REDLINE ALLEYSubaru Impreza WRX and STI GD buying guide
2000 to 2007. A GD suits a buyer who wants an all weather turbo sedan or wagon with rally pedigree and plenty of parts support.
Big jobs
- Differentials and centre coupling. The front diff, rear LSD and centre viscous coupling are checks on every car. Whines, clunks and shunts point to wear.
Workshop jobs
- Clutch judder (WRX). Clutch judder is a relatively common problem on the WRX.
- Inverted front dampers (2005 on). The inverted KYB struts on 2005 on cars lose oil and knock. Specialists say to replace them, since rebuilt originals knock again.
- Accident repairs and rust. Rust is uncommon, so finding it usually points to a past crash repair or poor respray. Thin panels dent easily.
Small jobs
- Plastic engine mounts (2006 on). Subaru switched from metal to plastic engine mounts for 2006, and most were replaced under warranty.
- Cam cover gasket leaks. Cam cover gaskets leak oil onto the exhaust, and a burning oil smell is the warning sign.
- Seized brake calipers. The calipers corrode and seize.
Questions for the seller
- Is it the 2.0 or the 2.5 engine?
- How do you warm up and cool down the engine?
- Have the engine mounts and front dampers been replaced?
- What modifications does it have, and are there receipts?
- Has the clutch been replaced?
Sources
Researched 2026-11-01. General guidance from owner and specialist sources. Check the specific car with an independent inspection.