2019 Subaru Impreza Complaints

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING — Filed 07/01/2026

The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Impreza. The contact stated that while driving 20 MPH, the vehicle was jerking, shaking, and failed to accelerate as needed. The check engine warning light was intermittently illuminated. The failure nearly caused a crash. The vehicle was taken to AutoZone, where the oxygen sensor and spark plugs were replaced, but the failure persisted. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 147,600.

SERVICE BRAKES — Filed 08/01/2026

Front right caliper seized less than 3k miles following dealer service including brake fluid flush. Replaced calipers, pads, and rotors at my own expense. Suspect internal degradation of rubber brake lines. Service bulletin exists for year prior model. Many others report rubber brake line/caliper issues on this generation. Please investigate.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER — Filed 07/01/2020

The cowl is the newest cowl on my 2019 subaru impreza and it still bowed like the original. Mine wasn't on the original recall and it bowed.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE — Filed 06/01/2019

The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Impreza. The contact stated that while driving approximately 30-40 MPH, the vehicle rolled to a stop and stalled in hot and cold temperatures. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was jump-started by Roadside Assistance. The contact purchased a trickle charger. The local dealer was contacted, and the vehicle was diagnosed, and determined that the battery needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired three times, but the failure recurred. The manufacturer was contacted, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was approximately 5,000.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM — Filed 06/08/2026

When attempting to start the vehicle, randomly, the key loses programming. This is the 2nd time where the keys lose programming and vehicle has to be towed at owners' expense and wait as long as 5 days for dealership to reprogram.

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM — Filed 07/15/2025

The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Impreza. The contact stated while driving 5 MPH, while depressing the accelerator pedal the vehicle loss power. An independent mechanic was contacted. No warning light warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken an independent mechanic where the diagnosed the coil pack was melted and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was then taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed the coil pack had a shortage. The contact mention this failure has occurred on several different occasions. The vehicle was repaired as the coil pack and wiring was replaced. The contact was relating to the recall to NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V264000(ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING), however the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and they informed her because of the milage there was no recall. The approximate failure mileage was 145,866.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE — Filed 02/22/2026

2019 Subaru Impreza has experienced intermittent and now persistent failures involving the factory EyeSight driver assistance system. Prior to complete failure, the EyeSight system would randomly disable and re-enable while driving. Adaptive cruise control and related safety features became unreliable and would intermittently stop functioning. The issue worsened over time and eventually resulted in repeated “EyeSight Off” warnings and multiple system fault messages. Vehicle diagnostic scans showed repeated U1235 “Lost communication with EyeSight” faults across multiple modules, including ABS, steering, transmission, and instrument cluster systems. Additional communication and airbag indicator-related faults were also present. The windshield was recently replaced due to a crack located near the EyeSight camera area. Subaru service personnel stated that EyeSight systems are extremely sensitive to windshield specifications and calibration requirements, and that aftermarket windshields may prevent proper operation or calibration of the system. Subaru also indicated that EyeSight calibration equipment is highly specialized and expensive, and that repair costs may not be practical relative to the vehicle value. Despite attempts to reset the vehicle systems and inspect the issue, the EyeSight system continues to malfunction and remains disabled. Because EyeSight controls important driver assistance and collision-avoidance features including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking, this issue creates significant safety concerns. The intermittent nature of the failure, repeated communication faults, and inability to reliably restore system operation raise concerns regarding the long-term reliability and serviceability of Subaru EyeSight systems.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER — Filed 11/15/2025

Windshield lower plastic mount or cowl is getting detached creating a large visible gap between the cowl and windshield about 0.5+ inch. The gap runs across the middle of the windshield to its left and right side occupying about 50% in total. Gap is an issue when it rains, when it is snowing or other things since might get embedded on it.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER — Filed 02/18/2026

On February 18, 2026, my 2019 Subaru Impreza displayed an “Emergency Service” alert and sent a MySubaru app message stating that Automatic Crash Notification, SOS Call, Stolen Vehicle Locator, and Roadside Assistance may not be available. A red SOS light also illuminated, and STARLINK sent alerts to Subaru each day I first started the car, prompting repeated dealer calls. I tested the SOS button and could hear the operator clearly. On March 6, 2026, a dealer diagnosed a faulty right dash speaker (B2A06 – telematics speaker circuit malfunction). The emergency system shares this speaker, so the system warned that safety services might not work. I paid $191 for diagnostics; the estimated repair is $216.69. I pay a monthly subscription for STARLINK safety services, but the vehicle’s warnings do not clearly indicate the real issue. Other owners of 2019 and similar Subaru models report persistent STARLINK/telematics errors, red SOS lights, and repeated dealer visits, suggesting this may be a broader systemic issue. I believe the warning system should specifically identify a failed speaker or audio circuit to reduce confusion, unnecessary diagnostics, and ensure drivers understand the true status of emergency safety features. My concern is that the vehicle’s warning system may mislead drivers into believing that critical safety systems are malfunctioning, when the actual issue is a non-critical speaker failure. A more specific diagnostic message indicating an audio system fault would be more useful.

SUSPENSION — Filed 06/25/2023

The front suspension has been broken since I purchased the vehicle with 50,000 miles on it. This has always been a safety concern for this vehicle yet I see no recalls for it. This puts my safety at risk as there is a metal clunking sound when turning the wheel and the tire rod can break from the faulty parts used for the vehicle. The vehicle’s front suspension was checked by a car repair company that was changing my brake pads at the time and saw that there was a dire issue with the vehicle that could put my life at risk. I have not had any car accidents or any other issues that could have caused this, meaning it is faulty manufacturing on Subaru’s part. There are no warning lights for the suspension, there is no way to know if you have a suspension issue unless you get the vehicle checked, or in my case can hear metal clunking sounds as the wheel is moved left or right while turning. This issue has been seen by many other owners of the same vehicle make, model and year but there has been no effort to fix this safety issue.

STRUCTURE — Filed 08/20/2025

The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Impreza. The contact stated that upon approaching the vehicle, excessive corrosion on the driver’s side rocker panel was observed. The contact inspected the passenger’s side rocker panel and found excessive corrosion. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who determined that the frame needed to be cut, and the rocker panel needed to be refabricated. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 48,000.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER — Filed 07/03/2025

TPMS safety system failure. Vehicle display of tire pressure readings on the dash has changed from displaying tire pressures for each tire to no pressures displayed (pressures are blank; on the Subaru App which also accesses this data, all tires show red/abnormal with dashes displayed) for several weeks now and TPMS error warning light remains illuminated on dash. Manufacturer has suggested I take car to dealer to diagnose at my upfront cost for their defect as the vehicle is out of warranty. A friend with the same car has experienced the same problem, replaced all TPMS sensors at their expense, still having this same problem despite the attempted fix. This safety defect is not being adequately addressed by the manufacturer despite contacting the advocacy department and corporate executive.

EXTERIOR LIGHTING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER — Filed 05/14/2025

I attempted to get a safety recall (headlamp assembly defect) addressed at my local Subaru dealership. The vehicle is still under warranty, and I was told I may be able to get a loaner or rental. However, when I arrived, I was informed that the dealership only has 9 loaners and does not offer rental coverage at all, even for warranty customers. I had already spoken to someone about my need for a rental due to my class schedule and was led to believe this could be arranged. I drove down there, took time out of my day, and missed class — only to be turned away with no solution. Subaru’s recall notice acknowledges the increased risk of a crash due to poor visibility and glare. My vehicle remains unfixed and unsafe to drive, and I was left with no support despite my warranty and a safety recall. Subaru has not made it reasonably possible for me to address this recall. If an accident occurs while I wait for a proper resolution, I will hold them responsible. I am submitting this complaint to formally document my experience and push for accountability.

SERVICE BRAKES — Filed 05/03/2025

I had my vehicle inspected on 5/3/25 and all 4 break lines had bubbles protruding from the rubber break lines that go from the caliper to the metal lines. A safety recall for the same problem exists for 1 year earlier than my Subaru. It appears that Subaru continues to use defective break lines.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER — Filed 04/14/2025

Description of the Problem: On or about [XXX], my 2019 Subaru Impreza experienced a sudden engine failure. The check engine light illuminated, and the engine shut off. Specifically, the check engine light came on approximately two minutes into the drive, and the engine shut off within 30 seconds of the light appearing. The vehicle was taken to Albany Subaru in Albany, CA, where a technician diagnosed the issue as a blown 15 amp ignition fuse and a damaged ignition coil (#4). Albany Subaru is recommending replacement of the spark plugs, coil packs, and the fuse. Albany Subaru has stated that "Subaru sent the recall out due to defective coil packs, and had the new updated coil packs installed. My tech is recommending to replace the coil packs due to the fuse blowing out and shorting out the current coil packs. The #4 coil was found damaged during the inspection." Connection to Recall: I am concerned that this current failure is related to the original defect addressed by Recall 21V264000. My vehicle had the recall service performed on November 14, 2019, to replace the ignition coils. It appears that the replacement coils, or an issue related to the recall repair, may have failed, leading to the blown fuse and further coil damage. I have asked the service technician at Albany Subaru to specifically determine if the current failure is in any way related to the original defect or the replacement parts installed under the recall. Safety Concern: This sudden engine failure poses a significant safety risk. A loss of engine power while driving can lead to a crash, especially at higher speeds or in traffic. In my experience owning many vehicles, I have never encountered issues with ignition coils, nor have I experienced this frequency of recalls. Vehicle Information: • Year: 2019 • Make: Subaru • Model: Impreza • VIN: [XXX] • Mileage: 59,784 miles Recall Information: • NHTSA Recall Number: 21V264000, Service date: Nov 14, 2019 INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

UNKNOWN OR OTHER,LANE DEPARTURE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE — Filed 01/07/2025

Eye warning keeps coming on. Then resets a few days later.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER — Filed 01/18/2024

Head unit constantly rebooting. Completely unable to use the head unit. No longer functional. Unable to power the screen off. Very distracting while driving especially at night. Power button no longer works. Started about a year ago, then randomly seemed to of temporarily resolved itself until a couple of months ago. Head unit is now 100% nonfunctional and constantly reboots. No warnings when first occurred. Issue has been confirmed by independent service center. Puts myself and others at risk due to the screen rebooting on repeat and no way to turn the screen off. Extremely distracting and unsafe

POWER TRAIN — Filed 01/31/2025

Subaru is aware of a specific set of year/model/makes that start to make a sound coming from the drive shaft center bearing in cold weather. Unnatural wear occurs on the bearing but the only remedy is to replace the entire drive shaft which is a really costly repair for something that is a structural design issue. There is a service bulletin for it: [XXX] It seems unfair that this is a repair the customer should take on when a drive shaft should likely survive the lifetime of a vehicle. This should be a recall. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

AIR BAGS — Filed 10/13/2023

AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY IN AN SIDE IMPACT ACCIDENT

EXTERIOR LIGHTING — Filed 10/30/2022

In the middle of the night I attempted to make a left turn into a parking lot (with headlights on). I was unable to see the ground in the front/left portion of my car. It wasn't until I had almost completed the turn that my light was pointing towards the turn enough that I was able to see I turned a few feet early and was pointed at the curb. I ended up striking the curb with my front left tire and went up over the curb. This scratched/dettached part of my bumper, removed my left fog light cover, and bent the tow "eye" underneath the car. I've noticed while making right turns it can be difficult to see the ground right in front of that corner as well.

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL — Filed 02/03/2023

While slowly pulling into a parking slot in a Wal-Mart parking lot, the car experienced an abrupt acceleration causing it to lurch forward at full throttle and it struck a parked vehicle in the next space. The accelerator pedal was not depressed. Upon investigation I discovered that there have been many reported incidents of this behavior with Subaru Imprezas, Foresters, Outbacks and Legacy sedans, engendering at least two lawsuits. The following links contain information on the reported events: https://www.carparts.com/blog/subaru-impreza-reliability-and-common-problems/; https://www.copilotsearch.com/posts/subaru-impreza-years-to-avoid/; https://getjerry.com/questions/what-are-some-common-problems-with-the-subaru-impreza ; https://www.motorbiscuit.com/subaru-impreza-owners-have-dealt-with-expensive-problems/; https://www.carproblemzoo.com/subaru/impreza/car-accelerates-on-its-own-problems.php ; https://topclassactions.com/lawsuit-settlements/consumer-products/auto-news/which-subaru-models-are-experiencing-unintended-acceleration/; https://www.torquenews.com/1084/new-details-subaru-forester-outback-sudden-acceleration-lawsuit; https://bergermontague.com/cases/subaru-unwanted-acceleration-class-action-lawsuit/; https://www.classaction.org/news/subaru-faces-another-class-action-alleging-defects-to-blame-for-sudden-unintended-acceleration-problems; https://classactionsreporter.com/subaru-vehicles-sudden-unintended-acceleration-california-class-action/;

AIR BAGS — Filed 05/08/2021

On May 8th of this year, my fiancé were involved in a rear end collision. That morning, the Hyundai Tucson in front of us stopped short and we ran into the back of it doing around 35 an hour, and ended up with our vehicle (Subaru Impreza) being totaled. I’d like to provide pictures to show the impact, as even car experts have been surprised that the airbags didn’t deploy. As it turns out, a sedan hitting into the back of an SUV means that the airbag sensors may be untouched (because they’re too low) and therefore, airbags will not deploy, even if the accident severe. To me, that is a defect in the design and should be reconsidered going forward. My fiancé broke his foot , which caused him to be out of work for at least 4 months and I got whiplash.

SERVICE BRAKES — Filed 04/05/2021

I was driving in stop and go traffic on the highway for several minutes. Everything worked fine until one moment when I went to press the brake pedal down and the pedal would not move. I used all my strength to push it down for several seconds. It was locked in position. I could not move it all. My car slid into a semi truck in front of me at a very very low speed. After impact, everything worked again and I was able to pull the car to the side of the road. Initially, I believed the truck behind me had pushed my car causing the brake pedal to lock. I contacted the police and we examined my vehicle. There was no damage from the impact on the front of my car and there was no evidence I had been rearended. Two Subaru shops have examined the vehicle. One theory from the first shop is that an object in the road lifted the car off the road and caused the pedal to fail. The other shop has no theories. Neither shop found any issue with the brakes or the pedal and could not recreate the problem. Extensive repairs have been done to correct damage from a large rock in the road. The Subaru shop doing the repairs said the rock damage would not have affected the brakes. The car can be inspected at any time. My family is wary of driving the vehicle. The brake pedal failed once and the issue has yet to be explained to our satisfaction.

AIR BAGS — Filed 07/27/2020

MY VEHICLE IS IDENTIFIED IN THE ACCIDENT REPORT AS UNIT 2. UNIT 1 ATTEMPTED TO MAKE AN IMPROPER/CARELESS LEFT TURN ONTO MAUCH CHUNK RD. UNIT 2 WAS IN MOTION TRAVELING STRAIGHT ACROSS THE INTERSECTION WHEN UNIT 1 TRIED TO MAKE AN ILLEGAL LEFT TURN AND STRUCK UNIT 2. UNIT 1 WAS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE ACCIDENT. INITIAL IMPACT POINT WAS 10 O'CLOCK. AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY ON UNIT 2. UNIT 2 WAS DECLARED A TOTAL LOSS. WITH ALL DAMAGE ON THE FRONT END OF UNIT 2. TIME OF ACCIDENT WAS MONDAY, 7/27/2020. DRIVER OF UNIT #2 SUFFERED ANKLE, LEG, SHOULDER INJURIES ALONG WITH A CONCUSSION. ALL OF THESE SYMPTOMS APPEARED WITHIN 24 HOURS AFTER THE ACCIDENT. DRIVER OF UNIT #2 IS UNDER DOCTORS CARE AT THIS POINT. JURISTICTION IN WHICH INCIDENT OCCURRED IS ALLENTOWN, PA. OWNER OF UNIT 2 HAS RECEIVED SETTLEMENT FOR THE DESTROYED VEHICLE THAT IS NOW OWNED BY ERIE INSURANCE. WE HAVE BEEN IN COMMUNICATION WITH SUBARU TO UNDERSTAND WHY THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. TO DATE ALL WE HAVE GOTTEN IS VERBAL RESPONSES THAT THEY ARE TO INVESTIGATE. WE HAVE SUPPLIED A FULL ACCIDENT REPORT AND PICTURES.

ENGINE — Filed 01/05/2020

CAR CAUGHT FIRE ON THE MORNING OF SUNDAY, JANUARY 5, 2020 WHILE STATIONARY IN A PARKING LOT. THE CAR HAD BEEN STATIONARY FOR APPROXIMATELY 12 HOURS. THE ATTENDING FIRE DEPARTMENT FELT THE FIRE STARTED IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT, AND CONSUMED THE ENTIRE CAR BY THE TIME IT WAS EXTINQUISHED. THE CAR WAS A TOTAL LOSS. THE CAR RAN PERFECTLY UNTIL THEN, AND HAD IT'S ROUTINE 1ST SERVICE BY A SUBARU DEALER AROUND 5,000 MILES. MORE PHOTOS ARE AVAILABLE.