Alton Brobst Are you in the market for a new car and considering the Subaru Impreza? If so, you may have heard about some of the electronic problems that Subaru has experienced in the past. But the big question on everyone’s mind is: has Subaru fixed these problems on the Impreza?
In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at the electronic problems that Subaru has experienced with the Impreza, how they have addressed these issues, and whether or not the Impreza is a reliable choice for car buyers.
Key Takeaways
- Subaru has experienced electronic problems with the Impreza in the past.
- Subaru has issued multiple recalls and service bulletins to address these issues.
- Consumer Reports rates the Impreza as "average" for reliability, with mixed reviews from owners.
- While there is no guarantee that the Impreza will be problem-free, Subaru has taken steps to address electronic issues and improve overall reliability.
The History of Electronic Problems on the Impreza
Subaru has had its fair share of electronic problems over the years, and the Impreza has been no exception. Some of the most common issues reported by owners include:
- Stalling and hesitation: Some Impreza owners have reported that their car stalls or hesitates when accelerating, which can be a dangerous problem.
- Electrical system: Other owners have reported issues with the electrical system, including problems with the battery, alternator, and starter.
- Infotainment system: Finally, many Impreza owners have had issues with the infotainment system, including problems with the touchscreen display, navigation system, and Bluetooth connectivity.
These problems have not gone unnoticed by Subaru, and the company has taken steps to address them.
What Has Subaru Done to Address These Issues?
Subaru has issued multiple recalls and service bulletins to address electronic issues on the Impreza. Some of the most significant actions include:
- Recall for stalling: In 2018, Subaru issued a recall for over 75,000 Impreza models due to a problem with the engine control module that could cause the car to stall while driving.
- Service bulletin for electrical system: In 2017, Subaru issued a service bulletin for the electrical system in the Impreza, which advised technicians on how to diagnose and repair problems with the battery, alternator, and starter.
- Infotainment system updates: Subaru has also released multiple software updates for the infotainment system in the Impreza, which address issues with the touchscreen display, navigation system, and Bluetooth connectivity.
While these actions are certainly a step in the right direction, it’s important to note that they don’t guarantee that the Impreza will be problem-free.
Consumer Reports’ Reliability Ratings for the Impreza
So, what do the experts have to say about the reliability of the Impreza? Consumer Reports rates the Impreza as "average" for reliability, with mixed reviews from owners.
On the one hand, owners praise the Impreza for its handling, safety features, and overall value for the price. On the other hand, many owners have reported problems with the electronics and other components, which can be frustrating and expensive to fix.
It’s worth noting that the Impreza has a relatively low overall complaint rate, indicating that Subaru has made progress in addressing electronic issues and improving reliability.
Is the Impreza a Reliable Choice for Car Buyers?
So, should you buy an Impreza if you’re in the market for a new car? Ultimately, the answer depends on your priorities and preferences.
If you prioritize safety, handling, and affordability, the Impreza remains a compelling option. However, if you are worried about potential electronic issues or other reliability concerns, it may be worth considering other options.
Ultimately, it’s up to you to weigh the pros and cons and decide whether the Impreza is the right choice for your needs.
FAQ
Are there any other common problems with the Impreza?
In addition to electronic issues, some Impreza owners have reported problems with the transmission, suspension, and brakes. However, these issues are less common than electronic problems.
How does the Impreza compare to other cars in its class?
The Impreza stands out for its standard all-wheel drive, which is a rare feature in the compact car segment. However, it faces stiff competition from other popular models like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Mazda3.
Is the Impreza a good value for the price?
Many car buyers consider the Impreza to be a good value for the price, thanks to its all-wheel drive, safety features, and impressive handling. However, the potential for electronic problems and other reliability concerns may detract from its overall value.
