Parts for your 2017 Subaru Impreza-Starter motor

2017 Subaru Impreza Starter Motor: What It Does and When To Replace It

Based on the Subaru Global Service Manual for the 2017 Impreza (GK/GT) under Starting/Charging, and the Subaru FAST electronic parts catalogue, this model is fitted with a conventional 12‑volt starter motor assembly. It’s not a hybrid and relies on a starter to crank the FB20 Boxer petrol engine, so the starter motor is absolutely relevant on a 2017 Subaru Impreza.

The starter motor’s job is straightforward: when the key is turned or the Start button is pressed, the solenoid pushes the pinion into the flywheel ring gear and spins the engine fast enough to fire. It draws high current from the battery and works in concert with the ignition system and engine management. Some AU/NZ cars may have auto stop‑start, that still uses a reinforced starter and battery to handle more frequent starts.

When the starter begins to falter, the driver might notice a single click with no crank, a slow or laboured crank, or a nasty grinding noise as the pinion and ring gear don’t mesh cleanly. Because many no‑start issues are actually battery or earth related, it’s smart to rule out the obvious first.

• Keep the battery healthy and correctly rated (AGM/EFB for vehicles with stop‑start).
• Clean and tighten battery terminals and engine/body earth straps.
• Have a technician perform a starter current‑draw and voltage‑drop test during routine servicing.

If replacement’s on the cards, a workshop will typically disconnect the negative battery terminal, remove the intake ducting for access, unplug the control connector, remove the main battery cable, then undo and remove the starter. The new unit goes in the reverse order, with all fasteners torqued to the factory spec from the Subaru workshop manual. Quality matters here: choose a genuine or reputable remanufactured unit that meets OEM spec, especially on cars with stop‑start. Expect around 1–2 hours of labour in most cases, model‑dependent.

Good habits extend starter life:

1. Avoid long cranking, if it doesn’t fire quickly, pause and try again after checking the basics.
2. Service on time so the engine starts promptly—fresh fuel, clean filters, correct plugs all help.
3. Listen for changes in crank speed or odd noises and get them checked early.

Referencing Subaru’s factory service information and parts listings confirms that a conventional starter motor is part of the 2017 Impreza’s starting system, and regular checks during scheduled servicing help keep it cranking reliably.

Does the 2017 Subaru Impreza have a starter motor?

Yes. Subaru’s 2017 Impreza (GK/GT) is a conventional petrol vehicle and the factory service manual details a standard 12‑volt starter system. The Subaru parts catalogue also lists a complete starter assembly for this model.

How long does a starter motor typically last on a 2017 Impreza?

It varies with driving and whether the car has auto stop‑start. Many last well past 150,000 km, but lots of short trips, weak batteries, or heat can shorten life. Regular battery checks and good electrical connections go a long way.

What are the signs the starter needs attention?

Common clues include a single click with no crank, slow cranking, intermittent starting, or grinding during start. Always test the battery and earths first, as they’re frequent culprits.