Is the 2014 Subaru Impreza reliable?

Overall reliability is generally solid when maintenance is kept up, but the best outcomes come from owners who monitor oil level, keep tires matched, and maintain CVT/driveline fluids.

What are the most common 2014 Subaru Impreza problems?

Commonly reported issues include CVT hesitation or noise, higher-than-expected oil consumption, wheel bearing noise, and occasional HVAC or electrical annoyances.

Are maintenance costs high for a 2014 Impreza?

Maintenance costs are usually moderate for a compact car, but AWD can add cost for tires (often needing replacement in sets) and additional fluid services for the drivetrain.

What are the best years of Subaru Impreza to buy?

Many shoppers prefer later fourth-generation models with documented service history and updated components; the best choice is typically a well-maintained example with records, regardless of year.

What should I check before buying a used 2014 Subaru Impreza?

Verify oil consumption history, scan for stored codes, test drive for CVT shudder/hesitation, inspect for wheel bearing hum, confirm tires match in brand/tread depth, and review service records for fluid changes and recalls. For a deeper dive, get a complete owner’s guide with full specs, trim details, and maintenance schedules to help you buy smarter and keep your Impreza running strong.

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Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

2014 Subaru Impreza Reliability ReportKeepScore 78/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid

78/ 100

KeepScore

MODERATE RISK

Grade: C+

A capable AWD compact that can be a great value, but the CVT is a significant wildcard requiring vigilance.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2014 Subaru Impreza

Scores 10 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2016 Subaru Impreza earns a 88.
The system most likely to surface first: lineartronic cvt transmission (critical severity).
Has 3 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the exterior lighting:brake lights:switch.

2014 Subaru Impreza: Buy or Avoid?

The 2014 Subaru Impreza offers excellent all-weather capability and a strong safety record, making it a compelling choice for many buyers. However, the potential for significant issues with its Lineartronic CVT and persistent minor concerns like wheel bearing wear necessitate a cautious approach to ownership. If you're considering this vehicle, a thorough pre-purchase inspection and diligent maintenance are non-negotiable to mitigate potential major repair costs.

Biggest Strengths

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Strong crash safety ratings
Reliable Boxer engine (when maintained)

2014 Subaru Impreza — Known Trouble Spots

The systems that break first on the 2014 Subaru Impreza. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Lineartronic CVT Transmissioncritical

Wheel Bearingsmoderate

Oil Consumptionmajor

Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

Safety Recalls on the 2014 Subaru Impreza

3 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.

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

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.

What breaks on the 2014 Subaru Impreza?

Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.

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Subaru Impreza — Year-by-Year Comparison

Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Subaru Impreza. Click any year for its full report.

All Subaru Impreza years ranked →Subaru Impreza years to avoid →Subaru Impreza common problems →

Competing 2014s Worth a Look

Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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