Last updated: 2026-03-04

2019 Subaru Impreza Reliability Score & Common Problems
The 2019 Subaru Impreza scores 66/100 ("Good"). With 5 recalls and 185 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
2019 is year 3 of the Fifth generation (GK, GT).
Recalls
5
Complaints
185
Complaint Rate
27.9
per 10k sold
Above avgEst. Annual Cost
$653
Above avgMajor Repair Risk
17%
NHTSA Rating
5/5
Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues
5 recalls on record
Generation & Refresh (US)
2019 is year 3 of the Fifth generation (GK, GT).
- Redesigned for the 2017 model year.
- Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
- A refresh arrives in 2020.
- 5th generation Impreza (US).
What this means for buyers
Well into the generation cycle — most design and manufacturing issues should be resolved by now.
Fifth generation (GK, GT)
Should You Buy the 2019 Subaru Impreza?
The 2019 Subaru Impreza scores 66/100 ("Good"), placing it in acceptable but not class-leading territory. 2019 is year 3 of the Fifth generation (GK, GT).
Its complaint rate (27.9 per 10k sold) is above the Sedan segment average of 15.3. The most common reports involve exterior lighting (62).
A pre-purchase inspection is recommended for used examples, with particular attention to exterior lighting (62). An extended warranty may provide additional peace of mind.
Compared to the 2020 Subaru Impreza, which scored 8 points higher. See also the 2018 Subaru Impreza for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- Acceptable reliability score
- Infrequent unscheduled repairs
- 5-star NHTSA crash rating
Cons
- Above-average repair costs for its class
- Moderate recall count
- Above-average complaint rate for Sedan
- 1 fire incident reported in owner complaints
Compare 2019 Subaru Impreza With
Common Problem Categories
Safety
- 5 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
- EXTERIOR LIGHTING (62)
- VISIBILITY/WIPER (53)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (15)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (14)
- SERVICE BRAKES (5)
- STEERING (5)
- ENGINE (5)
- VISIBILITY (5)
- POWER TRAIN (4)
- AIR BAGS (4)
- WHEELS (3)
- VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (2)
- STRUCTURE (2)
- FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (2)
- BACK OVER PREVENTION (1)
- SUSPENSION (1)
- EQUIPMENT (1)
- TIRES (1)
Recall Overview
5
recalls on record
The 2019 Subaru Impreza has 5 recalls on record. This is a moderate number. Each recall represents a safety or compliance issue identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships, regardless of warranty status.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
27.9
per 10k soldSegment avg: 15.3
Safety Incidents
Crashes
6
Fires
1
Injuries
5
Deaths
0
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2019 Subaru Impreza Recall Details
5 recalls have been issued for the 2019 Subaru Impreza. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Impreza and 2018-2019 Crosstrek vehicles. The Engine Control Module (ECM) may continue to power the ignition coil after the engine is shut off, which could result in a short circuit and blown fuse.
Consequence
If a short circuit occurs while driving, the vehicle may stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will update the ECM software and inspect and replace the ignition coil, as necessary, free of charge. In addition, on vehicles with confirmed ignition coil damage and a certain stored diagnostic trouble code (DTC), Subaru will replace the front exhaust pipe, free of charge. The recall began December 4, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUQ-02.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019 Impreza, Outback, Legacy, and Ascent vehicles. The low pressure fuel pump may become inoperative.
Consequence
If the low pressure fuel pump fails, the engine may stall without the ability to restart the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the low pressure fuel pump, free of charge. The recall began June 4, 2020. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRD-20.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Subaru Impreza and 2018-2019 Crosstrek vehicles. The Engine Control Module (ECM) may continue to power the ignition coil after the engine is shut off, causing a short circuit.
Consequence
A short circuit in the ignition coils may cause a stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will update the ECM software, replace the ignition coils and, if necessary, the front exhaust pipe, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning June 1, 2021. Owners can contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRE-21. Note: This recall includes all vehicles previously repaired under Recall 19V743.
2019 Subaru Impreza NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 9.5%
Safety Technologies
Subaru Impreza Repair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
3.5Maintenance rating: 3.5 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$653
vs $526 avg for compact cars
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
0.3
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
17%
chance of a major repair
Annual Cost Comparison
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
When Buying a Used 2019 Subaru Impreza
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing, based on the most common reported issues.
- Inspect for windshield cracks or stress marks
- Test headlights for adequate illumination
- Check for battery health and recent replacements
- Listen for unusual noises from wheel bearings
- Verify recall repairs for ignition coils and exterior lighting
- Check for steering stability at highway speeds
- Inspect brake lines for swelling or bubbling
Check Any 2019 Subaru Impreza's History Before You Buy
Reliability scores tell you what to expect from the 2019 Impreza in general — but every car has its own story. Uncover past accidents, title issues, odometer rollbacks, and service records for a specific Subaru Impreza with a free VIN lookup.
Powered by VINExposed.com — free vehicle history reports using public title and safety data.
2019 Subaru Impreza Common Problems by Component
185 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
62 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report ongoing issues with the exterior lighting of the 2019 Subaru Impreza, primarily related to inadequate headlight illumination. Complaints frequently mention that headlights, particularly low beams, are extremely dim, significantly reducing visibility during night driving and in adverse weather conditions, with some reports noting near-crash experiences due to poor lighting. Many owners highlight that the recall repair parts have been unavailable for extended periods, with some waiting over a year and a half, leading to continued safety concerns. The mileage at which these issues become apparent varies, with some reports starting as low as 5,000 miles. Safety implications are underscored by mentions of almost causing accidents and difficulties in seeing road hazards and markings.
VISIBILITY/WIPER
53 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Subaru Impreza frequently report issues with windshield cracking, often occurring spontaneously without any apparent impact or damage. Common symptoms include cracks that start from the edges or bottom of the windshield and rapidly spread, impairing visibility. Multiple complaints mention these cracks appearing while the vehicle is parked or after minimal use, with some owners experiencing repeated occurrences. Additionally, some owners describe problems with the windshield cowl separating, potentially allowing water ingress or detachment while driving. These issues may pose safety risks due to impaired visibility and the potential for windshield failure.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
15 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Subaru Impreza frequently report issues with the vehicle's electrical system, particularly involving battery failures and ignition problems. Many complaints describe batteries dying unexpectedly, often after the vehicle has been parked for short periods, with some owners replacing the battery multiple times within a few years. The average mileage at which these battery issues occur varies, but some reports mention occurrences as early as 5,709 miles. Additionally, several owners experience problems with the ignition system, such as blown fuses and damaged ignition coils, sometimes linked to previous recall repairs. Safety implications include sudden loss of engine power and distractions from non-functional head units, which could pose risks during driving. These patterns suggest potential electrical vulnerabilities that used car buyers should be aware of.
SERVICE BRAKES (5 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
5 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Subaru Impreza frequently report issues with the vehicle's brake system. Common complaints include swelling or bubbling of brake lines, with some owners noting that the parts are not readily available for replacement, posing a potential safety risk. Another pattern involves persistent squeaking of the brakes even after replacing pads and rotors, which some owners suggest might indicate a larger, unresolved issue. Additionally, one report involves a crash due to a brake pedal that became unresponsive, though no mechanical fault was identified after inspection. These problems are often reported without specific mileage details, but they suggest potential safety implications, particularly regarding the reliability of the braking system.
STEERING (5 complaints)
STEERING
5 complaintsOwners report that the 2019 Subaru Impreza frequently exhibits issues related to steering stability at highway speeds. Common symptoms include the vehicle swaying or weaving in its lane, requiring constant small steering corrections to maintain a straight path, and a lack of self-centering in the steering wheel after turns. Some owners also describe a "floaty" steering feel and a momentary loss of steering tension. These issues are noted at various mileages, with some complaints beginning as early as 600 miles. Safety implications are evident as drivers express difficulty in maintaining lane position, particularly in the presence of other vehicles, which could lead to potential loss of control.
ENGINE (5 complaints)
ENGINE
5 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Subaru Impreza frequently report issues related to engine performance and safety. Several complaints describe a lack of engine response at low speeds, particularly during throttle application, which has led to near-collision scenarios. Additionally, there are reports of the engine pinging on fuel grades lower than 91 octane, despite the manual recommending 87 octane. Some owners also mention problems with excessive carbon buildup on the engine heads, resulting in power loss and unusual shifting, often requiring extensive repairs. A significant safety concern is highlighted by a report of a vehicle fire originating in the engine compartment while the car was stationary, resulting in a total loss. These issues generally arise early in the vehicle's life, with one case occurring shortly after the first routine service at around 5,000 miles.
VISIBILITY (5 complaints)
VISIBILITY
5 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Subaru Impreza frequently report issues with windshield cracking. Complaints often describe cracks occurring without apparent impact or from minor impacts, such as small rocks or pebbles. The reported mileage at the time of these incidents varies, with some occurring as early as 14,000 miles and others around 52,000 miles. The cracks are described as expanding across the windshield, sometimes reaching up to 2 feet in length. No safety incidents such as crashes or loss of control are mentioned, but the recurring nature of these issues may be of concern to potential buyers.
POWER TRAIN (4 complaints)
POWER TRAIN
4 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Subaru Impreza frequently report issues with the power train, particularly concerning the drive shaft and wheel bearings. Complaints describe a sound from the drive shaft center bearing in cold weather, which requires costly replacement of the entire drive shaft. Additionally, premature wear of rear wheel bearings is noted, with replacements needed as early as 44,137 miles and again at 62,486 miles. Some owners also experience grinding when shifting into 4th gear on manual transmissions at higher RPMs. Safety implications include potential accidents due to failed wheel bearings at high speeds. These issues often arise at relatively low mileage, suggesting potential design or part quality concerns.
AIR BAGS (4 complaints)
AIR BAGS
4 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Subaru Impreza frequently report airbag non-deployment during collisions, with three out of four complaints involving crashes and resulting injuries. In these incidents, airbags fail to deploy in both side and front-end impacts, leading to injuries such as broken bones, whiplash, and concussions. One complaint describes a persistent SRS airbag warning light in a vehicle with only 150 miles. These complaints highlight potential safety implications related to airbag performance in crashes, which prospective buyers should consider, particularly if the vehicle has been involved in an accident.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (2 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
2 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report two main issues with the 2019 Subaru Impreza's vehicle speed control. The first involves the vehicle shaking and the engine behaving as if it might stall when reaching speeds of 50-60 mph, with the inability to accelerate beyond 60 mph, suggesting a possible fuel delivery problem. The second issue, which includes a crash, describes sudden unintended acceleration while parking, where the car unexpectedly lurches forward at full throttle without the accelerator being pressed. This incident highlights potential safety implications, as it resulted in a collision with a parked vehicle. These reports indicate symptoms that could affect both highway driving and low-speed maneuvering, with varying consequences.
When Do 2019 Subaru Impreza Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Subaru Impreza Years
Best Subaru Impreza Years to Buy
The best Subaru Impreza year is 2025 with a reliability score of 77/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2022 (76/100) and 2024 (74/100).
Subaru Impreza Years to Avoid
The worst Subaru Impreza year is 2019 with a score of 66/100, primarily due to exterior lighting (62) issues.
2019(this page)
5 recalls · 185 complaints
Subaru Impreza Reliability Score Trend
Subaru Impreza reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 73/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 69/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 66/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 74/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 71/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 76/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 74/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 74/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 77/100 | Good |
Subaru Impreza Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2019 Subaru Impreza reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2019 Subaru Impreza?
How many recalls does the 2019 Subaru Impreza have?
Is the 2019 Subaru Impreza expensive to maintain?
How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent — Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good — Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed — Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky — Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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