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 The initial "bugeye" front end styling (2000) was superseded by the "blobeye" in 2004 and the "hawkeye" in 2006.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
Lots of fun! This track car is perfect for everyday use. The 6 piston Brembo brakes stop on a dime, while the Bilstien shocks keep the STi firmly planted on the road. The carbon fiber roof and spoiler are not only functional, but also add to its sleek appearance. It's fast, drives great, handles like it's on rails, and looks good too!
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Vehicle year: 2019
I can tell you that I absolutely love my WRX! It's fast, handles well, and has plenty of trunk space for trips and errands. I have so much fun driving it on winding roads. Looking back, I only wish I had gotten one sooner.
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Vehicle year: 2018
This is my second WRX and overall I am very satisfied. The acceleration is very strong for a 4 cylinder, going from 0-60 in the mid 5s. Considering it's all-wheel drive, it's lightweight and agile. The turbo kicks in early, but falls on its face at higher RPMs. The aftermarket is very large, so making more power is easy if you so desire. I have full bolt-ons and can hit 40 mpg on the highway, 35 mixed. Shifting into second gear smoothly can be a bit tricky, but there are aftermarket remedies as well. Subaru did a great job updating the interior over the previous generation, making it more comfortable and modern. The factory sound system is still lacking, but that's an easy fix with aftermarket options. The car is comfortable enough to drive daily, and still capable of aggressive driving down back roads. The seats are comfortable and supportive, and there's plenty of interior space. I never feel cramped, and there's plenty of trunk space for my needs. I'm not too big on gadgets or electronics, but the Bluetooth takes a bit long to connect. After owning the car for over a year, I've had no unscheduled maintenance, just regular oil changes and tire rotations, and she's good to go! This is the definition of an affordable sports sedan for the family man.
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Vehicle year: 2023
This vehicle has impressive power, whether at low or high rpm's, that will surely excite you and your passengers. I was pleasantly surprised by the 22's performance, as it exceeded my expectations from previous years. The steering feel is fantastic and the acceleration is always present, making for an enjoyable ride. While it may be a bit challenging to drive in snowy or icy conditions, on open roads, whether dry or wet, this car really flies!
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Vehicle year: 2022
Hey there! As a first time WRX owner, I have to say that I'm really enjoying this car. It's got everything you need and want in a vehicle - it's fun to drive, the seats are extremely comfortable, and it has just the right amount of room. Plus, it has an aggressive off-road look that I really love. Living in New Hampshire, I needed something that could handle our brutal winters, and this car is an absolute monster in the snow. For the money, I don't think you could pick a better car. Subaru did a great job sticking to the Rally heritage that the WRX is known for. The gas mileage is pretty good too. The only downsides I've noticed are that the center armrest is pretty much useless for short drivers like myself, and it can be a bit loud at times (although I have the STI mufflers on it, so that might be why). Overall, I think it's a great practical sports car - especially if you live in a snowy climate like me!
Are you having problems with your Subaru Wrx?
Nigel Lynch 2024-11-20
Vehicle year: 2018
It is important to conduct thorough research before making a purchase. In this case, joining forums and social media groups to read and listen to the issues people are having with these cars can be helpful. It is concerning that this issue is not new and yet Subaru has failed to make an appropriate change to remedy it. The quoted price of $10,800 for a used engine from the dealer is significant, considering it is half the value of the car. It is unfortunate that this experience has left a negative impression, but it is important to make informed decisions when purchasing a vehicle.
Thurman Conroy 2024-11-20
Vehicle year: 2018
I have a 2017 Limited WRX manual shift with 25k miles. I brought it into the shop earlier this week for some transmission noise and they installed a new clutch kit and fork. However, it unfortunately experienced an issue on the freeway and is now back in the shop. Rest assured, I am confident that the issue will be resolved promptly and effectively.
Monroe Cartwright 2024-10-08
Vehicle year: 2023
Congratulations on your new '22 WRX base trim in WR Blue and 6 speed manual plus a few accessory options! It sounds like you made a great choice for a more exciting and engaging driving experience without breaking the bank. The 2.9% APR from Subaru is a fantastic deal compared to today's high rates. You even managed to save $2,000 off the MSRP and got a fair trade-in for your Forester Wilderness. The car feels solid and well-built, and the suspension is definitely firm and tight, which may not be for everyone, but it certainly adds to the car's sporty feel. The manual transmission is of high quality and provides a satisfying driving experience, especially with the heel-toe downshifting. The handling is sharp and precise with great reflexes, and the standard AWD grip and traction are much appreciated. Thank you for sharing your experience with us!I was pleasantly surprised by the real-world fuel efficiency of this turbocharged AWD performance car, averaging around 25 mpg even with spirited driving. I appreciate Subaru for keeping the true manual transmission, offering a reasonable starting price point, building it in Japan, and keeping it versatile with four doors and back seats. Another great feature is the good ground clearance, which prevents the front end from scraping easily like other sports cars. At $30k, the WRX offers excellent performance value, especially with the manual transmission. Anything more expensive may not be worth the money, although this car is a rarity for what it offers. It's amazing how fully equipped WRXs can approach $45k, but in my opinion, it's not worth it. Although I tend to switch and try out cars at a faster pace, I hope to keep this one for a while and get attached to it. I'm also curious to see how the BRZ drives without the turbo but with the related 2.4 engine. I owned an '06 Evo IX MR several years ago, and while that car was more visceral and raw compared to this WRX, this ride brings back those memories while being more refined and a better all-around vehicle thanks to Subaru's experience in developing it. I may bump up my rating to 4 stars, but I'll wait until I have more time and mileage under my belt. When I looked at a brand new '23 M3 sedan base trim MSRP at about $75k, the dealership only offered $26k for my trade-in, which was a big loss despite Subaru vehicles having better resale value. I think the dealership just wasn't as motivated and wanted to preserve their profit margins, especially on selling a low-volume specialty car. Only time will tell what the future holds.Other vehicles I considered were a '22 Dodge RAM TRX with level 1 package and an $84k MSRP, and a '22 Mustang Mach 1 with a manual transmission and handling package w/Recaros, with an MSRP of about $66k plus dealer ads. However, I ultimately chose the WRX because it felt like a more exciting, capable, and versatile daily driver, and Subaru's promotional APR and lower cost of entry and value were also attractive. While I don't see myself upgrading to an STI if it ever comes out due to the high price tag for only a 25% increase in performance, I do plan on keeping the WRX and adding a base trim BRZ with 6MT down the line.
Kayden Jacobson 2024-09-07
Vehicle year: 2018
In July 2016, I purchased my first brand new car, a 2017 Subaru WRX. Unfortunately, in March 2017, after only 12,000 miles, I noticed a vibration in 4th gear. I immediately brought the car to Patriot Subaru, where they pulled the transmission to correct the issue under warranty. Although the transmission was fixed, a week later, it started to whine when accelerating. I brought the car back to the dealership, where it was determined that the majority of my transmission needed to be replaced. This occurred on April 25th. Unfortunately, the car is still sitting at the dealership a month later because parts are backordered. I contacted Subaru and was put in touch with Grant Noble. Although Grant has been working hard to address the issue, the parts are still on backorder. While I am disappointed with the situation, I appreciate the efforts of Grant and the team at Subaru to resolve the issue.
Braulio Smitham 2024-08-27
Vehicle year: 2017
I purchased a brand new Subaru WRX 2017 and unfortunately, I have had a few issues with it. The battery failed twice within the first year, and the clutch also failed prematurely at 40,000 km. Unfortunately, the clutch was not covered under warranty and I had to pay $1500 out of pocket. Recently, the car has been experiencing issues with the AC unit and brakes, which is frustrating. Despite my disappointment, I have decided to sell the car. While I have owned seven cars in my life, this has been the first time I have experienced such issues. I have never had any problems with my Honda, VW, Acura, Nissan, BMW, Lexus, or Toyota. I hope to find a more reliable car in the future.