Representative editorial illustration of the Subaru Impreza; family image, not a trim- or year-specific photograph.
Verify with official recall databases, service records, a mechanic inspection, and local market data before relying on this summary.
Short answer
The brake lamp switch can fail, which means the brake lights do not come on when the brakes are applied — and on some models can also affect other functions tied to that switch.
What to check
The brake lamp switch can fail, which means the brake lights do not come on when the brakes are applied — and on some models can also affect other functions tied to that switch. This is documented in Transport Canada recall 2019104, an official safety recall.
Before buying
Have someone confirm both brake lights and the high-mount light illuminate when the pedal is pressed
Ask whether this recall was completed for the specific VIN
Check whether the vehicle shifts out of Park normally, since some models tie this to the same switch
A recall confirms an identified defect and required remedy for the covered vehicles — it does not by itself tell you whether the remedy was completed on this specific VIN. Always confirm directly.
Safety & recall notes
Confirm Transport Canada recall 2019104 status for the specific VIN before buying; an open recall is normally repaired by the dealer at no cost.
Buyer inspection checklist
Have someone confirm both brake lights and the high-mount light illuminate when the pedal is pressed
Ask whether this recall was completed for the specific VIN
Check whether the vehicle shifts out of Park normally, since some models tie this to the same switch
Checklist copied.
Red flags
Brake lights that do not illuminate or work intermittently
