The 2015 Subaru Impreza, known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and standard all-wheel drive, has been a popular choice for drivers seeking a practical and capable compact car. However, like any vehicle, it's not without its potential issues. Understanding these common problems can help owners identify potential warning signs early, maintain their Imprezas effectively, and avoid costly repairs down the road. Let's dive into the common gremlins that might pop up in your 2015 Impreza, and what you can do about them.

Is Your 2015 Impreza Drinking Oil Like It's Going Out of Style?

One of the most frequently discussed concerns surrounding the 2015 Impreza, particularly those equipped with the 2.0-liter FB20 engine, is excessive oil consumption. This isn't just a little bit between oil changes; we're talking about potentially needing to add oil between oil changes.

  • What's happening? The issue typically arises from the piston rings not sealing perfectly within the cylinders. This allows oil to seep into the combustion chamber, where it's burned along with the fuel.

  • How do you know if you have it? Keep a close eye on your oil level. If you notice it dropping significantly faster than usual, especially if you're not seeing any visible leaks, that's a red flag. Also, check your exhaust for bluish smoke, which is another telltale sign of burning oil.

  • What can you do?

    1. Regular Oil Level Checks: This is crucial. Check your oil level at least every 500-1000 miles, or more frequently if you suspect an issue.
    2. Use the Correct Oil: Ensure you're using the oil viscosity recommended in your owner's manual. Using a heavier weight oil might slightly reduce consumption in some cases, but consult with a trusted mechanic first.
    3. Oil Consumption Test: If you suspect excessive consumption, take your Impreza to a Subaru dealership or a reputable mechanic for an oil consumption test. They'll track your oil level over a specific mileage to determine the rate of consumption.
    4. Potential Repairs: Depending on the severity, the fix could range from replacing the PCV valve to more extensive engine work, such as replacing the piston rings. This can be a costly repair, so it's important to get a proper diagnosis.

My CVT Feels... Off. What's Going On?

The Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) in the 2015 Impreza is designed for smooth and efficient performance. However, some owners have reported issues with its operation.

  • Symptoms: Common complaints include:

    • Hesitation or Jerking: The transmission may feel sluggish or jerky during acceleration.
    • Whining Noises: A noticeable whining sound, especially during acceleration, can indicate CVT issues.
    • Shuddering: Some owners have reported a shuddering sensation, particularly at lower speeds.
    • Failure to Engage: In more severe cases, the transmission may fail to engage properly.

  • Possible Causes:

    • Low or Contaminated Fluid: CVT fluid is critical for proper operation. Low levels or contaminated fluid can lead to performance issues.
    • Valve Body Issues: The valve body controls the flow of fluid within the CVT. Malfunctions can cause shifting problems.
    • Internal Component Wear: Over time, internal components of the CVT can wear out, leading to performance degradation.

  • What You Should Do:

    1. Check the CVT Fluid: Inspect the CVT fluid level and condition. If it's low or appears dark and dirty, it needs to be addressed. Important Note: The CVT fluid check procedure is different from a traditional automatic transmission. Consult your owner's manual or a qualified mechanic.
    2. CVT Fluid Change: If the fluid is contaminated, a CVT fluid change is essential. Use only the specific fluid recommended by Subaru.
    3. Software Updates: In some cases, a software update to the transmission control module (TCM) can resolve shifting issues.
    4. Professional Diagnosis: If the problem persists, take your Impreza to a qualified mechanic who specializes in CVTs for a thorough diagnosis.

That Annoying Rattle: Exhaust System Woes

Several 2015 Impreza owners have reported experiencing rattling noises coming from the exhaust system.

  • The Culprit: Often, the culprit is a loose or broken heat shield. These shields are designed to protect surrounding components from the heat of the exhaust system.
  • Why it Matters: While a rattling heat shield might seem like a minor annoyance, it can potentially cause damage to other parts of the car if left unaddressed. The loose shield can vibrate against other components, causing wear and tear.
  • The Fix:
    1. Inspection: Visually inspect the exhaust system, paying close attention to the heat shields. Look for any signs of looseness, rust, or damage.
    2. Tightening: If the heat shield is simply loose, try tightening the bolts or clamps that hold it in place.
    3. Replacement: If the heat shield is damaged beyond repair, it will need to be replaced. This is a relatively inexpensive repair.
    4. Exhaust Hanger Issues: Sometimes, the rattle isn't the heat shield, but a worn-out exhaust hanger. These rubber hangers can deteriorate over time, causing the exhaust system to vibrate and rattle. Replacing the hangers is a straightforward and affordable repair.

Battery Blues: Why is My Battery Dying So Quickly?

Some 2015 Impreza owners have experienced premature battery failure.

  • Possible Reasons:

    • Factory Battery Quality: The original factory-installed battery may not have been the highest quality.
    • Short Trips: Frequent short trips can prevent the battery from fully charging.
    • Parasitic Drain: A parasitic drain occurs when a component in the car continues to draw power even when the car is turned off. This can slowly drain the battery over time.
    • Alternator Issues: A failing alternator may not properly charge the battery.

  • Troubleshooting:

    1. Battery Testing: Have your battery tested by a local auto parts store or mechanic. They can determine if the battery is holding a charge properly.
    2. Check for Parasitic Drain: A mechanic can use a multimeter to check for parasitic draw.
    3. Alternator Testing: The alternator's output voltage can be tested to ensure it's charging the battery correctly.
    4. Upgrade the Battery: Consider upgrading to a higher-quality battery with a longer warranty.

Infotainment System Glitches: When Tech Goes Wrong

The infotainment system in the 2015 Impreza, while functional, has been known to experience occasional glitches.

  • Common Issues:

    • Freezing or Crashing: The system may freeze or crash unexpectedly.
    • Bluetooth Connectivity Problems: Difficulty pairing or maintaining a Bluetooth connection with smartphones.
    • Slow Response Times: The system may be slow to respond to inputs.
    • Screen Issues: Intermittent screen blackouts or flickering.

  • Possible Solutions:

    1. Software Updates: Check if there are any available software updates for the infotainment system. These updates often address bugs and improve performance.
    2. Factory Reset: A factory reset can sometimes resolve software glitches. However, be aware that this will erase any saved settings.
    3. Check Connections: Ensure that all connections to the infotainment system are secure.
    4. Professional Diagnosis: If the problem persists, a qualified technician can diagnose the issue and determine if any hardware repairs are necessary.

Steering Woes: Feeling a Little Loose?

Some owners have reported a feeling of looseness or play in the steering of their 2015 Imprezas.

  • Potential Causes:

    • Worn Tie Rod Ends: Tie rod ends connect the steering rack to the wheels. Worn tie rod ends can cause play in the steering.
    • Loose Steering Rack: The steering rack itself may be loose.
    • Worn Ball Joints: Ball joints allow the suspension to move up and down. Worn ball joints can contribute to steering looseness.

  • What to Do:

    1. Inspection: Have the steering and suspension components inspected by a qualified mechanic.
    2. Replacement: Worn tie rod ends, ball joints, or a loose steering rack will need to be replaced.

FAQs: Your Burning 2015 Impreza Questions Answered

  • Is the 2015 Subaru Impreza reliable? Generally, yes. However, like all cars, it has potential issues that can affect reliability. Regular maintenance is key.

  • What's the best oil to use in my 2015 Impreza? Consult your owner's manual for the recommended oil viscosity and specification. Using the correct oil is crucial for engine longevity.

  • How often should I change my CVT fluid? Subaru recommends changing the CVT fluid every 30,000 miles under severe driving conditions, or every 60,000 miles under normal conditions.

  • Is the oil consumption issue a recall? No, there hasn't been a recall for oil consumption on the 2015 Impreza, but Subaru has addressed it through technical service bulletins and extended warranty coverage in some cases.

  • Where can I find the latest software updates for my infotainment system? Check the Subaru website or contact your local Subaru dealership for information on available software updates.

The Road Ahead: Keeping Your Impreza Happy

The 2015 Subaru Impreza is a capable and practical car, but awareness of these common issues can help you maintain its reliability and prevent costly repairs. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to any unusual symptoms are key to keeping your Impreza running smoothly for years to come.