Is the 2016 Subaru Impreza reliable?

It’s generally a reliable compact car when maintained, with strong traction and solid longevity potential, but long-term dependability depends heavily on CVT condition, oil level monitoring, and routine service.

What are the most common 2016 Subaru Impreza problems?

Common issues include CVT hesitation or shudder, wheel bearing noise, higher-mileage oil consumption, and occasional A/C performance complaints.

Are maintenance costs high for a 2016 Subaru Impreza?

Costs are usually moderate for the class, but AWD adds some drivetrain service considerations and CVT-related repairs can be expensive if problems develop, making preventive maintenance especially valuable.

What are the best years to buy a Subaru Impreza?

Many shoppers favor well-maintained examples from the later part of a generation; for this body style, 2015–2016 are often chosen for being late in the 2012–2016 run, while 2017+ is a newer redesign with different features and driving feel.

What should I check before buying a used 2016 Subaru Impreza?

Confirm smooth CVT operation, listen for wheel bearing humming, verify cold A/C, check for oil leaks and proper oil level, inspect tires for uneven wear, and review service records for consistent maintenance. For deeper details, get a complete owner’s guide with full specs, trim information, and the exact maintenance schedules to keep your 2016 Subaru Impreza running its best.

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

2016 Subaru Impreza Reliability ReportKeepScore 88/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid

88/ 100

KeepScore

LOW RISK

Grade: A-

A remarkably safe and reliable all-weather compact, provided the CVT is properly serviced.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2016 Subaru Impreza

Outscores the 2014 Subaru Impreza by 10 points — one of the stronger nearby years to consider.
The system most likely to surface first: continuously variable transmission (cvt) (major severity).
Has 1 NHTSA recall on record — the most notable involves the exterior lighting:brake lights:switch.

2016 Subaru Impreza: Buy or Avoid?

The 2016 Subaru Impreza stands as one of the most dependable compact cars of its era, particularly for those prioritizing all-weather capability and safety. While its CVT requires diligent maintenance, it's a vehicle you can confidently rely on for many years and miles, offering outstanding value in the used market.

Biggest Strengths

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
Excellent crash test ratings and safety features
Generally robust engine (FB20) when properly maintained

2016 Subaru Impreza — Known Trouble Spots

The systems that break first on the 2016 Subaru Impreza. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)major

Wheel Bearingsmoderate

Front Suspension Componentsmoderate

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

Safety Recalls on the 2016 Subaru Impreza

1 recall 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.

What breaks on the 2016 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 2016s Worth a Look

Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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