2017 Subaru Impreza Safety Report

2017 Subaru Impreza: Excellent Crash Test Ratings Mask Significant Recall and Lighting Issues

124Complaints
7Recalls
★★★★★Safety Rating
65/100Reliability Score
10Crash Reports
3Fire Reports
7Injuries
Most reported components: Exterior Lighting (30)Visibility/Wiper (18)Unknown Or Other (13)Engine (8)Electrical System (8)Air Bags (6)Power Train (2)Fuel System, Gasoline (2)Wheels (2)Service Brakes (2)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2017 Subaru Impreza

The 2017 Subaru Impreza presents a mixed safety picture. While it achieved excellent crash test ratings from NHTSA, scoring 5 stars in Overall, Frontal, Side, and Rollover categories, indicating strong occupant protection in a crash, the vehicle has been subject to a significant number of safety recalls and consumer complaints. There are 7 recalls, addressing critical issues such as inadequate headlight illumination, engine stall risks due to ECM software and PCV valve failures, fuel system issues, and rearview camera malfunctions. These recalls directly impact fundamental safety systems and driving stability. NHTSA has received 124 complaints for this model year, with 10 reported crashes, 3 fires, and 7 injuries. A prominent complaint pattern revolves around 'EXTERIOR LIGHTING' with 30 complaints, many of which detail poor visibility at night and issues with headlights failing or being deemed inadequate, directly correlating with a major recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V624000). Owners frequently report that the recall remedy for headlights is unavailable or delayed, causing ongoing safety concerns. Another significant area of concern is 'VISIBILITY/WIPER' with 18 complaints, including issues with sun visors and windshield quality, which can impair driver visibility. Beyond lighting, 'ENGINE' (8 complaints) and 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM' (8 complaints) also show patterns of concern, aligning with recalls related to engine stalls and ignition coil issues. Several complaints describe unexpected engine stalls while driving, which is a direct safety hazard. There are also concerning reports of airbag failures to deploy in crashes, despite the vehicle's high crash test ratings, with one complaint detailing a driver sustaining a concussion and whiplash after airbags failed to deploy in a total loss incident. The high number of recalls and the nature of the complaints, particularly those regarding lighting and engine stalls, suggest that while the vehicle performs well in controlled crash tests, there have been notable reliability and component-specific safety issues that could increase the risk of a crash or injury in real-world driving.

Reliability Score

The 2017 Subaru Impreza receives a reliability score of 65 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.

Known Issues for the 2017 Subaru Impreza

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2017 Subaru Impreza:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Exterior Lighting Inadequacy/Failure
Headlights may inadequately reflect light or fail, significantly reducing night visibility. Subject to recall 22V624000, with many owners reporting delayed or unavailable remedies.		 High Common all miles
Engine Stall/Loss Of Power
Engine Control Module (ECM) software issues, PCV valve failures, or premature fuel vaporization can lead to unexpected engine stalls while driving, increasing crash risk. Subject to multiple recalls.		 High Occasional all miles
Airbag Non-Deployment
Multiple complaints describe airbags failing to deploy in crashes, despite significant impact, leading to injuries.		 High Rare all miles
Rearview Camera Malfunction
Software problem may cause the rearview camera display to not work properly, reducing driver's view when backing up. Subject to recall.		 Medium Rare all miles
Premature Wheel Bearing Failure
Owners report multiple instances of rear and front wheel bearings failing at relatively low mileage, requiring frequent replacement.		 Medium Occasional 30000-110000 miles
Loose/Falling Sun Visors
Sun visors on driver and passenger sides are reported to be loose and prone to falling off while driving, obstructing visibility.		 Low Occasional all miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2017 Subaru Impreza:

Exterior Lighting 24% of complaints

Frequent complaints about poor headlight performance, failures, and issues with recall remedies for inadequate illumination.

Visibility/Wiper 15% of complaints

Issues reported with windshield quality (pitting/chips) and loose sun visors affecting driver visibility.

Engine 6% of complaints

Complaints of engine hesitation, stalling, and loss of power, linked to PCV valve and fuel system recalls.

Electrical System 6% of complaints

Reports of electrical issues, including cruise control errors and ignition coil problems, some related to ECM software recalls.

Air Bags 5% of complaints

Several concerning reports of airbags failing to deploy during crashes.

Wheels 2% of complaints

Complaints specifically mentioning premature failure of wheel bearings.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2017 Subaru Impreza

Is the 2017 Subaru Impreza safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2017 Subaru Impreza received excellent 5-star crash test ratings across all categories (Overall, Frontal, Side, Rollover), indicating strong occupant protection. However, it has 7 recalls addressing critical safety issues like inadequate headlights, engine stalls, and rearview camera malfunctions. There are also 124 complaints, including 10 crashes and 7 injuries, with a notable pattern of headlight issues and some reports of airbag non-deployment, suggesting potential real-world safety concerns despite strong crash test performance.

What are common problems with the 2017 Subaru Impreza?

The most reported issues for the 2017 Subaru Impreza are related to 'EXTERIOR LIGHTING' (30 complaints), often concerning poor headlight visibility and failures, which is also subject to a major recall. 'VISIBILITY/WIPER' (18 complaints) is another common area, with issues like windshield quality and loose sun visors. Engine stalls, electrical system malfunctions, and premature wheel bearing failures are also frequently cited problems.

Are there any recalls for the 2017 Subaru Impreza?

Yes, the 2017 Subaru Impreza has 7 recalls. These include recalls for inadequate headlight illumination (22V624000), engine control module (ECM) software issues that can cause stalls, PCV valve failures leading to power loss, fuel system issues causing engine stalls, and rearview camera display malfunctions. It is crucial to ensure all applicable recalls have been addressed.

How does the 2017 Subaru Impreza perform in crash tests?

The 2017 Subaru Impreza performed exceptionally well in NHTSA crash tests, achieving a perfect 5-star rating in every category: Overall, Frontal Crash, Side Crash, and Rollover. This indicates a high level of occupant protection in various collision scenarios.

What should I look out for when buying a used 2017 Subaru Impreza?

When considering a used 2017 Subaru Impreza, pay close attention to the headlight performance, especially at night, and verify that all 7 recalls, particularly the exterior lighting recall (22V624000), have been completed. Check for any signs of engine hesitation or stalling, and listen for unusual noises from the wheels that could indicate failing wheel bearings. Also, inspect the windshield for excessive pitting or chips and the sun visors for looseness.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: While the 2017 Subaru Impreza boasts excellent crash test ratings, potential buyers should prioritize verifying all 7 recalls have been addressed, especially the persistent headlight issues, and be aware of common complaints regarding engine stalls and premature wheel bearing failures.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2017 Subaru Impreza

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2017 Subaru Impreza. The data includes 124 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 7 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 10 reported crashes, 3 fire incidents, 7 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

The NHTSA has assigned the 2017 Subaru Impreza an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 5 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.

All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.

Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.