1996 Subaru Impreza

1996 Subaru Impreza

The 1996 Subaru Impreza is a compact car known for its reliability, all-wheel drive capability, and sporty handling. It was available in sedan and coupe body styles and offered with two engine options: a 1.8-liter flat-four (EJ18) and a 2.2-liter flat-four (EJ22). Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic.

Engine

1.8-liter Flat-Four (EJ18)

• Head Gasket Failure: Description/Symptoms: Blown head gasket causing coolant leaks, overheating, and white smoke from the exhaust. Solution: Replace the head gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+. Recalls: None Found
• Timing Belt Failure: Description/Symptoms: Broken timing belt resulting in catastrophic engine damage. Solution: Replace the timing belt according to the manufacturer’s recommended intervals. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000*. Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number 08V493000

2.2-liter Flat-Four (EJ22)

• Oil Consumption: Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption requiring frequent top-ups. Solution: Replace the piston rings and/or cylinder heads. Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+. Recalls: None Found
• Valve Stem Seal Failure: Description/Symptoms: Worn valve stem seals causing excessive oil burning and blue smoke from the exhaust. Solution: Replace the valve stem seals. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+. Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-speed Manual Transmission

• Gear Difficulty: Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears or gears popping out of place. Solution: Replace the synchronizers or repair the transmission components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+. Recalls: None Found

4-speed Automatic Transmission

• Torque Converter Failure: Description/Symptoms: Loss of power and transmission slipping due to a failed torque converter. Solution: Replace the torque converter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+. Recalls: None Found

Suspension

No Issues Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure: Description/Symptoms: Loss of electrical power, dim headlights, and difficulty starting the vehicle. Solution: Replace the alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000. Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain: Description/Symptoms: Battery drains quickly causing difficult starting or failure to start. Solution: Replace the battery or diagnose the electrical system for parasitic drains. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500 depending on the issue. Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust: Description/Symptoms: Corrosion on the body panels, especially around wheel wells and underbody. Solution: Rust treatment or panel replacement. Estimated Cost to Fix: Can vary widely depending on the extent of the damage. Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Window Motor Failure: Description/Symptoms: Inoperative power windows. Solution: Replace the window motor. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per window. Recalls: None Found
• Climate Control Issues: Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning air conditioning or heater. Solution: Diagnose and repair the climate control system. Estimated Cost to Fix: Can vary depending on the issue. Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1996 Subaru Impreza is generally a reliable vehicle, but it is not without potential issues. The engine head gasket and timing belt issues can be severe and expensive to repair, especially on the EJ18 engine. The electrical and interior components are generally minor issues that can be addressed at a more reasonable cost.