What 191 owners told NHTSA about the 2019 Subaru Impreza

The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Impreza. The contact stated that while driving approximately 30-40 MPH, the vehicle rolled to a stop and stalled in hot and cold temperatures. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was jump-started by Roadside Assistance. The contact purchased a trickle charger. The local dealer was contacted, and the vehicle was diagnosed, and determined that the battery needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired three times, but the failure recurred. The manufacturer was contacted, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was approximately 5,000.

NHTSA ODI 11747595

When attempting to start the vehicle, randomly, the key loses programming. This is the 2nd time where the keys lose programming and vehicle has to be towed at owners' expense and wait as long as 5 days for dealership to reprogram.

NHTSA ODI 11742641

The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Impreza. The contact stated while driving 5 MPH, while depressing the accelerator pedal the vehicle loss power. An independent mechanic was contacted. No warning light warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken an independent mechanic where the diagnosed the coil pack was melted and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was then taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed the coil pack had a shortage. The contact mention this failure has occurred on several different occasions. The vehicle was repaired as the coil pack and wiring was replaced. The contact was relating to the recall to NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V264000(ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING), however the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and they informed her because of the milage there was no recall. The approximate failure mileage was 145,866.

NHTSA ODI 11740850

2019 Subaru Impreza has experienced intermittent and now persistent failures involving the factory EyeSight driver assistance system. Prior to complete failure, the EyeSight system would randomly disable and re-enable while driving. Adaptive cruise control and related safety features became unreliable and would intermittently stop functioning. The issue worsened over time and eventually resulted in repeated “EyeSight Off” warnings and multiple system fault messages. Vehicle diagnostic scans showed repeated U1235 “Lost communication with EyeSight” faults across multiple modules, including ABS, steering, transmission, and instrument cluster systems. Additional communication and airbag indicator-related faults were also present. The windshield was recently replaced due to a crack located near the EyeSight camera area. Subaru service personnel stated that EyeSight systems are extremely sensitive to windshield specifications and calibration requirements, and that aftermarket windshields may prevent proper operation or calibration of the system. Subaru also indicated that EyeSight calibration equipment is highly specialized and expensive, and that repair costs may not be practical relative to the vehicle value. Despite attempts to reset the vehicle systems and inspect the issue, the EyeSight system continues to malfunction and remains disabled. Because EyeSight controls important driver assistance and collision-avoidance features including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking, this issue creates significant safety concerns. The intermittent nature of the failure, repeated communication faults, and inability to reliably restore system operation raise concerns regarding the long-term reliability and serviceability of Subaru EyeSight systems.

NHTSA ODI 11736402

Windshield lower plastic mount or cowl is getting detached creating a large visible gap between the cowl and windshield about 0.5+ inch. The gap runs across the middle of the windshield to its left and right side occupying about 50% in total. Gap is an issue when it rains, when it is snowing or other things since might get embedded on it.

NHTSA ODI 11728298

On February 18, 2026, my 2019 Subaru Impreza displayed an “Emergency Service” alert and sent a MySubaru app message stating that Automatic Crash Notification, SOS Call, Stolen Vehicle Locator, and Roadside Assistance may not be available. A red SOS light also illuminated, and STARLINK sent alerts to Subaru each day I first started the car, prompting repeated dealer calls. I tested the SOS button and could hear the operator clearly. On March 6, 2026, a dealer diagnosed a faulty right dash speaker (B2A06 – telematics speaker circuit malfunction). The emergency system shares this speaker, so the system warned that safety services might not work. I paid $191 for diagnostics; the estimated repair is $216.69. I pay a monthly subscription for STARLINK safety services, but the vehicle’s warnings do not clearly indicate the real issue. Other owners of 2019 and similar Subaru models report persistent STARLINK/telematics errors, red SOS lights, and repeated dealer visits, suggesting this may be a broader systemic issue. I believe the warning system should specifically identify a failed speaker or audio circuit to reduce confusion, unnecessary diagnostics, and ensure drivers understand the true status of emergency safety features. My concern is that the vehicle’s warning system may mislead drivers into believing that critical safety systems are malfunctioning, when the actual issue is a non-critical speaker failure. A more specific diagnostic message indicating an audio system fault would be more useful.

NHTSA ODI 11722609

The front suspension has been broken since I purchased the vehicle with 50,000 miles on it. This has always been a safety concern for this vehicle yet I see no recalls for it. This puts my safety at risk as there is a metal clunking sound when turning the wheel and the tire rod can break from the faulty parts used for the vehicle. The vehicle’s front suspension was checked by a car repair company that was changing my brake pads at the time and saw that there was a dire issue with the vehicle that could put my life at risk. I have not had any car accidents or any other issues that could have caused this, meaning it is faulty manufacturing on Subaru’s part. There are no warning lights for the suspension, there is no way to know if you have a suspension issue unless you get the vehicle checked, or in my case can hear metal clunking sounds as the wheel is moved left or right while turning. This issue has been seen by many other owners of the same vehicle make, model and year but there has been no effort to fix this safety issue.

NHTSA ODI 11684641

The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Impreza. The contact stated that upon approaching the vehicle, excessive corrosion on the driver’s side rocker panel was observed. The contact inspected the passenger’s side rocker panel and found excessive corrosion. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who determined that the frame needed to be cut, and the rocker panel needed to be refabricated. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 48,000.

NHTSA ODI 11681924

TPMS safety system failure. Vehicle display of tire pressure readings on the dash has changed from displaying tire pressures for each tire to no pressures displayed (pressures are blank; on the Subaru App which also accesses this data, all tires show red/abnormal with dashes displayed) for several weeks now and TPMS error warning light remains illuminated on dash. Manufacturer has suggested I take car to dealer to diagnose at my upfront cost for their defect as the vehicle is out of warranty. A friend with the same car has experienced the same problem, replaced all TPMS sensors at their expense, still having this same problem despite the attempted fix. This safety defect is not being adequately addressed by the manufacturer despite contacting the advocacy department and corporate executive.

NHTSA ODI 11675308

I attempted to get a safety recall (headlamp assembly defect) addressed at my local Subaru dealership. The vehicle is still under warranty, and I was told I may be able to get a loaner or rental. However, when I arrived, I was informed that the dealership only has 9 loaners and does not offer rental coverage at all, even for warranty customers. I had already spoken to someone about my need for a rental due to my class schedule and was led to believe this could be arranged. I drove down there, took time out of my day, and missed class — only to be turned away with no solution. Subaru’s recall notice acknowledges the increased risk of a crash due to poor visibility and glare. My vehicle remains unfixed and unsafe to drive, and I was left with no support despite my warranty and a safety recall. Subaru has not made it reasonably possible for me to address this recall. If an accident occurs while I wait for a proper resolution, I will hold them responsible. I am submitting this complaint to formally document my experience and push for accountability.

NHTSA ODI 11660912

I had my vehicle inspected on 5/3/25 and all 4 break lines had bubbles protruding from the rubber break lines that go from the caliper to the metal lines. A safety recall for the same problem exists for 1 year earlier than my Subaru. It appears that Subaru continues to use defective break lines.

NHTSA ODI 11659829

Description of the Problem: On or about [XXX], my 2019 Subaru Impreza experienced a sudden engine failure. The check engine light illuminated, and the engine shut off. Specifically, the check engine light came on approximately two minutes into the drive, and the engine shut off within 30 seconds of the light appearing. The vehicle was taken to Albany Subaru in Albany, CA, where a technician diagnosed the issue as a blown 15 amp ignition fuse and a damaged ignition coil (#4). Albany Subaru is recommending replacement of the spark plugs, coil packs, and the fuse. Albany Subaru has stated that "Subaru sent the recall out due to defective coil packs, and had the new updated coil packs installed. My tech is recommending to replace the coil packs due to the fuse blowing out and shorting out the current coil packs. The #4 coil was found damaged during the inspection." Connection to Recall: I am concerned that this current failure is related to the original defect addressed by Recall 21V264000. My vehicle had the recall service performed on November 14, 2019, to replace the ignition coils. It appears that the replacement coils, or an issue related to the recall repair, may have failed, leading to the blown fuse and further coil damage. I have asked the service technician at Albany Subaru to specifically determine if the current failure is in any way related to the original defect or the replacement parts installed under the recall. Safety Concern: This sudden engine failure poses a significant safety risk. A loss of engine power while driving can lead to a crash, especially at higher speeds or in traffic. In my experience owning many vehicles, I have never encountered issues with ignition coils, nor have I experienced this frequency of recalls. Vehicle Information: • Year: 2019 • Make: Subaru • Model: Impreza • VIN: [XXX] • Mileage: 59,784 miles Recall Information: • NHTSA Recall Number: 21V264000, Service date: Nov 14, 2019 INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11655239

Eye warning keeps coming on. Then resets a few days later.

NHTSA ODI 11641979

Head unit constantly rebooting. Completely unable to use the head unit. No longer functional. Unable to power the screen off. Very distracting while driving especially at night. Power button no longer works. Started about a year ago, then randomly seemed to of temporarily resolved itself until a couple of months ago. Head unit is now 100% nonfunctional and constantly reboots. No warnings when first occurred. Issue has been confirmed by independent service center. Puts myself and others at risk due to the screen rebooting on repeat and no way to turn the screen off. Extremely distracting and unsafe

NHTSA ODI 11641024

Subaru is aware of a specific set of year/model/makes that start to make a sound coming from the drive shaft center bearing in cold weather. Unnatural wear occurs on the bearing but the only remedy is to replace the entire drive shaft which is a really costly repair for something that is a structural design issue. There is a service bulletin for it: [XXX] It seems unfair that this is a repair the customer should take on when a drive shaft should likely survive the lifetime of a vehicle. This should be a recall. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11640035

Three engine check lights due to rodent damage within two weeks, even when I first bought the car in South Florida it had damage due to rodents and that when I first found out they use soy for the wires, I had thought the dealership I got it from had replaced it all but no. Fast forward 2-3 years later in a different state I had gotten the first engine check light and thought it was due to bad repairs from the place I bought it from, I had thought after the first repair they got rid of the soy wiring since it was expensive but then I happened a second time 140 miles after I fixed the first one. It was then on that I realized these were recent damage and not old so I decided to buy some things to deter rodents since it’s cold now. And now comes to the third time it gets damaged after snowing and melting a little. I haven’t even driven more than 10 miles and I already have to spend more on repairs. I might even have to get rid of the car altogether if this keeps happening. This damage means cruise control is off due to the car now being in a safe mode and also it cannot tell how hot or cold it is so overall running of the car is gonna be worse off. I’ve put noise/ light devices in the engine bay and also mint pouches made to deter mice and such and still had issues

NHTSA ODI 11635428

When you put in reverse my 2019 Subaru Impreza Sport, the control display flashes green and is distorted. It is very difficult to detect an obstruction or a child when backing up. Recently we bumped a pedestrian. This Is A Safety Issue! The condition was observed at the Orlando Subaru dealer. Their solution is to replace the whole radio control unit at a cost of $1341. We ordered it to not gamble on safety.

NHTSA ODI 11628815

I was under the vehicle changing the oil and heard a loud bang. I investigated the sound and didn't notice anything. After completion of the oil change I got into the driver seat and noticed my rear view mirror was hanging by the wires. It had come loose from the windshield taking a big chunk of glass out of the windshield. It left a gash approximately almost 3/4 of an inch deep by 1.5 inches long by about 3/4 of an inch wide. This seriously degrades the strength and puts any occupants at risk. The windshield can not be repaired and will have to be replaced. Cost of replacement is approximately $413.58.

NHTSA ODI 11627043

Rear wheel bearing premature wear. Originally installed wheel bearings were replaced, under warranty, at 44,137 miles. Same bearings then had to be replaced again at 62,486 miles. Both replacements were done by Beardmore Subaru in Nebraska. A failed wheel bearing at high speed could result in a catastrophic accident, and requiring replacement at these low mileage levels is indicative of poor design or substandard parts.

NHTSA ODI 11624154

Vehicle sways significantly and continuously left and right in lane at highway speeds, including in low or no wind conditions, since the car was new. This happens regardless of whether eyesight/lane keep assist is enabled or not, and all tire pressures are regularly monitored and at manufacturer recommended levels. Changing tires from the OEM Continental Pro Contact to Michelin CrossClimate 2, while maintaining OEM wheels and 205/55R16 tire size, has not impacted the car's behavior. This weaving occurs at speeds of 50-70 mph on the highway, including on straight, smooth road. Swaying does not disappear with absence of adjacent vehicles influencing air turbulence. Neighboring vehicle air wakes will cause significant additional pushing of the car to the opposite side of the lane. The steering feel of this car on the highway is extremely "floaty" and unsettling. It is challenging to maintain lane with no surrounding cars, and it is extremely dangerous when passing vehicles.

NHTSA ODI 11612594

Owner’s manual calls for 87 octane fuel. Vehicle engine pings on anything less than 91 octane. Subaru should issue an update to prevent engine damage.

NHTSA ODI 11608270

The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Impreza. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V624000 (Exterior Lighting) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The local dealer was contacted, and it was confirmed that the part was not available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact stated while driving at night, the headlights failed to provide adequate illumination. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who confirmed that the failure was related to the recall. The failure mileage was 5,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

NHTSA ODI 11606860

The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Impreza. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V624000 (Exterior Lighting); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

NHTSA ODI 11605676

The contact owns a 2019 Subaru Impreza. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V624000 (Exterior Lighting); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

NHTSA ODI 11602973

Nothing has yet happened but it has been nearly two full years since you issued the recall on the headlights issue and Subaru has still not taken action to remedy it or repair our vehicle: Aug 12,2022 Manufacturer Recall NumberWRG22 NHTSA Recall Number22V624000 Recall StatusRecall Incomplete, remedy not yet available

NHTSA ODI 11596960