2006 Subaru Impreza: Reliability, Recalls, Known Issues & Cost to Own
Data last updated 2026-07-04 · sources listed throughout · based on public NHTSA data
Sure-footed AWD compact with durable basics; expect possible head-gasket leaks with age and Takata airbag recall work. 3 known issue patterns are documented below, with frequency and the mileage windows where they typically appear. New, the 2006 Subaru Impreza ranged from $18,920 to $19,820 depending on trim (base MSRP, before options and destination).
This listing
Context from the listing you were viewing, not a market-price judgement.
Sure-footed AWD compact with durable basics; expect possible head-gasket leaks with age and Takata airbag recall work.
Sources (3)
- api.nhtsa.govhttps://api.nhtsa.gov/complaints/complaintsByVehicle?make=subaru&model=imprez…
- repairpal.comhttps://repairpal.com/reliability/subaru/impreza
- cargurus.comhttps://www.cargurus.com/research/articles/subaru-impreza-buying-guide
Known issues
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These model years are included in the Takata airbag inflator recall.
commonly reported · 25 NHTSA complaints · other
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The 2.5L SOHC boxer engine can develop external head-gasket coolant and oil leaks around the 100,000-mile mark, a known weak point of this era.
occasional · 12 NHTSA complaints · typically 90k–150k miles · engine
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Early front suspension components and wheel bearings wear, and vehicles in salt-belt regions are prone to underbody corrosion.
occasional · 16 NHTSA complaints · suspension
Based on public NHTSA complaint data and AI synthesis: patterns, not guarantees.
Sources (3)
- api.nhtsa.govhttps://api.nhtsa.gov/complaints/complaintsByVehicle?make=subaru&model=imprez…
- api.nhtsa.govhttps://api.nhtsa.gov/complaints/complaintsByVehicle?make=subaru&model=imprez…
- api.nhtsa.govhttps://api.nhtsa.gov/complaints/complaintsByVehicle?make=subaru&model=imprez…
Recalls & safety
Recall history hasn't been loaded for this model year yet.
Whether a recall is still open on a specific car depends on its VIN. Check it free at NHTSA's VIN lookup (nhtsa.gov/recalls), or ask the seller for proof the repair was done.
Pros & cons
Pros
- Rally-bred symmetrical all-wheel drive delivers excellent traction and sure-footed handling.
- Simple, durable non-turbo mechanicals that are easy and cheap to maintain.
- Genuinely capable in snow and poor weather.
Cons
- Poor fuel economy, a spartan dated interior, and rust susceptibility in salt regions.
- The 2.5L head gasket can leak around 100,000 miles, a known cost of ownership for this era.
- Takata airbag recalls affect these years.
Trims & original pricing
| Trim | Original base MSRP | New today | Engine | MPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5i | $18,920 | discontinued | — | — |
| Outback Sport | $19,820 | discontinued | — | — |
Prices are base MSRP for each trim's standard configuration. Options, packages, and destination charges added to what original buyers actually paid.
Sources (1)
- iseecars.comhttps://www.iseecars.com/car/2006-subaru-impreza-price
Depreciation
Move your cursor along the line to see the estimated value for any year.
This listing sits above the typical depreciation curve. Common for heavily-optioned cars and for 2021-2023 model years (pandemic-era pricing); the curve is anchored at base MSRP, which excludes options.
Curve anchored at the entry-trim base MSRP ($18,920). Higher trims started higher (up to $19,820), and options added more.
The curve's data ends 10 years in, so the line levels off after that. Treat the tail as a floor, not a forecast: asking prices for older cars depend mostly on condition, mileage, and the current market, and often sit well above it.
Sources (1)
- iseecars.comhttps://www.iseecars.com/car/subaru-impreza/resale-value
Cost to own
| Repairs (rises with mileage) | ≈ $650–700/yr |
| Expected lifespan | ~200k miles |
National-average estimates based on public data. Your costs vary by region, driver, and condition.
Sources (1)
- repairpal.comhttps://repairpal.com/reliability/subaru/impreza
Frequently asked questions
What problems does the 2006 Subaru Impreza have?
Documented issue patterns include: These model years are included in the Takata airbag inflator recall; The 2.5L SOHC boxer engine can develop external head-gasket coolant and oil leaks around the 100,000-mile mark, a known weak point of this era; Early front suspension components and wheel bearings wear, and vehicles in salt-belt regions are prone to underbody corrosion. Frequency is based on public NHTSA complaint data: patterns, not guarantees.
Is the 2006 Subaru Impreza reliable?
Sure-footed AWD compact with durable basics; expect possible head-gasket leaks with age and Takata airbag recall work.
How much did the 2006 Subaru Impreza cost new?
Between $18,920 and $19,820 depending on trim. Those are base MSRPs for each trim's standard configuration; options, packages, and destination charges added to what original buyers actually paid.
Is the Subaru Impreza expensive to maintain?
Estimated repairs run roughly $650–700/year as mileage climbs.
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Estimates are based on public data: patterns, not guarantees. CarVitals is not affiliated with NHTSA, CarMax, AutoTrader, or Cars.com. Issue frequencies come from public NHTSA complaint data, which has no denominator, so they describe reporting patterns, not failure probabilities. Always have a used car inspected before buying. How we build these reports.