Pre 2008 Impreza issues

[Stefanstg]

I'm looking into buying an impreza, i know subaru makes great cars and their symmetrical AWD is great, second only to audi.
The particular vehicle i am looking at is a 2007 impreza hatchback with around 60 000 km.
There are no current issues with the vehicle, but i am skeptical about buying it due to a couple issues: I have read that subaru engines post 2001 were built with cheap aluminum valve heads that were very susceptible to heat damage and caused engine failures sometimes at the ~100 000 km mark. I have also been talking with a coworker of mine who owns an impreza who has advised against buying any subaru older than 2008, due to similar issues.
Anyone here know more about imprezas? would a 2007 impreza be an investment i would regret?
feedback appreciated
Cheers

[Moppie]

Originally Posted by Stefanstg

Anyone here know more about imprezas? would a 2007 impreza be an investment i would regret?
feedback appreciated
Cheers

They don't take well to being overheated, but if you look after it that will never be a problem.

The turbo engines have a limited life span, so much hp from a small engine produces a lot of wear.
The non turbo engines are pretty solid, just as reliable as any other Japanese engine and no reason why they shouldn't last for several hundred thousand miles if properly maintained.

The thing to be aware of is the extra maintenance required of the AWD drive train.
It means an extra set of C.V. joints and boots that can fail and need replacing, it means there is a drive shaft with center bearings ete that can fail and need replacing and it means extra wear on the tyres so you will get less life out them than a 2WD car.

Fortunately the rear diff is rock solid and virtually indestructible and the gear boxes and transfer cases are also well designed and very reliable.



Provided you service and look after it, there is no reason it won't provide you with years of good motoring