EngineHigh
FB20 oil consumption.
- Typically appears
- 60,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Check oil level and consumption history.
2012–2016 Subaru Impreza · common problems & known faults
The 4th-gen Impreza is a practical AWD compact; oil consumption and wheel bearings are the checks.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed July 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2012–2016 Subaru Impreza are FB20 oil consumption, Burning oil smell through the cabin vents and visible oil seepage above the exhaust manifold and CVT drone and occasional shudder. 2 of the documented issues are rated high severity · inspect these first. Full inspection points, onset mileage and what to check are listed below.
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Build the inspection planReliability snapshot
Based on the documented faults on this page for the Subaru Impreza.
5.2/ 10
- Critical
- 0
- High
- 2
- Medium
- 4
- Low
- 2
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
Known faults to check
TransmissionMedium
CVT drone and occasional shudder.
- Typically appears
- 70,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Feel for shudder on acceleration.
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Build the inspection planSuspensionMedium
Wheel bearing wear.
- Typically appears
- 80,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Listen for a bearing hum.
HVACLow
AC condenser vulnerability to stone damage.
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Confirm cold AC output.
ElectricalMedium
VDC/ABS warning lights illuminated, inability to shift out of Park, or push-to-start failure.
- Typically appears
- 40,000-70,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Press the brake pedal repeatedly while observing the brake lights and listening for the shift interlock solenoid clicking in the centre console.
EngineHigh
Burning oil smell through the cabin vents and visible oil seepage above the exhaust manifold.
- Typically appears
- 70,000-100,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Shine a torch down the sides of the engine block near the exhaust manifolds to check for fresh oil weeping from the cam carrier RTV sealant joints.
SteeringMedium
Metallic clunking noise from the front end over uneven surfaces or when turning the wheel.
- Typically appears
- 50,000-80,000 miles
- What to inspect
- With the engine running and vehicle stationary, rock the steering wheel left and right quickly. Listen for a distinct metallic clunk from the electric steering rack.
BodyworkLow
Reversing camera failure, high-level brake light failure, or central locking issues on the boot lid.
- Typically appears
- 6-8 years
- What to inspect
- Open the boot, peel back the rubber grommet at the top hinge, and inspect the wiring loom for exposed copper or broken wires.
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Build my inspection planFrequently asked questions
Is the Impreza reliable?
Yes; monitor oil consumption and wheel bearings on higher-mileage cars.
Does the Impreza burn oil?
Some FB20 engines do; check the level between changes.
Is AWD worth the extra maintenance?
Symmetrical AWD is a big plus in poor weather; keep tyres matched.
Does the FB-series petrol engine use a timing belt or a chain?
Both the 1.6-litre and 2.0-litre FB-series petrol engines in this generation of Impreza utilise a maintenance-free timing chain rather than a rubber belt. Unless there are audible rattling noises on cold start indicating tensioner wear or stretched links, the chain does not require periodic replacement.
Do all four tyres need to be replaced at the same time?
Yes, Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system is highly sensitive to rolling radius variations. Tyres must be identical in brand, tread pattern, and wear level. A tread depth difference exceeding 2mm between the front and rear axles can cause severe centre differential binding and premature transmission failure.
Why does the auto stop-start system frequently fail to engage?
The system is highly sensitive to battery voltage and cabin temperature demands. If the original EFB battery is degrading, the ECU will disable stop-start to preserve cranking power. Replacing the battery with a high-quality, correctly coded EFB or AGM unit usually restores full functionality.
Sources & further reading
Faults are compiled from documented recalls, technical bulletins, owner reports and mechanic sources, then reviewed for accuracy. This is guidance only · not a substitute for a professional inspection.
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