Parts for your 2022 Subaru Impreza-Starter motor

2022 Subaru Impreza starter motor — what it does and how to look after it

Based on Subaru’s 2022 Impreza Owner’s Manual and the factory Service Manual for the FB20 engine (Electrical: Starter section), this model absolutely uses a conventional 12‑volt starter motor. Even cars with push‑button start still rely on a starter motor — the button just replaces the old key barrel and triggers the same crank circuit via relays and the starter solenoid.

The starter motor’s job is simple but critical: it engages a small pinion with the flywheel ring gear and spins the engine fast enough for fuel and spark to take over. Once the engine fires, the solenoid pulls the pinion back out and the starter stops. On trims with Auto Stop‑Start, Subaru fits an enhanced starter and pairs it with an EFB/AGM battery so it can handle frequent restarts in city driving — still a “real” starter, just built tougher.

Looking after a starter on a 2022 Impreza is mostly about preventing avoidable strain. Keep the battery in good nick, clean and tighten the terminals, and make sure the engine and chassis earths are corrosion‑free. If cranking slows, you hear a single click, or there’s a grind on start, don’t ignore it — have the battery load‑tested first, then check the starter relay, solenoid signal, and cable voltage drop against the specs in the Subaru Service Manual.

• Typical warning signs: slow crank, intermittent no‑crank with a click, grinding noise, or a hot electrical smell.
• Quick checks: battery state of charge, terminal condition, fusible links and relays, and that the engine turns freely.

When replacement time comes, choose an OEM unit or a quality remanufactured starter that matches the Impreza’s FB20 and, if equipped, its Stop‑Start requirements. Disconnect the negative battery terminal, support the vehicle safely, and follow the service manual procedure for access and torque settings. Many techs access the starter from the engine bay/bellhousing area, exact steps vary by intake and under‑tray layout. After refit, confirm clean engagement (no grinding), and if the car has Stop‑Start, allow a short drive cycle so the system relearns. Using the correct EFB/AGM battery on Stop‑Start cars is non‑negotiable — the wrong battery can make the starter’s life hard and trigger system warnings.

If the car’s still within warranty, a dealer visit may save a few dollars, otherwise, a trusted independent with Subaru experience will have no dramas sorting it. Recycling the old unit on a core‑exchange program keeps costs down and is better for the environment.

• Does a 2022 Subaru Impreza actually have a starter motor?
  Yes. Whether it’s a key or push‑button start, the 2022 Impreza uses a conventional 12‑volt starter motor and solenoid to crank the FB20 engine. Push‑button start just signals the same system electronically.
• What are common signs the starter is on the way out?
  Slow or laboured cranking, a single click with no crank, intermittent starts, grinding on engagement, or a hot electrical smell. Always rule out a weak battery and poor earths first, as they can mimic starter faults.
• Does Auto Stop‑Start wear the starter faster?
  Subaru equips Stop‑Start cars with a reinforced starter and an EFB/AGM battery to handle frequent cycles. Good battery health and clean connections are key, heavy urban use can increase wear, but the system is designed for it.