What's Wrong with the 2nd Generation (2001–2007) Impreza?

Impreza owners have made 70 complaints about the 2001–2007 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 26th out of 38 Subaru generations in overall reliability, with real engine and hvac concerns.

Compare With Other Impreza Generations

Common 2001-2007 Subaru Impreza Problems

Some of the worst issues 2nd generation Impreza owners have to deal with.

  2. Leaky Head Gaskets

    Why can't Subaru build a decent head gasket? The automaker has had issues with leaky gaskets in their 4-cylinder engines since the 1980's. And repairing the issue is expensive as it requires the engine to be removed.

    Continue reading article "Leaky Head Gaskets" A close-up of a clean black head gasket above two silver pistons.

What Owners Complain About

Sometimes it helps just to tally up the complaints and see where the biggest stacks are. Use this information to learn about troublespots or to run for the hills.

Worst Issues

What Breaks the Most

Years to Avoid

2nd Generation (2001–2007) Impreza Key Numbers

  1. 7 model years

    Grouping all models by their year can reveal some baddies.

  2. 70 complaints

    Running tally of owner grievances filed to CarComplaints.com.

  3. 26th in reliability

    Overall reliability rank out of 38 eligible generations.

What Impreza Owners Say About This Generation

Subaru Head Gaskets Can't Seal the Deal

I have heard Subarus are bad with the whole head gasket thing. Everyone I know that owns a Subaru has had to have the head gaskets replaced ... Why hasn't Subaru addressed this issue? I bought a Subaru based on reliability and hopes that it would last a long time. I did not expect to have to replace both head gaskets, a leaking rack and pinion, a cooling fan and an oil pan gasket all at the same time at 85,000 miles

2006 Impreza Owner