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Subaru · Known Issues

2019 Subaru Impreza Problems: 4 Known Issues

2019 model year · 2,520+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 2,520+ owner reports, the 2019 Subaru Impreza has 4 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is CVT Transmission Failure and Harsh Engagement ($200-$7,500 repair). The most commonly reported issue is Premature Wheel Bearing Failure with 1,600 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $200 to $7,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • Impreza Transmission1
  • Impreza Drivetrain1
  • Impreza Body/Panels1
  • Impreza Suspension1
  • Recalls8
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Transmission1
  • Drivetrain1
  • Body/Panels1
  • Suspension1
  • Recalls8
  • FAQ

All 4 Known Issues

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ALL YEARS20242023202220212020201920182017201620152014201320122011201020092008200720062005200420032002200120001999199819971996199519941993
Community reported
920 owners

On the 2012-2020 Subaru Impreza 2.0L, the 2012+ Impreza's Lineartronic CVT (TR580 for 2.0L models) is prone to harsh engagement, delayed acceleration response, and premature failure. The smaller TR580 CVT handles the 2.0L engine but can develop valve body issues causing harsh shifts into Drive/Reverse and a pronounced thunk when engaging gear from Park. The CVT chain can stretch, and the transmission oil pump can fail. Subaru extended the CVT warranty to 10 years/100,000 miles on affected models.

This issue also affects: Subaru Ascent, Subaru Crosstrek, Subaru Forester

Common Symptoms

  • Harsh thunk when shifting from Park to Drive or Reverse
  • Delayed acceleration from a stop (2-3 second lag)
  • Shuddering at low speeds during light throttle
  • Transmission warning light illuminated
  • Metallic whining noise from transmission area
  • Vehicle surging or bucking at highway speeds

How to Fix

Begin with CVT fluid drain and refill using genuine Subaru CVT fluid. Have dealer check for and apply all available TCM software updates. Valve body replacement resolves harsh engagement in many cases. For complete CVT failure, a remanufactured CVT from Subaru costs less than a new unit. Verify 10-year/100,000-mile CVT warranty coverage before paying out of pocket.

Typical repair cost:$200 - $7,500

Research This Issue

Based on 920 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence920 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
1,600 owners

On the 2008-2020 Subaru Impreza, imprezas are highly susceptible to premature wheel bearing failure, often at 40,000-80,000 miles. The full-time AWD system adds constant load to all four wheel bearings. Rear bearings fail more frequently than fronts. Road salt, water, and debris accelerate bearing wear. Symptoms start as a subtle hum and progressively worsen to a loud growl. The noise is speed-dependent and may change when turning, helping identify which side is failing.

Common Symptoms

  • Progressive humming noise that increases with vehicle speed
  • Noise quiets when turning one direction and gets louder turning the other
  • Vibration felt through floorboard or steering wheel
  • ABS warning light illumination (wheel speed sensor affected)
  • Visible play when rocking the wheel at 12 and 6 o'clock positions

How to Fix

Replace the failed wheel bearing. Subaru Imprezas use hub-type bearings that require pressing out the old bearing and pressing in the new one. The steering knuckle must be removed. Use quality bearings: NSK 62BWKH19 (Subaru OEM supplier), Koyo DAC4584W-1CS81, or NTN AU0838-1LXL/L588. Replace in axle pairs for even wear. Torque specifications: front axle nut 162 ft-lbs, rear 140 ft-lbs.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Genuine Subaru 28373FG000 Front Hub and Bearing Assembly

    front bolt-on hub after a matching non-STI/WRX front corner is confirmed failed Fitment/availability: 2008-2014 standard Impreza, 2.5i, Outback Sport and WRX front branch; excludes STI-specific front hub and has a 2014 catalog overlap, s…

    SubaruPartsDeal
  • Genuine Subaru 28373FG010 STI Front Hub and Bearing Assembly

    STI-specific front bolt-on hub after the corner is confirmed failed Fitment/availability: 2008-2014 Impreza STI front only; not the standard Impreza/WRX front hub Fitment/availability: ships in 1-3 business days with Add to Cart live whe…

    SubaruPartsDeal
  • Genuine Subaru 28473FG000 Rear Hub and Bearing Assembly

    early-platform rear bolt-on hub after the corner is confirmed failed Fitment/availability: 2008-2011 Impreza 2.5i, Outback Sport, WRX and cataloged STI rear branch; confirm VIN and current 28473FL021 supersession Fitment/availability: sh…

    SubaruPartsDeal
  • Genuine Subaru 28373SC000 Front Hub and Bearing Assembly

    2014-2016 standard-platform front bolt-on hub after the corner is confirmed failed Fitment/availability: 2014-2016 standard Impreza front branch; 2014 overlaps the prior platform catalog, so confirm VIN/build Fitment/availability: Add to…

    SubaruPartsDeal
  • Genuine Subaru 28473FJ020 Rear Hub and Bearing Assembly

    2012-2016 rear bolt-on hub after the corner is confirmed failed Fitment/availability: 2012-2016 standard Impreza rear branch; confirm VIN and the 2016 production/supersession split Fitment/availability: Add to Cart live with 28473FL041 s…

    SubaruPartsDeal
  • Genuine Subaru 28373FL00A Front Hub and Bearing Assembly

    2017-2019 front bolt-on hub after the corner is confirmed failed Fitment/availability: 2017-2019 Impreza Base, Premium, Limited and Sport front; confirm VIN and current 28373FL01C supersession Fitment/availability: ships in 1-3 business …

    SubaruPartsDeal
  • Genuine Subaru 28373FL01A Front Hub and Bearing Assembly

    2020 front bolt-on hub after the corner is confirmed failed Fitment/availability: 2020 Impreza front branch within this card; confirm VIN and current 28373FL01C supersession Fitment/availability: direct Add to Cart product page live when…

    SubaruPartsDeal
  • Genuine Subaru 28473FL040 Rear Hub and Bearing Assembly

    later-platform rear bolt-on hub after the corner is confirmed failed Fitment/availability: 2016-2020 Impreza rear branch within this card; 2016 has a catalog overlap, so confirm VIN/build Fitment/availability: Add to Cart live with 28473…

    SubaruPartsDeal

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$250 - $700

Research This Issue

Based on 1,600 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence1,600 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026

On the 2017-2024 Subaru Impreza, the 2017+ Impreza (5th generation) uses a thinner, more aerodynamic windshield design that is highly prone to stress cracking, particularly around the EyeSight camera housing area. Cracks often appear spontaneously without any impact, starting from the edges or around the camera mounting bracket. Temperature changes exacerbate the issue. EyeSight-equipped vehicles require dealer recalibration ($200-400) after windshield replacement, adding significant cost.

This issue also affects: Subaru Crosstrek, Subaru Outback

Common Symptoms

  • Crack appearing from windshield edge with no visible impact point
  • Crack originating near EyeSight camera housing
  • Crack spreading rapidly across windshield
  • EyeSight system disabled warning after crack develops

How to Fix

Replace windshield with OEM Subaru glass or equivalent that meets EyeSight specifications. After installation, EyeSight camera recalibration is mandatory at a Subaru dealer (requires specialized targets and procedure). Some aftermarket glass does not meet the optical clarity requirements for EyeSight and can cause system malfunctions. Check comprehensive insurance — many policies cover glass with no deductible.

Typical repair cost:$500 - $1,200

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium Confidence

On the 2008-2020 Subaru Impreza, 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, the bushing can separate completely, allowing the rear wheel to shift its alignment dramatically. Subaru issued a recall (WRF-99) on some models for trailing arm corrosion.

Common Symptoms

  • Clunking from rear over bumps
  • Rear end wanders or feels loose in corners
  • Uneven rear tire wear (inner or outer edge)
  • Visible rust and cracking around rear trailing arm bushings
  • Rear wheels appear to toe-out when viewed from behind

How to Fix

Replace rear trailing arm bushings. Inspect the trailing arm itself for corrosion — if the arm is heavily corroded, replace the entire trailing arm assembly. Whiteline or Kartboy polyurethane bushings resist corrosion better than OEM rubber-and-steel construction. Apply anti-seize to all bolts during reinstallation. Get a 4-wheel alignment after replacement.

Typical repair cost:$250 - $700

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium Confidence
NHTSA Recalls8 recalls

POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2024 Crosstrek, Impreza, 2023-2024 Forester, and 2023 WRX vehicles. The front driveshaft assemblies' outer race may develop cracks and break.

Campaign #23V75400009/11/2023

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2024 Crosstrek and Impreza vehicles. Due to insufficient clearance, the instrument panel harness may contact the steering beam bracket, damaging the wire insulation and causing a short circuit.

Campaign #23V55100004/08/2023

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2023 Impreza vehicles. The brake light switch may be improperly adjusted and illuminate the brake lights without application of the brake pedal. The vehicle may also allow drivers to start and shift the transmission out of the PARK position without pressing the brake pedal. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment" and 102, "Trans Shift Lever Seq/Starter Interlock/Trans Braking Effect."

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Other Subaru Models

Subaru Forester46Subaru Outback40Subaru WRX31Subaru Ascent25Subaru Solterra24Subaru Crosstrek23

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Subaru Impreza problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 2,520+ owner reports, the 2019 Subaru Impreza has 4 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: CVT Transmission Failure and Harsh Engagement, Premature Wheel Bearing Failure, Windshield Stress Cracking Near EyeSight Cameras. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Subaru Impreza reliable?

The 2019 Subaru Impreza has 4 known issues documented across 2,520+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: CVT Transmission Failure and Harsh Engagement. 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 $200 to $7,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, CVT Transmission Failure and Harsh Engagement, typically costs $200-$7,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2012-2020 Subaru Impreza CVT Transmission Failure and Harsh Engagement?

The 2012+ Impreza's Lineartronic CVT (TR580 for 2.0L models) is prone to harsh engagement, delayed acceleration response, and premature failure. The smaller TR580 CVT handles the 2.0L engine but can develop valve body issues causing harsh shifts into Drive/Reverse and a pronounce… Repairs typically run $200-$7,500. Severity: high.

What is the 2008-2020 Subaru Impreza Premature Wheel Bearing Failure?

Imprezas are highly susceptible to premature wheel bearing failure, often at 40,000-80,000 miles. The full-time AWD system adds constant load to all four wheel bearings. Rear bearings fail more frequently than fronts. Road salt, water, and debris accelerate bearing wear. Symptoms… 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.

Data sourced from 2,520+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.

Campaign #23V29200025/04/2023

POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2023 Outback, Legacy, Ascent, and Impreza vehicles. The center support bolts for the driveshaft may loosen, resulting in the disconnection of the front end of the driveshaft.

Campaign #23V64700021/09/2023

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.

Campaign #21V58700029/07/2021

+ 3 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

What is the 2017-2024 Subaru Impreza Windshield Stress Cracking Near EyeSight Cameras?

The 2017+ Impreza (5th generation) uses a thinner, more aerodynamic windshield design that is highly prone to stress cracking, particularly around the EyeSight camera housing area. Cracks often appear spontaneously without any impact, starting from the edges or around the camera… Repairs typically run $500-$1,200. Severity: medium.

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.