2017 Subaru Impreza Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Quick Facts · 2017 Subaru Impreza
- Has 7 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the electrical system:software.
- Outscores the 2015 Subaru Impreza by 5 points — one of the stronger nearby years to consider.
- The system most likely to surface first: continuously variable transmission (cvt) (major severity).
Should You Buy the 2017 Subaru Impreza?
The 2017 Subaru Impreza is an outstanding choice for anyone seeking a safe, practical, and highly capable compact car, especially in adverse weather. With its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and impressive safety ratings, this generation delivers confident daily driving. While its Lineartronic CVT requires diligent maintenance, diligent buyers who follow recommended service intervals can expect years of reliable and economical ownership.
The 2017 Subaru Impreza is a robust and highly recommendable used compact car, particularly for those prioritizing safety and all-weather capability. While the CVT requires diligent maintenance, it's generally a reliable vehicle that delivers excellent value. With a thorough pre-purchase inspection and a commitment…
Best Model Years
2017-2023 (first year of the fifth generation, offering significant improvements)
Years to Avoid
None specifically for this generation; earlier generations (2012-2016) had slightly more prevalent CVT concerns.
Biggest Strengths
- Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive capability
- Exceptional crash safety ratings and available EyeSight system
- Robust engine design (when properly maintained)
Top Risk Areas
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2017 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.
While improved over previous generations, the Lineartronic CVT can develop shuddering, whining, or a lack of smooth power delivery. This is often linked to insufficient or neglected fluid changes, leading to accelerated wear of internal…
Subaru models, including the Impreza, are known for wheel bearings failing prematurely. Symptoms include a persistent humming or growling noise that changes with speed or cornering. Left unattended, it can lead to safety issues and more…
Owners report occasional issues with the Starlink infotainment system, including freezing, lagging, or Bluetooth connectivity problems. Less commonly, dashboard warning lights may illuminate without clear cause, or minor battery drain is…
2017 Subaru Impreza Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2017 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. Key focus should be on routine maintenance, inspecting tire wear, and listening for any early signs of wheel bearing noise.
Maintenance Zone
This mileage marks a critical service interval for the CVT fluid, which is vital for long-term transmission health. Other wear items like brakes and suspension components may start to show signs of age.
Elevated Risk Zone
Beyond 90k, the risk of more significant component wear increases. The CVT becomes more susceptible to issues if fluid changes were skipped. Suspension components like control arm bushings may also need attention.
High Risk Zone
At this stage, major components like the CVT are at their highest risk of failure, especially if the vehicle hasn't been meticulously maintained. Costly repairs become more probable, though well-maintained examples can certainly exceed t…
2017 Subaru Impreza Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2017 Subaru Impreza on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$450-650
Moderate Repairs
$600-1,800 occasionally (e.g., wheel bearings, major brake job)
How Long Does the 2017 Subaru Impreza Last?
Focus on examples with documented CVT fluid changes if purchasing an automatic, ideally done around every 60,000 miles. Don't be overly scared of higher mileage (100k+) if maintenance records are impeccable and a pre-purchase inspection comes back clean.
What 2017 Subaru Impreza Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Superior all-weather traction and handling with standard AWD
- Exceptional crash safety ratings and available EyeSight driver assistance
- Good fuel economy for an AWD vehicle
- Practical hatchback cargo space and comfortable ride
Common Frustrations
- Sluggish acceleration, especially with the CVT
- Higher than average road noise at highway speeds
- Basic interior materials and design compared to rivals
- Occasional glitches with the Starlink infotainment system
Who Should Buy the 2017 Subaru Impreza?
Best For
- Commuters in snowy or rainy climates
- Safety-conscious first-time car buyers
- Individuals seeking excellent fuel economy with AWD capability
Not Ideal For
- Performance enthusiasts seeking thrilling acceleration
- Buyers prioritizing luxury interior appointments and quiet cabins
How the 2017 Subaru Impreza Compares to Rivals
The Impreza stands apart with standard AWD, a feature rarely found in its direct competitors at this price point. While slightly less refined than a Civic or Mazda 3, its all-weather capability and safety are clear advantages, though the CVT is its main Achilles' heel against…
More Reliable Than
- Nissan Sentra (especially older CVT units)
- Ford Focus (due to its problematic DCT)
- Mitsubishi Lancer
Comparable To
- Honda Civic
- Mazda 3
NHTSA Recalls
7 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Subaru Impreza and 2018-2019 Crosstrek vehicles. The Engine Control Module (ECM) may continue to power the ignition coil after the engine is shut off, causing a short circuit.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CRANKCASE (PCV)
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Impreza and 2018 Crosstrek vehicles equipped with an aluminum Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve. The PCV valve may come apart, allowing the separated components to enter the engine, possibly resulting in a loss of power while driving.
What breaks on the 2017 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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Frequently Asked Questions
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