Subaru Impreza problems and known issues

Generation:

Second generation (2002–2007)

Years:

2002–2007

Powertrain:

All

In salt-belt states, the front lower control arm hanger brackets on 2002–2007 Imprezas (and 2003–2008 Foresters) can corrode until the arm breaks, causing a loss of control. Dealers inspect and rustproof or replace the arms free of charge. The 318,215 figure covers every vehicle in campaign 11V464, not just the Impreza.

Sources: [1]

Generation:

Second generation (2002–2007)

Years:

2004–2005

Powertrain:

All

Passenger frontal air bag inflators in certain 2003–2008 Legacy and Outback models (plus 2004–2005 Impreza and 2003–2004 Baja) can absorb moisture over time and rupture when the air bag deploys, throwing metal fragments. Dealers replace the passenger inflator free of charge. The 432,016 figure covers every vehicle in campaign 15V323, not just the Impreza.

Sources: [2][3]

Generation:

Third generation (2008–2011), plus 2006–2007 models

Years:

2006–2011

Powertrain:

All

Later Takata passenger-inflator campaigns, split by climate zone, cover more model years; the hot-humid 'Zone A' states were recalled first, with matching campaigns for the other zones. The inflator propellant can degrade with long-term heat and humidity and the inflator may rupture in a crash. Dealers replace the passenger inflator free of charge. Imprezas from 2006–2011 are covered across campaigns 16V358, 17V014, 18V012 and 19V007 and their other-zone counterparts. The 53,480 figure covers every vehicle in campaign 17V014, not just the Impreza.

Sources: [4][5][6][7][8][9]

Generation:

Third generation (2008–2011)

Years:

2008–2011

Powertrain:

All

In salt-belt states (and on request elsewhere), road salt can splash onto the brake lines through a gap in the fuel tank protector and corrode them until brake fluid leaks, lengthening stopping distances. Dealers check for leaks, apply anti-corrosion wax and replace lines that seep, free of charge. The 461,338 figure covers every vehicle in campaign 14V311, not just the Impreza.

Sources: [10][11]

Generation:

Third generation (2008–2011) through fourth generation (2012–2016)

Years:

2008–2016

Powertrain:

All

On 2008–2016 Impreza sedans and 2012–2016 wagons (plus some Forester, WRX and Crosstrek models), contamination can make the brake light switch malfunction, so brake lights may not come on, push-button cars may not start and the CVT may not shift out of Park. Dealers replace the switch free of charge. The 1,303,530 figure covers every vehicle in campaign 19V149, not just the Impreza.

Sources: [13]

Generation:

Fourth generation (2012–2016)

Years:

2012–2014

Powertrain:

2.0L

Valve springs in certain 2012–2014 Impreza sedans and 2012–2013 wagons (plus 2013 BRZ and XV Crosstrek) may fracture, causing engine malfunction or a stall. Dealers replace the valve springs free of charge. The 165,534 figure covers every vehicle in campaign 18V772, not just the Impreza.

Sources: [12]

Generation:

Fourth generation (2012–2016)

Years:

2012

Powertrain:

All

On certain 2012 Impreza sedans and wagons, the passenger occupant detection system may deactivate the air bag if the passenger uses a device plugged into the power outlet or touches certain metal parts. Dealers replace the occupant control unit with a modified one, free of charge. NHTSA lists 30,348 vehicles in the campaign.

Sources: [14]

Generation:

Fourth generation (2012–2016)

Years:

2012–2015

Powertrain:

2.0L FB20

A federal court approved a class settlement in 2016 over excessive oil consumption in early FB-series engines. Covered Imprezas were 2012–2013 automatic/CVT models and 2012–2015 manual models with the 2.0L, up to specified VINs. Subaru agreed to cover oil-consumption repairs for 8 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first, with free testing. Subaru denied the claims.

Sources: [23]

Generation:

Fifth generation (2017–2023)

Years:

2017–2019

Powertrain:

All

The engine control module on 2017–2019 Imprezas and 2018–2019 Crosstreks can keep powering the ignition coil after shutdown, causing a short that can stall the engine. Campaign 19V743 updated the software; 21V264 also replaces the coils and, if needed, the front exhaust pipe. The 466,205 figure covers every vehicle in campaign 21V264, not just the Impreza.

Sources: [15][16]

Generation:

Fifth generation (2017–2023)

Years:

2017–2018

Powertrain:

All

The aluminum PCV valve on certain 2017–2018 Imprezas (and 2018 Crosstreks) can separate so its pieces enter the engine, causing a loss of power. Dealers replace the valve and replace the engine if the pieces cannot be found. Campaign 19V745 covered additional 2017 cars, for which dealers replace the engine. The 205,000 figure covers every vehicle in campaign 19V744, not just the Impreza.

Sources: [17][18]

Generation:

Fifth generation (2017–2023)

Years:

2017

Powertrain:

All

On certain 2017 Imprezas, winter-blend fuel can vaporize early in the fuel line, lowering fuel pressure and possibly stalling the engine. Dealers reprogram the engine computer to run the radiator fan at a lower temperature. NHTSA lists 33,131 vehicles in the campaign.

Sources: [19]

Generation:

Fifth generation (2017–2023)

Years:

2018–2020

Powertrain:

All

The in-tank low-pressure fuel pump on certain 2018–2020 Imprezas (and other Subaru and Toyota models) may fail and stall the engine. Campaign 20V218 covered 2019 Imprezas first. Dealers replace the pump free of charge. The 175,968 figure covers every vehicle in campaign 21V587, not just the Impreza.

Sources: [20][21]

Generation:

Sixth generation (2024 onward)

Years:

2024

Powertrain:

All

On certain 2024 Imprezas and Crosstreks, the instrument panel wiring harness can rub against the steering beam bracket and short, which can cut drive power. Dealers add a clamp and tape or replace the harness as needed. The 35,357 figure covers every vehicle in campaign 23V551, not just the Impreza.

Sources: [22]