Subaru Impreza Mk2 (GD/GG) Common Problems & Reliability
The second-generation Impreza is a UK icon in both saloon and wagon form. Naturally aspirated cars are generally simple, but shell corrosion and ageing cooling hardware now decide whether one is worth saving.
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Detailed fault breakdown, symptoms, and estimated repair bills by production year.
Most Common Subaru Impreza Mk2 (GD/GG) Faults & Repair Costs
Rear Strut Tower, Sill and Arch Corrosion
Mk2 shells can rot badly around the rear strut tops, sills and rear arches, sometimes hiding serious structural decay behind trim and underseal.
Rust bubbles around rear arches, Damp or rust inside the boot side trim, Corrosion advisories near suspension mounts
- Lift the boot trim around both rear strut towers
- Inspect the sill ends and rear arch lips
- Check underneath for previous welded repairs
Radiator End Tank Cracking
Ageing factory radiators can split around the plastic end tanks, causing coolant loss that is easy to miss until the car gets hot in traffic.
Sweet coolant smell, Low coolant level, Staining around radiator seams
- Inspect the top corners of the radiator
- Check for dried coolant marks after the drive
- Confirm the cooling fans cycle normally
Wheel Bearing Wear
Rear wheel bearings in particular can get noisy as the cars age, bringing a droning noise that is often mistaken for tyre roar.
Humming or droning that rises with speed, Rumble from one rear corner, Noise changes on sweeping bends
- Drive at A-road speed and listen for a steady drone
- Check for play or roughness at each wheel if inspected on a lift
Buying a used Subaru Impreza Mk2 (GD/GG)? Always check for hidden finance and write-off history.
Mechanical problems are only half the battle. Over 1 in 3 UK used cars checked have unpaid finance or accident write-off records that could cause you to lose the car or thousands in value.