2009 Subaru Impreza Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Quick Facts · 2009 Subaru Impreza
- Has 15 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the exterior lighting:brake lights:switch.
- Scores 10 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2010 Subaru Impreza earns a 88.
- The system most likely to surface first: engine (head gaskets) (major severity).
Should You Buy the 2009 Subaru Impreza?
The 2009 Subaru Impreza offers commendable all-weather capability and a robust driving feel, making it a compelling choice for those seeking AWD traction. However, potential buyers must be acutely aware of its well-documented head gasket vulnerabilities and susceptibility to rust, which elevate its long-term ownership risk and demand diligent pre-purchase scrutiny.
The 2009 Subaru Impreza is a solid platform for those prioritizing all-wheel-drive performance and utility. However, its reputation for head gasket issues and pervasive rust demands an extremely thorough pre-purchase inspection and a readiness to invest in maintenance. Do your homework, or you might regret it.
Best Model Years
2010-2011 (final years of this generation, with minor improvements)
Years to Avoid
None within this specific generation (2008-2011) if proper pre-purchase diligence is performed; earlier EJ25-powered cars (pre-2008) had higher rates of head gasket issues.
Biggest Strengths
- Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system
- Solid chassis and road manners
- Excellent crash safety ratings
Top Risk Areas
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2009 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 EJ series engines are notorious for external and internal head gasket leaks, leading to oil consumption, coolant loss, and potential overheating if neglected. This is a common, costly repair.
Subarus of this era, particularly in northern climates, are prone to rust on rear wheel arches, rocker panels, subframes, and suspension components, compromising aesthetics and structural integrity.
Wear items like control arm bushings, strut mounts, and sway bar end links frequently fail, leading to clunks, rattles, and compromised handling. Power steering pumps can also develop leaks.
2009 Subaru Impreza Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2009 Subaru Impreza most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, the car is still relatively new. Focus on routine oil changes, tire rotations, and cabin/engine air filter replacements. This is often the honeymoon period for Impreza owners.
Maintenance Zone
More significant preventative maintenance is due. This is a crucial point to address differential and transmission fluid changes, spark plugs, and start monitoring for early signs of head gasket weeping.
Elevated Risk Zone
Head gasket issues are highly probable if not already addressed. The timing belt (on EJ engines) is approaching its critical replacement interval. Expect to tackle more suspension wear.
High Risk Zone
Beyond this point, the Impreza enters a phase where rust can become a major structural concern, and secondary systems like CV axles, wheel bearings, and more extensive suspension components will likely require replacement. Ongoing vigila…
2009 Subaru Impreza Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2009 Subaru Impreza on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$500-700
Moderate Repairs
$800-2,000 occasionally (e.g., head gaskets, major suspension)
How Long Does the 2009 Subaru Impreza Last?
Focus less on absolute low mileage and more on a demonstrable history of meticulous maintenance, especially regarding head gasket and timing belt service. A higher mileage Impreza with full records is often a safer bet than a lower mileage one with an unknown past.
What 2009 Subaru Impreza Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Exceptional all-weather grip and stability from Symmetrical AWD
- Engaging driving dynamics and responsive handling for a compact
- Practical hatchback cargo space and versatility
- Strong safety ratings provide peace of mind
Common Frustrations
- Subpar fuel economy compared to FWD competitors
- Engine road noise and general cabin insulation are lacking
- Interior materials feel basic and prone to minor rattles
- Persistent head gasket concerns are a source of anxiety and expense
Who Should Buy the 2009 Subaru Impreza?
Best For
- Drivers in snowy or rainy climates needing reliable traction
- Outdoor enthusiasts (hikers, skiers) requiring light off-road capability
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking an AWD vehicle
Not Ideal For
- Buyers seeking the absolute lowest possible running costs
- Individuals who tend to neglect routine maintenance
How the 2009 Subaru Impreza Compares to Rivals
The 2009 Impreza carved out a niche with its standard AWD, offering capabilities most rivals simply couldn't match. While not as bulletproof as a Toyota, its unique strengths made it a compelling, if slightly more demanding, choice.
More Reliable Than
- Most FWD compacts in adverse weather conditions
- Older domestic compacts (e.g., Ford Focus, Chevy Cobalt) in terms of reliability
- Some premium compacts for off-road capability
Comparable To
- Mazda 3 (driving dynamics, handling)
- Honda Civic (overall reliability, though without AWD)
NHTSA Recalls
15 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
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.
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.
What breaks on the 2009 Subaru Impreza?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Subaru Impreza by Year
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Subaru Impreza. Click any year for its full report.
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