2001 Subaru Impreza
Introduction:
The 2001 Subaru Impreza is a compact car that comes in both sedan and wagon body styles. It is powered by a standard 2.2-liter flat-four engine that produces 142 horsepower and 159 lb-ft of torque. A 2.5-liter turbocharged flat-four engine was also offered, producing 227 horsepower and 217 lb-ft of torque. The Impreza is available with either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission. It is known for its reliable and capable AWD system, as well as its well-equipped interior. However, some common issues have been reported with the Impreza.
Engine
2.2-Liter Flat-Four:
Head Gasket Failure: Description/Symptoms: This is a common problem on Subaru engines, especially those with high mileage. Symptoms include white smoke from the exhaust, overheating, and coolant loss. Solution: The head gaskets need to be replaced. It is a major repair that involves removing the cylinder heads. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+ Recalls: #01V093000, #05V497000, #08V118000
2.5-Liter Turbocharged Flat-Four:
Turbocharger Failure: Description/Symptoms: The turbocharger can fail prematurely, especially on modified vehicles. Symptoms include a lack of boost, black smoke from the exhaust, and a whistling noise. Solution: The turbocharger needs to be replaced. It is a major repair that involves removing the exhaust manifold. Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+ Recalls: None Found
Transmission
Five-Speed Manual Transmission:
Grinding Noises: Description/Symptoms: The transmission may make grinding noises when shifting into gear. This is usually caused by worn synchronizers. Solution: The transmission needs to be rebuilt or replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+ Recalls: None Found
Four-Speed Automatic Transmission:
Shifting Problems: Description/Symptoms: The transmission may have difficulty shifting gears or slipping out of gear. This is usually caused by worn clutches or solenoids. Solution: The transmission needs to be overhauled or replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+ Recalls: None Found
Suspension
Strut Failure: Description/Symptoms: The struts can fail prematurely, especially on rough roads. Symptoms include a loss of ride quality, clunking noises, and premature tire wear. Solution: The struts need to be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ per corner Recalls: None Found
Electrical
Alternator Failure: Description/Symptoms: The alternator can fail prematurely, leaving the battery discharged. Symptoms include dim headlights, difficulty starting the vehicle, and warning lights on the dashboard. Solution: The alternator needs to be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700+ Recalls: #01E029000
Interior
Window Regulator Failure: Description/Symptoms: The window regulators can fail, causing the windows to become stuck or inoperable. Solution: The window regulators need to be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300 per window Recalls: None Found
Exterior
Rust: Description/Symptoms: The body panels can rust prematurely, especially on vehicles that are exposed to salt or moisture. Solution: The rust needs to be repaired by a body shop. Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the extent of the damage Recalls: None Found
Summary
Overall, the 2001 Subaru Impreza is a reliable and capable vehicle, but it is not without its issues. The most common problems include head gasket failure on the 2.2-liter engine, turbocharger failure on the 2.5-liter turbocharged engine, grinding noises in the manual transmission, shifting problems in the automatic transmission, strut failure, alternator failure, window regulator failure, and rust. The severity and cost of these issues vary, but many of them can be relatively expensive to repair.