What are the most common Subaru Impreza problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 6,650+ owner reports, the 2009-2009 Subaru Impreza has 5 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: EJ253 Head Gasket Failure (External Leak), Rear Coil Spring Fracture, EJ253 Head Gasket External Leak. Of these, 3 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Subaru Impreza reliable?
The 2009-2009 Subaru Impreza has 5 known issues documented across 6,650+ owner reports. 3 issues are rated critical: EJ253 Head Gasket Failure (External Leak) and Rear Coil Spring Fracture and EJ253 Head Gasket External Leak. 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 $3,200, 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 is the 1999-2011 Subaru Impreza EJ253 Head Gasket Failure (External Leak)?
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 c… Repairs typically run $1,500-$2,800. Severity: high.
What is the 2008-2016 Subaru Impreza Rear Coil Spring Fracture?
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 is… Repairs typically run $0-$600. Severity: high.
What is the 2002-2011 Subaru Impreza EJ253 Head Gasket External Leak?
The naturally-aspirated EJ253 2.5L engine in 2002-2011 Imprezas suffers from the same head gasket failure common across Subaru's EJ-series engines. The composite head gaskets degrade over time and begin leaking coolant and oil externally along the cylinder heads. The horizontal b… Repairs typically run $1,600-$3,200. Severity: high.
What is the 2008-2020 Subaru Impreza Premature Wheel Bearing Failure?
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… Repairs typically run $250-$700. Severity: medium.
What is the 2008-2020 Subaru Impreza Rear Trailing Arm Bushing Corrosion and Failure?
The rear trailing arm bushings on Imprezas corrode and fail, particularly in salt-belt states. The steel sleeve inside the rubber bushing rusts and expands, tearing the rubber apart. This causes clunking noises, vague rear-end handling, and uneven rear tire wear. In severe cases,… Repairs typically run $250-$700. Severity: medium.
