TireKick

Model-year record

2012 Subaru Impreza
Image: Wikimedia Commons contributor · See source file

2012 Subaru Impreza

See the complaints, recalls, crash rating, and fuel economy in the public record. Then check the mileage and history of the car you found.

This page shows records, not a buy or avoid call.

The same model year can include a well-kept car and a neglected one. Use these records to plan what to check. Use the specific-car check when you know the mileage.

Complaints filed

242

Reports to NHTSA, 2012

Safety recalls

6

NHTSA campaigns on record

NHTSA crash test

Overall NCAP rating

Combined MPG

24

EPA estimate

Known issues

Air Bags issues lead owner complaints (38% of 242 reports), followed by engine (16%).

Air Bags38% · 91 reports
Engine16% · 39 reports
Electrical System10% · 25 reports
Power Train10% · 25 reports
Steering4% · 10 reports
Service Brakes3% · 7 reports
Unknown Or Other3% · 7 reports
Vehicle Speed Control2% · 6 reports

+ 12 more component categories with fewer reports.

Share of all 242 NHTSA complaints for this model year, grouped by the component owners named. Bars are scaled to the largest category. Examples: ODI 10860667, ODI 10748680, ODI 10705583, ODI 10649225, ODI 11613051.

Individual complaint reports(242)

Showing the 50 most recent reports
Unknown Or OtherMay 2026 · ODI 11739696Details +

My ignition key gets stuck when I shifted into park on my 2012 subaru impreza.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11739696 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemAug 2025 · ODI 11682604Details +

The fan controls in the center of the dash failed. Fan speed 1&2 work, but 3&4 do not. After pulling the center dash controls out, I found that the plug connecting the fan speed controls to the wiring harness was burnt. This is a concern cause it could have burned other components or caused a fire.

Reported
Aug 2025
Incident date
Jun 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11682604 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemMay 2025 · ODI 11661254Details +

HVAC plug pigtail Blower motor resistor Heater control harness Is available for inspection HVAC electrical plugin was badly burned and melted causing risk of fire Summer months created dangerous interior temperatures Winter months & inclement weather created physical distress- & created dangerous vision restrictions/blockage because unable to use defroster Dangerous cab temperatures, limited or blocked vision through windshield created physical distress and distraction for me thus others and property were at elevated risk Yes confirmed by garage. No inspection performed. No warnings available. There are 2 separate incidents: July 2023/august 2023 September 2024/april 2025

Reported
May 2025
Incident date
Jul 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11661254 at NHTSA →
SuspensionMar 2025 · ODI 11648309Details +

The contact owns a 2012 Subaru Impreza. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake pedal was depressed and went to the floorboard. The vehicle failed to stop immediately. The brake warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who determined that the control arms and brake lines were severely corroded and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V311000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but informed the contact that there was no recall associated with the VIN. The failure mileage was approximately 126,000.

Reported
Mar 2025
Incident date
Mar 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11648309 at NHTSA →
SteeringFeb 2025 · ODI 11640376Details +

The contact owns a 2012 Subaru Impreza. The contact stated that while driving approximately 30-40 MPH, the vehicle lost power steering functionality and was driven with manual steering. The failure occurred while driving at various speeds. The contact stated that approximately four days after the first failure, the steering wheel failed to move. Additionally, the vehicle was losing oil and one quart of oil had to be added every month. The contact stated that the power steering, ABS, TPMS, transmission automatic transmission fluid (ATF), and 4-WD failure warning lights were illuminated. The passenger occupant sensor chimed for the passenger to secure the seat belt consistently even though the occupant was seated with the seat belt buckled securely. The contact who is a certified mechanic had replaced the rack and pinion. The contact noticed that the threads on the tie rods were close in proximately risking the chance of damaging the tie rods. The ABS module had been replaced. The contact believed that the engine needed to be replaced but the engine was not replaced. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and opened a case. The manufacturer confirmed there was no recall for the failure. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was 164,964.

Reported
Feb 2025
Incident date
Jan 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11640376 at NHTSA →
VisibilityFeb 2025 · ODI 11640388Details +

The contact's son's father owns a 2012 Subaru Impreza. The contact stated that upon activating the heating system, a burning odor would emit from the vehicle without warning. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where the mechanic discovered melted plastic; as well as black soot, inside the vehicle's instrument panel and harness blower resistor. The contact stated that an unknown fuse and the heater motor were replaced; however, the failure returned. The vehicle was taken to a second dealer(Prestige Subaru of Turnersville NJ) where a diagnostic was performed and the contact was given an estimate for the repair. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact reached out to the manufacturer but was offered no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 129,173

Reported
Feb 2025
Incident date
Aug 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11640388 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJan 2025 · ODI 11634194Details +

The Airbag warning light has been lit within the dashboard. The front passenger seat airbag is faulty and is not able to correctly sense when a passenger is within the seat or not, which disables the airbags. This can be deadly to the passenger if in an accident. The issue seems to be in the ODS passenger seat mat that determines when the airbag is active or not. If moisture is able to get within the mat, then it can short the circuit and cause airbags to not deploy. My car was "supposed" to already been fixed with the issue in 2015 on the recall #WQT55, NHTSA Campaign 15V419000, but I don't believe the underlying issue was fixed correctly or the same part has failed again. Looking further into recalls, the exact same issue is happening again with Subarus with #WRA-24 and NHTSA campaign 24V227. The dealer has asked me to pay over $1700 on to replace this part. Subaru America should fully cover the cost of any Passenger ODS issue especially when there have already been two recalls with the exact same issue.

Reported
Jan 2025
Incident date
Feb 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11634194 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemDec 2024 · ODI 11633290 · fireDetails +

The AC unit suddenly shutoff and there was a burning smell while I was driving. It turns out that the connector on the back of the climate control unit had either drawn too much current, or the resistance was too high, and the connector had started burning. Fortunately, the melted plastic interrupted the electrical connection, and the fire had went out on its own. It looks like this is not an isolated incident, and several others have dealt with similar when looking online.

Reported
Dec 2024
Incident date
Dec 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Fire
Open ODI 11633290 at NHTSA →
Air BagsSep 2024 · ODI 11613051Details +

The contact owns a 2012 Subaru Impreza. The contact stated that there was an abnormal whining sound coming from the vehicle. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to several independent mechanics and the contact was informed that there was a defective gasket on the transfer case and the transmission needed to be replaced. The transmission was replaced. The contact stated that while a relative was seated in the front passenger’s seat, the passenger’s side air bag warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken back to the independent mechanic where a code reader determined that there was a defect with the front passenger’s side air bag sensor. A dealer was notified of the failure and an appointment was made to have the vehicle serviced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 88,000.

Reported
Sep 2024
Incident date
Aug 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11613051 at NHTSA →
Power TrainJan 2024 · ODI 11568258Details +

Hello car just stopped on the Fla turnpike because bad valve body on transmission seem subaru knows about this problem and offered a extended warranty 10 yr or 100k but they did this during covid with stay at home orders and never sent any type of Notification my wife was almost killed when this happened to her our car has only 70k I feel they should have sent us letter we had the car since new this is a very dangerous situation for anyone owning a Subaru imprezza from 2010 to 2015 and many other Subaru have this problem as well

Reported
Jan 2024
Incident date
Dec 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11568258 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherJan 2024 · ODI 11565102Details +

The occupant control unit in my car has failed, and there is an open recall (Reference #WQT-55R) for the engine diagnostic code (B1650) for my specific part number for the occupant control unit, but the Subaru dealership is saying that my VIN number does not apply. The problem is a well known Subaru issue where the passenger airbag fails to turn on, and Subaru has recalled other vehicles of our make and model from this year (2012) for this problem.

Reported
Jan 2024
Incident date
Jan 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11565102 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemDec 2023 · ODI 11558431Details +

Brake Lamp Switch failed in 2018 - we diagnosed the issue, based partly on information from other Subaru owners who had the same problem, and replaced the switch. Since that time, the brake lights have worked fine. We reported this in a letter to Subaru after their recall for the brake lamp switch replacement in 2019. They refused to pay for the part as we no longer have the receipt (not having a crystal ball, we couldn't see any reason to keep it for more than a year in 2018). We did not contest this - in fact, I had merely asked, in my letter, that they note that the part had already failed and been repaired in their records - however, they continue to flag the car as an open safety recall and insist that we bring the car in to replace a switch that no longer needs replacing. I am filing this complaint in the hope that an official record of the incident will fix the records on our car, as their constant recall notices are becoming increasingly more insistent and annoying, and they have also inaccurately noted it as an open recall at the DMV.

Reported
Dec 2023
Incident date
Apr 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11558431 at NHTSA →
Power TrainNov 2023 · ODI 11553701Details +

I was on the highway in mixed traffic for a couple hours. There was a burning smell in the cabin and then the warning lights came on including a check engine light and transmission light. The car started to jerk erratically when I accelerated and ultimately it would not accelerate. I pulled over and turned the car off as recommended in the owner's manualAfter following the manual's instructions to let the engine cool down, I attempted to turn the car on and put it in gear. It would not move when I put it in reverse or drive. The transmission failed entirely. Previous to my taking the car on this trip, I brought the car to my Subaru Dealership because I smelled the same burning in the cabin along with a strange whirring sound and the transmission light came on then too. At that time, I pulled over and read the owner's manual and did what it recommended. The car started working again after 10 minutes of cooling. This is why I brought the car to the Subaru dealership to have this issue inspected. At the time they recommended that I change the CVT fluid and that the issue would then go away. The issue did not go away. When I informed them that the car was unsafe and dangerous to drive because of the jerking and violent shuddering, they told me that I should trade the car in or pay for a new transmission. They did not tell me that the 2012 version of the car had a history of issues with its CVT, and that some of the repairs were covered under warranty.

Reported
Nov 2023
Incident date
Jun 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11553701 at NHTSA →
SteeringSep 2023 · ODI 11546090Details +

The contact owns a 2012 Subaru Impreza. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, upon pressing the horn, he became aware that the horn was inoperable. The contact stated that the failure had previously been intermittent. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the steering roll connector. The vehicle was repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related it to NHTSA Campaign Number: 10V283000 (Steering) but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was 80,000.

Reported
Sep 2023
Incident date
Sep 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11546090 at NHTSA →
Power TrainAug 2023 · ODI 11540476Details +

Transmission valve body failure causing dangerous erratic shifting while driving.

Reported
Aug 2023
Incident date
Jun 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11540476 at NHTSA →
Air BagsApr 2023 · ODI 11516870Details +

Over the past three months, the front driver and passenger airbag lights have been on in my 2012 Subaru Impreza while driving. Documented videos attached were on 01/11/23, 01/20/23, and 04/04/23. It has happened at least 6 times and possibly more. I contacted Subaru after it happened and took it to the local Subaru dealer, who advised me to bring the car in when the airbag light was on, as at my 1/17/23 visit, they could not figure out the cause of the airbag light. On 4/4/23, while driving on the expressway, the airbag light came on, and as advised, I drove it straight to the local dealership. Code B1650 was pulled off the airbag system, which I am told could be 3 different reasons. On 4/10/23, I contacted Subaru Customer Advocacy and said the local dealer's solutions were unacceptable and to wait and see. Again on 4/12/23, while my daughter was driving on the expressway with my son in the passenger seat, the airbag lights on again for both the passenger and driver. As I told Subaru on 4/10/23, this Subaru Impreza is unsafe to drive, and the airbags would not deploy in the case of an accident with both airbag lights on. This is a very dangerous situation that could end up with some very dire consequences. The ODS system was previously replaced under NHTSA #15V419000, but it appears that the recall part may also be defective. The passenger seat has not been altered or wet to cause malfunctions. It is a defect in the Subaru airbag system.

Reported
Apr 2023
Incident date
Jan 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11516870 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesMar 2023 · ODI 11514497Details +

While driving, I suddenly lost braking ability and the brake pedal would go to the floor before slowing the car. I drove slowly approximately 1-2 miles, using the emergency brake and downshifting to control my speed, stopping at a local auto repair garage. On inspection, on the brake lines had rusted through completely and the other was soft, leaking brake fluid.

Reported
Mar 2023
Incident date
Jan 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11514497 at NHTSA →
EngineMar 2023 · ODI 11510843Details +

The contact owns a 2012 Subaru Impreza. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact took the vehicle to a dealer where the gas cap was replaced; however, the warning light returned. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer for a diagnostic test and the contact was informed that the timing belt cover, cam carrier, and O2 sensors needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and agreed to cover a partial cost of the repair. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was unknown.

Reported
Mar 2023
Incident date
Mar 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11510843 at NHTSA →
EngineDec 2022 · ODI 11498286Details +

The contact owns a 2012 Subaru Impreza. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH, the vehicle started smoking from the engine compartment. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed as an oil consumption and cam carriers failure. The vehicle was then taken to a dealer where the diagnostic result was confirmed. The contact repaired the front timing seal gasket himself; however, the failure recurred. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 119,000.

Reported
Dec 2022
Incident date
Jul 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11498286 at NHTSA →
StructureOct 2022 · ODI 11489945Details +

The contact owns a 2012 Subaru Impreza. The contact stated while the vehicle was under yearly inspection, she was informed that the subframe was corroded. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with needing the stabilizer bar, the rocker panels, and the cross members to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact called an independent mechanic and made them aware of the failure. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 112,000.

Reported
Oct 2022
Incident date
Oct 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11489945 at NHTSA →
Air BagsSep 2022 · ODI 11486147Details +

I just bought this car. I looked recall history. I saw that one of the recalls for this car was faulty (ODS)occupants detection system and the record showed that it is fixed. However, I just found out today that ODS system is still faulty.

Reported
Sep 2022
Incident date
Sep 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11486147 at NHTSA →
Power TrainJun 2022 · ODI 11468885Details +

The car will not allow me to turn it off and remove the key from the ignition. This is apparently caused by a known issue with the gear box/transmission stick not making proper contact with a metal plate within the box.

Reported
Jun 2022
Incident date
Jun 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11468885 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemApr 2022 · ODI 11462494Details +

50% of the time or more, the ignition refuse to release the key. When turning the key to take it out of the ignition, there are three clicks before the key releases. Mine often clicks twice and will not go beyond this point. I searched and found at other people have the same problem. Sometimes if I place my foot on the brake and put it in neutral, then back to park it will release, but this does not work every time and it can lead to much confusion when parking. People sometimes can’t tell if im trying to move or park. This doesn’t appear to be an isolated incident

Reported
Apr 2022
Incident date
Apr 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11462494 at NHTSA →
EngineFeb 2022 · ODI 11453018Details +

Took 2012 Subaru Impreza to dealer on 2/07/22 for oil change and PA state inspections (60,130 mi). Maintenance and inspections performed without issues. Started car and noticed slight change in sound and vibration from engine that I attributed to cold winter day start up. A block from leaving dealership, the check engine, oil warning and vehicle dynamic control lights all illuminated at once. In the 2-3 minutes to turn around to go back to the dealership, the engine noise/vibration/roughness increased until the engine stalled with a sound like an air compressor shutting down. I brought the service rep out for him to try restarting the car but it barely turned/wouldn't start (despite new battery and having started fine previously that day). A service tech was brought out with an ODBII scanner and found timing skip error codes and pushed the car in to a service stall to diagnose. I was then told that I need a new engine. The engine was replaced at no cost using Subaru part # SOA402F500R1 Remanufactured Short Block and associated internal component parts and returned to me on 2/19/22.

Reported
Feb 2022
Incident date
Feb 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11453018 at NHTSA →
TiresJul 2021 · ODI 11423602Details +

Two of the four tires on the car have flaps / tears on sidewalls.

Reported
Jul 2021
Incident date
Jul 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11423602 at NHTSA →
Power TrainJun 2021 · ODI 11421581Details +

Two instances of CVT Transmission failure. First: Occurred at 102,926 miles, car only 8 years old. While driving, suddenly many warning lights came on and the car started shuddering. The lights were Check Engine, Oil Temp, Cruise Control, vehicle dynamics, and ABS. I drove my car to a transmission shop, who read the codes 2764 and and 0700. He replaced the TCC Solenoid and valve body on 11/18/2020. I drove the car for 6 more months to ~106,000 miles successfully, until... The Second Issue: On 6/6/21 while driving my car, it stopped accelerating. I couldn't go above 18 mph! This was a huge safety issue. I had to drive on major roads with a speed limit of 50mph going only 18mph, with my hazard lights on. I'm so fortunate it happened to be at 10pm on a Sunday night, or I could have gotten in an accident. Once I got home, I called AAA and had them tow my car back to my transmission mechanic (because I couldn't get to my mechanic without getting on the highway, which would obviously be unsafe at 18mph). My mechanic said it was an issue with the same solenoid again having shorted out, which means that it's actually a deeper issue with the CVT transmission burning through solenoids. The solenoid is just a symptom, not the root problem. Then, I finally googled Subaru solenoid issues, and I discovered this is a well documented problem, that has already been reported to your office, and yet Subaru has not yet issued a recall. Only an extended warranty, which only goes up to 100,000 miles so it doesn't help me!! My transmission wore out at 102,000 miles. Do you think it's a coincidence that Subaru made their warranty for 100,000? I'm lodging this complaint in hopes that your office sees the CVT transmissions are still a safety issue, and the warranty hasn't solved the problem. Please get Subaru to issue a recall! This is unacceptable behavior from a car manufacturer. Thank you.

Reported
Jun 2021
Incident date
Jun 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11421581 at NHTSA →
EngineDec 2020 · ODI 11384756Details +

THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT, THE TRACTION LIGHT AND OIL WARNING LIGHT CAME UP ON THE DASHBOARD. INITIALLY, THE DEALER RECOMMENDED REPLACING THE OIL VALVE. I DID BUT THE THE PROBLEM PERSIST. NOW THE ENGINE IS HUNTING. THE DEALER INFORMS ME THAT ENGINE IS NOT PUMPING ENOUGH OIL DESPITE THE FACT THAT SERVICE HAS BEEN DONE REGULARLY AT INTERVAL RECOMMENDED BY THE SUBARU DEALERSHIP. NOW I AM TOLD THAT I NEED A NEW ENGINE.

Reported
Dec 2020
Incident date
Dec 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11384756 at NHTSA →
Air BagsNov 2020 · ODI 11374738Details +

PASSENGER AIRBAG SYSTEM INTERMITTENTLY REMAINS OFF WHEN PASSENGER IS SEATED IN FRONT PASSENGER SEAT. SOMETIMES IT APPEARS TO OPERATE NORMALLY, BUT ABOUT HALF THE TIME THE PASSENGER AIRBAG INDICATES OFF WHEN IT SHOULD BE ON. VEHICLE MOTION DOES NOT SEEM TO MATTER, WET CONDITIONS DOES NOT SEEM TO MATTER EITHER. UNKNOWN WHETHER THIS IS A PASSENGER DETECTION MALFUNCTION OR A PASSENGER AIRBAG MALFUNCTION.

Reported
Nov 2020
Incident date
Oct 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11374738 at NHTSA →
StructureNov 2020 · ODI 11374142Details +

WHEN DEPRESSING THE CLUTCH PEDAL, THERE IS A SQUEAK COMING FROM UNDER THE DASHBOARD WITHIN THE FOOTWELL AREA. SQUEAK IS CONSTANT. FOR SUBARU HAS ISSUED A SERVICE BULLETIN #12-190-15R TO FIX THE CLUTCH & BRAKE PEDAL ASSEMBLY FOR MODEL YEARS 2015-2016 BUT NOT BEFORE. IT IS MY UNDERSTANDING THAT A CRACK IN THE ASSEMBLY IS CAUSING THIS ISSUE AND IF LEFT UNATTENDED, ULTIMATELY COULD CAUSE DECREASED OR COMPLETE FAILURE OF THE CLUTCH AND/OR BRAKE FUNCTIONALITY. SUBARU HAS REDESIGNED THE ORIGINAL PART (#36004FG050) WITH A NEW ONE (#36004FG051) BUT HAS NOT OFFERED TO FIX UNDER AN EXTENDED WARRANTY. I FEEL THIS SHOULD BE A LIFETIME PART, WHICH IS CRITICAL TO SAFELY OPERATING THE VEHICLE, AND ANY REPLACEMENT COST TO FIX SHOULD BE PAID FOR BY THE MANUFACTURER REGARDLESS OF THE VEHICLE'S AGE. THE ATTACHED PICTURE IS NOT FROM MY CAR. I WAS ABLE TO FIND MANY OF THESE PHOTOS ON THE INTERNET AS THIS IS A VERY COMMON PROBLEM.

Reported
Nov 2020
Incident date
Nov 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11374142 at NHTSA →
Air BagsNov 2020 · ODI 11373771Details +

THE PASSENGER AIRBAG LIGHT IS OFF AT ALL TIMES. I AM PRESUMING IT IS NOT FUNCTIONING. IT USED TO TURN ON AND OFF IN THE LAST FEW YEARS AND I WAS ABLE TO FIX IT FOLLOWING THE MANUAL INSTRUCTIONS BUT NOW IT IS PERMANENTLY OFF.

Reported
Nov 2020
Incident date
Oct 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11373771 at NHTSA →
SeatsNov 2020 · ODI 11373499Details +

WHEN DRIVING MY VEHICLE THE PASSENGER AIRBAG WARNING WOULD GO OFF WITH NO PASSENGER IN THE VEHICLE. WHEN I HAVE A PASSENGER IN MY VEHICLE, THE AIRBAG SENSOR CAN'T DETECT A PASSENGER WHICH IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS. ALSO, FOR WHATEVER REASON THE DRIVERS SEAT ISNT DETECTING A DRIVER SO THE AIRBAG LIGHT IS ON. AFTER GOOGLING THIS ISSUE I SEE THAT MANY OTHER 2012 SUBARU IMPREZA OWNERS ARE HAVING THE SAME ISSUE WITH NO RESOLVE.

Reported
Nov 2020
Incident date
Nov 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11373499 at NHTSA →
EngineOct 2020 · ODI 11372308Details +

CODE P0021 POPPED UP SHORTLY AFTER ENGINE HAD RATTLING NOISE AND SHUT DOWN. SOUND OF CILYNDER AND HEAD RUBBING AS ENGINE IS RUNNING WITH VERY LOUD SCREECHING

Reported
Oct 2020
Incident date
Oct 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11372308 at NHTSA →
SteeringSep 2020 · ODI 11361766Details +

POWER STEERING COMES ON 20 MINUTES AFTER I START THE ENGINE AND DRIVE A FEW MILES. HAS GIVEN ME APT OF CLOSE CALLS WITH HITTING CURBS OR AWKWARD TURNS. TRY TO FIND THE PART TO REPLACE IT, BUT MOST WEBSITES SAY THAT MY CAR HAS A GOOD CHANCE OF BEING RECALLED. TOOK TO A SUBARU DEALERSHIP THEY SAID IT'S NOT RECALLED. BUT NOBODY WILL FIX OR SELL ME PARTS DUE TO 'RECALLS' PRECAUTIONS.

Reported
Sep 2020
Incident date
Sep 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11361766 at NHTSA →
Power TrainSep 2020 · ODI 11360849Details +

WAS DRIVING AT 60 MPH NORMAL HIGHWAY SPEED AND BUNCH OF LIGHTS CAME ON THE DASH WHILE DRIVING. TROUBLE CODES PULLED ON SCAN TOOL WERE P2764 AND P0700, THESE CODES INDICATED BAD SOLENOID ON CVT TRANSMISSION VALVE BODY THEREFORE HAD TO REPLACE THE CVT VALVE BODY. CAR HAS 146,000 MILES HOWEVER CVT HAS BEEN PROPERLY MAINTAINED AND CVT FLUID REPLACED EVERY 30,000. SUBARU IS HIDING THE ISSUES WITH THE CVT MODEL TR-580 AND PURPOSELY EXTENDING THE WARRANTY ONLY UP TO 100,000. I BELIEVE THEY KNOW THE CVT WILL FAIL AFTER 100K AND DON'T WANT TO PUT OUT THE MONEY TO ISSUE A PROPER RECALL. THE OPTIONS TO FIX THE ISSUE ARE EITHER CVT VALVE BODY REPLACEMENT OR FULL TRANSMISSION REPLACEMENT WHICH ARE BOTH VERY COSTLY. SUBARU NEEDS TO ISSUE A PROPER RECALL BECAUSE I WORRY THAT MY REPLACEMENT OF VALVE BODY COULD MEAN I STILL NEED TO REPLACE THE ENTIRE CVT TRANSMISSION IF SOMETHING ELSE FAILS ON THE INTERNALS IN THE NEAR FUTURE.

Reported
Sep 2020
Incident date
Sep 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11360849 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemAug 2020 · ODI 11349932Details +

MY CAR KEY GETS LOCKED / STUCK IN MY IGNITION WHEN I PUT MY CAR IN PARK AND ATTEMPT TO TURN IT OFF. IT CAN TAKE UP TO 5 MINUTES FOR THE KEY TO BECOME FREE AND I AM ABLE TO REMOVE IT. THIS HAS BEGUN TO HAPPEN MORE FREQUENTLY RECENTLY AND NOW HAPPENS ALMOST EVERY TIME I PUT MY CAR IN PARK. THIS HAPPENS WHEN MY CAR IS STATIONARY.

Reported
Aug 2020
Incident date
Aug 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11349932 at NHTSA →
Power TrainAug 2020 · ODI 11344187Details +

TRANSMISSION WENT AT 154000 MILES EXTENDED WARRANTY NOT SURE IF I WAS TAKEN CARE OR AND NEEDED TO BY NEW ONE. IF IT IS GONNA BE A CONTINUOUS PROBLEM THEY SHOULD HAVE BOUGHT BACK THE YEARS WITH THE CVT ISSUE. YOU CAN PUT INTO DRIVE REVERSE AND PARK BUT WON'T SWITCH GEARS AND JUST REVS

Reported
Aug 2020
Incident date
Aug 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11344187 at NHTSA →
Air BagsAug 2020 · ODI 11343975Details +

PASSENGER AIRBAG INDICATOR WILL SHOW OFF EVEN THOUGH A PASSENGER IS SEATED. THIS HAPPENS WHETHER THE VEHICLE IS STATIONARY OR IN MOTION.

Reported
Aug 2020
Incident date
Jun 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11343975 at NHTSA →
SuspensionJul 2020 · ODI 11340833Details +

WHEN WE GE A OIL CHANGE THE OIL LEVEL IS VERY LOW. THERE ARE NO OIL LEAKS ANYWHERE ON THE ENGINE THIS IS NOT WHAT A ENGINE SHOULD BE DOING.

Reported
Jul 2020
Incident date
Jun 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11340833 at NHTSA →
Air BagsJul 2020 · ODI 11339679Details +

THE AIRBAG SENSOR ON THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT DOES NOT DETECT A PERSON SITTING IN THE SEAT. THE SENSOR WILL TURN OFF THE AIRBAG, WHILE A PASSENGER IS OCCUPYING THE SEAT. MOST OF THE TIME BETWEEN 30-45 MINUTES AFTER THE CAR HAS BEEN IN MOTION.

Reported
Jul 2020
Incident date
Jan 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11339679 at NHTSA →
Air BagsJul 2020 · ODI 11339386Details +

THE AIRBAG SENSOR UNDER THE PASSENGER SEAT TURNS OF AT RANDOM TIMES WHEN THE SEAT IS OCCUPIED BY A FULL-SIZED ADULT. IT TYPICALLY OCCURS ON A LONG DRIVE, WHICH IS INCREDIBLY DANGEROUS. IT HAS ALSO OCCURRED DURING CITY DRIVING. IT ALWAYS OCCURS WHEN THE SEAT IS OCCUPIED. THE PROBLEM CLOSELY MATCHES THE DESCRIPTION OF THE 2015 RECALL ON THE OCCUPANT DETECTION SYSTEM, EVEN THOUGH THE SUBARU RECORDS SHOW THAT THE REQUIRED REPAIR IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE RECALL WAS MADE ON MY VEHICLE AT THAT TIME. THE DEALERSHIP CLAIMS THE CURRENT PROBLEMS MAY BE CAUSED BY A WATER SPILL, BUT I HAVE NO RECOLLECTION OF THIS OCCURRING, AND A SAFETY SYSTEM IN A CAR THAN COULD NOT WITHSTAND A SMALL SPILL IS INCREDIBLY UNSAFE AND POORLY DESIGNED.

Reported
Jul 2020
Incident date
Jul 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11339386 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJul 2020 · ODI 11337149 · fireDetails +

ON THE HEATER CONTROLS, FOR THE FAN SPEED, THE CONNECTOR ON THE BACK CAUGHT FIRE, I WAS ABLE TO STOP IT IN TIME TO PREVENT ANY FURTHER DAMAGE. MY MOTHER IN LAW AND MY SON RIDE THAT CAR DAILY, COULD OF BEEN A DISASTER. I HAVE PURCHASED A NEW PART, REPLACED THE PLUG, AND SAME ISSUE OCCURED, STARTED SMOKING AND RUINED ANOTHER HEATER CONTROL. USED AUTO PART LOCATIONS NEAR ME REPORTED THE SAME ISSUE ON AT LEAST 3 OTHER CARS. SEE ATTACHED IMAGES.

Reported
Jul 2020
Incident date
Jun 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Fire
Open ODI 11337149 at NHTSA →
Air BagsJun 2020 · ODI 11330107Details +

FRONT PASSENGER ODS MALFUNCTIONS EXACTLY PER THE DESCRIPTION LISTED IN RECALL #WQT-55 UNDER SAFETY CAMPAIGN 15V419000 AND HAD MADE PREVIOUS ATTEMPTS TO HAVE IT ADDRESSED FOR AT LEAST 2 YEARS NOW THROUGH SUBARU. HOWEVER MY VEHICLE WAS MANUFACTURED JUST OUTSIDE OF THE MANUFACTURING DATE RANGE OF THE RECALL. TOOK VEHICLE TO DEALERSHIP TO ADDRESS OTHER OUTSTANDING RECALL ITEMS AND ASKED TO HAVE ISSUE DIAGNOSED FOR THE ODS. TECHNICIANS FOUND CODE B1650, WHICH MATCHES ONE OF THE DTCS OF THE RECALL. CALLED SUBARU CORPORATE AGAIN TO REQUEST THE MALFUNCTION BE ADDRESSED AND THEY COULD NOT COVER THE COST OF THE REPAIR OF THE ODS AS THE VEHICLE DOES NOT FALL UNDER THE MANUFACTURING DATE RANGE. A COPY OF THE SUBARU RECALL HAS BEEN ATTACHED WITH THIS MESSAGE FOR REFERENCE. *TR

Reported
Jun 2020
Incident date
Jun 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11330107 at NHTSA →
EngineApr 2020 · ODI 11319924Details +

I HAVE BEEN EXPERIENCING A RATTLING NOISE ACCOMPANIED BY LOSS OF POWER AND A ROUGH IDLE AT LOW SPEEDS. I THOUGHT IT MUGHT BE THE IDLER PULLEY--REPLACED THAT ALONG WITH THE SERPENTINE BELT AND TENSIONER. DID NOT FIX THE PROBLEMS. YESTERDAY IT BEGAN TO STALL AT IDLE AND LOW SPEEDS. CAR WILL NOT START. SYMPTOMS MATCH THOSE RELATED TO THE WTY 84R BULLETIN AND THE 18V772-7070 RECALL FOR BROKEN VALVE SPRINGS BUT THE DEALERSHIP SAYS MY VEHICLE IS NOT IN THE VIN RANGE. THE CAR IS A 2012 IMPREZA--THE PROBLEM MATCHES THE PROBLEMS FOR THE 2012 IMPREZA.

Reported
Apr 2020
Incident date
Mar 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11319924 at NHTSA →
StructureMar 2020 · ODI 11318698Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 SUBARU IMPREZA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS ABOUT 3 INCHES OF WATER ON THE FLOORBOARD UNDERNEATH THE FRONT PASSENGER'S SEAT IN THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A CERTIFIED MECHANIC WHO STATED THAT THE LEAK WAS COMING FROM UNDERNEATH THE HOOD OF THE VEHICLE NEAR THE WIRING HARNESSES AND THE FIREWALL HOWEVER, THE EXACT LOCATION OF THE LEAK WAS UNKNOWN. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 150,000.*DT*JB

Reported
Mar 2020
Incident date
Jan 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11318698 at NHTSA →
EngineMar 2020 · ODI 11317251Details +

BOUGHT THE CAR USED 90K MILES IN 2017. IT IS NOW AT 125,000 AND THE TRANSMISSION HAS COMPLETELY FAILED. THE CAR IS ACCELERATING AND REVING EVEN WHEN DECELERATING. I TOOK IT TO THE MECHANIC AND WAS TOLD I NEED A TOTAL REPLACEMENT. I DRIVE LESS THAN 20 MI/WK WITH THE OCCASIONAL ROADTRIP. THIS CAR SHOULD HAVE LASTED FOR MANY YEARS BUT, THIS PROBLEM IS KNOWN GIVEN THAT SUBARU HAS OFFERED EXTENDED WARRANTIES IN REGARDS TO THIS TRANSMISSION FAILURE.

Reported
Mar 2020
Incident date
Mar 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11317251 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemMar 2020 · ODI 11315422Details +

KEY STUCK IN IGNITION AFTER PARKING.

Reported
Mar 2020
Incident date
Feb 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11315422 at NHTSA →
SteeringFeb 2020 · ODI 11310677Details +

MY POWER STEERING PUMP WENT OUT AT 57000 MILES. I HAD IT REPLACED AND MY STEERING RACK IS MESSED UP.

Reported
Feb 2020
Incident date
Dec 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11310677 at NHTSA →
EngineJan 2020 · ODI 11302710Details +

AT 150,000 MILES I NOTICED THAT IN THE MORNINGS ON COLD START UP I WILL GET A LARGE CLOUD OF BLUISH SMOKE THAT SMELLS LIKE IT'S BURNING, I UNDERSTAND THAT THIS IS INDICATIVE OF BURNING OIL. I ONLY KNEW TILL RECENTLY THERE WAS A CAMPAIGN TO FIX THIS ISSUE AND THAT IT IS NOW CLOSED BUT AT 150,000 MILES IT SEEMS LIKE IT MAY BE PRETTY EXCESSIVE.

Reported
Jan 2020
Incident date
Jan 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11302710 at NHTSA →
Air BagsJan 2020 · ODI 11300882Details +

I VERY RARELY DETAIL MY VEHICLE. ONLY ONCE WHEN I BOUGHT IT IN 2013 AND AGAIN RECENTLY. BOTH TIMES, THE SEATS WERE STILL WET FROM THE DETAILING PROCESS WHEN I PICKED IT UP. BOTH TIMES, WHILE SOMEONE WAS SITTING IN THE PASSENGER SEAT WHILE IT WAS STILL SLIGHTLY WET, THE DASHBOARD LIGHTS SHOWED THAT THE PASSENGER AIRBAG WAS NOT ON. IT DIDN'T MATTER IF THE CAR WAS MOVING OR STATIONARY. ONCE THE SEAT DRIED, THE AIRBAG APPEARED TO FUNCTION NORMALLY. MY HUSBAND TOOK THE ATTACHED PICTURE WHILE I WAS SITTING IN THE PASSENGER SEAT.

Reported
Jan 2020
Incident date
Jan 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11300882 at NHTSA →
Air BagsDec 2019 · ODI 11288490Details +

WHEN DRIVING WITH A PASSENGER THE AIR BAG FOR THE PASSENGER WILL NOT TURN ON AND DASHBOARD LIGHTS WILL COME ON.

Reported
Dec 2019
Incident date
Dec 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11288490 at NHTSA →

This page shows the latest 50 reports to keep it usable. The count above includes every complaint NHTSA has returned for this model year.

Recalls(6)

Open a recall to read what NHTSA says is wrong, what can happen, and how it gets fixed. Check the VIN and remedy eligibility with a dealer; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though a manufacturer may offer more coverage.

Engine And Engine CoolingJan 2018 · 18V772000Details +

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2012-2014 Subaru Impreza, 2012-2013 Impreza Stationwagon, 2013 Subaru BRZ, XV Crosstrek and Toyota Scion FR-S vehicles. The engine valve springs in these vehicles may fracture causing an engine malfunction or a possible engine stall.

Risk: An engine stall can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Subaru will notify their owners. Toyota will notify the FR-S owners. Dealers will replace the valve springs, free of charge. The recall began December 26, 2018. Subaru owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614, Toyota owners may contact the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-888-270-9371. Subaru's number for this recall is WTY-84.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Air BagsJan 2015 · 15V419000Details +

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2012 model year Subaru Impreza 4-Door and Station Wagon vehicles (except WRX/STI models) manufactured April 21, 2011, to February 16, 2012. In the affected vehicles, the Occupant Detection System (ODS) may deactivate if a front seat passenger operates a device that is plugged into the power outlet such as a music player or cell phone, or touches a metal part of the vehicle such as the forward/rearward seat adjuster lever.

Risk: If the ODS deactivates, the front passenger air bag will be turned off and the front passenger air bag will not deploy in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury to the seat occupant.

Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the Occupant Control Unit with a modified one, free of charge. The recall began August 21, 2015. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WQT-55.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Service Brakes · 11V562000Details +

SUBARU IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 IMPREZA SEDANS AND WAGONS (EXCEPT WRX/STI MODELS), MANUFACTURED FROM APRIL 21, 2011, THROUGH NOVEMBER 15, 2011, AND LEGACY AND OUTBACK VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 17, 2011, THROUGH NOVEMBER 23, 2011. THESE VEHICLES MAY BE EQUIPPED WITH A BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER THAT COULD MALFUNCTION AND CAUSE AN INCREASE IN THE AMOUNT OF BRAKE PEDAL TRAVEL DISTANCE REQUIRED TO SLOW OR STOP THE VEHICLE.

Risk: THE DRIVER MIGHT MISJUDGE THE AMOUNT OF BRAKE PEDAL TRAVEL REQUIRED TO ACHIEVE THE DESIRED STOPPING DISTANCE. THIS COULD OCCUR UNEXPECTEDLY AND WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy: SUBARU WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER AND IF NECESSARY, REPLACE IT, FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING DECEMBER 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SUBARU AT 1-800-782-2783.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Electrical System · 13V061000Details +

Subaru is recalling certain model year 2010-2012 Legacy and Outback vehicles equipped with an automatic or CVT transmission and an Audiovox remote engine starter (RES) accessory, certain model year 2012-2013 Impreza vehicles equipped with a CVT transmission and an Audiovox remote engine starter (RES) accessory, and certain model year 2013 XV Crosstrek vehicles equipped with a CVT transmission and an Audiovox remote engine starter (RES) accessory. Additionally included are certain model year 2013 Legacy and Outback vehicles that may have received replacement RES fobs. If the RES fob is dropped, the fob may malfunction and randomly transmit an engine start request without pressing the button.

Risk: The engine may inadvertently start and run for up to fifteen minutes. The engine may continue to start and stop until the fob battery is depleted, or until the vehicle runs out of fuel. If the vehicle is parked in an enclosed area, there is a risk of carbon monoxide build-up which may cause headaches, dizziness or, in extreme cases, unconsciousness and/or asphyxiation.

Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the RES key fobs, free of charge. The recall began on April 22, 2013. Owners may contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783 for more information.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Electrical System · 16V738000Details +

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2007-2009 model year Legacy and Outback vehicles, 2008-2014 Impreza vehicles and 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, all equipped with turbo-charged engines. The relay that controls the secondary air injection pump may fail, causing the pump to continuously operate and overheat.

Risk: If the air injection pump overheats, it may melt and increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the secondary air injection pump relay, free of charge. The recall began December 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WTM-73.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Exterior Lighting · 19V149000Details +

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Forester, 2008-2016 Impreza sedans, 2012-2016 Impreza station wagons, 2008-2014 WRX sedans (including STI), and 2013-2017 Crosstrek vehicles. Exposure to certain contaminants may cause the brake light switch to malfunction, preventing the brake lights from illuminating and also preventing keyless ignition vehicles from starting and CVT/automatic transmissions from being able to be shifted out of Park.

Risk: Brake lights that do not illuminate properly will not alert other drivers that the vehicle is slowing or stopping, increasing the risk of crash.

Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake light switch, free of charge. The recall began April 15, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUE-90.

Open full NHTSA recall record →

A campaign can apply to this model year without being incomplete on a specific vehicle. Check the VIN with NHTSA or a dealer to confirm whether a particular car needs repair.

Investigations

1 NHTSA investigation on record

Investigations are agency reviews, not findings that a vehicle is defective.

Passenger Front Air Bag Suppression

The Office of Defects Investigation opened this investigation on April 10, 2015 based on 26 Vehicle Owner Questionnaire reports involving the passenger frontal air bag in MY 2012 Subaru Impreza vehicles.These vehicles use a capacitive type Occupant Detection System (ODS), which is intended to classify the occupant of the passenger seat as either full sized, small stature, a child seat, or other object.The reports alleged that the ODS failed to operate properly and incorrectly suppressed (turned off) the front passenger air bag when the seat was occupied.In a frontal crash sufficient to warranty deployment, a suppressed air bag may increase the risk of injury to the occupant of the seat.On June 25, 2015, Subaru of America, Inc. submitted a Defect Information Report (DIR) advising NHTSA that it would conduct a safety recall to remedy the ODS in 32,400 MY 2012 Subaru Impreza vehicles equipped with a capacitance type ODS for the front passenger's seat.The DIR notes that the WRX/STI models are excluded from this recall as they are equipped with a different type (weight-recognition based) ODS for the front passenger's seat. ODI is closing this investigation based on Subaru's recall action.The ODI reports cited above can be viewed at http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchSafetyIssues under the following ID numbers:10668512, 10668243, 10662987, 10641835, 10640574, 10626384, 10622234, 10621456, 10619273, 10605789, 10604506, 10575908, 10559081, 10557856, 10556661, 10545059, 10538562, 10532118, 10481308, 10478660, 10473662, 10472608, 10470865, 10468157, 10463432, 10672345, 10712288, 10713178, 10731645.

Crash-test ratings

2012 Subaru Impreza 4 DR AWD NHTSA source

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover

2012 Subaru Impreza SW AWD NHTSA source

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover

Source: NHTSA New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).

Fuel economy by trim

TrimEngineDrivetrainCityHwyCombined
Impreza Wagon/Outback Sport AWD2.0L 4-cylAll-Wheel Drive273530
Impreza AWD2.0L 4-cylAll-Wheel Drive273530
Impreza AWD2.0L 4-cylAll-Wheel Drive243328
Impreza Wagon/Outback Sport AWD2.0L 4-cylAll-Wheel Drive243327
Impreza Wagon/Outback Sport AWD2.5L 4-cylAll-Wheel Drive192521
Impreza AWD2.5L 4-cylAll-Wheel Drive192521
Impreza Wagon/Outback Sport AWD2.5L 4-cylAll-Wheel Drive172319
Impreza AWD2.5L 4-cylAll-Wheel Drive172319

EPA laboratory estimates by trim and engine. Actual mileage varies with driving, weather, load, and maintenance. EPA source.

Before you buy

Useful next checks

Federal records tell you about patterns. These checks can tell you more about the specific car in front of you.

These are affiliate links. TireKick may earn a fee if you use one.

Compare the year-by-year record

Open another year for its own evidence-gated decision. TireKick does not crown a best year from raw complaint totals.

2012 Subaru Impreza: frequently asked

What does the complaint record show for the 2012 Subaru Impreza?

Owners filed 242 NHTSA complaints about the 2012 Subaru Impreza. This is raw owner-reported complaint volume with no production or exposure normalization, so it is not a reliability score or a best/worst-year ranking.

What are the most common problems on the 2012 Subaru Impreza?

The most-reported problem areas are Air Bags (38% of complaints) and engine (16%).

How many recalls does the 2012 Subaru Impreza have?

6 recalls have been issued that affect the 2012 Subaru Impreza, covering components such as engine and engine cooling. Check the VIN with NHTSA and ask a dealer to confirm remedy eligibility; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though manufacturers may offer more coverage.

What gas mileage does the 2012 Subaru Impreza get?

The EPA rates the 2012 Subaru Impreza between 19 and 30 mpg combined, depending on trim and drivetrain.