Subaru Impreza GK
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
Body Variants
The Subaru Impreza GK is available as Sedan and Hatchback — choose your body type for specific insurance data:
Generations
Engine Overview
The Subaru Impreza GK is available with one engine variant at 150 hp.
Naturally aspirated boxer with 2.0L — the Impreza/Crosstrek engine. Watch for valve spring recall on 2012-2014 models. Oil consumption on early examples (class action settlement). Significantly improved from 2015. Reliable everyday engine with no ambitions — does its job and stays quiet.
- !! Recall: Valve Spring Fracture
Recall WTY-84: 2012-2014 Impreza, 2013 BRZ, 2013 Crosstrek — 140,249 US vehicles. Valve springs fracture, engine stalls. Repair time 7-12 hours.
- !! Oil Consumption Early Models (2012-2014) from 50,000 km
Class action: 2012-2013 Impreza, 2013 Crosstrek. Settlement with 8 year/100k mile warranty extension. Significantly improved after 2014.
Symptoms: Oil level warnings, elevated oil consumption between changes - ! Timing Chain Tensioner Cold-Start Rattle from 60,000 km
Hydraulic timing chain tensioner bleeds down when parked. Cold start produces 3-5 seconds of metallic rattling until oil pressure is restored. TSB exists: replace left tensioner with modified part.
Symptoms: Metallic rattling on cold start for 3-5 seconds, sounds like chain noise, disappears at operating temperature
+ 1 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Windshield Cracks Too Easily Class action: windshields crack disproportionately fast. EyeSight requires Subaru OEM glass for recalibration. Settlement: 8-year warranty + free replacement. Symptoms: Chip spreads rapidly, EyeSight error after windshield replacement from 30,000 km | Medium | |
| Windshield cracks spontaneously (EyeSight thin glass) Like Outback, 2017+ Impreza GK uses thinner acoustic glass for EyeSight. Spontaneous cracks with no visible rock impact, cold mornings. Powell v. Subaru class action covers 2017-2020 Impreza. Symptoms: Sudden crack without impact, from edge, star break under EyeSight camera, with aftermarket glass EyeSight malfunctions. from 25,000 km | Medium | |
| Clear coat and base coat peeling On 2017-2020 Impreza GK clear coat and base coat peel from primer in large sections. Typical: rear wheel arches, rear bumper, panel below rear window. Subaru denies goodwill; private repaints 900-3000 USD per section. Symptoms: Paint flakes in sheets, bubbles under clear coat, delamination on rear bumper and arches, rust once bare metal exposed. from 60,000 km | High |
Top Reported Issues
Alternatives
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Known Problems and Issues +
A total of 12 weaknesses have been documented for the Subaru Impreza GK (2017–2023) — 4 engine-related and 8 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Body, Electronics, Other, Gearbox.
Impreza (FB20, 2017–2023) — Be Careful: Recall: Valve Spring Fracture, Oil Consumption Early Models (2012-2014), Timing Chain Tensioner Cold-Start Rattle. Power: 150–156 PS.
What to watch out for with the Subaru Impreza? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.
Frequently Asked Questions
What problems and weaknesses does the Subaru Impreza GK have? +
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Which Subaru Impreza GK engine is the most fun? +
Is the Subaru Impreza GK worth buying used? +
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Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee