What's Wrong with the 4th Generation (2012–2016) Impreza?

Impreza owners have made 77 complaints about the 2012–2016 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 32nd out of 38 Subaru generations in overall reliability, with real engine and transmission concerns.

Compare With Other Impreza Generations

Common 2012-2016 Subaru Impreza Problems

Some of the worst issues 4th generation Impreza owners have to deal with.

  1. Brake Light Switch Defect

    A build-up of chemicals from scented cleaning products containing silicone can disable the brake light switch in millions of Subaru vehicles. This can prevent the brake lights from turning on when pressing the pedal, among other things, and…

    Continue reading article "Brake Light Switch Defect" Close-up of a brake light with a red lens on top, clear lens on bottom.

  2. Lineartronic CVT Reliability

    Once praised for its design, Subaru's CVT is showing problems with age. It can shake occupants back and forth as it wobbles its way though gears. In extreme cases it can hesitate so much it causes the engine to stall, forcing Subaru to exte…

    Continue reading article "Lineartronic CVT Reliability"

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

4th Generation (2012–2016) Impreza Key Numbers

  1. 5 model years

    Grouping all models by their year can reveal some baddies.

  2. 77 complaints

    Running tally of owner grievances filed to CarComplaints.com.

  3. 32nd in reliability

    Overall reliability rank out of 38 eligible generations.

Recent Lawsuits for 4th Generation Impreza Owners

  • Settled

    Yaeger, et al. v. Subaru of America Inc., et al.

    1. Settled

      Lawsuit claims some of its most popular models burn oil at an expensive and excessive rate. The lawsuit, filed in a New Jersey federal court, alleges the cars are defective because the piston rings wear out early and can cause engine failure while on the road.

    Problem
    Excessive Oil Consumption
    Class Vehicles
    • 2011-2014 Forester
    • 2013 Legacy
    • 2013 Outback
    • 2012-2013 Impreza
    • 2013 XV Crosstrek
    Location
    New Jersey

Recent 4th Generation (2012–2016) Impreza News

There's a lot of news out there, but not all of it matters. We try to boil down it to the most important bits about things that actually help you with your car problem. Interested in getting these stories in an email? Signup for free email alerts over at CarComplaints.com.

  1. After some prodding, Subaru has decided to extend the warranty on their Lineartronic CVT.

    A Subaru transmission warranty extension has been issued for 2010-2015 Legacy and Outback, 2012-2015 Impreza, 2013-2015 Crosstrek, 2014-2015 Crosstrek Hybrid, 2014-2015 Forester and 2015 WRX vehicles, all equipped with continuously variable transmissions (CVTs).

    However, it’s a limited time offer. Inspections or repairs need to be completed by July 31, 2018.

    keep reading article "Subaru Extends Their CVT Warranty, but it’s a Limited Time Offer"