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
Complaints by component
One complaint can cite several components
- Exterior lighting63
- Visibility/wiper55
- Electrical system19
- Service brakes8
- Engine8
- Fuel/propulsion system6
- Steering5
- Visibility5
- Forward collision avoidance4
- Power train4
- Air bags4
- Structure3
- Wheels3
- 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
When complaints were filed
Does it get worse with age? Complaints per calendar year filed
12
26
37
18
53
29
10
9
View as table
| Model year | Complaints filed per calendar year |
|---|---|
| 2019 | 12 |
| 2020 | 26 |
| 2021 | 37 |
| 2022 | 18 |
| 2023 | 53 |
| 2024 | 29 |
| 2025 | 10 |
| 2026 | 9 |
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.
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.”
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.”
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.”
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.”
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.”
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.”
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.