2009 Subaru Impreza
2009 Subaru Impreza
Overview
The 2009 Subaru Impreza, a compact car known for its all-wheel-drive capability and sporty handling, offered a range of engine and transmission options to cater to different driving needs. While generally considered a reliable vehicle, like any car, it has specific areas that have seen more attention from owners regarding potential issues. This analysis focuses on documented technical reliability concerns beyond routine maintenance, examining common problems reported across its various configurations. Understanding these potential weak points can help owners anticipate and address issues proactively, ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of their 2009 Impreza.
Engine
2.5L EJ253 (Naturally Aspirated)
Head Gasket Failure
- Symptoms: Coolant leaks, white smoke from exhaust, overheating, milky oil.
- Solution: Replacement of head gaskets and often associated components like head bolts.
- Cost: $1500 - $3000
Oil Consumption
- Symptoms: Low oil level between changes, blue smoke from exhaust on startup.
- Solution: Can range from piston ring replacement to valve stem seals, depending on the cause.
- Cost: $1000 - $2500
2.5L EJ255 (Turbocharged - WRX)
Ringland Failure
- Symptoms: Loss of compression, misfires, rough idle, potential engine knock.
- Solution: Engine rebuild or replacement, often with forged pistons.
- Cost: $3000 - $6000+
Turbocharger Failure
- Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive smoke, whining noises from turbo.
- Solution: Turbocharger replacement or rebuild.
- Cost: $1000 - $2500
2.5L EJ257 (Turbocharged - STI)
Ringland Failure
- Symptoms: Loss of compression, misfires, rough idle, potential engine knock.
- Solution: Engine rebuild or replacement, often with forged pistons.
- Cost: $3000 - $6000+
Head Gasket Failure
- Symptoms: Coolant leaks, white smoke from exhaust, overheating, milky oil.
- Solution: Replacement of head gaskets and often associated components like head bolts.
- Cost: $1500 - $3000
Transmission
5-Speed Manual
Clutch Wear
- Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting gears, burning smell.
- Solution: Clutch kit replacement (clutch disc, pressure plate, release bearing).
- Cost: $700 - $1200
6-Speed Manual (STI)
Synchro Wear
- Symptoms: Grinding when shifting into certain gears, difficulty engaging gears.
- Solution: Transmission rebuild with replacement of worn synchronizers.
- Cost: $1500 - $3000
4-Speed Automatic
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Suspension
Standard Chassis
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Electrical
Standard Electrical System
Window Regulator Failure
- Symptoms: Power windows not operating, window falling into door.
- Solution: Replacement of the window regulator mechanism.
- Cost: $200 - $400
Alternator Failure
- Symptoms: Battery warning light illuminated, dimming headlights, starting issues.
- Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
- Cost: $400 - $700
Exterior
Standard Exterior
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Interior
Standard Interior
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Summary Verdict
The 2009 Subaru Impreza, particularly models with the naturally aspirated EJ253 engine, is susceptible to head gasket failures and oil consumption issues, which are common for this engine family. Performance-oriented models (WRX/STI) with turbocharged engines face risks of ringland failure and turbocharger issues, often exacerbated by aggressive driving or inadequate maintenance. Transmission reliability is generally good, though clutch wear on manuals and synchro issues on the 6-speed STI are noted. Electrical components like window regulators and alternators can fail. Overall, while the Impreza offers robust AWD and driving dynamics, potential buyers should be aware of the engine-specific concerns and factor in potential repair costs, especially for higher-mileage or performance variants.