Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2011 Subaru Impreza
The 2011 Subaru Impreza is a solid used car choice but has several recalls, primarily related to airbags and electrical systems. Buyers should ensure these issues have been addressed. Moderate complaints about the brakes, powertrain, and engine warrant a thorough inspection and test drive.
Known issues to inspect
Airbag inflator recall
How to check: Verify the airbag recall has been completed by the dealer.
Ignition switch failure
How to check: Test the ignition switch for any stickiness or resistance.
Brake light switch failure
How to check: Check if brake lights activate when pressing the pedal.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises or long cranking.
Red flag: Engine struggles to start smoothly
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for dashboard warning lights.
Red flag: Persistent warning lights stay on
- 03
City driving
What to check: Test brakes for responsiveness and smooth stopping.
Red flag: Vibrations or delayed braking response
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Feel for smooth acceleration without hesitations.
Red flag: Stuttering or lack of power
- 05
Parking
What to check: Check steering precision and ease of maneuvering.
Red flag: Steering feels loose or unresponsive
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the airbag recall been completed?
- Any issues with the ignition switch?
- Have there been any brake repairs?
- Has the car been in any accidents?
- What's the history of regular maintenance?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Vehicle history report
- Proof of airbag recall service
- Recent service records
- Proof of brake light switch repair
Generated by gpt-4o on 8/24/2026. Grounded in the NHTSA recall corpus and owner-complaint patterns for the 2011 Subaru Impreza.