Subaru Impreza Problems: 4 Issues Every Owner Should Know
1999-2020 model years · Based on 7,570+ owner reports · Last updated March 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 7,570+ owner reports, the 1999-2020 Subaru Impreza has 4 documented known issues, with 3 rated critical by the Au7o research team. The most serious are EJ253 Head Gasket Failure (External Leak) ($1,500-$2,800 repair), CVT Transmission Failure and Harsh Engagement ($200-$7,500 repair) and Rear Coil Spring Fracture ($0-$600 repair). The most commonly reported issue is EJ253 Head Gasket Failure (External Leak) with 4,200 owner reports. Across all issues, repair costs range from $0 to $7,500. Full technical analysis and DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
All 4 Known Issues
The 2.5L EJ253 naturally-aspirated engine in 1999-2011 Imprezas is notorious for external head gasket failure. The composite head gaskets degrade over time, allowing coolant and oil to seep externally at the gasket mating surfaces. Unlike a typical blown head gasket that causes coolant-oil mixing, Subaru EJ25 head gaskets typically leak externally first. The boxer engine design means gaskets are at the bottom of the heads, making leaks drip downward and often go unnoticed. If left unaddressed, external leaks can progress to internal coolant-oil mixing and overheating.
Common Symptoms
- Oil seepage visible on bottom of engine near head gasket area
- Coolant level slowly dropping without visible external puddles
- Sweet coolant smell from engine bay
- Oil spots on garage floor near front of vehicle
- Overheating in severe cases (internal gasket breach)
- Bubbles in coolant overflow reservoir
How to Fix
Replace both head gaskets with updated MLS (multi-layer steel) gaskets (Subaru OEM 11044AA770 or Six Star MLS set). Resurface both cylinder heads to within 0.002 inch flatness spec. Replace timing belt, water pump (21111AA370), thermostat, and all seals while the engine is apart. Add Subaru Cooling System Conditioner (SOA635071) after repair. Budget 8-12 hours labor for the complete job.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 4,200+ owners who fixed this issue
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The 2012+ Impreza's Lineartronic CVT (TR580 for 2.0L models) is prone to harsh engagement, delayed acceleration response, and premature failure. The smaller TR580 CVT handles the 2.0L engine but can develop valve body issues causing harsh shifts into Drive/Reverse and a pronounced thunk when engaging gear from Park. The CVT chain can stretch, and the transmission oil pump can fail. Subaru extended the CVT warranty to 10 years/100,000 miles on affected models.
Common Symptoms
- Harsh thunk when shifting from Park to Drive or Reverse
- Delayed acceleration from a stop (2-3 second lag)
- Shuddering at low speeds during light throttle
- Transmission warning light illuminated
- Metallic whining noise from transmission area
- Vehicle surging or bucking at highway speeds
How to Fix
Begin with CVT fluid drain and refill using genuine Subaru CVT fluid. Have dealer check for and apply all available TCM software updates. Valve body replacement resolves harsh engagement in many cases. For complete CVT failure, a remanufactured CVT from Subaru costs less than a new unit. Verify 10-year/100,000-mile CVT warranty coverage before paying out of pocket.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 920+ owners who fixed this issue
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2008-2016 Imprezas (and related Crosstreks) have a known issue with rear coil springs fracturing, particularly in cold climates and areas that use road salt. The broken spring can puncture a tire, damage brake lines, or cause a sudden change in ride height and handling. Subaru issued a recall (WQH-74/NHTSA 19V-236) for 2008-2014 models covering free spring replacement. Later models (2015-2016) also experience the issue but may not be covered by recall.
Common Symptoms
- Clunking noise from rear suspension
- Vehicle sitting lower on one side
- Visible crack or break in rear coil spring
- Tire damage from broken spring end
- Rattling noise over bumps from rear
How to Fix
Inspect rear coil springs for cracks or breaks, especially at the bottom coil. For 2008-2014 models, this is covered under Subaru recall WQH-74 (NHTSA 19V-236) - dealer will replace both rear springs and add protective spring covers at no cost. For non-recall models, replace with updated springs that include the protective coating. Spring part numbers: 20380FJ010 (left), 20380FJ020 (right) for 2012+ Impreza.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 850+ owners who fixed this issue
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Imprezas are highly susceptible to premature wheel bearing failure, often at 40,000-80,000 miles. The full-time AWD system adds constant load to all four wheel bearings. Rear bearings fail more frequently than fronts. Road salt, water, and debris accelerate bearing wear. Symptoms start as a subtle hum and progressively worsen to a loud growl. The noise is speed-dependent and may change when turning, helping identify which side is failing.
Common Symptoms
- Progressive humming noise that increases with vehicle speed
- Noise quiets when turning one direction and gets louder turning the other
- Vibration felt through floorboard or steering wheel
- ABS warning light illumination (wheel speed sensor affected)
- Visible play when rocking the wheel at 12 and 6 o'clock positions
How to Fix
Replace the failed wheel bearing. Subaru Imprezas use hub-type bearings that require pressing out the old bearing and pressing in the new one. The steering knuckle must be removed. Use quality bearings: NSK 62BWKH19 (Subaru OEM supplier), Koyo DAC4584W-1CS81, or NTN AU0838-1LXL/L588. Replace in axle pairs for even wear. Torque specifications: front axle nut 162 ft-lbs, rear 140 ft-lbs.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 1,600+ owners who fixed this issue
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Subaru Impreza problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 7,570+ owner reports, the 1999-2020 Subaru Impreza has 4 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: EJ253 Head Gasket Failure (External Leak), CVT Transmission Failure and Harsh Engagement, Rear Coil Spring Fracture. Of these, 3 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Subaru Impreza reliable?
The 1999-2020 Subaru Impreza has 4 known issues documented across 7,570+ owner reports. 3 issues are rated critical: EJ253 Head Gasket Failure (External Leak) and CVT Transmission Failure and Harsh Engagement and Rear Coil Spring Fracture. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Subaru Impreza problems?
Repair costs for known Subaru Impreza issues range from $0 to $7,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, EJ253 Head Gasket Failure (External Leak), typically costs $1,500-$2,800 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What year Subaru Impreza is the most reliable?
Reliability varies across model years of the Subaru Impreza. Based on owner reports, issues are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 1999-2020 Subaru Impreza with 4 documented issues from 7,570+ owner reports.
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