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2011 Subaru Impreza Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller·17 Critical Recalls
2011 Subaru Impreza Report

Overall Score

6.0/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Significant risk due to 19 recalls, with airbags and brake lines being critical safety concerns.
  • Recurring engine failures and powertrain integrity issues elevate the risk profile.
  • Top complaints include airbags, electrical system, and powertrain.
  • All-wheel drive provides excellent traction but requires careful inspection of related components.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2011 Subaru Impreza

The 2011 Subaru Impreza offers Subaru's signature all-wheel-drive capability but carries a "Below Average" reliability rating. This is driven by 19 recalls and 71 complaints, with airbags and brake systems being major concerns. Potential buyers should be aware of significant safety risks and potential repair costs. It achieves an EPA-estimated 19 MPG combined, powered by a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine and a 6-speed manual transmission with All-Wheel Drive.

Critical Failure Risk

Widespread issues with airbag inflators and sensors, leading to recalls and customer complaints.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,000-$4,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls19
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

71
Air Bags17
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
19
MPG
City
17
MPG
Highway
22
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

7.7/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Enthusiasts who prioritize all-wheel-drive capability and are prepared for potential maintenance and repair costs.

+1 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Risk-averse buyers.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2011 Subaru Impreza Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2011 Subaru Impreza.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Transmission
Manual 6-spd
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Hatchback
EPA Combined MPG
19

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Airbags

Most reported

Usage: 17 reports

2. Electrical System

Usage: 8 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection

Est. shop cost: $80 - $150

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
19 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2011 Subaru Impreza reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2011 Subaru Impreza is 7.7/10. Reliability score is 7.7/10. NHTSA recalls: 19. Owner complaints: 71.

How practical is the 2011 Subaru Impreza for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 19 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2011 Subaru Impreza?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2011 Subaru Impreza is 6.0/10. Overall score is 6.0/10 (Mixed). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 7.8/10. Tuning 4.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2011 Subaru Impreza?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $800. Repair prediction highlight: Airbag System (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $2000+).

What engine is in the 2011 Subaru Impreza?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.5.

What transmission does the 2011 Subaru Impreza use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Subaru Impreza, transmission is Manual 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2011 Impreza require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2011 Subaru Impreza?▾

EPA combined estimate is 19 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2011 Subaru Impreza?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2011 Subaru Impreza?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Subaru Impreza, body style is hatchback.

What drivetrain does the 2011 Subaru Impreza use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Subaru Impreza, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual 6-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2011 Subaru Impreza?▾

NHTSA ratings: Rollover 4/5.

Is the 2011 Subaru Impreza good for tuning?▾

Tuning potential is rated 4/10. The 2011 Subaru Impreza, equipped with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 170 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque, features standard All... Popular platforms: Subaru Impreza.

What are the most common air bags problems on the 2011 Subaru Impreza?▾

Top complaint category: air bags (17 reports, 23.9% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2011 Subaru Impreza?▾

This model year has 19 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

Tuning guide

Potential + upgrade path

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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