Problems · NHTSA complaints

2019 Subaru Impreza problems

Owners filed 194 complaints about the 2019 Subaru Impreza with NHTSA between Jan 2019 and Sep 2026. The most-cited component is exterior lighting (63).

Complaints
194
Filed with NHTSA
Crashes
6
Reported by owners
Fires
1
Reported by owners
Injuries
5
People reported injured
Deaths
0
Reported to NHTSA
01 —By component

Complaints by component

One complaint can cite several components
  1. Exterior lighting63
  2. Visibility/wiper55
  3. Electrical system19
  4. Service brakes8
  5. Engine8
  6. Fuel/propulsion system6
  7. Steering5
  8. Visibility5
  9. Forward collision avoidance4
  10. Power train4
  11. Air bags4
  12. Structure3
  13. Wheels3
  14. Engine and engine cooling2

Complaints are unverified owner reports to NHTSA and are not normalized for sales volume. One complaint can cite several components.

Data from NHTSA Complaints API · synced Oct 31, 2026NHTSA vehicle page
02 —Trend

When complaints were filed

Does it get worse with age? Complaints per calendar year filed
View as table
Model yearComplaints filed per calendar year
201912
202026
202137
202218
202353
202429
202510
20269

Mileage at failure isn’t a structured field in NHTSA complaint data, so we don’t chart it. Some owners mention it in their reports below.

03 —Owner reports

Top problems in owners’ words

Verbatim from NHTSA complaints, newest first

Exterior lighting

63 reports1 crash1 related recall
“I attempted to get a safety recall (headlamp assembly defect) addressed at my local Subaru dealership. The vehicle is still under warranty, and I was told I may be able to get a loaner or rental. However, when I arrived, I was informed that the dealership only has 9 loaners and does not offer rental coverage at all, even for warranty customers. I had already spoken to someone about my need for a rental due to my class schedule and was led to believe this could be arranged. I drove down there, took time out of my day, and missed class — only to be turned away with no solution. Subaru’s recall notice acknowledges the increased risk of a crash due to poor visibility and glare. My vehicle remains unfixed and unsafe to drive, and I was left with no support despite my warranty and a safety recall. Subaru has not made it reasonably possible for me to address this recall. If an accident occurs while I wait for a proper resolution, I will hold them responsible. I am submitting this complaint to formally document my experience and push for accountability.”
Owner complaint to NHTSAFiled May 14, 2025Exterior lighting, Unknown or otherODI 11660912

Visibility/wiper

55 reports
“I was under the vehicle changing the oil and heard a loud bang. I investigated the sound and didn't notice anything. After completion of the oil change I got into the driver seat and noticed my rear view mirror was hanging by the wires. It had come loose from the windshield taking a big chunk of glass out of the windshield. It left a gash approximately almost 3/4 of an inch deep by 1.5 inches long by about 3/4 of an inch wide. This seriously degrades the strength and puts any occupants at risk. The windshield can not be repaired and will have to be replaced. Cost of replacement is approximately $413.58.”
Owner complaint to NHTSAFiled Nov 23, 2024Visibility/wiperODI 11627043

Electrical system

19 reports2 related recalls
“The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Impreza. The contact stated that while driving approximately 30-40 MPH, the vehicle rolled to a stop and stalled in hot and cold temperatures. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was jump-started by Roadside Assistance. The contact purchased a trickle charger. The local dealer was contacted, and the vehicle was diagnosed, and determined that the battery needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired three times, but the failure recurred. The manufacturer was contacted, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was approximately 5,000.”
Owner complaint to NHTSAFiled Jul 1, 2026Electrical system, EngineODI 11747595

Service brakes

8 reports1 crash
“Front right caliper seized less than 3k miles following dealer service including brake fluid flush. Replaced calipers, pads, and rotors at my own expense. Suspect internal degradation of rubber brake lines. Service bulletin exists for year prior model. Many others report rubber brake line/caliper issues on this generation. Please investigate.”
Owner complaint to NHTSAFiled Aug 4, 2026Service brakesODI 11754703

Engine

8 reports1 fire
“Low speed throttle application vehicle fails to respond. Does not happen all the time. A near collision almost happened while making a left hand turn with oncoming traffic. Has been happening repeatedly, usually within a parking lot.”
Owner complaint to NHTSAFiled Aug 28, 2023Engine, Fuel/propulsion systemODI 11541242

Fuel/propulsion system

6 reports
“I believe my car having some issues with fuel system, gasoline delivery, cooling down and exhaust system, electrical system:ignition. This vehicle only has 15,606 miles on it and should not be giving me this kind of problem.”
Owner complaint to NHTSAFiled Jul 2, 2022Electrical system, Unknown or other, Fuel/propulsion systemODI 11472160
Data from NHTSA Complaints API (owner reports, unverified) · synced Oct 31, 2026

Complaints are unverified owner reports to NHTSA and are not normalized for sales volume. One complaint can cite several components.