Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2016 Subaru Impreza
The 2016 Subaru Impreza has a limited number of complaints based on NHTSA data, with only one recall related to the brake light switch issue. While electrical system complaints are relatively common, specific patterns are not clearly highlighted. Overall, this model appears reasonably reliable, but potential buyers should remain vigilant during inspections.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2016 Subaru Impreza has 1 NHTSA recall campaign and 75 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
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Unknown or Other 19 complaints
- Electrical System 14 complaints
- Power Train 13 complaints
- Air Bags 8 complaints
- Vehicle Speed Control 8 complaints
- Service Brakes 6 complaints
Of the 75 complaints on file, 7 report a crash; across all 75 complaints, owners report 2 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Brake light switch malfunction
How to check: Confirm brake lights illuminate and keyless ignition works.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Ensure vehicle starts smoothly without hesitation.
Red flag: Engine struggles to start.
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Listen for unusual sounds from the engine.
Red flag: Knocking or persistent ticking noise.
- 03
City driving
What to check: Check smoothness of gear shifts from stop.
Red flag: Abrupt or harsh gear changes.
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Monitor response and power delivery.
Red flag: Lack of power or delayed acceleration.
- 05
Hard braking
What to check: Assess braking efficiency and pedal feel.
Red flag: Spongy brake pedal or extended stopping distance.
- 06
Sharp turns
What to check: Listen for noises from suspension or steering.
Red flag: Clunking noises when turning.
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the brake light switch been replaced?
- Any persistent electrical issues?
- Previous airbag deployments?
- Service history for the powertrain?
- Details on past speed control issues?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Service records
- Recall repairs documentation
- Vehicle history report
- Title and registration
- Warranty records
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2016 Subaru Impreza at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2016 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.