2002 Subaru Impreza

The 2002 Subaru Impreza is a compact car known for its standard all-wheel-drive and rally-inspired performance, particularly in the WRX trim. Engine options included a 2.5L SOHC naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine producing around 165 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged 2.0L DOHC four-cylinder engine (WRX only) producing around 227 horsepower and 217 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. People often praise the Impreza for its reliability, handling in all weather conditions, and sporty character, while common complaints include road noise and fuel economy (especially with the WRX).

Engine

2.5L SOHC Naturally Aspirated

• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss (internal or external), white smoke from exhaust, bubbling in coolant overflow tank.
  • Solution: Replace head gaskets, resurface cylinder heads.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the car, burning oil smell, low oil level. Often from valve cover gaskets, rear main seal, or oil pan gasket.
  • Solution: Replace leaking gaskets and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the location of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L DOHC Turbocharged (WRX)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the car, burning oil smell, low oil level. Often from valve cover gaskets, rear main seal, or oil pan gasket.
  • Solution: Replace leaking gaskets and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the location of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbo Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive smoke from exhaust, unusual noises from turbocharger.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Knock Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check Engine Light, reduced engine performance, hesitation upon acceleration.
  • Solution: Replace the knock sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Synchro Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding or difficulty shifting into certain gears, particularly 2nd and 3rd.
  • Solution: Rebuild the transmission, replacing worn synchros.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic

• Slipping/Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed engagement, slipping between gears, harsh or jerky shifts.
  • Solution: Flush the transmission fluid, repair or replace the valve body, or rebuild the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $3000+ depending on severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the rear suspension, particularly when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the rear strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Ball Joints/Tie Rod Ends
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose steering, uneven tire wear, clunking or rattling noise from the front suspension.
  • Solution: Replace worn ball joints and/or tie rod ends, followed by a wheel alignment.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Oxygen Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, poor fuel economy, rough running engine.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty oxygen sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check Engine Light, poor fuel economy, rough running engine, stalling.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty MAF sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust around wheel wells, rocker panels, and other body panels, especially in areas with road salt exposure.
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted panels, treat with rust inhibitor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ depending on severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard, particularly in areas exposed to sunlight.
  • Solution: Dash Cover, or dashboard replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Subaru Impreza, while generally reliable, does have some common issues owners should be aware of. Head gasket failures (especially on the 2.5L) and oil leaks are significant engine concerns. Suspension components wear with age, requiring occasional replacement. Electrical issues with sensors can also occur. Rust can be a major issue, particularly in regions with harsh winters. The cost of repairs can vary widely depending on the severity and location of the problem, but addressing these issues promptly can help maintain the Impreza’s reliability and performance.