Used Subaru Impreza

What to know before buying: Subaru Impreza

From 3 forum threads · updated 11/10/2026

What the reviews say

• An owner of an older and a newer turbocharged Impreza reports that both were reliable and needed no repairs.[1]one source
• A 2009 2.0 diesel owner praises its performance; over one year he replaced an intercooler hose, a front bearing and brake pads.[1][3]
• The Latvian 2018/2019 thread contains only a link to the new-generation launch, not owner experience, so it cannot establish reliability.[2]one source

Typical faults

• In discussions of the 2007–2011 2.0 boxer diesel, several contributors warn of crankshaft failure and very expensive engine repairs.[1][3]

  2007–2011 · 2.0 diesel

• Severe floor corrosion is reported on older Imprezas, with one car said to have needed holes welded every year.[1][3]
• An Impreza STI owner says the original clutch is too weak and may need frequent replacement.[1]one source

  STI

• One 2009 2.0 diesel required an intercooler rubber hose and a front wheel bearing within a year.[1][3]

  2009–2009 · 2.0 diesel

Which engine and version to take

• For early Imprezas, the only clear engine recommendation in the sources is the 2.0 turbo; another owner reports no repairs on his older and newer turbo cars.[1]one source

What to avoid

• Consider the 2007–2011 2.0 boxer diesel only after a thorough inspection: contributors warn of crankshaft failure and costly engine repairs.[1][3]

What to check at the inspection

• On an older Impreza, inspect the floor and underside closely for corrosion and previously welded holes.[1][3]
• When buying a 2007–2011 2.0 diesel, scrutinize the engine and repair history because of the reported crankshaft risk.[1][3]
• On a 2009 2.0 diesel, check the intercooler rubber hose, front wheel bearings and rear-axle arms.[1][3]
• On an STI, test the clutch carefully and establish its replacement history.[1]one source
• Compare the odometer with documented history: a contributor warns that older Imprezas arrived with 300,000–400,000 km and rolled-back odometers.[1][3]

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]auto.jautajums.lv — Subaru Impreza atsauksmes | jautajums.lv - Auto, moto · forum
2. [2]iauto.lv — Subaru Impreza tests 2018/2019, atsauksmes un iespaidi · forum
3. [3]auto.jautajums.lv — Subaru atsauksmes, modeļi, remonts | jautajums.lv - Auto, moto · forum

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