Is the Subaru Impreza a reliable car?
The Subaru Impreza has long been a popular choice for drivers seeking a compact car that combines practicality, safety, and all-weather capability. But how does it fare in terms of reliability? As an experienced auto service provider, I’ll break down the key factors that determine the reliability of the Subaru Impreza and help you decide if it’s the right car for you.
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 with minimal unexpected issues. Let’s evaluate the Subaru Impreza based on these criteria.
Subaru Impreza: A Closer Look at Reliability
The Subaru Impreza has built a reputation for being a dependable vehicle, and here’s why:
- Engine Durability: The Impreza is equipped with Subaru’s signature Boxer engine, which is known for its low center of gravity and balanced performance. While the engine is generally reliable, regular maintenance is crucial to prevent issues such as oil leaks or timing belt wear.
- All-Wheel Drive System: One of the standout features of the Impreza is its standard all-wheel drive (AWD) system. This system enhances traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions, making it a reliable choice for drivers in snowy or rainy climates.
- Safety and Longevity: Subaru vehicles, including the Impreza, are often praised for their safety features and crashworthiness. These factors contribute to the car’s overall reliability and long-term value.
Common Issues to Watch For
While the Subaru Impreza is generally reliable, no car is without its flaws. Here are some common issues reported by Impreza owners:
- Oil Consumption: Some older Impreza models have been known to consume oil at a higher rate than expected. Regular oil checks and timely top-ups can mitigate this issue.
- CVT Transmission Concerns: Models equipped with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) may experience issues such as hesitation or shuddering. Subaru has addressed some of these concerns with extended warranties on certain models.
- Rust in Cold Climates: Like many vehicles, the Impreza may be prone to rust in areas where road salt is heavily used. Regular washing and undercoating can help prevent this.
Maintenance Tips for a Reliable Subaru Impreza
To ensure your Subaru Impreza remains reliable for years to come, follow these maintenance tips:
- Stick to the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, including oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections.
- Address any warning lights or unusual noises promptly to prevent minor issues from becoming major repairs.
- Invest in high-quality replacement parts and fluids to maintain the performance of your vehicle.
Conclusion: Is the Subaru Impreza Right for You?
The Subaru Impreza is a reliable car for many drivers, particularly those who value safety, all-weather capability, and practicality. While it does have some common issues, these can often be mitigated with proper maintenance and care. If you’re considering purchasing an Impreza, be sure to have it inspected by a trusted mechanic and review its maintenance history to ensure you’re making a sound investment.
At Kevin’s Autos, we’ve serviced countless Subaru Imprezas over the years and can vouch for their reliability when properly maintained. If you have any questions or need assistance with your vehicle, don’t hesitate to reach out to us!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are subarus expensive to maintain or fix?
Subaru models average around $7,374 for maintenance and repair costs during their first ten years of service. However, this beats the industry average for popular brands by $925 and is 2.44% better compared to the other auto manufacturers in this segment that CarEdge has studied.
What is the most reliable car model?
Consumer Reports' 10 most reliable car models
- Toyota RAV4. CR reliability score: 86. Overall CR score: 76.
- Toyota Corolla. CR reliability score: 84.
- Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid. CR reliability score: 84.
- Mazda MX-5 Miata. CR reliability score: 84.
- Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. CR reliability score: 83.
- BMW i4. CR reliability score: 82.
Why did Subaru stop Impreza?
So, if the car segment is still important enough for Subaru to invest in a new product, why drop the sedan? “One of the main reasons was sales,” says Goh. “We offered both up until now, and the vast majority of our customers were opting for the hatchback version.”
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.
Do subarus last as long as Toyotas?
And, Toyota was awarded the most reliable brand at the 2021 Auto Trader New Car Awards. Also, Toyota's can last well past 300,000 miles (think of the million-mile Tundra), while Subaru typically lasts around 200,000 miles.
What is the downside of a Subaru Impreza?
Overall, the Subaru Impreza is a solid choice for those who value reliability, safety, and all-wheel drive capability. Its fuel efficiency and advanced safety features are also major selling points. However, its limited cargo space and potentially higher price may be drawbacks for some buyers.
What is the biggest issue with Subaru?
Most common Subaru problems
- Fuel pump failure.
- O2 sensor problems.
- Blown head gaskets.
- Oil leaks.
- Battery draining rapidly.
- Unintended acceleration.
- Cracked windshields.
- Subaru Starlink problems.
Is the Subaru Impreza a good reliable car?
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.
How long will a Subaru Impreza last?
between 200,000 miles and 250,000 miles
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.
What years did Subaru have transmission problems?
Subaru owners have complained about problems with the Lineartronic CVT transmissions and Subaru extended the warranty for cars from model years 2010 to 2018. Usage: 2010–current Subaru Legacy / Outback / Exiga / Impreza / Levorg / Forester / XV and 2015 Subaru WRX Premium and Limited Editions.
