2013 Subaru Wrx sti problems

General information about Subaru-Wrx sti
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

The Subaru WRX STI is a variant of the Subaru WRX sedan produced by in-house tuning company Subaru Tecnica International between 2014 and 2021. It succeeded the Subaru Impreza WRX STI. The VA WRX STI was the last vehicle produced with the famous EJ257 engine. Production of the WRX STI may resume production in the next generation (Presumably codenamed VC) WRX, however there are currently no plans for a VB WRX STI. STI also offers many factory-backed accessories usually available from dealerships, and accented in STI's signature cherry blossom, a tribute to the iconic tree of the same name from the brand's homeland of Japan.

First Generation (VA; 2014-2021)

The VA WRX STI was released in 2014 alongside the VA WRX. It featured uprated brakes, the famous Subaru Technica International tuned EJ257 4-cylinder engine, an uprated 6 speed manual transmission, along with a unique body kit and spoiler. Interior upgrades include an STI-exclusive gauge cluster, shifter knob, and other unique touches, including Recaro bucket seats in certain models. The WRX STI for the most part featured a red accented interior, over the WRX's black and grey.

Starting with the MY2016 update, the WRX STI gained fluorescent green brake callipers, which was a hit among the Subaru community, and is now an easy identifier of the WRX STI.

In 2020, Subaru announced they would be phasing out the WRX STI along with the EJ257, the last variant of the ageing EJ engine, with the release of the VB series WRX in 2021. Subaru introduced the STI WRX EJ25 Final Edition, based on Subaru's flagship STI Spec R. The EJ25 Final Edition features a range of upgrades including BBS 19” gold forged aluminium wheels, silver Brembo calipers, black door mirror covers, front grille pinstripe in STI cherry blossom, Final Edition engine cover plate, and numbered EJ25 Final Edition badge. Only 75 were produced for markets across the globe.

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Common 2013 Subaru Wrx sti problems

The 2013 Subaru WRX STI is known for several common problems, primarily related to engine performance, transmission issues, and minor inconveniences.

Engine Performance Issues

One of the significant issues reported by owners is a lack of boost generation, which can lead to poor engine performance. This problem typically arises due to a clogged OEM stock downpipe, as reported by a YouTuber

. The solution to this issue is to upgrade to a catted downpipe, such as the COB catted downpipe, along with a turbo blanket and a Grim Speed up pipe. This upgrade not only resolves the boost issue but also improves the overall performance of the engine.

Another engine-related issue is the burning of oil, which is common in turbocharged vehicles, including the WRX STI. The heat generated by the turbocharger can cause the oil to burn, leading to increased oil consumption. Therefore, it is recommended to check the oil level regularly and ensure that it is within the recommended range.

Transmission Issues

The 2013 Subaru WRX STI is also known for transmission issues, with some owners reporting difficulty in shifting gears, especially when going into reverse. This issue can be frustrating and may require the driver to push the clutch pedal multiple times before successfully shifting into reverse. While this issue is not a significant safety concern, it can be an annoyance and may require attention from a mechanic.

Minor Inconveniences

In addition to the engine and transmission issues, the 2013 Subaru WRX STI also has some minor inconveniences. For example, the clutch pedal may squeak, which can be caused by weak spot welds on the pedal assembly and firewall. If the clutch pedal squeaks, it is recommended to get it checked by a dealer as soon as possible to prevent any further damage.

Another minor issue is the loose nut in the driver's seat, which can cause squeaking. This issue is relatively easy to fix and may not require professional attention.

Conclusion

While the 2013 Subaru WRX STI is a high-performance vehicle, it is not without its issues. Owners of this vehicle may experience engine performance issues, transmission problems, and minor inconveniences. However, with regular maintenance and timely repairs, these issues can be managed, and the vehicle can provide a satisfying driving experience.

Is the Subaru WRX STI reliable?

The Subaru WRX STI is a classic car. Unfortunately, we would not recommend even the most reliable versions, thanks to the expensive repairs required. Subaru is a solid manufacturer, but the WRX STI isn't necessarily their strong suit. If you want the car for its classic standing, go with the best years available.

How long do WRX STI engines last?

WRX and WRX STI: The Subaru WRX and WRX STI are high-performance sports sedans known for their powerful engines and agile handling. Despite their sporty nature, WRX and WRX STI models can still provide long-term reliability, lasting 150,000 miles + with proper maintenance and care.

How many miles will a 2013 Subaru WRX last?

How Many Miles Does the Subaru WRX Last? The Subaru WRX is a vehicle renowned for its durability, with numerous models lasting up to 200,000 miles or beyond when maintained properly.

What are the best years for WRX STI?

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.

Is the Subaru WRX STI reliable?

How long do WRX STI engines last?

Is the Subaru WRX STI safe?

The IIHS has bestowed the honored title of “Top Safety Pick+” on Subaru's hot compact.

What is the biggest problem with the WRX?

Subaru WRX Reliability Problems

CAN System Parasitic Drain on the Battery. Too many owners of newer Subaru vehicles are waking up to cars that won't start due to dead batteries. ...
Lineartronic CVT Reliability. ...
Rodents Chew Subaru's Soy Wires. ...
Subaru EyeSight Problems. ...
Rust and Corrosion Problems.

2013 Subaru Wrx sti car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Subaru Wrx sti problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

Unknown or other problems
Fuel/propulsion system problems
Engine problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2013 Subaru Wrx sti vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2013 Subaru Wrx sti complaints

The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2013 Subaru Wrx sti.

2019-06-27

UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2018-03-08
Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Summary: WHILE DRIVING, MY CHECK ENGINE LIGHT AND THREE OTHER LIGHTS TURNED ON. MY CRUISE CONTROL STARTED BLINKING AND ANOTHER LIGHT WHICH MEANT I WASN'T ABLE TO USE IT OR SWITCH MY CAR INTO SPORT MODE. THESE LIGHTS NEVER WENT OUT. I WENT TO THE DEALERS AND TRIED TO DO A LOT OF RESEARCH AND FOUND OUT IT'S A PROBLEM WITH THE AIR PUMP RUSTING AND GETTING STUCK EITHER OPEN OR CLOSED. THE DEALERS QUOTED ME ANYWHERE FROM 2000-3500 TO GET THE PROBLEM FIXED. I HAD THE CAR FOR OVER A YEAR AND FOR THAT ENTIRE TIME THE PROBLEM PERSISTED. I WAS NOT ABLE TO PASS EMISSIONS TESTING, USE CRUISE CONTROL, OR SWITCH MODES IN THE CAR. THIS SEEMS LIKE A SAFETY ISSUE BECAUSE THE AIR INJECTION SYSTEM PUMP WAS STUCK AND NOT WORKING PROPERLY UPON THE STARTUP OF THE CAR. TALKING TO OTHER SUBARU OWNERS, I FOUND THAT THIS WAS A HUGE PROBLEM FOR COUNTLESS OWNERS EVER SINCE THE SYSTEM WAS INTRODUCED INTO SUBARU CARS IN 2006 OR 2007. THIS IS A RIDICULOUS PROBLEM AND SHOULD BE FIXED BY SUBARU, NOT BY OWNERS WHO FALL VICTIM OF THIS POORLY STRUCTURED SYSTEM. SOMETIMES, WHEN ALL THE LIGHTS WERE ON, THE CAR HAD TROUBLE STARTING AND WOULD STALL THE FIRST TIME UPON STARTUP. POTENTIALLY, THIS COULD START A FIRE OR ANOTHER PROBLEM. I HAD A SAFETY RECALL DONE ON MY CAR FROM 2016 FOR THE AIR PUMP, BUT THAT DID NOT AFFECT THIS ISSUE AT ALL AND THE PROBLEM PERSISTED.

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2018-04-13

ENGINE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2017-09-01
VIN: JF1GV8J67DL
Components: ENGINE
Summary: WHILE DRIVING ON 1-95 THE CAR THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY SHUT OFF, CAUSING A VERY UNSAFE SITUATION AS THE STEERING AND BRAKE PEDAL GOT VERY STIFF AND THE VEHICLE WAS HARD TO CONTROL PROPERLY. THE VEHICLE HAD TO BE TOWED HOME, AND AFTER TAKING THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALERSHIP, I WAS INFORMED IT HAD A ENGINE KNOCK AND WOULD NEED A NEW SHORT BLOCK REPLACEMENT. I HAVE COME TO LEARN THAT THIS IS A VERY COMMON FAULT WITH THESE VEHICLES AND BOTH THE DEALERSHIP AND SUBARU OF AMERICA REFUSES TO HONOR THE WARRANTY OR ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR A FAULTY AND DANGEROUS PRODUCT.

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2013 Subaru Wrx sti recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2013 Subaru Wrx sti.

2014-12-31

Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2008-2011 Impreza, 2008-2014 WRX and STI, and 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, currently, or formerly, registered in Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia that were remedied under recall 14V-311 prior to December 23, 2014. The brake lines may experience brake line corrosion due to salt water splashing on the brake lines through a gap in the fuel tank protector.
Consequence: Brake fluid may leak due to the brake line corrosion and may result in longer distances being required to slow or stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will apply an anti-corrosion wax to the four-way joint connector area of the brake line system, free of charge. The recall began on January 27, 2015. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WQQ-52. Notes: This recall is specific to affected Forester, Impreza, WRX, and STI customers who had their car remedied under NHTSA recall no. 14V-311 prior to December 23, 2014. Subaru has determined that this remedy was inadequate due to incomplete repair instructions provided to dealers. Affected Forester, Impreza, WRX, and STI vehicles that were not repaired under NHTSA recall no. 14V-311 prior to December 23, 2014 will continue to be processed under NHTSA recall no. 14V-311. Affected vehicles not currently, or formerly, registered in the salt belt states identified in this recall are eligible for repair, at no cost to the customer, upon request.

2014-06-10

Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2005-2009 Outback and Legacy, 2008-2011 Impreza and 2008-2014 Impreza WRX/STI, and 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, currently, or formerly, registered in Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia. Salt water could splash on the brake lines through a gap in the fuel tank protector, resulting in excessive corrosion of the brake lines. Note that affected vehicles not currently, or formerly registered, in the salt belt states identified above are eligible for repair, at no cost to the customer, upon request.
Consequence: Brake line corrosion may result in brake fluid leakage. Fluid leakage may result in longer distances being required to slow or stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will test the brake system by depressing the brake pedal and inspecting for brake fluid leaks. If no brake fluid seepage is observed, the affected areas will be rustproofed with anti-corrosion wax. If brake fluid seepage is observed, the brake lines will be replaced followed by rustproofing with anti-corrosion wax. These services will be performed free of charge. The recall began July 2014 and second notifications will run through November 2014. Owners may contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's recall campaign number is WQK-47. Note: This recall supersedes recall 13V-110 which applied to certain 2005-2009 Legacy/Outback vehicles. Vehicles that were remedied under the previous campaign still need additional areas rust-proofed.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2013 Subaru Wrx sti problems:

Problems with the 2008-2013 Subaru Impreza WRX STi Hatchback ...

https://www.reddit.com/r/cars/comments/67iy2h/problems_with_the_20082013_subaru_impreza_wrx_sti/

Apr 25, 2017 ... 2013 here. My throwout bearing started squeaking about 30k. They told me it's fairly common, the spring is crap, I got it replaced at 48k ...

2013 WRX STi Problems | IW STi Forum

https://www.iwsti.com/threads/2013-wrx-sti-problems.293650/

Aug 7, 2017 ... Ok so I bought a 2013 WRX STi drove it off the lot it has 39k miles for it for 25k its plasma blue 100% bone stock and 2 days after driving ...

Class action lawsuit for 13-14 wrx/sti models.... - NASIOC

https://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2855700

Oct 14, 2017 ... But from the second link I posted it mentions "defective connecting rod bearings, defective connecting rod side clearances, and/or insufficient ...

2013 STI engine problems | IW STi Forum

https://www.iwsti.com/threads/2013-sti-engine-problems.325690/

Jun 11, 2022 ... So about 3 months ago purchases a 2013 sti with I believe about 140,000 miles on the odometer. Car was in good condition with nothing that ...