2007 Subaru Impreza Reliability ReportC+ grade · moderate risk · system-by-system breakdown
Quick Facts · 2007 Subaru Impreza
- The system most likely to surface first: engine head gaskets (major severity).
- Has 9 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator module.
- Outscores the 2005 Subaru Impreza by 8 points — one of the stronger nearby years to consider.
Is the 2007 Subaru Impreza Worth Buying?
A fantastic all-weather compact offering Subaru's legendary symmetrical all-wheel drive, the 2007 Impreza is an excellent choice for utility and safety, but its Boxer engine demands diligent preventative maintenance to avoid costly repairs down the line.
While offering excellent all-weather capability and a spirited drive, the 2007 Impreza requires careful pre-purchase inspection and a commitment to proactive maintenance, particularly for its Boxer engine's known vulnerabilities. Neglecting these can lead to significant repair bills, making a well-documented example…
Best Model Years
For improved reliability, consider 2008+ models with the revised 2.5L engine or earlier models (like the 2007) with documented head gasket replacement.
Years to Avoid
Be extremely cautious with 2005-2009 2.5L SOHC Imprezas that have no record of head gasket service, as this repair will likely be an imminent expense.
Biggest Strengths
- Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
- Excellent winter weather performance
- Robust chassis and safety ratings
What Tends to Fail First on the 2007 Subaru Impreza
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2007 Subaru Impreza, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
The 2.5L SOHC non-turbo EJ253 engine is notorious for external and internal head gasket leaks, leading to oil seepage, coolant loss, or mixing. If neglected, this can cause overheating or catastrophic engine damage.
A critical service interval at 105,000 miles. Failure to replace the timing belt and water pump can result in the belt breaking, causing severe engine damage due to interference with valves and pistons.
Subarus from this era, especially those in salt-belt states, are prone to rust around the rear wheel arches, rocker panels, subframe, and suspension components.
2007 Subaru Impreza Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2007 Subaru Impreza most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, the vehicle should still be in excellent condition. Focus on basic maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations. Few major issues are expected.
Maintenance Zone
Expect to address maintenance items such as spark plugs, differential fluid changes, and possibly front brake service. Keep an eye on suspension components for early wear.
Elevated Risk Zone
This mileage brings increased risk for head gasket issues on 2.5L SOHC models. Suspension components, wheel bearings, and power steering leaks become more prevalent. A thorough inspection for leaks is vital.
High Risk Zone
If the timing belt and water pump service haven't been completed, it's overdue and critical. Expect to see significant wear on most original components, increasing the likelihood of major repairs if prior maintenance was neglected.
2007 Subaru Impreza Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2007 Subaru Impreza on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$400-600
Moderate Repairs
$500-1,500 occasionally
How Long Does the 2007 Subaru Impreza Last?
Prioritize documented maintenance records, especially for the 105,000-mile timing belt service and head gasket status, as these are critical indicators of long-term reliability for any Impreza at higher mileage.
What 2007 Subaru Impreza Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Exceptional all-weather traction and handling with AWD
- Solid build quality and durable mechanicals (excluding specific engine issues)
- Practical hatchback cargo space (if applicable)
- Engaging driving dynamics, especially the WRX variant
Common Frustrations
- Below-average fuel economy for a compact car
- Persistent anxiety over potential head gasket failures (2.5L SOHC)
- Road noise and engine noise can be noticeable
- Dated interior design and materials compared to some rivals
Who Should Buy the 2007 Subaru Impreza?
Best For
- Drivers in snowy or challenging weather conditions
- Outdoor enthusiasts needing light off-road capability
- Buyers seeking AWD on a budget
Not Ideal For
- Buyers prioritizing maximum fuel economy
- Those looking for minimal long-term maintenance
How the 2007 Subaru Impreza Compares to Rivals
The Impreza distinguishes itself with standard symmetrical AWD, offering superior traction and utility compared to many FWD compact rivals, though often at the cost of slightly higher complexity in specific engine maintenance.
More Reliable Than
- 2007 Ford Focus (reliability, AWD capability)
- 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt (build quality, AWD capability)
Comparable To
- 2007 Honda Civic (engine reliability, FWD)
- 2007 Toyota Corolla (fuel economy, FWD)
2007 Subaru Impreza Recall History
9 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (including STI), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "Zone C." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (STI included), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
What breaks on the 2007 Subaru Impreza?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Other Subaru Impreza Years to Consider
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Subaru Impreza. Click any year for its full report.
2007 Subaru Impreza Alternatives
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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