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 The initial "bugeye" front end styling (2000) was superseded by the "blobeye" in 2004 and the "hawkeye" in 2006.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: 2019
I recently switched from a 2017 VW GTI, which unfortunately got totaled. Although I adored that car, the 2018 WRX is on a whole new level. The handling is absolutely magnificent on turns and curves, and the acceleration is both fun and solid. While the road noise is *slightly* louder than other vehicles, I doubt anyone interested in buying an AWD, 270HP car that isn't a luxury brand is extremely interested in a purely silent cabin. Personally, I'm sensitive to noise and it's still fine for me. I absolutely love this car and finally have no buyers remorse or longing for other cars. I highly recommend taking it for a test drive and pushing it!
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Vehicle year: 2015
Congratulations on your new 2015 WRX! It sounds like you made the right choice in opting for a new car rather than a used EVO X. I can understand how it might have been a tough decision, but it's great to hear that you're happy with your purchase. It's always important to do your research before making a big decision like this, and it sounds like you did just that. While the stiff ride might have been a bit of an adjustment at first, it's great to hear that you've gotten used to it. The twin scroll turbo sounds amazing, and it's great to hear that you haven't had any issues with turbo delay. The SAWD suspensions also sound impressive, and it's great to hear that they performed so well. Thanks for sharing your experience with us, and happy driving!
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Vehicle year: 2016
I purchased the car in October 2015 and immediately fell in love with it. It had been serviced by the dealer its whole life and I experienced no issues until around 70K miles. At that point, a washer in the center differential 'exploded' as my technician, who is now a personal friend, described it. Although I was past my warranty, Subaru provided a one-time goodwill repair that saved me from an $1800.00 repair bill. This was an issue that had never happened before, and no one knew why it occurred. After the repair, the car ran smoothly until around 100K miles, when the throw-out bearing began to fail. I had hoped that the bearing would have been replaced when the transmission was off the first time, as there was a service bulletin/limited recall on it, but unfortunately, that was not the case. I asked Subaru of America for assistance, but they declined. I decided to replace the clutch and flywheel (Clutchmasters fx200 kevlar and ACT flywheel) since I was already paying to have it off at 100K miles. It turned out to be a good decision because the TOB bearing broke off a piece and collapsed the clutch over the course of 4000 miles or so. This is not so much a reflection of Subaru at this point, but it is something to keep in mind when choosing a clutch if you buy a used car. Overall, the clutch and 6-speed transmission are the main issues with FA20DIT WRX's. If you're considering buying one, keep in mind that it's the least reliable car from one of the most reliable brands. It's a sports car with 4 doors and requires more aggressive maintenance than suggested to get the most out of it. However, it is a fantastic car overall. With aggressive tires, it refuses to break traction, and the AWD 40/60 takes off like a bat out of hell.With the new engine platform, you can expect gas mileage that is often better than advertised (30-41 mpg hwy with normal tires) if you have enough self-control to not keep it in boost all the time. The gearing isn't optimal (not terrible), as some more qualified reviewers could explain if they put it head to head with the old 5spd. I'm a big fan of the twin-scroll turbo as well; it's super punchy in the lower mid-range, but drops off on the top of the revs. If you go hard in corners, your tires won't last long either (40K on a summer Hankooks). The Subaru Bluetooth can get a little janky if you have an oddball phone, but other than that, it all works fine. Most of my miles are on the highway in FL, so this will have a lot to do with the temperatures, miles, and environment that this particular car has seen. I drive it spiritedly, but no launches or abuse. I hope this helps anyone looking to buy make a more informed decision.
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Vehicle year: 2018
The car has not yet reached 1000 miles and I have been taking good care of the motor to break it in. I have not been able to fully experience the power of the 268 horses and 258 lb-ft, but it is clear that the torque curve is steep up to 2500 rpm and then flattens out. The engine really pulls at 3000 rpm. The ride is a bit rough, but that is to be expected. The base car that I purchased has 18
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Vehicle year: 2020
The STI is a car with a high fun-to-drive quotient that has a pleasant rumble on acceleration and amazing handling while still having 4 doors and comfortable back seats. I switched to this car after driving SUVs for many years because I missed the action of a manual transmission. Now, I seek alternative routes to work off the highway just to enjoy the feel of this car going around turns. It brings back childhood memories of building go-carts from scrap metal and lawn mower engines and tooling around the neighborhood. Of course, the excellent Brembo brakes, sport suspension and 310hp turbocharged engine are a big step up! I landed on this car after test driving the Camaro and Mustang, which had awesome power, but I decided, for safety and weather aspects, I liked something with all-wheel drive, great visibility and actual backseats. We will probably still take our SUV on long highway trips since you do feel the road more with the sporty suspension, but the fact that I actually look forward to starting my car up now makes all the difference in my daily fun factor.
Are you having problems with your Subaru Wrx?
Marcelino Macejkovic 2025-11-29
Vehicle year: 2018
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 do regret getting the CVT sometimes.
Maximus Zieme 2025-11-26
Vehicle year: 2015
This is a great little car that handles excellently, is practical, and affordable. Although it may have a few rough edges, I absolutely love driving it! Occasionally, I have a bit of trouble with smooth take-offs, but after a brief moment of turbo lag, it really takes off! The handling is precise and the grip is amazing. The ride is firm, but well-controlled. The clutch may emit a slight odor when slipped, and the A/C could be better. There is some road and wind noise inside, but overall it's a pleasure to drive. I'm currently upgrading the stereo with Kicker speakers to improve the sound quality.
Freddie Veum 2025-07-27
Vehicle year: 2018
The 2018 Subaru WRX is a thrilling car to drive. Thanks to the twin-scroll turbo, it has low-end torque that is perfect for city driving and better fuel economy compared to previous generations. The WRX is especially great on winding roads and is perfect for car enthusiasts with families. However, the car's rev-hang can be almost unbearable at times, making it difficult to drive smoothly in first gear or shift from 1st to 2nd. The throttle mapping can make even veteran drivers look like beginners, and you almost have to ride the clutch to ensure a smooth shift. The interior is not the best, but for a Subaru, it has come a long way. The stock cloth seats are comfortable for long road trips, and the new FA20 engine allows for 30+mpg on the highway. Overall, this is a fantastic car for any enthusiast who wants the practicality of a 4-door without sacrificing performance. I would give it a 4/5 review, but the rev-hang needs to be addressed.
Doyle Wiza 2025-07-10
Vehicle year: 2016
Although the author had some initial reservations about the car, they have since sold it after a year of ownership. The author found the handling and climate control to be great, but unfortunately, the other features did not meet their expectations. The acceleration was uneven and the engine had a tendency to race when started cold. The author also found the interior materials to be substandard and the ride overly harsh. Despite these issues, the author was able to appreciate the car's good qualities. However, in the end, the author decided to sell the car as it did not meet their needs. After about 1000 miles, the throwout bearing started making noise on cold mornings. However, upon researching the issue, I found that some comments said 'they all do that', while others said they tried to get it fixed, only to have the issue return shortly after. Despite initially liking the climate control, I found that it was not as effective in warmer weather, as it would continue to blast cold air without adjusting to the temperature. This was not an issue with my previous VW, which would automatically adjust the temperature. Another issue was when the side windows misted up on a cool, damp day, and I attempted to roll them down to wipe them clean. Unfortunately, the windows did not touch the wiper trim, and I had to push them out while rolling them up and down to clean them. Overall, I found the WRX to be a disappointment compared to my previous car. However, I was able to trade it in for a GTI with a deep discount, which had everything I was missing, including leather interior, an awesome Fender stereo, push button entry/start, adaptive xenon lights, rain sensing wipers, and more. If you are set on buying a WRX, I would recommend sticking to the base model, as spending more on higher trim levels will not improve the experience. It is what it is - a track weapon, not an enjoyable daily driver.
Freddie Kshlerin 2025-06-29
Vehicle year: 2019
The 2018 Subaru WRX is a thrilling car to drive. Thanks to the twin-scroll turbo, it has low-end torque that is perfect for city driving and better fuel economy compared to previous generations. The WRX is especially great on winding roads and is perfect for car enthusiasts with families. However, the car's rev-hang can be almost unbearable at times, making it difficult to drive smoothly in first gear or shift from 1st to 2nd. The throttle mapping can make even veteran drivers look like beginners, and you almost have to ride the clutch to ensure a smooth shift. The interior is not the best, but for a Subaru, it has come a long way. The stock cloth seats are comfortable for long road trips, and the new FA20 engine allows for 30+mpg on the highway. Overall, this is a fantastic car for any enthusiast who wants the practicality of a 4-door without sacrificing performance. I would give it a 4/5 review, but the rev-hang needs to be addressed.