Is the 2014 Subaru Impreza a reliable car?
Yes, generally reliable for a compact all-wheel-drive vehicle, but reliability depends on maintenance history and the chosen transmission. Well-maintained examples can deliver solid longevity, while CVT-equipped models have shown wear and oil-consumption concerns in some cases.
Reliability snapshot for the 2014 Impreza
Industry reviews and owner feedback from the era suggest the 2014 Impreza sits in the reliable-to-average range for compact cars, with Subaru’s hallmark all-wheel-drive system and durable construction contributing to long-term resilience. Real-world reliability hinges on proper maintenance, transmission type, and how well the vehicle has been cared for over its life.
Key reliability takeaways:
- All-wheel drive and a boxer-engine design offer robustness when regularly serviced and kept in good condition.
- Transmission choice matters: manual transmissions are typically simpler and cheaper to repair, while CVTs can be economical and smooth when well maintained but may carry higher repair costs if they fail.
- Some owners report CVT-related issues and oil consumption in certain 2.0L engines; these concerns are not universal but are worth checking in a used example.
- Routine maintenance is essential, including timely oil changes, cooling system checks, and inspection of belts, seals, and the AWD drivetrain components.
Conclusion: With a detailed maintenance history and a CVT that has been serviced or replaced if needed, the 2014 Impreza can be a reliable daily driver and a practical long-term purchase.
What to look for when buying a used 2014 Impreza
Before evaluating a used Impreza, consider the following checks to gauge reliability and avoid costly surprises.
- Maintenance history, especially interval oil changes and any transmission service records
- Transmission type and condition (CVT vs manual) and any signs of wear, slipping, or unusual noises
- Oil consumption history and engine health (rough idling, misfires, excessive oil top-ups)
- Recalls and service campaigns completed, including airbag-related recalls and engine updates
- Wear items like tires, brakes, suspension components; AWD drivetrain seals and CV joints for CVT models
Conclusion: A thorough pre-purchase inspection (PPI) by a qualified mechanic and a complete recall check are essential for a 2014 Impreza to confirm reliability prospects.
Expert and owner perspectives
Multiple reviewers note that the 2014 Impreza delivers steady handling, solid safety metrics, and useful all-wheel drive, making it a practical choice in the compact class. However, they caution that CVT reliability varies and maintenance costs can be higher if the transmission needs service or replacement. Overall, owners who keep up with routine maintenance report fewer issues and a favorable long-term ownership experience.
Key takeaways from owner and expert feedback are summarized here:
- Regular maintenance, especially CVT fluid changes and inspections, is critical for long-term reliability.
- Manual transmission models can offer a simpler and potentially less costly ownership experience, with fewer transmission-related concerns.
- Safety, practicality, and AWD capability contribute to positive ownership sentiment when the vehicle is well-maintained.
Conclusion: For buyers comfortable with ongoing maintenance and who want all-wheel-drive practicality, the 2014 Impreza can be a dependable choice within its segment.
Bottom line and takeaway
In sum, the 2014 Subaru Impreza remains a solid option in the used-car market for those seeking standard all-wheel drive, practicality, and a respectable durability profile. The key to achieving reliable long-term performance is a documented maintenance history, completion of any required recalls, and, for CVT-equipped models, evidence of proper service or replacement if needed. A well-cared-for example is likely to serve reliably across many miles.
Summary
The 2014 Subaru Impreza generally offers reliable performance for a compact with standard all-wheel drive. While it is not immune to issues—particularly with CVTs and, in some engines, oil consumption—careful maintenance, a thorough pre-purchase inspection, and a complete service history can yield a dependable used car that remains practical and safe for daily driving.
What are the negatives of the 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.
How much is a used 2014 Impreza worth?
A 2014 Subaru Impreza 2.0i Sedan 4D has depreciated $3,267 or 39% in the last 3 years and has a current resale value of $5,064 and trade-in value of $2,691.
How long should a 2014 Subaru Impreza last?
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.
Is the 2014 Subaru reliable?
Among the 342 owners who provided feedback on the 2014 Subaru Outback for Kelley Blue Book, consumer sentiment is mostly positive, with 75% recommending the vehicle. As a whole, consumers found the vehicle's comfort and reliability to be its strongest features and performance to be its weakest.
