Is the Subaru Impreza high maintenance?
The Subaru Impreza is not unusually high-maintenance compared with other compact cars. Its upkeep falls in the mid-range for modern AWD shipments, with routine service and a few model-specific considerations that can influence costs over time. With diligent maintenance, it remains a reliable daily driver.
The question of maintenance turns on how you define “high maintenance.” This article breaks down what Impreza owners typically face, how the standard all-wheel drive influences upkeep, and what to expect for routine costs across common model years.
What maintenance a Subaru Impreza typically requires
Understanding the core items helps gauge overall maintenance needs. The Impreza shares maintenance fundamentals with many modern compact cars, with AWD adding a layer of drivetrain care. The list below covers the key areas most owners track at regular service visits.
- Oil changes: Use synthetic 0W-20 and follow the interval recommended in your owner's manual, typically about every 5,000–7,500 miles depending on driving conditions.
- Tire maintenance: Rotate tires every 5,000–7,500 miles; ensure proper alignment and balance to promote even wear across the AWD system.
- Brake service: Inspect pads, rotors, and brake fluid at each service; pad replacement is common between 30,000–70,000 miles depending on driving style and conditions.
- Filters: Engine air filter and cabin air filter typically require replacement every 15,000–30,000 miles, or as needed in dusty or high-pollen environments.
- Coolant: Coolant replacement intervals are often around 100,000 miles or 6–10 years, depending on the coolant specification and model year.
- Spark plugs: Modern Imprezas commonly call for spark plug replacement around 100,000 miles, using compatible iridium/platinum varieties when replacing.
- CVT transmission service: If your Impreza uses a CVT, follow the owner's manual for transmission-fluid service intervals, which are usually around 60,000 miles or as specified by Subaru; use the recommended CVT fluid.
- Brake fluid: Replace every 2–3 years to maintain braking performance and prevent moisture-related issues.
These routine tasks are designed to keep the car performing predictably and to minimize unexpected repairs. Following the recommended maintenance schedule is the best defense against bigger, costlier issues down the line.
Engine and drivetrain specifics
Powertrain maintenance for the Impreza centers on the 2.0-liter engine family used in most generations. The engine typically runs reliably with regular oil changes and proper coolant and filter care. The AWD system adds components (differentials, driveshafts, and a transfer mechanism) that require periodic fluid checks and checks for wear, especially in harsh winter or high-tust driving. Always refer to your model-year maintenance schedule to confirm intervals for your specific car.
Everyday wear items
Beyond major servicing, expect standard wear items to accumulate as with any vehicle: tires, brake pads, wiper blades, and light bulbs, all of which may need attention at roughly annual intervals depending on use and climate.
Concluding note: Staying on top of routine maintenance keeps the Impreza performing well and helps prevent surprises during commute or road trips.
Impact of all-wheel drive on upkeep
All-wheel drive (AWD) is a defining feature of most Impreza models and it shapes maintenance in several ways. The following points highlight where AWD influences cost, complexity, and care.
- Drivetrain fluids: AWD systems require regular checks and periodic fluid changes for both front and rear differentials, as well as the transfer case on some trims.
- Tire management: AWD benefits from matching tire tread depth across all four tires; mismatches can cause drivetrain wear, so owners often replace all four tires at similar times.
- Wheel bearings and CV joints: The AWD layout can place more emphasis on CV joints and wheel bearings, potentially leading to earlier wear in aggressive driving or rough roads.
- Winter readiness: AWD improves traction, but winter maintenance (tire selection, brake and suspension checks) remains essential; winter tires are common in snowy regions.
- Fuel economy impact: AWD typically reduces highway fuel economy by a small margin compared with two-wheel-drive rivals, which effectively adds ongoing fuel cost rather than a maintenance charge.
Bottom line: AWD adds some ongoing maintenance considerations and can modestly raise routine costs, but it does not inherently make the Impreza a high-mileage burden if you stick to the recommended service plan.
Common maintenance costs and intervals for the Impreza
Costs vary by model year, trim, labor rates, and whether you use a dealer or independent shop. The figures below reflect typical ranges seen in many markets and are intended as guidelines rather than guarantees. Always check your owner’s manual and obtain quotes from local shops.
- Oil changes and inspections: about $40–$100 at independent shops, up to $100–$150 at a dealer, depending on oil type and fluids used.
- Tire rotation and balancing: roughly $20–$60 per session; replacement tires cost widely by brand and size (roughly $400–$800 for a set of four, installed).
- Brake service (pads and rotors): approximately $150–$350 per axle for pads alone; rotors can add $100–$200 per axle if resurfacing or replacement is needed.
- Filters (engine and cabin): typically $30–$70 per filter, with labor bringing total per filter higher at a shop.
- Coolant flush/replacement: around $100–$150, depending on vehicle year and coolant type.
- Spark plugs: roughly $150–$300 total, depending on labor intensity and whether access requires extra time.
- CVT transmission service: roughly $150–$350, depending on local labor rates and whether a full fluid flush is performed.
- Brake fluid replacement: about $60–$100 when done as a scheduled service.
Note that these ranges can vary significantly by region and whether the vehicle is still under warranty or covered by an extended service plan. Shopping around for a trusted Subaru specialist or a dealership with CVT experience can help you get accurate estimates for your specific year and configuration.
Summary
In practical terms, the Subaru Impreza is not inherently high-maintenance. It shares the maintenance expectations of a modern, all-wheel-drive compact car, with some extra attention paid to AWD components and CVT-related services in affected model years. Regular oil changes, proper filter replacements, tire maintenance, and adhering to the CVT and coolant service intervals are the keys to keeping an Impreza reliable and cost-effective over the long haul. By following the manufacturer’s schedule and using qualified technicians, owners can enjoy dependable performance without excessive upkeep compared with peers in its class.
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.
Is the Subaru Impreza reliable?
Most Imprezas reach 150,000 to 200,000 miles before major issues surface; that's 13 to 17 years if you drive an average of 15,000 miles per year. RepairPal gives the Impreza a 3.5/5 for reliability, ranking 33rd out of 36 for compact cars. J.D. Power rated the 2022 model an 80 out of 100 for quality and reliability.
Is it expensive to maintain a Subaru Impreza?
A Subaru Impreza will cost about $6,344 for maintenance and repairs during its first 10 years of service. This is more than the industry average for popular sedan models by $598. There is also a 18.31% chance that an Impreza will require a major repair during that time.
Is Subaru a high maintenance car?
Most Subaru owners spend between $600 and $700 per year on basic maintenance. This includes things like oil changes, tire rotations, air filter replacements, and fluid top-offs.
