2020 Subaru Impreza Problems: 4 Known Issues
2020 model year · 2,520+ owner reports · Updated September 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 2,520+ owner reports, the 2020 Subaru Impreza has 4 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is CVT Transmission Failure and Harsh Engagement ($200-$7,500 repair). The most commonly reported issue is Premature Wheel Bearing Failure with 1,600 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $200 to $7,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
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All 4 Known Issues
NHTSA Recalls8 recalls
SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER ARM
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2021 Impreza vehicles. The left-front lower control arm weld may fail, allowing the control arm to separate from the crossmember.
POWER TRAIN:SHIFT LINKAGE/CABLE/ROD
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2021 Outback and Impreza vehicles. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) select lever cable nut may not have been tightened properly, allowing the nut to loosen.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2023 Impreza vehicles. The brake light switch may be improperly adjusted and illuminate the brake lights without application of the brake pedal. The vehicle may also allow drivers to start and shift the transmission out of the PARK position without pressing the brake pedal. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment" and 102, "Trans Shift Lever Seq/Starter Interlock/Trans Braking Effect."
POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2023 Outback, Legacy, Ascent, and Impreza vehicles. The center support bolts for the driveshaft may loosen, resulting in the disconnection of the front end of the driveshaft.
POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2024 Crosstrek, Impreza, 2023-2024 Forester, and 2023 WRX vehicles. The front driveshaft assemblies' outer race may develop cracks and break.
+ 3 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Subaru Impreza problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 2,520+ owner reports, the 2020 Subaru Impreza has 4 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: CVT Transmission Failure and Harsh Engagement, Premature Wheel Bearing Failure, Windshield Stress Cracking Near EyeSight Cameras. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Subaru Impreza reliable?
The 2020 Subaru Impreza has 4 known issues documented across 2,520+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: CVT Transmission Failure and Harsh Engagement. 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 $200 to $7,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, CVT Transmission Failure and Harsh Engagement, typically costs $200-$7,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2012-2020 Subaru Impreza CVT Transmission Failure and Harsh Engagement?
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 pronounce… Repairs typically run $200-$7,500. 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 2017-2024 Subaru Impreza Windshield Stress Cracking Near EyeSight Cameras?
The 2017+ Impreza (5th generation) uses a thinner, more aerodynamic windshield design that is highly prone to stress cracking, particularly around the EyeSight camera housing area. Cracks often appear spontaneously without any impact, starting from the edges or around the camera… Repairs typically run $500-$1,200. 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.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.