IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2013–2014 Subaru Impreza Mk4 (GJ/GP)

We've identified 3 known issues that can affect the 2013–2014 Subaru Impreza Mk4 (GJ/GP). 1 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

3
Known Issues
1
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

Lineartronic CVT Valve Body Failure

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

The Mk4 Impreza’s CVT can suffer solenoid or valve body faults that show up as shunting, hesitation and warning-light clusters.

Est. Repair Cost: £800–£1,800
Warning Signs:

Judder pulling away, Transmission warning lights, Delayed engagement

What to Inspect:
  • Drive it from cold and then fully warm
  • Check for smooth ratio changes
  • Ask whether the CVT fluid has ever been replaced
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Excessive Oil Consumption

ModerateEngine

Early FB20 engines can use oil quickly enough to require frequent top-ups between services, and neglected low oil levels can lead to bigger engine wear.

Est. Repair Cost: Monitoring / £2,000+
Warning Signs:

Low oil warning between services, Noticeable oil use, Sooty exhaust tip

What to Inspect:
  • Check the dipstick during the viewing
  • Ask the owner how often they top up
  • Look for receipts for extra oil purchases
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Air-Conditioning Condenser Damage

ModerateCooling System

The low-mounted condenser is vulnerable to stone damage and corrosion, leaving some cars with weak or completely failed air conditioning.

Est. Repair Cost: £300–£650
Warning Signs:

AC blows warm, Cooling fades after regas, Visible oily marks on condenser

What to Inspect:
  • Test AC thoroughly from cold
  • Inspect the condenser through the grille
  • Be wary if a seller says it only needs gas again
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2013–2014 Subaru Impreza Mk4 (GJ/GP)

  • ✓Check the oil level before and after the test drive, then ask directly how often the car needs topping up.
  • ✓A smooth CVT and proof of fluid servicing matter more than a low owner count on these cars.
  • ✓Test the air conditioning hard, as weak condensers often look like a simple regas issue at first.
20122015–2016
Check a 2013–2014 Subaru Impreza Mk4 (GJ/GP) by Registration