 2016 Subaru Impreza is generally considered reliable, with many owners reporting long-term satisfaction and high mileage, though some issues have been reported, particularly with in-car electronics and the braking system. Its reliability is often seen as a strong point, supported by a reliable boxer engine and an overall positive reputation for the brand. However, specific problems like display screen malfunctions, brake pad wear, and a rear hatch that won't open have been mentioned. 
Positive aspects

  • High owner satisfaction: Many owners rate the 2016 Impreza positively for reliability and value. 
  • Durable engine: The model uses a reliable boxer engine, which is a signature Subaru feature. 
  • Longevity: The vehicle is known to last for a long time, with many owners reporting high mileage without major issues, provided regular maintenance is performed. 

This video discusses the reliability and durability of Subaru models, including the Impreza: 45sDriven CompanionYouTube · Jan 24, 2019
Potential issues
  • In-car electronics: Some owners have experienced problems with the infotainment system, including a blank display screen and phone pairing issues.
  • Brake problems: Premature wear on brake pads and rotors, pulsation, and squeaking have been reported by some owners.
  • Other minor problems: A few owners have mentioned issues with the rear speakers and the rear hatchback not opening correctly. 

What to consider
  • Maintenance is key: Following the recommended maintenance schedule, especially for services like oil changes and brake checks, can help avoid some of the problems that have been reported. 
  • Check for recalls: The NHTSA issued one recall for the 2016 model, so it's wise to check if any fixes are needed for the specific vehicle you are considering. 
  • All-wheel drive advantage: Its standard all-wheel drive is a major advantage for all-weather traction, which is a significant plus for many buyers. 

This video reviews the 2016 Subaru Impreza and highlights its features, including the all-wheel drive system: 34sDriven CompanionYouTube · May 19, 2020



Are subarus reliable after 100k miles?


Yes, Subarus can be reliable after 100,000 miles, but it is heavily dependent on consistent maintenance and addressing potential issues like head gaskets. With proper care, many Subarus can last for 200,000 to 300,000 miles or more. 
Factors for reliability after 100k miles

  • Maintenance is crucial: This is the single most important factor. Regularly following the manufacturer's service schedule for things like oil changes, fluid flushes, and timing belt/chain replacements is essential for longevity. 
  • Common issues to check for:
    • Head Gaskets: This is a well-known potential issue in older EJ engines, often occurring between 100,000 and 130,000 miles. 
    • Engine reseals: Newer FB engines might require a more involved reseal around 150,000 miles. 
    • CVT transmission: Early models of the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) had some documented problems, so it's worth researching the specific model year. 
  • Model and engine differences: Older EJ engines are known for head gasket issues, while newer FB engines have a timing chain instead of a belt but may need a different type of service later on. 
  • Inspection and service history: If buying a used Subaru, a clean vehicle history report and documented service records are vital. 

How to ensure long life
  • Follow the 100k-mile service: At the 100,000-mile mark, be prepared for a service that combines previous intervals and includes replacing spark plugs, transmission fluid, and differential fluid. 
  • Preventive maintenance: Continue with all standard maintenance items like oil changes, tire pressure checks, and air filter replacements to prevent other components from failing prematurely. 
  • Be prepared for other repairs: Once a car hits 100,000 miles, various other parts like suspension components, wheel bearings, and the alternator may start to need replacement, even if the major mechanical parts are still sound. 



How many miles can you get out of a 2016 Subaru Impreza?


Despite its smaller size, the Impreza is built to last, with many drivers reporting longevity and reliability well beyond 200,000 miles.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.