2021 Subaru Impreza Safety Report
2021 Subaru Impreza: Excellent Crash Safety, but Recalls and Specific Component Complaints Noted
AI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Subaru Impreza
Reliability Score
The 2021 Subaru Impreza receives a reliability score of 75 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates above-average reliability relative to comparable vehicles.
Known Issues for the 2021 Subaru Impreza
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Subaru Impreza:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forward Collision Avoidance System Malfunction EyeSight system performing hard brakes at highway speeds without clear obstruction, nearly causing rear-end collisions. |
Medium | Occasional | variable miles |
| Spontaneous Windshield Cracking Multiple reports of windshields cracking spontaneously, often from the defroster area, sometimes requiring multiple replacements. |
Medium | Occasional | new-20000 miles |
| Steering Issues Steering described as 'erratically loose' or failing to 'track straight,' impacting vehicle control, especially at highway speeds or in adverse weather. |
Medium | Occasional | 6000-20000 miles |
| Cvt Select Lever Cable Nut (Recall) Recall for improperly tightened nut in CVT select lever cable, potentially causing gear selector malfunction and increased crash risk. |
High | Rare | new miles |
| Front Lower Control Arm Weld (Recall) Recall for potential failure of left-front lower control arm weld, leading to separation and loss of control. |
High | Rare | new miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2021 Subaru Impreza:
General complaints not fitting specific categories, indicating diverse minor issues.
Reports of tire bulges and pulling to one side, potentially indicating manufacturing defects or premature wear.
Issues with steering looseness and inability to track straight, requiring constant correction.
Unintended hard braking by the EyeSight system.
Spontaneous windshield cracking and melting plastic parts affecting visibility.
Premature wear of front brake pads reported at low mileage.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Subaru Impreza
Is the 2021 Subaru Impreza safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 Subaru Impreza received a perfect 5-star overall safety rating, including 5 stars in Frontal, Side, and Rollover crash tests, indicating excellent occupant protection. However, there are 14 total complaints, 1 crash, and 1 injury reported, along with two safety recalls concerning the front lower control arm and CVT select lever cable, which should be addressed.
What are common problems with the 2021 Subaru Impreza?
The most reported issues for the 2021 Subaru Impreza include 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER' (2 complaints), 'TIRES' (2 complaints), and 'STEERING' (2 complaints). Specific patterns involve the EyeSight system's unintended hard braking, spontaneous windshield cracking, and steering that feels loose or doesn't track straight.
Are there any recalls for the 2021 Subaru Impreza?
Yes, there are two recalls for the 2021 Subaru Impreza. One recall addresses a potential failure of the left-front lower control arm weld, which could lead to a loss of control. The second recall is for an improperly tightened nut in the continuously variable transmission (CVT) select lever cable, which could cause the gear selector to malfunction.
How does the 2021 Impreza perform in crash tests?
The 2021 Subaru Impreza performs exceptionally well in crash tests, earning a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. It achieved 5 stars in Frontal Crash, Side Crash, and Rollover categories, demonstrating high levels of occupant protection.
Should I be concerned about the EyeSight system?
While the EyeSight system is designed to enhance safety, there are complaints (1 under 'FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE') regarding unintended hard braking at highway speeds when no immediate danger was present. This could potentially create a rear-end collision risk for the vehicle behind you. It's an issue to be aware of and monitor.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: The 2021 Subaru Impreza offers excellent crash safety, but potential buyers should ensure all two recalls have been addressed and be aware of reported issues like spontaneous windshield cracking and steering anomalies.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Subaru Impreza
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Subaru Impreza. The data includes 14 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 2 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 1 reported crashes, 1 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2021 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.