2007 Subaru Impreza used buying checklist

Test for the problems owners report most

The most reported problems of this model year, with what to look for on the test drive.

• Airbags27 owner complaints, usually around 33,544 miles

  Make sure the airbag warning light turns off after start-up, and that every airbag recall was completed.

• Engine and cooling13 owner complaints, usually around 73,120 miles

  Start the engine cold and listen for knocking or ticking. Check for warning lights, oil leaks and a low oil level, and ask how often oil had to be topped up.

• Transmission and drivetrain8 owner complaints, usually around 26,700 miles

  On a test drive from a cold start, check that shifts are smooth, with no slipping, delays, shudder or jerking at low speed. Ask for transmission fluid service records.

• Electrical system7 owner complaints, usually around 41,295 miles

  Test every screen, camera, power window, lock and the key fob. With the engine running, make sure no warning lights stay on.

Make sure these recalls were done

Recall repairs are free at any dealer of the brand. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN.

• Air bagsRecall number 20V001000, Jan 2, 2020
• Air bagsRecall number 20V002000, Jan 2, 2020
• Air bagsRecall number 20V003000, Jan 2, 2020
• Air bagsRecall number 17V026000, Jan 11, 2017
• Air bagsRecall number 17V014000, Jan 10, 2017
• Air bagsRecall number 17V016000, Jan 10, 2017
• Air bagsRecall number 16V358000, May 25, 2016
• Air bagsRecall number 16V359000, May 25, 2016
• SuspensionRecall number 11V464000, Sep 6, 2011

Service bulletins worth asking about

Repair instructions the maker sent to dealers for known problems. Ask whether any of these repairs were done.

• This is an update announcement regarding the TechShare & NorthStar IntegrationOct 26, 2026
• This announcement provides information on the connected services platform for Subaru EVs.Oct 22, 2026
• This bulletin provides a step-by-step diagnostic procedure for resolving Remote Engine Start (RES)...Oct 20, 2026
• This Service Information Bulletin has been developed to outline the steps for gathering basic but...Oct 20, 2026
• This announcement provides information on DCM replacememts due to a parasitic draw.Oct 15, 2026
• This announcement provides information on an outage affecting the Subaru Select Monitor 5 application.Oct 15, 2026

Before you pay

• Decode the VIN and make sure it matches the title, the registration and the car itself.
• Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, salvage or flood titles and odometer problems.
• Ask for service records, especially oil changes and any transmission fluid service.
• Start the car from cold, and drive it at city and highway speeds for at least 20 minutes.
• Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you sign anything.