2016 Subaru Impreza: common problems and reliability

The 2016 Subaru Impreza has 75 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 1 recall on record. The most-reported areas are electrical system and power train. Owners most often flag cvt transmission problems: jerky, hesitant behavior in stop-and-go traffic (10-30 mph / 16-48 km/h); pronounced concerns about long-term reliability and high replacement costs; fluid leaks indicative of failure. frequency: very frequent.

Safety record for the 2016 model year

75
Owner complaints
1
Recalls
7
Crash reports
0
Fire reports

Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2016 Subaru Impreza vehicles (US, public record).

Is 2016 a good year for the Impreza?

Across the 13 Impreza model years we track, complaint volume runs from 4 (2023) to 300 (2002). With 75 complaints, the 2016 Impreza sits about the same asthe model's median of 68.

These are raw NHTSA complaint totals, not adjusted for how many cars sold or how long each model year has been on the road. Older and higher-selling years accumulate more complaints.

Where owners report problems

electrical system
14
power train
13
air bags
8
vehicle speed control
8
service brakes
7

Recalls affecting the 2016 Impreza

exterior lighting:brake lights:switch

Campaign 19V149000

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Forester, 2008-2016 Impreza sedans, 2012-2016 Impreza station wagons, 2008-2014 WRX sedans (including STI), and 2013-2017 Crosstrek vehicles. Exposure to ce

What owners say across generations

Mixed sentiment with a clear generational divide. Long-term owners of older models (circa 2005-2013) with naturally aspirated engines and manual transmissions frequently praise the vehicles for their practicality, spacious interiors…

  • CVT transmission problems: Jerky, hesitant behavior in stop-and-go traffic (10-30 mph / 16-48 km/h); pronounced concerns about long-term reliability and high replacement costs; fluid leaks indicative of failure. Frequency: very frequent.
  • Excessive oil consumption: Primarily noted on older models (pre-2014) with EJ-series engines, requiring frequent top-ups. Frequency: recurrent.

Owner insights cover all generations of the Impreza. See the full Impreza owner picture and every model year.

Typical used price

Used Impreza listings typically run $12,499–$26,251 across 2012 to 2026 model years.

Other Impreza model years

Compare every Impreza year side by side to see how 2016 ranks against the rest.

Compare the Impreza against its rivals