Subaru Impreza Problems Common Issues and Repair Costs
The Subaru Impreza is well known in the UK for its rally heritage, all wheel drive system, and dependable boxer engines. It comes in both standard models and high performance versions such as the WRX and WRX STI. When looked after properly, the Impreza can be very reliable, but like any car it has some common problems worth knowing about. Below is a clear and fully human written guide to the Subaru Impreza, its common faults, and real UK repair costs in pounds.
Subaru Impreza Model Overview
Standard Impreza Models
These include the 1.5, 1.6, and 2.0 petrol versions. They are built for everyday use and focus on reliability and fuel economy.
Subaru Impreza WRX
A popular turbocharged performance model offering strong acceleration and rally inspired handling.
Subaru Impreza WRX STI
The top performance version. Very fast and very capable, but it needs careful maintenance to stay reliable.
Newer Impreza (2017 and newer)
Built on Subaru’s global platform with improved safety and comfort. Often paired with a CVT gearbox.
Common Subaru Impreza Problems and UK Repair Costs
1. Head Gasket Failure on Older Engines
Older 2.0 and 2.5 litre boxer engines are known for head gasket leaks, especially if they overheat.
Repair Cost: £900 to £1,800.
2. Turbo Failure on WRX and STI
Poor servicing or high mileage may lead to turbo noise, smoke, or a drop in power.
Repair Cost: £600 to £1,400.
3. Piston Ringland Failure on STI Models
Some STIs can develop cracked ringlands when driven hard or modified.
Repair Cost: £1,500 to £3,000 for a rebuild.
4. Exhaust Manifold Leaks
Heat and rust can cause leaks that create a ticking noise when the engine is cold.
Repair Cost: £150 to £350.
5. CVT Gearbox Problems on Newer Models
Some CVT units show hesitation, juddering, or slow acceleration.
Repair Cost:
CVT service £250 to £350
CVT rebuild £1,200 to £2,000
6. Wheel Bearing Failure
A humming noise that gets louder with speed often points to a worn wheel bearing.
Repair Cost: £150 to £250 per bearing.
7. Suspension Wear
Front bushes, drop links, and struts often wear out on UK roads.
Repair Cost:
Drop links £50 to £100
Lower arm bushes £150 to £250
Struts £200 to £350 each
8. Rust on Older Imprezas
Sills, wheel arches, and rear subframes can rust, especially on cars from the early 2000s.
Repair Cost: £200 to £1,000 depending on welding.
9. Warped Brake Discs
Performance models often suffer from heat damaged discs.
Repair Cost: £200 to £350 for discs and pads.
10. High Oil Consumption
Some boxer engines burn more oil as they age. If ignored, this may cause internal damage.
Repair Cost: £0 if topped up regularly
£800 to £2,000 for engine repairs if damage occurs
Typical Annual Maintenance Costs for Subaru Impreza in the UK
| Model | Average Yearly Cost |
|---|---|
| Standard Impreza | £250 to £450 |
| WRX | £400 to £700 |
| WRX STI | £500 to £900 |
Performance versions cost more because they need higher quality fluids, more frequent servicing, and stronger brakes.
Subaru Impreza Reliability
The Impreza is reliable when serviced properly. The all wheel drive system is strong, the engines are dependable, and the cars handle rough UK roads well. Turbocharged versions need more attention than non turbo models, but they can still be very reliable with good maintenance.
Buying Advice
Before buying a used Impreza, always check:
- Engine temperature stability
- Turbo condition on WRX and STI models
- Full service history
- Head gasket condition on older engines
- Suspension noises
- Rust on arches and sills
- Wheel bearing noise
- CVT smoothness on newer models
A proper inspection is strongly recommended, especially for performance models.
Pre Purchase Inspection Recommendation
For complete peace of mind, use CAREXAMER, the UK’s leading inspection service for used cars and performance vehicles. Their engineers check:
- Engine health
- Turbo operation
- Cooling system
- All wheel drive system
- Suspension and steering
- Brakes and tyres
- Rust prone areas
- Diagnostics and electronics
This helps buyers avoid expensive repairs and gives confidence before committing to a purchase.
Summary
The Subaru Impreza is a fun, capable, and reliable car with strong performance options in the WRX and STI ranges. Although it has a few predictable faults, most are manageable when found early. With proper servicing and a detailed inspection, the Impreza can offer many years of dependable driving in the UK.
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