IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2023 Subaru Impreza Mk5 (GT/GK)

Final year of the current Mk5 Impreza. These newest examples should have all known issues resolved if properly maintained, making them excellent value for those seeking a safe, capable hatchback.

What changed for 2023

  • •Final production year for current generation
  • •All models now include advanced safety features as standard

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Minor electronic glitches in the latest infotainment
  • !Brake wear on cars with low annual mileage
  • !Tyre pressure monitoring system warnings
3
Known Issues
0
Serious
3
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

Thermo Control Valve Failure

ModerateCooling System

Later Mk5 cars can suffer thermo control valve faults, bringing up dashboard warning lights and poor heater performance without an obvious external coolant leak. Lamps and electrical faults are the most common MOT failure area on the Impreza.

Est. Repair Cost: £400–£900
Warning Signs:

Engine warning light, Cabin heater stays lukewarm, Cooling fans running oddly

What to Inspect:
  • Check heater performance from cold
  • Ask whether the valve has already been replaced
  • Scan the car for stored cooling-related fault codes
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Suspension Knocking (Top Mounts, Bushes, Drop Links)

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

A long-running owner complaint on Impreza forums is a knock or clunk from the front end on bumps or when turning lock to lock, usually traced to worn strut top mounts, anti-roll bar drop links or wishbone bushes. Suspension is a leading MOT failure category on this model.

Est. Repair Cost: £200–£600
Warning Signs:

Knock or clunk from the front over bumps, Clunking when turning lock to lock, Worn strut top mounts or drop links

What to Inspect:
  • Bounce each front corner listening for knocks
  • Turn the steering lock to lock and listen underneath
  • Ask whether strut mounts or drop links have been replaced
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Exhaust System Corrosion and Leaks

ModerateExhaust & Emissions

The Impreza's exhaust can corrode under UK winter salt, causing blowing or rattling noises and an MOT failure on exhaust, emissions and leaks. This failure area is well represented in the Impreza's MOT record, especially on higher-mileage cars.

Est. Repair Cost: £250–£600
Warning Signs:

Loud exhaust roar or hissing, Rattling from underneath the car, Failed MOT on exhaust, emissions or leaks

What to Inspect:
  • Listen for an exhaust blow with the engine cold
  • Inspect the silencer and pipes for rust holes
  • Check MOT history for repeated exhaust advisories
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Buying Tips for 2023 Subaru Impreza Mk5 (GT/GK)

  • Look for a full Subaru service history
  • Test all safety systems thoroughly
  • Verify the hybrid system operates smoothly