The Subaru Impreza 2005-2007 is a popular compact car known for its all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, excellent handling, and rugged appeal. Whether you’re looking for a car that can handle harsh weather conditions or simply need a reliable vehicle with strong performance, the Impreza from this generation fits the bill. However, like any car, it comes with its set of common problems that potential buyers should be aware of. In this detailed guide, we will explore the most common issues with the Subaru Impreza 2005-2007, how to spot them when buying, the cost of ownership, and provide some alternative cars to consider if you're not entirely sold on the Impreza.
Common Problems of the Subaru Impreza 2005-2007
1. Head Gasket Failure
One of the most frequently reported issues in the Subaru Impreza of this generation is head gasket failure. Subaru's boxer engine, although praised for its performance and low center of gravity, is prone to head gasket issues, particularly in older models.
Symptoms of Head Gasket Failure:
- Overheating: The engine may begin to overheat, often indicated by the temperature gauge rising above the normal range.
- White Smoke: White smoke coming from the exhaust is another sign that coolant is leaking into the combustion chamber.
- Coolant Loss: You may notice a gradual loss of coolant with no visible external leaks, which could be a result of coolant seeping into the engine.
- Milky Oil: Oil that looks milky or creamy is a clear sign that coolant is mixing with the oil, which can lead to serious engine damage.
What to Look For:
- Check for over-heating issues: During a test drive, keep an eye on the engine temperature and listen for any unusual noises or smells. If the temperature gauge consistently rises higher than normal, this could indicate head gasket failure.
- Inspect the coolant: Ensure the coolant is at the proper level and doesn’t look dirty or milky. Also, check the oil for any signs of contamination.
- Look for any external coolant leaks: While this is often an internal issue, some coolant leaks from the head gasket may be visible externally. Look around the head gasket area for wetness or stains.
2. Timing Belt Issues
Subaru Impreza models equipped with the 2.5L engine (found in most of the 2005-2007 variants) have a timing belt that requires periodic replacement. Failure to replace the timing belt at the correct intervals can lead to engine damage, as a snapped timing belt can cause the valves to bend or cause piston damage.
Symptoms of Timing Belt Wear:
- Engine misfires: A worn-out or snapped timing belt can cause the engine to misfire or run rough.
- Unusual noise from the engine: A damaged timing belt might produce a high-pitched whining noise as it wears.
- Failure to start: If the timing belt has snapped, the engine might not start at all.
What to Look For:
- Check the service history: Ensure that the timing belt has been replaced at the recommended interval, which is usually around 100,000 miles for the 2.5L engine. If it hasn't been replaced, consider factoring the cost of replacement into the purchase price.
- Listen for engine noises: Pay attention to any high-pitched noises coming from the engine bay. If the car has trouble starting or runs rough, the timing belt may need attention.
3. Clutch Problems
Another common issue for the Subaru Impreza 2005-2007, particularly in the manual transmission models, is clutch wear and premature failure. If you notice signs of slipping or difficulty shifting gears, the clutch could be nearing the end of its life.
Symptoms of Clutch Problems:
- Slipping clutch: A slipping clutch occurs when the engine RPM increases without a corresponding increase in vehicle speed, especially under heavy acceleration.
- Hard gear shifting: Difficulty shifting gears, especially into first or reverse, can be a sign of clutch wear.
- Vibrations or noise when engaging the clutch: A worn-out clutch might make a scraping noise or cause the pedal to feel spongy or uneven.
What to Look For:
- Test the clutch operation: During the test drive, pay attention to the feel of the clutch pedal. It should engage smoothly without any jerking or resistance. If the pedal feels soft or engages at an unusual point, the clutch may need to be replaced.
- Check for slipping: Accelerate hard and see if the engine revs but the car doesn't move forward with the same level of acceleration. This is a sign of clutch slippage.
4. Suspension Wear
The suspension system in the Subaru Impreza 2005-2007 can also experience wear over time, particularly if the car has been driven in rough conditions or high mileage. Common suspension issues include worn-out shocks and struts, which can affect the handling and comfort of the vehicle.
Symptoms of Suspension Issues:
- Bouncy or rough ride: A worn suspension system may cause the car to feel bouncy, or it may feel harsh over bumps.
- Noises from the suspension: You might hear clunking or knocking sounds when going over bumps or when turning the steering wheel.
- Uneven tire wear: If the suspension components are worn out, it could lead to uneven tire wear.
What to Look For:
- Test the ride quality: Pay attention to how the car feels over uneven road surfaces or potholes. A smooth ride is expected from the Impreza, so any harshness could be a sign of suspension issues.
- Listen for noises: If you hear clunking or squeaking sounds when driving, especially when turning or driving over bumps, it could indicate worn suspension parts.
- Inspect the tires: Look for any uneven wear on the tires, which could indicate alignment or suspension issues.
5. Wheel Bearing Failures
The Subaru Impreza is known for having wheel bearing issues, particularly in older models or those with higher mileage. The wheel bearings are crucial for the smooth rotation of the wheels, and if they fail, they can lead to a noisy ride and, in some cases, loss of control.
Symptoms of Wheel Bearing Failure:
- Humming or grinding noise: A common sign of a failing wheel bearing is a humming or grinding noise that increases with speed. The noise may also become louder when turning in one direction.
- Vibration: A damaged wheel bearing can cause vibration through the steering wheel or the vehicle's body, especially at higher speeds.
What to Look For:
- Listen for unusual sounds: During a test drive, pay attention to any unusual humming or grinding noises coming from the wheel area. These sounds might indicate failing wheel bearings.
- Inspect for vibrations: If you feel a vibration in the steering wheel or the car’s body at higher speeds, it could point to a bad wheel bearing.
6. Burning Oil or Oil Leaks
Another issue that some Subaru Impreza owners have reported is burning oil, especially in models with high mileage. The boxer engine, while durable, is known for consuming more oil than some other engine types, which can lead to oil leaks or burning oil if not regularly maintained.
Symptoms of Oil Issues:
- Oil consumption: If you need to top off the oil frequently between changes, this could be a sign of excessive oil consumption.
- Oil leaks: Look for puddles or stains of oil beneath the car, which may be a sign of leaking seals or gaskets.
- Burning smell: A burning smell coming from the engine bay could indicate that oil is leaking onto the engine components.
What to Look For:
- Check for oil levels regularly: Ensure that the oil level is adequate and that there’s no need for constant top-ups.
- Inspect for leaks: Look for signs of oil leaks around the engine, particularly the valve cover gaskets and oil pan area.
- Monitor the exhaust: Excessive smoke from the exhaust may be an indication of burning oil.
What to Look for When Buying a Subaru Impreza 2005-2007
When buying a used Subaru Impreza, there are several key factors to check to ensure you’re getting a reliable vehicle:
- Head Gasket: Check for any signs of overheating or coolant leaks, as head gasket failure is one of the most common issues in these models.
- Timing Belt: Make sure the timing belt has been replaced if the car has exceeded the recommended interval. If not, budget for its replacement.
- Clutch Wear: If you’re buying a manual transmission model, inspect the clutch for any signs of wear or slippage. A test drive can help identify issues here.
- Suspension Condition: Ensure the suspension is in good condition, especially if the car has been driven on rough roads or has high mileage.
- Service Records: Always ask for the car’s full service history to ensure that it has been well-maintained and that common issues have been addressed.
How Expensive is It to Own a Subaru Impreza 2005-2007?
The Subaru Impreza 2005-2007 is relatively affordable to maintain, but there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Fuel Economy: The fuel economy for the 2005-2007 Subaru Impreza varies by engine type and driving conditions, with most models achieving between 20-26 mpg combined.
- Insurance Costs: Insurance premiums for the Impreza tend to be moderately priced, especially when compared to other compact cars. However, premiums can vary depending on the model year, location, and driving history.
- Maintenance and Repairs: Regular maintenance is generally affordable, with oil changes, brake replacements, and other routine services being reasonably priced. However, more significant issues such as head gasket replacement or clutch repairs can be costly.
Better Alternatives to the Subaru Impreza 2005-2007
If you’re considering other options besides the Subaru Impreza 2005-2007, here are some alternatives that offer similar performance but may come with fewer common problems:
- Honda Civic (2005-2007): Known for its reliability and lower maintenance costs, the Honda Civic is a great alternative to the Impreza, offering excellent fuel efficiency and a reputation for longevity.
- Mazda 3 (2005-2007): The Mazda 3 is another sporty compact car with a fun-to-drive nature, superior handling, and fewer mechanical issues compared to the Impreza.
- Toyota Corolla (2005-2007): The Toyota Corolla is one of the most reliable and low-maintenance cars in the compact class, offering great fuel efficiency and a comfortable ride.
- Ford Focus (2005-2007): The Ford Focus is a strong contender with good driving dynamics, reasonable pricing, and reliable performance, making it a worthy alternative to the Impreza.
Conclusion
The Subaru Impreza 2005-2007 is a solid choice for those who want an all-wheel-drive compact car that can handle various road conditions. However, it does have a few common issues, particularly related to the head gasket, timing belt, and clutch. With proper maintenance and attention to these issues, the Impreza can provide years of service.
If you're considering purchasing one, make sure to check the vehicle’s maintenance history and look for signs of the common problems discussed. Alternatively, cars like the Honda Civic or Mazda 3 offer similar value with fewer common issues, making them worthy alternatives for buyers seeking a more trouble-free ownership experience.