2009 Subaru Impreza Problems: 3 Known Issues
2009 model year · 5,050+ owner reports · Updated November 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 5,050+ owner reports, the 2009 Subaru Impreza has 3 documented known issues, with 2 rated critical. The most serious are EJ251/EJ253 2.5L SOHC Head Gasket Failure (External Leak) ($1,500-$2,800 repair) and Rear Coil Spring Fracture ($0-$600 repair). The most commonly reported issue is EJ251/EJ253 2.5L SOHC Head Gasket Failure (External Leak) with 4,200 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $250 to $2,800. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
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All 3 Known Issues
NHTSA Recalls10 recalls
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ascent, 2018 Forester, 2018-2020 Impreza, Legacy, Outback, 2018-2019 BRZ, WRX, and Toyota 86 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Subaru Impreza and 2018-2019 Crosstrek vehicles. The Engine Control Module (ECM) may continue to power the ignition coil after the engine is shut off, causing a short circuit.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CRANKCASE (PCV)
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Impreza and 2018 Crosstrek vehicles equipped with an aluminum Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve. The PCV valve may come apart, allowing the separated components to enter the engine, possibly resulting in a loss of power while driving.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Impreza and 2018-2019 Crosstrek vehicles. The Engine Control Module (ECM) may continue to power the ignition coil after the engine is shut off, which could result in a short circuit and blown fuse.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Impreza vehicles. The left and right side reflex reflector and left side low beam reflector may inadequately reflect light. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Subaru Impreza problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 5,050+ owner reports, the 2009 Subaru Impreza has 3 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: EJ251/EJ253 2.5L SOHC Head Gasket Failure (External Leak), Rear Coil Spring Fracture, Rear Trailing Arm Bushing Corrosion and Failure. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Subaru Impreza reliable?
The 2009 Subaru Impreza has 3 known issues documented across 5,050+ owner reports. 2 issues are rated critical: EJ251/EJ253 2.5L SOHC Head Gasket Failure (External Leak) and Rear Coil Spring Fracture. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Subaru Impreza problems?
Repair costs for known Subaru Impreza issues range from $0 to $2,800, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, EJ251/EJ253 2.5L SOHC Head Gasket Failure (External Leak), typically costs $1,500-$2,800 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2000-2011 Subaru Impreza EJ251/EJ253 2.5L SOHC Head Gasket Failure (External Leak)?
The 2.5L SOHC naturally-aspirated engine (EJ251, later EJ253) in 2000-2011 Imprezas is notorious for external head gasket failure. The composite head gaskets degrade over time, allowing coolant and oil to seep externally at the gasket mating surfaces. Unlike a typical blown head… Repairs typically run $1,500-$2,800. Severity: high.
What is the 2008-2016 Subaru Impreza Rear Coil Spring Fracture?
2008-2016 Imprezas (and related Crosstreks) have a known issue with rear coil springs fracturing, particularly in cold climates and areas that use road salt. The broken spring can puncture a tire, damage brake lines, or cause a sudden change in ride height and handling. There is… Repairs typically run $0-$600. Severity: high.
What is the 2008-2020 Subaru Impreza Rear Trailing Arm Bushing Corrosion and Failure?
The rear trailing arm bushings on Imprezas corrode and fail, particularly in salt-belt states. The steel sleeve inside the rubber bushing rusts and expands, tearing the rubber apart. This causes clunking noises, vague rear-end handling, and uneven rear tire wear. In severe cases,… Repairs typically run $250-$700. Severity: medium.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.