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2020 Subaru Impreza Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Ryan Davis·20 Critical Recalls
2020 Subaru Impreza Report

Overall Score

7.1/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Spontaneous windshield cracking is the most frequent and concerning issue for owners.
  • A significant recall campaign for the fuel pump affects this model year, requiring verification of repair.
  • Standard AWD provides all-weather capability, a key advantage in this segment.
  • While overall safety ratings are excellent (5-star), the high complaint volume regarding visibility and brakes requires attention.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2020 Subaru Impreza

The 2020 Subaru Impreza offers standard all-wheel drive and a practical package for used-car shoppers. However, its "Below Average" reliability verdict, driven by a significant number of recalls and a high volume of owner complaints, warrants a cautious approach. Potential buyers should be aware of common issues, particularly concerning visibility and the fuel system. With 20 recalls and 94 complaints logged, careful inspection is paramount. The Impreza achieves a respectable 25 MPG combined, but potential repair costs associated with its known issues should be factored into ownership.

Critical Failure Risk

Spontaneous or premature cracking of the windshield glass, often without apparent cause. This is a significant complaint driver and can lead to visibility issues and costly replacement.

Early detection can help you avoid a $400-$600 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls20
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

94
Visibility/Wiper50
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
25
MPG
City
22
MPG
Highway
30
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

6.4/ 10

Practicality

4.5/ 10

The score is dragged down by its weaker day-to-day practicality signals.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing all-wheel drive capability and strong safety ratings.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Shoppers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2020 Subaru Impreza Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2020 Subaru Impreza.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Manual 5-spd
Drivetrain
AWD/All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Hatchback
EPA Combined MPG
25

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Most Common Issues

1. Visibility

Most reported

Usage: 50 reports

2. Braking System

Usage: 5 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

Est. shop cost: $75 - $125

7,500 mi

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

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
20 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2020 Subaru Impreza reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2020 Subaru Impreza is 6.4/10. Reliability score is 6.4/10. NHTSA recalls: 20. Owner complaints: 94.

How practical is the 2020 Subaru Impreza for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 4.5/10. The score is dragged down by its weaker day-to-day practicality signals. EPA combined economy is 25 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.

What is the overall score for the 2020 Subaru Impreza?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2020 Subaru Impreza is 7.1/10. Overall score is 7.1/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.4/10. Tuning 3.0/10. Practicality 4.5/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2020 Subaru Impreza?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Windshield (estimated cost Min: $400 • Max: $600).

What is the MSRP range for the 2020 Subaru Impreza?▾

Base MSRP is $18,695.

What engine is in the 2020 Subaru Impreza?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.

What transmission does the 2020 Subaru Impreza use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Subaru Impreza, transmission is Manual 5-spd. The paired drivetrain is AWD/All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2020 Subaru Impreza?▾

EPA combined estimate is 25 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2020 Subaru Impreza?▾

7 standard and 4 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2020 Subaru Impreza?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Subaru Impreza, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2020 Subaru Impreza?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Subaru Impreza, body style is hatchback.

What drivetrain does the 2020 Subaru Impreza use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Subaru Impreza, drivetrain is AWD/All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual 5-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2020 Subaru Impreza?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 5/5.

Is the 2020 Subaru Impreza good for tuning?▾

Tuning potential is rated 3/10. The 2020 Subaru Impreza, while a capable all-wheel-drive car, is not designed for significant performance tuning. Its naturally aspirated 2.

What are the most common visibility/wiper problems on the 2020 Subaru Impreza?▾

Top complaint category: visibility/wiper (50 reports, 53.2% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2020 Subaru Impreza?▾

This model year has 20 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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