What are the service intervals for a Subaru Impreza?
Most Subaru Impreza models follow a fairly straightforward maintenance rhythm: oil changes every 6,000 miles under normal driving when using Subaru-approved synthetic oil, with more frequent changes (roughly 3,000–5,000 miles) for severe driving or if you’re using conventional oil. Routine inspections and component replacements typically occur in set milestones at 30,000, 60,000 and 90,000 miles, with exact tasks varying by model year and engine type. Always verify your vehicle’s exact schedule in the owner’s manual or with a Subaru dealer.
Core maintenance intervals
Below is a general guide to the recurring items you’ll encounter on most Impreza maintenance plans. The exact tasks and mileages can vary by year and engine; use this as a baseline and confirm with your manual.
- Oil and filter: every 6,000 miles or 6 months under normal driving with synthetic 0W-20; more frequent (about 3,000–5,000 miles) if you drive under severe conditions or use conventional oil.
- Tire rotation: every 5,000–7,500 miles or with each oil change, whichever comes first.
- Brake inspection: check pads, rotors and fluid level at least with each service and more often if you notice a change in braking performance.
- Engine air filter: typically around 30,000 miles; dusty or high-dust environments may require earlier replacement.
- Cabin air filter: typically every 15,000–30,000 miles depending on environment and driving conditions.
- Fluids check: coolant, brake fluid, power steering (if equipped) and, for CVT models, transmission fluid should be checked regularly during service intervals.
- Wiper blades and hoses: replace or service as needed based on wear and weather conditions.
Regular servicing supports reliability and efficiency; if you notice leaks, abnormal noises, or warning lights, arrange service promptly rather than waiting for the next milestone.
Major service milestones
These milestones cover more substantial maintenance tasks that are commonly recommended around 30,000, 60,000 and 90,000 miles. Exact tasks can differ by year and engine, so always consult your specific schedule.
- At 30,000 miles: replace engine air filter; replace cabin air filter; inspect and top off fluids; rotate tires; inspect brakes and suspension; check battery, belts and hoses.
- At 60,000 miles: further inspection of ignition components and electrical connections; inspect drive belts and hoses; check CVT or automatic transmission fluid condition if applicable; refresh fluids as recommended; continue air and cabin filter checks; perform thorough brake and suspension checks.
- At 90,000–100,000 miles: depending on year/engine, replace spark plugs (common for many FA/FB-era engines around 100,000 miles); inspect cooling system and replace coolant if due; inspect or replace transmission fluid per OEM guidance; continue with routine rotations and fluid checks.
Note that many Impreza engines in current generations use timing chains rather than belts, which means there isn’t a scheduled timing-b belt replacement interval as with older EJ-series engines. Always verify whether your model uses a chain or belt and follow the year-specific guidance in your manual.
Where to find your exact schedule
Because intervals vary by generation and engine type, the most reliable source is your specific vehicle’s maintenance schedule in the owner’s manual. If you don’t have a printed copy, you can often access the official Subaru maintenance schedule online using your VIN, or ask a Subaru dealer or certified shop to print your car’s exact chart.
Summary
In short, Subaru Impreza service intervals depend on model year and engine. A common baseline is oil changes every 6,000 miles under normal driving (3,000–5,000 miles under severe conditions or with conventional oil), plus major servicing around 30,000, 60,000 and 90,000 miles. Modern Impreza models typically use timing chains, reducing timing-belt replacement concerns, but exact tasks and mileages should always be confirmed against the official maintenance schedule for your specific car.
