2009 Subaru Impreza STI
Only 3 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 3 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2008 | 33 |
| 2009 | 3 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 3 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
2 of 3 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling.
Show complaint excerpts
WHITE SMOKE WHEN START UP, AND SMOKE IN THE OIL WHEN CAR IS RUNNING, POSSIBLE BLOWN RING LAND DUE TO WEAK DESIGN, COMPRESSION TEST NEEDED TO TELL. *KB
NHTSA ODI report, 20110817
PISTON RINGLAND FAILURE AFTER 10K MILES ON BRAND NEW 2009 SUBARU IMPREZA STI. ENTIRE ENGINE BEING REPLACED BY SUBARU UNDER WARRANTY. *TR
NHTSA ODI report, 20091103
1 of 3 total reports mentions: engine and engine cooling.
1 of 3 total reports mentions: air bags.
Show complaint excerpts
PASSENGER AIR BAG DOES NOT TURN ON WHEN PASSENGER SITS ON IT. THE PASSENGER WEIGHS 105 POUNDS BUT IF SOMEONE FROM 120 POUNDS AND UP IT TURNS ON.
NHTSA ODI report, 20100623
SAFETY TIMELINE
THULE, INC. IS RECALLING 2,323 OWNER-INSTALLED ROOF-MOUNTED FIT KITS, MODELS 3068 AND 3069, MANUFACTURED BETWEEN JANUARY 1, 2008 AND FEBRUARY 28, 2009 THAT ARE USED WITH THULE PODIUM FOOT PACKS, MODEL
Remedy: THULE WILL MAIL A RETRO FIT KIT ALONG WITH REPAIR INSTRUCTIONS TO OWNERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR BEFORE APRIL 13, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT THULE TOLL-FREE AT 1-8
Campaign 09E011000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2009 Subaru Impreza STI — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine and engine cooling issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine and engine cooling issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for air bags issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 09E011000 (equipment) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 2009 Subaru Impreza STI reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 2009 Subaru Impreza STI?
The most-reported component is engine and engine cooling:engine, accounting for 67% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2009 Subaru Impreza STI have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.