Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2013 Subaru Impreza
The 2013 Subaru Impreza faces notable issues with engine valve springs and electrical components, based on recalls. Brake light switch problems are also significant. Despite these concerns, the Impreza offers good handling and efficiency but requires careful inspection of specific components, especially engine and electrical systems.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2013 Subaru Impreza has 4 NHTSA recall campaigns and 251 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 5.0 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 #13V061000 Remote Engine Starter Fob Malfunction NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Air Bags 79 complaints
- Engine 75 complaints
- Electrical System 34 complaints
- Power Train 23 complaints
- Service Brakes 23 complaints
- Unknown or Other 21 complaints
Of the 251 complaints on file, 13 report a crash and 7 a fire; across all 251 complaints, owners report 4 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Valve spring failure
How to check: Listen for unusual noises from the engine while idling.
Relay pump overheating
How to check: Inspect air injection pump relay for signs of damage.
Brake light switch malfunction
How to check: Check brake lights illuminate and keyless entry works.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises or rough idle.
Red flag: Loud clanking or rough idling
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Observe dashboard for warning lights.
Red flag: Check engine or ABS light stays on
- 03
City driving
What to check: Test brakes for responsiveness and noise.
Red flag: Soft brakes or squeaking sounds
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Ensure smooth gear shifts and steady acceleration.
Red flag: Jerky shifts or power loss
- 05
Parking
What to check: Check steering responsiveness and make a few turns.
Red flag: Hard turning or steering noise
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the brake light switch been replaced?
- Any known issues with the engine valve springs?
- Have you experienced any electrical problems?
- Are there any outstanding recalls on this car?
- Has the relay pump been serviced recently?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair history
- Recent service records
- Title and registration
- Warranty information
- Vehicle history report
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2013 Subaru Impreza at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
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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.