Subaru Wrx problems
The Subaru WRX is an all-wheel drive sport compact car manufactured by the Japanese automaker Subaru, originally based on the Impreza created for the World Rally Championship in 1992. Subaru claimed the name WRX stands for "World Rally eXperimental". Starting with the 2015 models, the WRX lineup has been split from the Impreza, with a different body style that is not offered as an optional hatchback/wagon, being introduced as the separate Levorg model.
Impreza-based models (1992–2014)
The first three generations of the WRX, sold until the 2015 model year, were based on standard Impreza platforms, and replaced the Subaru RX hatchback and sedan.
The initial first-generation WRX models were based on the Impreza sedan (GC chassis code). They were followed by wagons (GF) in 1993 and the first upgraded WRX STi version, introduced in 1994. Several limited edition first-generation coupés were offered in the late 1990s and early 2000s which were never sold in the US and are highly sought after by Subaru enthusiasts.
The second-generation WRX (GD/GG chassis codes for the sedan/wagon, respectively) was brought over to the United States domestic market for model year 2002, with the STI being brought over for model year 2004. The initial "bugeye" front end styling (2000) was superseded by the "blobeye" in 2004 and the "hawkeye" in 2006. Under an agreement between Fuji Heavy Industries and General Motors, Saab sold its own version of the WRX, marketed as the Saab 9-2X, for the 2005 and 2006 model years. The 9-2X was available in both a standard (Linear) and performance (Aero) package, the latter was essentially identical to the second-generation WRX wagon, mechanically.
The third-generation WRX were sold as chassis codes GE (sedan) and GH (hatchback, replacing the earlier wagon version) initially; the third-generation WRX STI was sold with a widened chassis and was available only as a widebody hatch (GR). For the 2011 model year, the third-generation WRX sedan and hatch were moved to the GV and GR wide-body chassis variants, respectively, and a widebody sedan version of the STI (GV) was marketed. The Impreza was redesigned and the fourth-generation was first marketed for model year 2012, making it a distinct model from the WRX, which continued on the third-generation GV/GR chassis until 2014 in most markets.
The fourth-generation WRX were given the VA chassis designation and marketed as a separate model from the Impreza starting in 2015.
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Subaru Wrx model years
Common Subaru Wrx problems
The Subaru WRX has been a popular choice among car enthusiasts due to its performance and handling capabilities. However, like any other vehicle, it is not without its issues. Here are some common problems reported by Subaru WRX owners:
- Turbo Issues: Newer WRX models, in particular, have been reported to have turbo issues. These problems are often encountered when modifying and tuning the car, as increasing the vehicle's power exerts a lot of stress on the stock turbo, thereby compromising its longevity. Wear-and-tear is also a significant cause of turbo failures.
- Gasket Leaks: Gasket leaks, especially oil leaks, are a significant concern for WRX owners. These leaks can considerably affect the engine in the long run. Misfires are also a general problem, but they could indicate a deeper issue in the engine.
- Lurch Full-Throttle Shifts: Some WRX owners have reported experiencing lurch full-throttle shifts, which can be quite unsettling. This issue could be due to a problem with the transmission or the engine's power delivery.
- Rough STI High-Performance Suspension: The WRX's STI high-performance suspension has been reported to be quite rough, which can make the ride uncomfortable, especially over long distances or on rough roads.
- Clutch Problems: The 2015 and 2016 WRX models have been reported to have clutch problems, particularly a lousy clutch after being used for a while. This issue is due to the design of the clutch and the high torque output of the engine.
- Electrical Problems: Some WRX owners have reported experiencing various electrical problems, including a knocking engine at 7,000 miles, an eyesight system malfunction at 2,000 miles, and a radio that stopped working at 2,000 miles.
- Premature Clutch Failure: Some WRX owners have reported experiencing premature clutch failure, particularly at low mileage. This issue is due to the high torque output of the engine and the design of the clutch.
- Drivetrain Problems: Some WRX owners have reported experiencing drivetrain problems, including vibrations, noises, and difficulty shifting. These issues are often due to worn or damaged drivetrain components.
- Engine Problems: Some WRX owners have reported experiencing engine problems, including knocking noises, stalling, and reduced power. These issues are often due to worn or damaged engine components.
In conclusion, while the Subaru WRX is a popular choice among car enthusiasts, it is not without its issues. Internal engine failure, turbo issues, gasket leaks, clutch problems, and electrical issues are some of the most common problems reported by WRX owners. If you're considering purchasing a WRX, it's essential to be aware of these issues and factor in the potential costs of repairs and maintenance.
Do Subaru WRX have problems?
Common Subaru WRX Problems
Here are some of the most common reliability woes for the WRX: Engine issues: Apparently, the WRX had some troubles with internal engine issues. Some of the weak points of the internal engine that tend to fail are the rods, rod bearings, and piston rings.
Are Subaru's WRX reliable?
According to RepairPal, the Subaru WRX has a reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5.0, with a rank of 32nd out of 36 compact cars. Therefore, one can argue that the WRX isn't the most reliable compact car. However, it doesn't mean it's automatically an unreliable sedan.
What are bad years for WRX?
The 2000-2002 and 2008-2016 versions are the worst on the market. There are some quality years available for the Subaru WRX STI if you're determined to invest in this vehicle. We recommend the 1992-1999, 2004-2007, or 2017-2022 selections for the best results.
What is the cons of a WRX?
Unfortunately, the WRX has much worse fuel economy than competitors and worse mpg than already bad previous-generation models. It's also one of the more expensive higher-performing compact sedans on the market.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Subaru Wrx years
We have researched Subaru problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Subaru Wrx cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Subaru Wrx model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Subaru Wrx model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Subaru Wrx years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Subaru Wrx car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Subaru Wrx , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Power train problems
- Service brakes problems
- Engine problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Subaru Wrx vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Wrx model years
A total of 49 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Wrx model years
There were a total of 10 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Wrx model years
There were a total of 29 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Wrx model years
There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 923 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Subaru Wrx . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Subaru Wrx vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Subaru Wrx 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-10
- VIN: JF1VA2V63H9
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Subaru WRX. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V522000 (Exterior Lighting). The contact stated that while reversing, the backup lights intermittently failed to illuminate. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, and the contact was informed that he had to pay the labor cost to have the recall repair performed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was opened. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.
Subaru Wrx 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-23
- VIN: JF1VA2E60L9
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I purchased the vehicle used with 33800 miles and at 34100 the engine stalled and was hard to start, once started it was knocking severely. I have seen a class action law suit based on the same issues but the 2020 model year is not included
Subaru Wrx 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-28
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-12
- VIN: JF1VA1C6XJ9
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Cluth was replaced at a little over 50,000 miles and throw out bearing failed within 200 miles of the break in period. Took it back to dealer and they found that the throw out bearing was faulty and they replaced it. A year later same sound that was heard after replacement came back (almost like a chirping sound), took the car in for them to examine the car and determine if the throw out bearing waa faulty again. Associate who helped indicated that if it was the throw out bearing it would be covered, once the mechanic checked the car they found a front valve leak, at first indicated that the throw out bearing was fine and then changed that. They also indicated that the entire clutch needed to replace again even though it was just replaced a year ago. They indicated that there were hot spots on the clutch and that it was due to my driving. I did reach out to SOA but they indicated that the dealer told them that it was my fault and they shouldn't help me.
Subaru Wrx 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-26
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-06
- VIN: JF1VA2S66K9
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: With 61,700 miles on the car the engine lost a rod bearing going around a sharp corner on and off ramp of interstate highway. If failure had caused block to crack or break it would have put oil down on the highway and would of caused loss of control of the car. From research done online it seems sharp corners cause engine catastrophic failure. Car is currently at Subaru dealership. Subaru will not do anything about the issue. Vehicle had fresh oil change 2 days before failure with no noise or warning before failure.
Subaru Wrx 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-01
- VIN: JF1VA1A64J9
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Fuel pump failing Reverse switch failing
Subaru Wrx 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-27
- Fire: 1
- VIN: JF1VA2M6XG9
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The Seconary Air Injection pump stayed on for days. Burnt a hole in the side, relay possibly damaged, and now setting off other components and computers.
Subaru Wrx 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-30
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-09
- VIN: JF1VA1B69L9
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: Rear passenger seatbelts fraying. My two children are sitting in the back seat, there is no warning that my seatbelts were frayed putting their life at risk! Took the car to the dealership to have them check what is going on with the seatbelt mechanism, they said “there is no mechanical issue, therefore it is not under warranty.”
Subaru Wrx 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-27
- VIN: JF1VA1B66J9
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I bought a 2018 Subaru WRX with 61,000 miles, After driving it 6,000 miles with engine spun a rod bearing, requiring a complete engine replacement. This is a vehicle that in the previous 4th generation of the car, it was recalled for this exact issue. the total repair bill for this fix is $11,720.43. This is on a car with 67,000 miles. 7,000 miles over Subaru's manufacture warranty. After speaking with a few service advisors at Subaru. it is my belief, that this is a known issue with this model.
Subaru Wrx 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-22
- VIN: JF1VBAL61N9
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Hood vibration (visual) when driving and going over minor bumps.
Subaru Wrx 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-18
- VIN: JF1VBAL61P9
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I would just like to complain about the excess Rtv on the engine oil pan that has been demonstrated on numerous videos of people opening up the oil drain pan and finding chunks of Rtv blocking some of the engine oil pickup tube. I have not opened up my oil drain pan due to cost. This has not lead to failure as of yet but it is worrisome. Thank you
Subaru Wrx 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-09
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-10
- VIN: JF1VA1B6XK9
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEATS
- Summary: Mid-Drive the Airbag (SRS) light came on indicating here was a fault in the system. After some diagnostic testing it was determined that there was a fault in the Occupant detection system causing the vehicle to not activate the airbag regardless of the fact that someone was sitting in the seat. The issue was present in same type of seats (heated) that were previously recalled shortly before this vehicle was produced.
Subaru Wrx 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-15
- VIN: JF1VA1C63J8
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: Started car up. Check engine light is on, cruise control flashing. Fuel tank level is flashing. Has gas but the meter is says it’s empty. Took it to a mechanic and they told me it is the fuel pump that’s bad. Called a Subaru dealership and they said there’s no recall for this car. You guys issued a recall for this make and model back in 2020 but for the production date of April. My car was produced in November. Anyway you guys can issue a recall fort car so I can get it fixed?
Subaru Wrx 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-28
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-09
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JF1VBAL6XN9
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: My son moved my car onto the driveway, stopped it with the foot brake with the manual transmission in neutral. The hill assist was activated, so when he got out of the car the brake held long enough for him to get out of the car and walk away before the brake released, about 2 seconds. The car then rolled down the driveway into a tree. This could have been a disaster if the tree wasn’t there to stop the driverless vehicle.
Subaru Wrx 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-08
- VIN: JF1VA1J63H9
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Subaru WRX. The contact stated that while reversing, the reverse back up switch was activated; however, the reverse lights and the back over prevention camera feature failed to activate as designed. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the reverse switch needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V522000 (Back Over Prevention). The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and the contact was advised to report the failure to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 118,000.
Subaru Wrx 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-27
- VIN: JF1VA2W68J9
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Engine rod knock at 32,000 miles due to bearing failure causing loss of control of vehicle and sudden loss of power and control. Car was logged to be traveling at 35 mph with normal acceleration at time of failure. Carter Subaru confirmed bearing failure, and fits with the pattern confirmed in 2012-2017 WRX STi engine failure class action settlement, as part in 2018 remains unchanged from 2017 according to mechanics. Head mechanic at dealership confirmed that only car modification (intake) would not cause catastrophic loss of oil leading to bearing failure, and thus it is likely due to engine design that leads to poor oil circulation as a known issue in this EJ25 engine type. Engine components have been inspected by Carter Subaru, and have been made available to Subaru of America, along with images, videos, pictures, receipts, logs, records, computer/ECU data, receipts, tool purchases, and other maintenance and service logs for the car (including prior to ownership). Dealership acknowledges that the car maintenance exceeded the manufacturer recommendation, yet engine still failed even with oil changes done at 3,000 mile intervals... While manual states much higher interval to follow. Engine still failed at increased oil change levels. Problem appeared once engine started knocking, which means the engine has already suffered irreversible engine failure and needs to be replaced, according to Subaru. Subaru of America assigned a customer advocate but has been incommunicado for the duration of the investigation and refuses to answer or even acknowledge that a claim has been opened, as they constantly cite erroneous interactions with the vehicle owner.
Latest 5 recalls Subaru Wrx
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 106 recalls for different components of the Subaru Wrx.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Subaru Wrx 2023
- Report Received Date: 2023-11-09
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2024 Crosstrek, Impreza, 2023-2024 Forester, and 2023 WRX vehicles. The front driveshaft assemblies' outer race may develop cracks and break.
- Consequence: A broken driveshaft can cause a loss of drive power while driving or vehicle rollaway when the vehicle is in park without the parking brake engaged. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the left and right front driveshafts as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 8, 2024. Owners may contact Subaru's customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRP-23.
- Model: Subaru Wrx 2004
- Report Received Date: 2023-02-13
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2004-2005 Impreza and WRX vehicles that received replacement front passenger air bag inflators under a previous recall. The replacement air bag inflators may have been installed incorrectly.
- Consequence: An incorrectly installed inflator may not properly inflate the passenger air bag, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the passenger inflator and if necessary, install a new inflator kit, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed April 14, 2023. Owners may contact Subaru's customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRF-23.
- Model: Subaru Wrx 2005
- Report Received Date: 2023-02-13
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2004-2005 Impreza and WRX vehicles that received replacement front passenger air bag inflators under a previous recall. The replacement air bag inflators may have been installed incorrectly.
- Consequence: An incorrectly installed inflator may not properly inflate the passenger air bag, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the passenger inflator and if necessary, install a new inflator kit, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed April 14, 2023. Owners may contact Subaru's customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRF-23.
- Model: Subaru Wrx 2022
- Report Received Date: 2023-01-23
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2022 WRX vehicles equipped with the "Eyesight" feature. The owner's manual may contain incorrect instructions for adjusting the sensitivity of the High Beam Assist function. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
- Consequence: Incorrect instructions for adjusting the sensitivity of the High Beam Assist function contained in the owner's manual may cause the lights to not be adjusted as intended, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Subaru will mail an owner's manual insert containing the correct information, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed February 15, 2023. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRA-23.
- Model: Subaru Wrx 2019
- Report Received Date: 2022-07-21
- Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BACK UP LIGHTS:SWITCH
- Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2015-2021 WRX vehicles. The backup light switch may corrode and become inoperative, which can result in the backup lights not illuminating and the rearview camera image not displaying when the vehicle is in reverse.
- Consequence: Inoperative backup lights and an inoperative rearview camera can reduce vehicle visibility and driver awareness, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the backup light switch, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 19, 2022. Owners may contact Subaru's customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRE-22.
Latest negative Subaru Wrx car reviews
Latest positive Subaru Wrx car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2018
If you're looking for a car that will keep you engaged and interested, this is the one for you. Its strong performance and responsive handling make it fun and involving to drive, and you can hear all the widgets working, which adds to the experience. While some may see this as an excuse for poor NVH, it's all part of the fun. Plus, with its long history, this car has a diverse aftermarket and a deep knowledge base about every facet of it. It's also a Swiss army knife of a car that can handle practical daily duties in all conditions (although it's worth noting that the integrated roof racks and hatchback options are no longer available). However, if you're looking for the most refined experience, latest and greatest electronic gadgets, best raw performance, or best gas mileage, this may not be the car for you. As someone who's owned three Subarus, I can confidently say that this car is worth buying before the EJ engine goes away.
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Vehicle year: 2021
At 12 months, I traded my 20 STI for a 21 BMW 330i. While the STI was a great car, I found myself wanting a more settled ride at my age (early 40s) and didn't want to worry about taxing the clutch. The WRX would have been a better fit for me. With used car prices being what they are, I was able to get $3000 more than what I paid for it a year ago with only 7800 miles. I decided to switch to the 330i until the next STI. As the title suggests, I traded in my 2018 WRX base for a 2020 STI base. The 2018 WRX was a great car with excellent driving dynamics, awesome value, and more than enough power for tooling around town. I was averaging 30 mpg consistently with spirited driving giving me around 25 mpg on premium gas. Life was good, but given that the 2020 STI might be the last of its kind, I decided to test drive it and see if I wanted an upgrade. I had concerns over the ride quality, clutch engagement, and general refinement, which was a tad below the WRX due to an older powertrain dating back to 2004. However, I came back very impressed with how well it drove and how engaging it was compared to the 2018 WRX. Since I believe cars should be left the way they came from the factory (no aftermarket engine tuning), I decided to move to an STI. The STI has many strengths, including driving very differently from the WRX. It is a much more mature car at higher speeds, and the engine is free-revving to redline. Although they look the same, the cars are entirely different from a dynamics point of view. Also, with the drivetrain's ability to switch between rear-bias to front-bias and drive modes (S, S#), the car handles extremely well. The ride quality of the 2020 model is way improved over the 2017 STI, but not as supple as the WRX base trim (17-inch wheels). However, if suspension is holding you back from the STI, you should really test-drive the car. The STI is much quieter with more quality materials than the base WRX. Although with the WRX and STI, quietness is not the forte of either.STIs offer a very predictable handling experience. What I have observed is that the more you engage with the car, paying attention to the shift points and nuances of clutch engagement, the more rewarding it becomes compared to the WRX. Additionally, the WRX has a very irritating lumpy power delivery, resulting in abrupt drop-offs when you rev hard. The STI, on the other hand, is much smoother and has a much more linear power delivery. The clutch engagement point is also more sorted out than the WRX, although it is a tad harder. The shifter is much nicer with clear throws (with STI short shift kit), and it is way shorter than the WRX (with short shift kit). It feels more direct in terms of engagement and vibrations. With the STI, my gas mileage is between 20-23 mpg, although it has gone below 20 during the break-in period. So gas mileage is definitely not one of the strengths of this aging engine. However, my goal was to become a better driver (more technical) and also take the vehicle to the track in stock form at some point. The STI is like 9/10s of a budget sports car, which needs 9/10s of engagement from the driver to have fun, whereas the WRX is like 6/10s of a budget sports car, which needs 6/10s of engagement from the driver to have fun. This brings us to the WRX's strengths. The WRX is a much more chuckable, agile car with predictable body roll/handling, whereas the STI is more of a heavier feeling car (hydraulic power steering) with little to no body roll and more precise handling, built for more serious, precise driving. The WRX is a lot more fun than the STI in terms of I have a Corolla Hybrid that I use for my daily commute, so I don't miss the WRX as much. The gas mileage for the WRX (30 avg, 25 worst) is impressive for a car that's as fun as it is. The turbo spooling and whine in the WRX is more audible and enjoyable than the rumble in the STI. Additionally, the WRX has better overall drivetrain vibration management than the STI. The STI shifter, being direct and not cable, has a constant vibration that can be exaggerated over bad roads. It's not a big deal, but it can be irritating depending on how engaged you are. In short, if you're looking for a vehicle that doesn't require you to be engaged at 9/10s, then the WRX is the car for you. The STI doesn't tolerate relaxed driving as much as the WRX does, so keep that in mind.
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Vehicle year: 2019
I've had my WRX Premium for just over a month now and it has exceeded all of my expectations. Coming from a coupe RWD and living in a snowy area, upgrading to AWD was a must. In terms of cost, SUBARU was the best option for me. The 2019 WRX, now with Android Auto, is a significant improvement from the previous year and I'm glad I waited for it (even though I know the 2020 model will be new). The engine is incredibly responsive and the shift stick, aside from a minor issue with 1-2 sync, is very precise. My only complaint is the location of the USB port inside the armrest, which is a bit strange. Three years later and it's still going strong! The issue with switching from 1-2 gear was resolved around 5k miles.
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Vehicle year: 2015
I'm so glad you're looking for a car that's not fwd, has a manual transmission, and a usable back seat for under 30k. It's not easy to find such a car, but luckily Subaru has got you covered! The car has great power, although the boost may take some getting used to. The steering is tight and has great feel, and the seats are very comfortable. The visibility from the front and rear is also great.
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Vehicle year: 2016
I've always dreamed of owning a Subaru WRX since I first drove one back in 2002. The symmetrical all-wheel drive, the sleek design, and the way it grips the road make it an amazing car to drive. The speed is exhilarating, especially when the turbo kicks in after shifting from 1st to 2nd gear. I recently leased a 2016 Subaru WRX Premium and have been driving it every day for just over a month. The first couple of weeks were an adjustment period for me with the clutch, but I've now passed the 1000-mile 'break in' period. I did have a bit of trouble adjusting to the clutch at first, but I learned to drive on a stick shift and have driven plenty more since then. I don't stall out, but I'm still working on getting smoother shifts from 2nd to 3rd and 3rd to 4th gear. I'm confident that I'll get there soon, though. It's great to know that I'm not alone in this experience, as I found out after a quick Google search. I love the attention I get when driving my WRX on the road. The turbocharged 268-bhp engine is powerful, and it feels like a sports car that can handle any weather condition. At only $30,000, it's a great value for such a high-performance vehicle. Although I haven't had the chance to take it to the snow yet, I'm excited to try it out with all-weather tires this fall. The WRX can be a bit touchy in city traffic, but it's worth it for the thrill of driving such an amazing car.If you find the clutch on this car difficult to handle on a daily basis, I suggest considering other stick shift cars that are more forgiving. Alternatively, you could spend extra money and opt for the CVT (continuously variable transmission). At first, I too had doubts about my ability to drive stick shift, but as I persisted, I found it to be a rewarding experience. If you're a Subaru WRX enthusiast and want to feel the thrill of driving a powerful car, then I highly recommend taking this car for a test drive. While it may not be suitable for everyone, it's definitely worth considering!
Are you having problems with your Subaru Wrx?
Donnell Paucek 2025-04-08
Vehicle year: 2015
Regular maintenance has been performed on this vehicle, as recommended by the manufacturer. There have been no modifications, except for tinting. I purchased this vehicle as a CPO from Grand Prix Subaru in NY with 22K miles. Unfortunately, two days later, the Bluetooth stopped working and Grand Prix Subaru requested that I drive back to potentially replace the radio. In June 2019, at 52K miles, the engine/turbo spun a rod bearing while on the highway, resulting in significant damage. The repairs took two months to complete. Now, at 60K miles, another rod bearing has spun, leaving me questioning my decision to invest in a Subaru. However, I am confident that the issue will be resolved in a timely and satisfactory manner.
Irwin Schmidt 2025-03-24
Vehicle year: 2021
The car is definitely fun, but unfortunately, I have been experiencing two ongoing issues that Subaru has refused to fix. Despite owning the car for only two months and driving 2,800 miles, I have had to deal with two different dealerships, both of which confirmed that these issues should be fixed. However, Subaru claims that these issues are normal. The front passenger seat rattles continuously, which is both loud and constant. The dealerships have informed me that the seat frame needs to be replaced, which is a $400 part, but Subaru is unwilling to cover the cost, claiming that the rattle is normal. Additionally, the clutch pedal makes a loud noise every time it is stepped on, but I am told that this is normal wear and tear. Despite trying to contact Subaru corporate for a week, I have not received any return calls. This is my first Subaru, and unfortunately, it will be my last.
Eric Smitham 2025-03-14
Vehicle year: 2017
Hey there! I'm on my second Subaru WRX now. My first one was a 2016 base model with a 6-speed manual. I loved it, but driving a manual in traffic every day was getting to be a bit much. So, I traded it in for a 2017 Premium trim with a CVT. The Premium has some nice extras like a sunroof and fog lights, and the car itself is built really well. It has a good, firm ride and feels sturdy. However, I have to admit that I'm not a huge fan of the CVT. It just doesn't seem to fit with the car's sporty feel. I do appreciate the 3 driving modes, but the shifts feel a bit artificial to me. Plus, the fuel economy isn't as good as I was hoping it would be. With the manual, I was getting around 22-23 mpg in the city, but with the CVT, I'm only averaging 18-19 mpg in intelligent (economy) mode. Overall, I really do love this car, especially with the manual. If you live somewhere where you can really have fun with it, I'd definitely recommend going that route. I have to admit, I regret getting the CVT sometimes.
Jefferey Kerluke 2025-02-16
Vehicle year: 2021
My 2020 STI has had several issues, including difficulty shifting into second gear and rattling or clunking noises due to loose bolts or screws. Despite bringing it in for repairs every month, the dealer has been unable to resolve these issues. Additionally, the air conditioning lost its charge after only two months of use. With only 2257 miles on the car, I am disappointed with my purchase and regret buying a Subaru WRX.
Deshawn Lueilwitz 2025-01-07
Vehicle year: 2020
My 2020 STI has had several issues, including difficulty shifting into second gear and rattling or clunking noises due to loose bolts or screws. Despite bringing it in for repairs every month, the dealer has been unable to resolve these issues. Additionally, the air conditioning lost its charge after only two months of use. While I had been considering purchasing this car for years, I regret my decision and will not be buying another Subaru.