Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2015 Subaru Impreza
The 2015 Subaru Impreza shows some electrical and brake system concerns, predominantly related to brake light switch malfunctions. While performance remains generally reliable, ensure all recalls, specifically those addressing key safety features, are resolved before purchase.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2015 Subaru Impreza has 2 NHTSA recall campaigns and 77 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 #15V366000 Collision Mitigation Braking may not Function NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Electrical System 20 complaints
- Unknown or Other 14 complaints
- Power Train 11 complaints
- Engine 10 complaints
- Air Bags 7 complaints
- Steering 6 complaints
Of the 77 complaints on file, 5 report a crash; across all 77 complaints, owners report 3 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Brake light switch failure
How to check: Ensure brake lights illuminate and keyless ignition functions.
Engine power issues
How to check: Check acceleration and idle smoothness.
Frequent electrical malfunctions
How to check: Test all electrical systems including lights and accessories.
Power train complaints
How to check: Listen for unusual noises during gear shifts.
Forward collision system issues
How to check: Test collision avoidance systems during a safe test drive.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Check for smooth ignition and stable idling.
Red flag: Rough start or stalling
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Ensure no warning lights activate.
Red flag: Persistent warning lights
- 03
Low speed driving
What to check: Feel for any brake pedal stiffness or malfunction.
Red flag: Sticky brake pedal
- 04
Acceleration
What to check: Monitor for smooth engine power delivery.
Red flag: Hesitation or jerking
- 05
Braking
What to check: Ensure brake lights function and braking is smooth.
Red flag: Non-functioning brake lights
- 06
Highway speed
What to check: Listen for unusual noises or vibrations.
Red flag: Loud or grinding noises
- 07
Collision avoidance
What to check: Test system response in safe conditions.
Red flag: System fails to activate
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the brake light switch recall been addressed?
- Have there been any electrical issues?
- Any problems with engine performance?
- Is the collision system functioning properly?
- Are service records available for review?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair records
- Service history
- Title and registration
- Vehicle history report
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2015 Subaru Impreza at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2015 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.