2012 Subaru Impreza Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Quick Facts · 2012 Subaru Impreza
- Has 6 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the exterior lighting:brake lights:switch.
- Scores 6 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2010 Subaru Impreza earns a 88.
- The system most likely to surface first: engine (fb20 oil consumption) (moderate severity).
Should You Buy the 2012 Subaru Impreza?
The 2012 Subaru Impreza, while offering outstanding standard AWD capability, requires a cautious approach due to potential issues with its first-year FB20 engine and Lineartronic CVT. If you prioritize all-weather grip and are diligent with maintenance and pre-purchase inspections, it can be a solid choice, but be prepared for specific powertrain vulnerabilities.
Biggest Strengths
- Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
- Excellent crash safety ratings
- Practicality and cargo space for its class
Top Risk Areas
The systems that break first on the 2012 Subaru Impreza. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.
NHTSA Recalls
6 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.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
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.
What breaks on the 2012 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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Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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