Used Subaru Impreza Saloon 2002 - 2007 reliability
Category: Performance car
The Impreza has heady performance, but it's also reliable and easy (if very expensive) to live with
What should I look for in a used Subaru Impreza saloon?
UK cars in standard trim with full service history are worth a lot more than second-hand imports from Japan, or any decked out with added-on body kits.
The same is true of tuning modifications unless they're Subaru-approved, such as the Prodrive conversions. Watch also for WRXs made into STi look-alikes.
Main dealer servicing is so expensive that many owners use independent specialists - which is fine if one of the couple of dozen 'known' garages are used. The big service needed every three years costs a packet and many owners sell just before it is due.
On test drives, watch for poor clutch take-up because replacements are expensive, and listen out for clonks from worn suspension bushes.
A full check and report by an independent engineer is wise before buying, as falsified mileages are common. Finally, budget for a security tracking device if none is fitted, because your insurer will probably insist on one.
