Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2012 Subaru Impreza
The 2012 Subaru Impreza is reasonably reliable but has notable issues involving engine valve spring failures, brake light switch malfunctions, and occupant detection system problems. Prospective buyers should scrutinize these areas during inspections. Despite these issues, the Impreza can be a solid choice with thorough due diligence.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2012 Subaru Impreza has 6 NHTSA recall campaigns and 243 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 4.0 out of 5 stars, averaged across 2 NHTSA-tested trims.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #19V149000 Brake Lights May Not Illuminate NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V772000 Engine Valve Spring Failure may cause Engine Stall NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V738000 Power Relay may Fail Allowing Air Pump to Overheat NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #15V419000 Front Passenger Air Bag may not Deploy NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #13V061000 Remote Engine Starter Fob Malfunction NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #11V562000 INCREASED BRAKE PEDAL TRAVEL DISTANCE NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Air Bags 105 complaints
- Engine 55 complaints
- Electrical System 30 complaints
- Power Train 26 complaints
- Seats 15 complaints
- Service Brakes 13 complaints
Of the 243 complaints on file, 10 report a crash and 4 a fire; across all 243 complaints, owners report 6 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Valve spring fractures
How to check: Listen for unusual engine noises during startup.
Brake light switch failure
How to check: Check if brake lights illuminate when braking.
Occupant detection system deactivates
How to check: Plug in a device and check airbag status.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for knocking or unusual noises.
Red flag: Loud knocking noises present.
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check dashboard for warning lights.
Red flag: Persistent warning lights on.
- 03
City driving
What to check: Test brake responsiveness and feel.
Red flag: Brake pedal feels spongy.
- 04
Stop and start
What to check: Ensure brake lights function properly.
Red flag: Brake lights not illuminating.
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Listen for engine strain noises.
Red flag: Engine struggles or stalls.
- 06
Cruise control test
What to check: Engage and maintain speed easily.
Red flag: Cruise control disengages unexpectedly.
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the brake light switch been replaced?
- Are valve spring repairs documented?
- Any issues with occupant detection system?
- Can you elaborate on engine repairs?
- Have airbags been serviced recently?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recent service records
- Recall repair confirmations
- Vehicle maintenance log
- Engine repair receipts
- Brake service documentation
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2012 Subaru Impreza at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2012 Subaru Impreza? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.