If you’re thinking about getting a Subaru Impreza, it’s important to know which years to avoid causing you more headaches than they’re worth.
Specifically, the 2006, 2008, 2010, 2012, and 2013 models are known for various problems, like transmission failures and leaky head gaskets.
The last thing you want is a car that needs frequent and expensive repairs. So, what exactly makes these years troublesome, and how can you make sure you’re making a smart choice?
Key Takeaways
- Stay away from the 2006 Impreza because of transmission problems and leaky head gaskets.
- The 2008 Impreza has poor visibility and often leaks head gaskets.
- The 2010 Impreza is unreliable, with a low rating of 1 out of 5.
- The 2012 Impreza has issues with sudden acceleration and transmission problems.
- The 2013 Impreza has trouble with its CVT transmission and uses a lot of oil.
Overview of Problematic Years
When looking at the Subaru Impreza, be especially careful with the 2006, 2008, 2010, 2012, and 2013 models because they’ve a lot of complaints and recalls.
The 2006 model had big issues like transmission problems and leaky head gaskets, with 80 complaints and 10 recalls.
The 2008 Impreza had 297 complaints and 15 recalls, mostly because of visibility issues and leaky head gaskets.
The 2010 model‘s reliability rating dropped to 1 out of 5.
In 2012, there were 332 complaints, many about sudden acceleration and transmission problems.
Lastly, the 2013 model had 320 complaints, with major problems like CVT transmission issues and high oil consumption.
2006 Subaru Impreza Issues
The Subaru Impreza has had several major issues over the years, including problems with the transmission, leaky head gaskets, visibility issues, electronic glitches, sudden acceleration, and high oil consumption.
Many Impreza models have received numerous complaints and recalls.
Transmission Problems: These can make driving difficult and lead to expensive repairs.
Leaky Head Gaskets: Often seen in older models, they can cause the engine to overheat and possibly fail.
Electronic Glitches: Problems with the electrical system can affect the car’s safety and reliability.
These issues have led to a lot of complaints and recalls, showing a pattern of reliability problems with the Subaru Impreza.
Fixing these problems is crucial for the car’s long-term performance.
2008 Subaru Impreza Issues
Many Subaru Impreza models have had recurring problems, so it’s important to know about these issues before buying one. Common problems include transmission issues, especially with the CVT systems in the 2012 and 2013 models.
Head gaskets are another frequent issue, particularly in the 2006 and 2008 Imprezas. Visibility problems have also been reported in the 2008 model year.
Electronics issues, like those in the 2010 Impreza, can cause major reliability problems. High oil consumption is a notable issue in the 2013 model, which can lead to expensive repairs.
Knowing about these problems can help you make a better decision when looking at a Subaru Impreza.
2010 Subaru Impreza Issues
When looking at the Subaru Impreza’s trouble years, you’ll notice common issues with airbag safety, engine performance, and the transmission system. These problems can make the car less reliable and safe, as well as affect how it drives.
Knowing about these issues can help you decide which model years to steer clear of.
Airbag Safety Concerns
Subaru Impreza drivers should be extra careful about airbag safety because of the Takata airbag recalls. These safety concerns are important because many Subaru Impreza models are affected by this recall, which can be dangerous.
The main problem is that the inflator inside the airbag can explode due to the propellant breaking down over time. Subaru has started a program to replace the faulty airbag inflators to keep you safe.
Make sure to stay informed about recall information and act quickly if your car is affected.
Key points to remember:
- Takata airbag recall: Affects many Subaru Impreza models.
- Inflator explosion risk: Caused by the propellant breaking down.
- Replacement program: Subaru’s plan to keep you safe.
Engine Performance Problems
The Subaru Impreza is known for its reliable engine performance. Unlike some cars, it doesn’t have a history of significant engine problems, making it a dependable choice.
Even in the years that some people suggest avoiding, engine issues are rare. The engines in these cars have shown to be consistently reliable with few reported problems. This reliability adds to the Impreza’s good reputation.
While other cars might’ve frequent engine failures or performance issues, the Subaru Impreza is known for having a dependable engine. So, if you’re looking at which years of the Subaru Impreza to avoid, engine performance isn’t usually a big concern.
Transmission System Issues
Transmission problems in certain years of the Subaru Impreza, like 2006 and 2012, have been a big worry for owners and experts. These issues often show up as sudden acceleration, rough idling, and even complete transmission failure. Such problems can be serious, leading to safety risks like losing power or unexpected speed surges.
To avoid these problems, watch out for the following signs:
- Jerky Movements: Owners have reported sudden jerks when shifting gears.
- Gear Slipping: Gears may slip, making the car behave unpredictably.
- Delayed Shifting: Slow gear changes can affect how well and safely your car drives.
Staying away from these model years can help you avoid expensive repairs and dangerous situations.
2012 Subaru Impreza Issues
When looking at the Subaru Impreza, there are two big issues to watch out for: transmission problems and leaky head gaskets. In the worst years for the Impreza, like 2006 and 2008, many people complained about transmission issues, which hurt the car’s reliability.
The 2012 and 2013 models also had a lot of transmission problems, leading to many complaints to the NHTSA. Leaky head gaskets were another common problem, especially in the 2006 and 2008 models. These issues led to many recalls and reliability concerns over the years.
The 2010 model also had a poor reliability rating, mainly due to problems with electronics and the transmission. So, if you’re thinking about getting an Impreza, keep these issues in mind.
2013 Subaru Impreza Issues
When looking at the Subaru Impreza, you should know about three big issues: problems with the CVT transmission, using too much oil, and safety recalls.
These problems are especially common in some model years and can affect how reliable and well the car performs.
Knowing about these issues can help you decide which years to avoid.
CVT Transmission Problems
If you own a 2010 to 2013 Subaru Impreza, you might run into some serious problems with the CVT transmission. These issues can really mess with how reliable your car is and how well it drives.
People with models like the 2013 Subaru Impreza and the 2012 Subaru Impreza have reported problems such as sudden acceleration and rough shifting. Even the 2010 Subaru Impreza isn’t free from these issues, with many owners worried about long-term maintenance.
Frequent transmission problems can also cause your car to use more oil, so you’ll need to check it regularly. Make sure you inspect the car thoroughly before buying to catch any potential transmission issues.
Key problems to watch out for:
- Sudden acceleration and rough shifting in 2012 models.
- High oil consumption due to transmission issues.
- Erratic transmission behavior in 2010-2013 models.
High Oil Consumption
Several Subaru Impreza models have struggled with high oil consumption, which has led to frequent maintenance and possible engine issues.
The 2013 Subaru Impreza is well-known for using too much oil, requiring more oil changes than usual. Similarly, the 2015 model needs constant checking and topping off of oil between regular changes.
The 2005 Subaru Impreza also had problems with excessive oil usage, along with engine cooling issues that affected its overall performance.
The 2012 model showed signs of rough idling and sudden revving, indicating it too had oil consumption problems.
To avoid these issues, it’s best to steer clear of Subaru Impreza models with CVT transmissions, as they’re more likely to have related engine problems.
These problematic years point out the hassle and potential costs of keeping these models running smoothly.
Safety Recalls
Subaru Impreza models have had some serious safety recalls, including issues with Takata airbags. These airbags can be dangerous because the inflators might explode due to problems with the propellant. Subaru has been recalling and replacing these airbags in many Impreza models to fix this issue.
If you’re thinking about buying a Subaru Impreza, make sure to check for these recalls to ensure the car is safe.
Here are the main safety recall issues to watch out for:
- Takata airbags: Risk of inflator explosions.
- Faulty airbag inflators: Need for recall and replacement.
- Safety concerns: Important for potential buyers to address before purchasing.
Taking care of these recalls is crucial for the safety and reliability of your Subaru Impreza.
Common Problems Across Years
Looking at the problems that have popped up over the years for the Subaru Impreza, some issues keep coming back. These include leaky head gaskets, transmission failures, airbag recalls, and high oil consumption.
If you’re thinking about which Subaru Impreza years to steer clear of, the 2006 and 2008 models are known for head gasket problems. Transmission issues were common in the 2006 and 2012 models, making them less reliable.
The 2013 Subaru Impreza had big problems with high oil consumption and often needed engine rebuilds, which made it tough to maintain.
Knowing these common problems can help you be more careful when looking at used Subaru Impreza cars, so you can avoid headaches and expensive repairs later on.
Airbag Safety Concerns
The Subaru Impreza has some airbag safety concerns mainly because of the widespread Takata airbag recall. This recall affects many car models and brings up serious safety issues.
The problem is that the airbag inflators can explode due to the propellant degrading over time, which could hurt people in the car. Subaru has started a recall and is replacing the faulty airbag inflators in certain Impreza models to fix these safety issues.
To make sure you’re safe:
- Check if your Subaru Impreza is part of the recall.
- If it is, schedule an appointment to get the airbag inflator replaced.
- Keep up-to-date with any new airbag safety concerns and recalls.
Taking these steps quickly can make your car much safer.
Head Gasket Problems
Why do the 2006 and 2008 Subaru Impreza models have so many head gasket problems?
These specific years have a lot of complaints because of ongoing head gasket issues. The trouble usually comes from the design and materials used for the gaskets during these years.
Leaky head gaskets can cause coolant leaks and engine overheating, which, if not fixed, can lead to serious engine damage. Repairs are costly and time-consuming, making these models less appealing.
Regular maintenance and watching for early signs of head gasket failure can help, but the 2006 and 2008 Imprezas are still known for these problems.
Transmission Issues
When looking at transmission problems in Subaru Impreza cars, you’ll see major issues in certain years. The 2006 model has a lot of complaints and recalls.
The 2012 model has sudden acceleration problems due to its transmission.
The 2013 Impreza’s CVT transmission uses too much oil, leading to many complaints and recalls.
Common Transmission Problems
If your Subaru Impreza is suddenly speeding up, not running smoothly when idling, or the transmission stops working completely, it can really affect how dependable and enjoyable the car is to drive. Many Subaru Impreza models have had issues with their CVT transmissions. These problems can show up as:
- Sudden Speed Changes: Some drivers notice sudden speed changes, especially when driving in reverse, which can be dangerous.
- Rough Idling: The car’s engine mightn’t idle smoothly and could act unpredictably, suggesting transmission problems.
- Total Transmission Breakdown: In worst-case scenarios, the transmission might fail entirely, leading to expensive repairs and safety risks.
Choosing a Subaru Impreza without these known CVT transmission problems can help ensure a smoother and more reliable driving experience.
Notable Affected Years
Some Subaru Impreza model years have had major transmission problems, so it’s important to know which ones to avoid for a more reliable car.
The 2006 Subaru Impreza is well-known for transmission troubles and leaky head gaskets.
The 2008 model had a lot of complaints too, including visibility problems along with mechanical issues.
The 2010 model saw its reliability rating drop because of many recalls and electronic issues.
Sudden acceleration and transmission problems were common in the 2012 Subaru Impreza, causing many owners to be unhappy.
Lastly, the 2013 model had issues with its CVT transmission and used a lot of oil.
If you’re thinking about getting a Subaru Impreza, it’s a good idea to be cautious with the 2006, 2008, 2010, 2012, and 2013 models.
Engine Problems
The engine problems in some Subaru Impreza models are quite serious and varied, making them less reliable overall. Here are some specific issues to watch out for in certain years:
- Leaky Head Gasket: The 2006 and 2008 models often have leaky head gaskets, which cause coolant and oil leaks.
- Transmission Issues: The 2006 model also has transmission problems, and the 2012 model can suddenly accelerate and has transmission issues as well.
- Poor Reliability Rating: The 2010 model has a low reliability rating of 1 out of 5, with many complaints about electronics and engine problems.
These ongoing issues make these Subaru Impreza models less dependable.
Visibility Problems
While engine problems significantly affect the reliability of the Subaru Impreza, visibility issues in the 2008 model also raise serious safety concerns. The 2008 model stands out among the Subaru Impreza years to avoid because it has 18 complaints about visibility issues.
These problems include frequent windshield cracks and troublesome light reflection, both of which can obstruct your view while driving. These issues are crucial as they directly impact your ability to drive safely. Fixing these visibility problems can cost more than $2000, making it a financial strain as well.
Given these visibility issues, the 2008 Subaru Impreza becomes a less attractive option for potential buyers.
Advice for Impreza Buyers
When looking at a Subaru Impreza, watch out for the 2006, 2008, 2010, 2012, and 2013 models. These years often have problems like bad transmissions and using too much oil.
Knowing about these issues can save you from expensive repairs and safety problems. Instead, look for more reliable models.
Identifying Problematic Model Years
To avoid expensive repairs and safety problems, stay away from the Subaru Impreza model years 2006, 2008, 2010, 2012, and 2013.
These models have serious issues like:
- Transmission Problems: Frequent and costly transmission breakdowns.
- Leaky Head Gaskets and High Oil Consumption: They often have head gasket leaks and use too much oil, which can damage the engine.
- Sudden Acceleration and Takata Airbag Recalls: Problems with unintended acceleration and safety risks due to airbag recalls.
Common Issues Overview
Thinking about getting a Subaru Impreza? Be aware of some common problems like leaky head gaskets, transmission issues, and airbag recalls in certain years.
The Impreza models to avoid are 2006, 2008, 2010, 2012, and 2013. For example, the 2008 model has 297 complaints with the NHTSA, mostly about visibility problems and leaky head gaskets.
The 2010 Impreza has a poor reliability rating of just 1 out of 5, with 15 recalls and many complaints about electronics.
The 2012 model has 332 complaints with the NHTSA, including issues like sudden acceleration and transmission trouble. These years also tend to have high oil consumption and ongoing electronics problems, making them less reliable choices.
Reliable Alternatives
If you’re worried about the reliability of certain Subaru Impreza models, you might want to look at more dependable options like the Volkswagen Golf or Toyota Corolla hatchback. These cars, along with other reliable choices, offer better long-term value and fewer surprise repair bills.
The Toyota Camry and Ford Explorer are also good options since they usually score higher in reliability and owner satisfaction.
Here are three reasons to consider these alternatives:
- Volkswagen Golf: Known for being well-built and reliable.
- Toyota Corolla hatchback: Has high reliability ratings and lower maintenance costs.
- Toyota Camry: Provides a dependable and comfortable ride with a strong track record for reliability.
Think about what you need and pick a car that will give you fewer problems and save you money in the long run.
Most Reliable Impreza Years
If you’re looking for a reliable Subaru Impreza, the 2017 model is a great choice. It has a strong 2.0-L engine, a well-designed interior, and good fuel efficiency.
Here are some reasons why the 2017 Impreza is known for its reliability:
- Engine performance: The 2.0-L engine runs smoothly and efficiently.
- Interior styling: The cabin is comfortable and nicely designed with quality materials.
- Fuel economy: It gets good gas mileage, saving you money and being better for the environment.
The 2017 Impreza fixed many of the problems seen in earlier models and holds up well over time, making it a reliable car that will last.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Downside of a Subaru Impreza?
You’ll deal with common problems like transmission failures and leaky head gaskets, which can be expensive to fix. These issues can also affect the car’s performance and resale value. Regular maintenance can help avoid safety issues and keep the vehicle reliable.
How Reliable Are Subaru Imprezas?
Subaru Imprezas are really reliable! They don’t have many common problems, the maintenance costs are fair, and the engines are strong. The safety features and performance upgrades make them even better, and their resale value stays good. You’ll appreciate how dependable they are.
How Many Miles Will a Subaru Impreza Last?
With proper care, your Subaru Impreza can run between 200,000 and 250,000 miles. Regular check-ups, fixing common problems, and maybe even some performance upgrades can help. How you drive and how much repairs cost also play a part. Follow these maintenance tips for the best results.
Is 2014 a Good Year for a Subaru Impreza?
The 2014 Impreza runs smoothly, with better performance and improved fuel efficiency. It has lower maintenance costs and holds its value well. There aren’t many common problems, making it a dependable choice for buyers.
When looking at performance cars, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Subaru Brz, Subaru Crosstrek, Subaru Forester and Subaru Legacy. Knowing which model years to target and which to avoid is crucial. Our expert reviews break down these models, providing insights into the years that are celebrated for their engineering excellence and driving satisfaction, as well as those that are best to avoid due to potential issues.
Conclusion
When looking at a Subaru Impreza, navigating the different model years can be tricky. It’s best to avoid the 2006, 2008, 2010, 2012, and 2013 models because they often have problems like transmission failures and high oil consumption.
Choosing more reliable years will ensure a smoother, hassle-free driving experience.
Doing your homework now will save you trouble down the road.
