2021 Subaru Impreza
2021 Subaru Impreza
Overview
The 2021 Subaru Impreza is generally considered a reliable vehicle, offering a good balance of practicality, all-wheel-drive capability, and fuel efficiency. It is built on Subaru’s Global Platform, which contributes to its structural integrity and driving dynamics. Owners often praise its comfortable ride and user-friendly infotainment system. While no vehicle is entirely free from potential issues, the Impreza typically performs well in terms of long-term durability, with most reported problems being minor or related to specific component failures rather than widespread design flaws. Regular maintenance is key to ensuring its continued reliability.
Engine
2.0L Boxer (FB20)
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Transmission
CVT (Lineartronic)
Hesitation/Jerking
- Symptoms: Occasional hesitation during acceleration or slight jerking when shifting between simulated gears.
- Solution: Software update for the transmission control module, or in some cases, transmission fluid flush and replacement.
- Cost: $150 - $350
5-Speed Manual
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Suspension
Standard Chassis
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Electrical
Infotainment System
Screen Freezing/Unresponsiveness
- Symptoms: The touchscreen may occasionally freeze or become unresponsive, requiring a system reset.
- Solution: Software update for the infotainment system. Ensure phone connectivity is stable.
- Cost: $0 - $150 (if software update is not free)
Battery
Premature Battery Failure
- Symptoms: Difficulty starting the engine, especially in cold weather, or electrical components malfunctioning intermittently.
- Solution: Battery testing and replacement.
- Cost: $150 - $300
Exterior
Paint and Body
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Windshield Wipers
Wiper Blade Wear
- Symptoms: Reduced effectiveness of windshield wipers, streaking, or chattering.
- Solution: Replacement of wiper blades.
- Cost: $30 - $70
Interior
Upholstery and Trim
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
HVAC System
Blower Motor Issues
- Symptoms: Inconsistent fan speed, unusual noises from the blower motor, or failure to produce airflow.
- Solution: Replacement of the HVAC blower motor or resistor.
- Cost: $200 - $500
Summary Verdict
The 2021 Subaru Impreza demonstrates strong overall reliability, particularly with its standard 2.0L Boxer engine and manual transmission. The CVT, while generally dependable, has a few reported instances of hesitation or minor jerking, often resolvable with software updates. Electrical gremlins, such as infotainment screen unresponsiveness and occasional premature battery failure, are the most common non-wear-and-tear issues. Minor concerns like wiper blade wear and HVAC blower motor issues are also noted but are not indicative of systemic problems. For prospective buyers, the Impreza remains a solid choice for dependable transportation, especially for those valuing its standard AWD.