Is a Subaru Impreza a reliable car?
The Subaru Impreza has long been a popular choice among car enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike. Known for its all-wheel-drive system, practicality, and affordability, the Impreza has carved out a niche in the compact car market. But how does it fare when it comes to reliability? As the owner of Kevin's Autos, with years of experience in car maintenance and repair, I’ll break down the key factors that determine the reliability of the Subaru Impreza.
What Makes a Car Reliable?
Reliability in a car is determined by several factors, including the durability of its components, the frequency of repairs, and the cost of maintenance. A reliable car should perform consistently over time, require minimal unexpected repairs, and have affordable maintenance costs. Let’s see how the Subaru Impreza measures up in these areas.
Key Factors in the Subaru Impreza's Reliability
The Subaru Impreza has a reputation for being a dependable vehicle, but like any car, it has its strengths and weaknesses. Here are the main factors to consider:
- Engine Performance: The Impreza is equipped with Subaru’s signature Boxer engine, which provides a low center of gravity and balanced performance. While generally reliable, some older models have experienced issues with head gasket failures, which can be costly to repair.
- All-Wheel Drive System: One of the standout features of the Impreza is its standard all-wheel-drive system. This makes it an excellent choice for drivers in regions with harsh weather conditions. The system is robust and rarely causes major issues when properly maintained.
- Maintenance Costs: Routine maintenance for the Impreza, such as oil changes, brake replacements, and tire rotations, is reasonably priced. However, repairs related to the Boxer engine or transmission can be more expensive than average.
- Longevity: With proper care, many Subaru Imprezas can last well over 200,000 miles. Regular maintenance and addressing minor issues promptly are key to achieving this level of longevity.
Common Issues to Watch For
While the Subaru Impreza is generally reliable, there are a few common issues that owners should be aware of:
- Head Gasket Problems: As mentioned earlier, older models (particularly those from the late 1990s to early 2000s) are prone to head gasket failures. Subaru has improved this issue in newer models.
- Oil Consumption: Some Impreza models have been reported to consume more oil than expected. Regularly checking and topping off oil levels can help prevent engine damage.
- CVT Transmission Concerns: The continuously variable transmission (CVT) in newer Imprezas has been a point of contention for some owners. While not inherently unreliable, it can be expensive to repair if issues arise.
Conclusion: Is the Subaru Impreza Reliable?
Overall, the Subaru Impreza is a reliable car, especially for those who prioritize safety, all-weather capability, and practicality. While it does have some known issues, these are generally manageable with regular maintenance and prompt attention to repairs. If you’re considering purchasing an Impreza, opting for a newer model with updated engineering can help mitigate some of the concerns associated with older versions.
At Kevin's Autos, we’ve worked on countless Subaru Imprezas over the years, and we’ve seen firsthand how proper care can keep these vehicles running smoothly for many miles. If you have questions about maintaining your Impreza or need expert advice, don’t hesitate to reach out to us!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are subarus imprezas reliable?
The Subaru Impreza has an average reliability rating from RepairPal of 3.5 out of 5.0. Common problems with the Subaru Impreza include engine issues, sudden and abrupt acceleration, transmission failure, and air bag problems.
Why did Subaru stop making Impreza?
Subaru told Autoblog during the Impreza's reveal that it was indeed a financial decision. The hatchback outsold the sedan by a 3-to-1 ratio, and with the Crosstrek outselling every Impreza by the same ratio, well, do the math. The Premium and Limited trims were also axed, leaving the Base and Sport trims.
Do Subaru Imprezas last long?
The new 2024 Subaru Impreza is a long-lasting sedan or hatchback with an excellent life expectancy. You can project it to go somewhere between 200,000 miles and 250,000 miles, giving it a projected lifespan of 13 to 17 years if it's driven about 15,000 miles per year.
Are subarus more expensive to repair than Toyota?
Above-average maintenance and repair costs are something that Subaru owners have to contend with. Those with a Subaru can expect to spend 50% more than on a comparable Toyota or Honda, whether it's due to more complicated engine access or more expensive tire changes.
What is the downside of Subaru Impreza?
Cons: Limited cargo space: The Impreza has a relatively small trunk, which can be limiting for those who need to carry a lot of cargo. Performance: While the Impreza is capable and reliable, it is not known for its high-performance capabilities.
Do Imprezas hold their value?
A Subaru Impreza will depreciate 28% after 5 years and have a 5 year resale value of $19,882.
Is the Subaru Impreza high maintenance?
A Subaru Impreza will cost about $6,129 for maintenance and repairs during its first 10 years of service. This is more than the industry average for popular sedan models by $168.
What is more reliable than a Subaru?
Many recent studies show Subaru losing the battle against Honda and Toyota when it comes to reliability. As a shop owner that specializes in Subaru repair, I believe Subaru still makes a great car when it comes to safety standards but it is lacking in reliability when compared to the two giants, Honda and Toyota.
What is high mileage for a Subaru Impreza?
Impreza: The Subaru Impreza is a compact car available in both sedan and hatchback body styles. Despite its smaller size, the Impreza is built to last, with many drivers reporting longevity and reliability well beyond 200,000 miles.
Are Subaru Imprezas expensive to fix?
A Subaru Impreza will cost about $6,129 for maintenance and repairs during its first ten years of service.
