What are the most common Subaru Impreza problems?
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 1997 Subaru Impreza has 5 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Rear Wheel Arch, Rocker Panel, and Subframe Rust, Interference-Engine Timing Belt Neglect (DOHC EJ25 / 1997+ SOHC), Automatic (4EAT) AWD Torque Bind / Duty C Solenoid Failure. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Subaru Impreza reliable?
The 1997 Subaru Impreza has 5 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 2 issues are rated critical: Rear Wheel Arch, Rocker Panel, and Subframe Rust and Interference-Engine Timing Belt Neglect (DOHC EJ25 / 1997+ SOHC). 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 $60 to $2,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Rear Wheel Arch, Rocker Panel, and Subframe Rust, typically costs $300-$2,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 1993-1999 Subaru Impreza Rear Wheel Arch, Rocker Panel, and Subframe Rust?
1993-1999 Imprezas (GC8/GF8/GM sedan, coupe, and wagon) are highly prone to corrosion at the rear wheel arches, rocker panels, and the rear subframe/crossmember, particularly in salted-road climates. The outer quarter panel and wheel housing are joined with spot welds and foam ad… Repairs typically run $300-$2,500. Severity: high.
What is the 1997-1999 Subaru Impreza Interference-Engine Timing Belt Neglect (DOHC EJ25 / 1997+ SOHC)?
The 2.5L DOHC EJ25D and the 1997-and-later SOHC EJ engines are interference designs: if the rubber timing belt breaks or a belt idler/tensioner pulley seizes, the pistons strike open valves and bend them, destroying the top end. From 1997 all USDM Subaru EJ engines (including the… Repairs typically run $500-$1,000. Severity: high.
What is the 1993-1999 Subaru Impreza Automatic (4EAT) AWD Torque Bind / Duty C Solenoid Failure?
Automatic-transmission 1990s Imprezas use the 4EAT with an electronically managed transfer clutch (governed by the Duty C solenoid) to split torque to the rear wheels. When the Duty C solenoid or its control valve sticks/leaks, or the transfer clutch pack wears, the AWD stays par… Repairs typically run $150-$1,500. Severity: medium.
What is the 1993-1999 Subaru Impreza Front (and Rear) Wheel Bearing / Hub Failure?
Pressed-in front wheel bearings on the 1993-2001 Impreza chassis are a recurring wear item; the bearings were sized for the small factory 15-16 inch wheels, and larger aftermarket wheels, high mileage, or hard cornering accelerate failure. A failed bearing hums or roars proportio… Repairs typically run $200-$600. Severity: medium.
What is the 1993-1999 Subaru Impreza Distributor Cap, Rotor, and Ignition Moisture Misfire (SOHC EJ18/EJ22)?
The SOHC EJ18 and EJ22 engines in the base 1990s Impreza use a camshaft-driven distributor. With age, the cap and rotor corrode and crack, and the distributor O-ring can weep oil into the cap. This causes crossfire and weak spark that shows up as rough idle, hesitation, and hard… Repairs typically run $60-$250. Severity: low.
