2005 Subaru Wrx problems

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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 The initial "bugeye" front end styling (2000) was superseded by the "blobeye" in 2004 and the "hawkeye" in 2006.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.

2005 Subaru Wrx

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Common 2005 Subaru Wrx problems

The Subaru WRX, a rally-inspired car that is popular among car enthusiasts, is known for its performance and practicality. However, it is not exactly known for its reliability. This article will focus on the common problems of the 2002-2005 Subaru WRX, specifically the EJ205 models, which also apply to the EJ255 models (2006-2014).

  1. Oil Leaks: The Subaru WRX is known for oil leaks, which are caused by faulty gaskets and seals. The most common oil leaks occur at the valve cover gasket, the cam seals, and the rear main seal. The valve cover gasket is located on the outer side of the head, and it tends to go bad over time, causing oil leaks. The cam seals, which are located at the front of the engine, are another common source of oil leaks. The rear main seal, which is located at the back of the engine, is a more significant issue because it requires pulling the transmission to replace, making it a more expensive repair.
  2. High Oil Consumption: The EJ205 motors in these cars are known to consume a significant amount of oil. The turbo seals can go bad, causing the car to consume oil, and the rings tend to wear out, leading to oil being pulled through the crankcase into the combustion chamber and burned. In extreme cases, if the car has been tuned or if something goes catastrophically wrong, the pistons can fail, causing the car to consume even more oil.
  3. Spun Bearings: The Subaru WRX is known for spun bearings, which can be caused by a lack of oil or a lack of lubrication. Spun bearings can cause significant damage to the engine, leading to a complete engine rebuild or replacement.
  4. Uppipe Cat: The uppipe cat is a common failure point in the Subaru WRX. The uppipe cat is located between the engine and the turbocharger, and it can become clogged or damaged over time, leading to reduced performance and increased emissions.
  5. Headgasket Failure: The Subaru WRX is known for headgasket failure, which can be caused by a variety of factors, including overheating, high mileage, and poor maintenance. Headgasket failure can cause significant damage to the engine, leading to a complete engine rebuild or replacement.
  6. Timing Belt and Waterpump: The timing belt and waterpump are common failure points in the Subaru WRX. The timing belt is responsible for keeping the engine's valves and pistons in sync, and if it fails, it can cause significant damage to the engine. The waterpump is responsible for cooling the engine, and if it fails, it can cause the engine to overheat, leading to headgasket failure.
  7. Weak Transmissions: The Subaru WRX is known for weak transmissions, which can be caused by a variety of factors, including high horsepower, aggressive driving, and poor maintenance. Weak transmissions can lead to gear failure, clutch failure, and other issues.
  8. Rubber Part Failure: The Subaru WRX is known for rubber part failure, which can be caused by a variety of factors, including age, wear, and exposure to the elements. Rubber parts such as hoses, belts, and bushings can become brittle and crack over time, leading to leaks, failures, and other issues.
  9. Wheel Bearing Failures: The Subaru WRX is known for wheel bearing failures, which can be caused by a variety of factors, including high mileage, aggressive driving, and poor maintenance. Wheel bearing failures can lead to noise, vibration, and other issues.
  10. Rust: The Subaru WRX is known for rust, which can be caused by a variety of factors, including exposure to the elements, salt, and water. Rust can lead to structural failure, leaks, and other issues.

In conclusion, the Subaru WRX is a fun and practical car, but it is not without its issues. These common problems can lead to significant repairs and maintenance costs, so it is essential to be aware of them before purchasing a Subaru WRX. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent these issues, but they are not guaranteed to eliminate them entirely.

2005 Subaru Wrx engine

Is a 2005 Impreza WRX reliable?

Subaru knows reliability and safety

I have owned this beautiful 2005 Impreza wrx for 5 years. I can safely say that its a very reliable car, does not require expensive repairs, is very good on snow and rain, drives very smooth, is very good on gas and most importantly its a very safe car in case of accident.

How many miles can a 2005 Subaru WRX last?

Several sources confirm that the Subaru WRX's boxer engine can last up to 250,000 miles if well taken care of.

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 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.

Is a 2005 Impreza WRX reliable?

Subaru knows reliability and safety

I have owned this beautiful 2005 Impreza wrx for 5 years. I can safely say that its a very reliable car, does not require expensive repairs, is very good on snow and rain, drives very smooth, is very good on gas and most importantly its a very safe car in case of accident.

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.

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.

How many miles can a 2005 Subaru WRX last?

Several sources confirm that the Subaru WRX's boxer engine can last up to 250,000 miles if well taken care of.

2005 Subaru Wrx car problems categorized by type of issue

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

  • Fuel system problems
  • Gasoline problems
  • Fuel/propulsion system problems
  • Suspension problems
  • Engine problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2005 Subaru Wrx vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2005 Subaru Wrx complaints

The NHTSA has received 19 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2005 Subaru Wrx.

2015-02-20

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2015-02-19
  • VIN: JF1GD29675H
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: AS I WAS DRIVING THIS MORNING STARTED SMELLING STRONG RAW FUEL ODOR. *TR
2015-01-12

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2015-01-09
  • VIN: JF1GD70645L
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: 2005 STI, 42,000 MILES..... COLD MN WEATHER CAUSED MY FUEL SYSTEM UNDER THE HOOD LEAK GAS ALL OVER. INSIDE OF CAR SMELT OF GAS VERY VERY BAD. POPPED THE HOOD, EVEN STRONGER GAS SMELL, LOCATED FUEL LEAKS UNDER THE INTAKE MANIFOLD DRIVERS SIDE. TOWED IT TO NEAREST SUBARU DEALER DO TO FEAR OF FIRE. NOT COVERED UNDER THE 2 WARRANTIES I PURCHASED WHEN I BOUGHT THE CAR OR UNDER SUBARU RECALL OF 2003-2004 WRX/STI'S FOR THE SAME PROBLEM.....CHARGES WILL BE $600+...... BOUGHT THE CAR FROM A SUBARU DEALER HERE IN MN, SECOND OWNER, EXPENSIVE LOW MILES USED CAR, JUST PLAIN STUPID SUBARU DOES NOT FIX THIS..... *TR
2015-01-09

ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-12-23
  • VIN: JF1GD29685G
  • Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: DURING COLD WEATHER, THERE IS A STRONG FUEL SMELL IN THE CABIN. RUBBER FUEL LINES ON THE PASSENGER SIDE LEAK, CAUSING FUEL TO PUDDLE ON TOP OF THE ENGINE BLOCK, CREATING AN EXTREME FIRE HAZARD. *TR
2014-11-19

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-11-10
  • VIN: JF1GD29675G
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: AFTER INVESTIGATING A SMALL LEAK IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT MY FRONT SWAY BAR MOUNT CONNECTED TO MY LOWER CONTROL ARM( RECALL NUMBER "WVX-34 LOWER CONTROL ARM) MOUNT HAD SNAPPED AND SEPARATED. THIS COULD HAVE CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY TO MYSELF, FAMILY AND OTHERS DRIVING AROUND ME AT THE TIME IS SNAPPED. SUBARU CONFIRMS THAT THE LOWER CONTROL ARM HAS A CORROSION ISSUE BUT REFUSES TO COVER THIS PROBLEM DUE TO THE LOCATION OF THE BREAKAGE. *TR
2014-10-02

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2009-12-01
  • VIN: JF1GG29675G
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: FUEL SMELL INSIDE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT IN OUTSIDE TEMPERATURES <20 DEGREES F. THIS IS APPARENTLY A KNOWN PROBLEM, AND A TSB WAS ISSUED FOR 2002 AND 2003 SUBARU WRX FOR A FUEL LEAK, BUT NOT FOR THE 2005. HAVE BEEN TOLD THE OWNER IS RESPONSIBLE FOR REPAIR COSTS. ONLINE SEARCH FINDS MANY IDENTICAL COMPLAINTS FROM OTHER OWNERS. *TR
2014-03-04

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-02-01
  • VIN: JF1GG296X5H
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: ON COLD DAYS, THE CAR SMELLS LIKE GAS - MANY REPORTS ONLINE ABOUT FUEL LEAKS IN COLD WEATHER FOR SUBARU. *TR
2014-01-29

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-01-29
  • VIN: JF1GD296X5G
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: STRONG RAW FUEL SMELL IN CABIN WHEN STARTING IN TEMPS <30 DEGREES. FUEL IS CLEARLY VISIBLE LEAKING FROM LINES BELOW MANIFOLD. *TR
2014-01-08

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-01-07
  • VIN: JF1GG29635G
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ENGINE
  • Summary: WHEN I STARTED MY CAR THE OTHER MORNING (~14 DEGREES F) I SMELLED A STRONG FUEL ODOR IN THE CABIN. I OPENED THE HOOD OF THE CAR AND ALSO SMELLED IT THERE AS WELL. I DROVE THE CAR ABOUT 2 MILES AND THE SMELL WENT AWAY. ONCE STOPPED AND IDLING, THE ODOR RETURNED. IT IS A VERY STRONG RAW GASOLINE SMELL. UPON FURTHER RESEARCH, I FOUND THAT MANY OTHER SUBARU OWNERS ARE EXPERIENCING THE SAME EXACT ISSUE. IT TURNS OUT TO BE A FAULTY CLAMP AND/OR HOSE, WHICH RESULTS IN LEAKING GASOLINE OUT OF THE FUEL LINE. THIS CONCERNS ME FOR NUMEROUS REASONS, BUT THE MAIN REASON IS THAT IT IS LEAKING GASOLINE IN THE ENGINE BAY, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A FIRE AND ULTIMATELY INJURY/DEATH. THE SMELL IT PRODUCES IN THE CABIN IS ALSO SOMETHING THAT CONCERNS ME, ESPECIALLY IF CHILDREN ARE IN THE CAR. THIS ONLY HAPPENS WHEN TEMPERATURES ARE VERY COLD, PROBABLY BELOW 20 OR 25 DEGREES F. PLEASE LOOK INTO THIS ISSUE AND YOU WILL FIND MANY ARE EXPERIENCING THE SAME THING WITH THEIR VEHICLES. THANKS *TR
2013-01-05

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2012-12-13
  • VIN: JF1GG29615G
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: WHEN STARTED, TEMPERATURES UNDER 20 DEGREES (F), VEHICLE WILL EMIT A STRONG GASOLINE ODOR UNDER HOOD AND WILL COME IN THROUGH HEATER VENTS. DEALER SAYS THEY KNOW OF THE PROBLEM, BUT NO CURRENT RECALLS. THE PREVIOUS MODEL YEARS HAD A RECALL FOR THE SAME EXACT PROBLEM. SUBARU OF AMERICA CLAIMS THE MODEL YEAR I HAVE HAS AN UPDATE, BUT AFTER RESEARCHING THIS PROBLEM ONLINE AND WITH SUBARU DEALERS, THERE IS STILL A KNOWN PROBLEM. THERE IS A RUBBER FUEL LINE UNDER THE INTAKE MANIFOLD THAT IS THE CULPRIT. MY DEALER CLAIMS "THEY ALL DO THIS WHEN IT'S COLD." I AM NOT SATISFIED WITH THIS ANSWER AND SUBARU OF AMERICA HAS BEEN NO HELP EITHER. THEY CLAIM IT IS UP THE NTSB TO ISSUE A RECALL. *TR
2011-02-28

FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2011-01-15
  • VIN: JF1GG29625G
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
  • Summary: FUEL SMELL INSIDE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT IN OUTSIDE TEMPERATURES <20 DEGREES F. THIS IS APPARENTLY A KNOWN PROBLEM, AND A TSB WAS ISSUED FOR 2002 AND 2003 SUBARU WRX FOR A FUEL LEAK, BUT NOT FOR THE 2005. HAVE BEEN TOLD THE OWNER IS RESPONSIBLE FOR REPAIR COSTS. ONLINE SEARCH FINDS MANY IDENTICAL COMPLAINTS FROM OTHER OWNERS. *TR
2010-03-19

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2010-01-02
  • VIN: JF1GG29655G
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: STRONG GASOLINE ODOR SMELL INSIDE CAR. HAPPENS WHEN THE OUTSIDE TEMPERATURE IS VERY COLD, BELOW 15 DEGREES. THIS ISSUE IS SIMILAR TO THAT REPORTED IN EARLIER MODEL WRXS. SEE RECALL NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 09V468000 WHICH ADDRESSED LEAKING FUEL LINES AT COLD TEMPERATURES. OTHER COMPLAINTS LIKE THIS ONE HAVE BEEN FILED FOR WRXS YEARS NOT COVERED BY THE RECALL. *TR
2010-01-25

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2009-12-15
  • VIN: JF1GG29655H
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: GAS LEAK THAT CAUSES VERY STRONG GAS FUMES IN THE CAR DURING COLD STARTS AND SIGNIFICANT GAS LOSS OVERNIGHT. LOCAL SUBARU DEALERSHIP DETERMINES IT'S FAULTY FUEL LINE GASKETS AND $900 TO REPAIR. THE FUMES ARE SO STRONG THAT I FEAR SOMETHING WILL IGNITE THE VAPORS AND START A FIRE. *TR
2010-01-07

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2010-01-06
  • VIN: JF1GD70685L
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: GAS LEAK CAUSING STRONG ODORS INSIDE CAR. THIS STARTED WITH THE COLD WEATHER. MOST LIKELY HOSES BECAME BRITTLE OR WEAK CLAIMING FORCE IN COLD WEATHER ALLOWED GAS LEAKAGE. *TR
2009-01-13

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2008-12-15
  • VIN: JF1GD70675L
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: CAR: 2005 SUBARU IMPREZA STI. PROBLEM: FACTORY DEFECT IN THE TURBO OIL SUPPLY. THE FACTORY RECOMMENDS IMMEDIATE REMOVAL OF THE TURBO INLINE OIL FILTER. IF THIS FILTER BECOMES CLOGGED THE TURBO WILL BE RUINED. THIS IS PER SUBARU FACTORY BULLETIN NO. 02-103-07. WHY IS THIS NOT A FACTORY RECALL? *TR
2009-01-07

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2009-01-07
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: SUBARU WILL NOT REPLACE/FIX STRUT CLUNK NOISE COMING FROM THE REAR. MANY OTHERS HAVE COMPLAIN AND THERE IS STILL NO SOLUTION. THIS CAN CAUSE THE OWNER $1350 FOR SOMETHING THAT ALL 2004+ SUBARU STI CARS EXPERIENCE. *TR
2008-05-20

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2008-05-15
  • VIN: JF1GD70685L
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary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
2007-05-17

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2005-10-20
  • VIN: JF1GD70685L
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: UNDER NORMAL CITY DRIVING AND HIGHWAY COMMUTING THE TRANSMISSION AND CLUTCH PEDAL STOPPED DELIVERING POWER ON THE HIGHWAY. I MANAGED TO SAFELY GET OFF THE HIGHWAY AND HAD THE CAR TOWED TO DEALERSHIP. DEALER REFUSED TO COVER WORN CLUTCH UNDER WARRANTY DESPITE WEAR ITEMS COVERED UNDER THE 3 YEAR//36000 MILE COVERAGE. CAR WAS AROUND 20000 MILES. DEALER GAVE ME A FEELING THAT I WAS DISCRIMINATED AGAINST BECAUSE I WAS A YOUNG MAN WITH A SPORTY CAR, THEREFORE, I MUST RACE IT AND ABUSE IT. I HAVE OLD PARTS IN MY GARAGE. THEY DID, HOWEVER, COVER BRAKE PADS AT ANOTHER TIME.*AK
2007-05-17

SUSPENSION,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2007-05-11
  • VIN: JF1GD70685L
  • Components: SUSPENSION,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: NORMAL CITY AND HIGHWAY COMMUTING. WHILE TRAVELING ON THE HIGHWAY VEHICLE HAD A VIOLENT DROP IN SPEED , AND A METAL CLANKING NOISE. WAS HEARD. THE ENGINE DIED, AS A RESULT LOST POWER STEERING. I MANAGED TO SAFELY BRING THE CAR TO A STOP. IT WAS AS ABLE TO DRIVE IT DESPITE THE ENGINE SHUTTING OFF FREQUENTLY TO THE DEALER. THEY REPORTED TO ME THAT THE TURBOCHARGER FAILED, AND I HAD 4 TWISTED AXLES, HALF-SHAFTS REPLACED. THEY HAD TO PLACE A CALL TO SUBARU TO SEE ABOUT COVERING THE FAILURE. I HEARD NOTHING, BUT AFTER CALLING THEY SAID SUBARU WOULD NOT COVER THE FAILURE, BUT WOULD NOT SAY WHY. I WENT IN LATER AND REQUESTED A WRITTEN STATEMENT THAT THEY REFUSED TO COVER IT AND WHY. IT WAS THEN I FOUND OUT THAT IT WAS DUE TO ALLEGED ABUSE. THE PROOF OF THIS WAS THE PRESENCE OF CLUB STICKERS AND AFTERMARKET PARTS WHICH HAD NO BEARING ON THE DEFECTIVE PARTS. THEY STATED THE PRESENCE OF THESE THINGS IMPLIED ABUSE TO THE CAR. THEY REFUSED TO FIX IT UNLESS I PAYED. THEY OFFERED NOTHING , BUT A 800 NUMBER TO COMPLAIN TO SUBARU OF AMERICA. I AM CURRENTLY IN THE PROCESS WITH SOA AND EVERYONE IS BEING VERY UNCOOPERATIVE. I FELT BEING DISCRIMINATED AGAINST BECAUSE OF MY AGE. I AM YOUNGER , THEREFORE, I MUST BE ABUSED OR RACE THE CAR.*AK
2007-03-30

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2007-03-08
  • VIN: JF1GD70645L
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: THERE IS A CLUNKING NOISE AT SLOW SPEED COMING FROM THE REAR OF THE CAR. A LOT OF OWNER IN THE INTERNET FORUMS ARE HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM. THIS PROBLEM SEEMED TO BE THE STRUT GOING BAD AFTER COUPLE THOUSAND MILES. *JB

2005 Subaru Wrx recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 2005 Subaru Wrx.

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.
2020-01-02
  • Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
  • Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (STI included), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
  • Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
  • Remedy: Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators with alternate inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-20.
2020-01-02
  • Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
  • Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (including STI), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "Zone C." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
  • Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
  • Remedy: Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKC-20.
2020-01-02
  • Manufacturer: Subaru of America, Inc.
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
  • Summary: Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (including STI), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
  • Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
  • Remedy: Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-20.
2006-06-29
  • Manufacturer: AAI MOTORSPORTS USA, LLC
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: CERTAIN AAI MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LIST PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
  • Consequence: LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH
  • Remedy: AAI MOTORSPORTS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AAI MOTORSPORTS AT 909-923-9188.
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More sources of information about 2005 Subaru Wrx problems:

Looking at getting an old 04-05 WRX as a new daily. Thoughts? : r ...
Looking at getting an old 04-05 WRX as a new daily. Thoughts? : r ...
https://www.reddit.com/r/Cartalk/comments/9sljau/looking_at_getting_an_old_0405_wrx_as_a_new_daily/

Oct 30, 2018 ... The one I mentioned before was at 189k without any issues except for the original turbo going bad at ~90k miles. Literally not a thing went ...

Common STI Problems - NASIOC
Common STI Problems - NASIOC
https://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=736006

Mar 18, 2005 ... I am getting pretty close to getting rid of my 2003 WRX for a 2005 STI. Anyways, I bought the WRX having some idea of what the common problems ...

Question about 04/05 STI reliability | Subaru WRX Forum
Question about 04/05 STI reliability | Subaru WRX Forum
https://www.clubwrx.net/threads/question-about-04-05-sti-reliability.134288774/

Feb 1, 2008 ... Mechanically they are very strong. The only issue I have ever seen is the paint. Subarus very commonly have paint issues.

Just Bought a WRX, and common problems or issues with the car ...
Just Bought a WRX, and common problems or issues with the car ...
https://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=562102

May 19, 2004 ... ... Subaru has been pretty sound with thier cars. -chris. Quick shot that I took today. 05-19-2004 03:53 PM by CirrusWRX. Nothing too common ...

Common Problems | Subaru WRX Forum
Common Problems | Subaru WRX Forum
https://www.clubwrx.net/threads/common-problems.54974/

Mar 5, 2004 ... The rex has it's issues (like all cars), but they are few and, as a whole, it is a great car. hehe...I said "tranny". Fixxxer said: When ...

Other years of Subaru Wrx

subaru wrx 2006 photo
Wrx 2006
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subaru wrx 2008 photo
Wrx 2008
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subaru wrx 2009 photo
Wrx 2009
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41

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subaru wrx 2010 photo
Wrx 2010
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1

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subaru wrx 2011 photo
Wrx 2011
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subaru wrx 2012 photo
Wrx 2012
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2

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