IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2003 Subaru Impreza Mk2 (GD/GG)

We've identified 3 known issues that can affect the 2003 Subaru Impreza Mk2 (GD/GG). 1 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

3
Known Issues
1
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

Rear Strut Tower, Sill and Arch Corrosion

SeriousBodywork & Rust

Mk2 shells can rot badly around the rear strut tops, sills and rear arches, sometimes hiding serious structural decay behind trim and underseal.

Est. Repair Cost: £500–£3,000
Warning Signs:

Rust bubbles around rear arches, Damp or rust inside the boot side trim, Corrosion advisories near suspension mounts

What to Inspect:
  • Lift the boot trim around both rear strut towers
  • Inspect the sill ends and rear arch lips
  • Check underneath for previous welded repairs
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Radiator End Tank Cracking

ModerateCooling System

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.

Est. Repair Cost: £200–£450
Warning Signs:

Sweet coolant smell, Low coolant level, Staining around radiator seams

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect the top corners of the radiator
  • Check for dried coolant marks after the drive
  • Confirm the cooling fans cycle normally
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Wheel Bearing Wear

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

Rear wheel bearings in particular can get noisy as the cars age, bringing a droning noise that is often mistaken for tyre roar.

Est. Repair Cost: £180–£400 per corner
Warning Signs:

Humming or droning that rises with speed, Rumble from one rear corner, Noise changes on sweeping bends

What to Inspect:
  • Drive at A-road speed and listen for a steady drone
  • Check for play or roughness at each wheel if inspected on a lift
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2003 Subaru Impreza Mk2 (GD/GG)

  • Lift the boot trim and inspect the rear strut towers carefully; corrosion here can be much worse than the bodywork suggests.
  • Check the radiator for staining or cracks around the plastic end tanks before and after the test drive.
  • Listen for wheel-bearing drone on a faster road, especially from the rear axle.
Check a 2003 Subaru Impreza Mk2 (GD/GG) by Registration