2020 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 The initial "bugeye" front end styling (2000) was superseded by the "blobeye" in 2004 and the "hawkeye" in 2006.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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Common 2020 Subaru Wrx problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the 2020 Subaru WRX, several common problems have been reported:
- Internal Engine Failure: Owners have cited issues with the internal engine components such as pistons, rods, piston rings, and rod bearings. These parts are known weak points in the engine that can fail, especially in tuned and modified engines. Internal engine failures can be costly to repair and may lead to significant performance issues.
- Turbocharger Problems: Many WRX owners have experienced turbo issues, particularly when modifying and tuning the car for increased power. The stress placed on the stock turbo from higher power levels can compromise its longevity, leading to misfires, power loss, and potential engine damage.
- Oil Leaks: The Subaru WRX has been reported to struggle with oil leaks, with drivers noticing significant oil consumption rates. One common culprit is the vehicle's oil pump seal, which if left unattended, can cause permanent damage to the engine. Addressing oil leaks promptly is crucial to prevent long-term engine issues.
- Gasket Leaks: Gasket leaks have been a major concern among WRX owners. While oil leaks are common, they can have a detrimental impact on the engine's performance and longevity. Gasket leaks should be addressed promptly to prevent further damage to the engine.
- Misfires: Misfires are another general problem reported by WRX owners, which could indicate underlying issues within the engine. Misfires can lead to reduced performance, rough idling, and potential engine damage if not addressed in a timely manner.
These common problems with the 2020 Subaru WRX highlight the importance of regular maintenance, prompt attention to any warning signs, and careful consideration when modifying the vehicle for increased performance. Addressing these issues proactively can help maintain the reliability and longevity of the Subaru WRX.
Is 2020 WRX reliable?
The 2020 Subaru WRX has a predicted reliability score of 77 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average, and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
What is the biggest problem with WRX?
A list of some of the most common issues WRX owners have to deal with.
- CAN System Parasitic Drain on the Battery. ...
- 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 long will a WRX engine last?
Several sources confirm that the Subaru WRX's boxer engine can last up to 250,000 miles if well taken care of. However, if the car is driven beyond its limits or not adequately maintained, it can significantly shorten the engine's lifespan. This could lead to significant issues as early as 60,000 miles.
Is 2020 WRX reliable?
The 2020 Subaru WRX has a predicted reliability score of 77 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average, and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
What is the biggest problem with WRX?
A list of some of the most common issues WRX owners have to deal with.
- CAN System Parasitic Drain on the Battery. ...
- 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.
Are new WRX more reliable?
According to consumerreports.org, the 2024 Subaru WRX is predicted to have above-average reliability - which means the 2022 Subaru WRX has an excellent history of dependability. There is no report yet from JD Power about the dependability of the Subaru WRX from 2022.
2020 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:
- Electrical system problems
- Visibility/wiper problems
- Engine problems
- Seat belts problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2020 Subaru Wrx vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2020 Subaru Wrx complaints
The NHTSA has received 13 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2020 Subaru Wrx.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-03
- 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
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-30
- 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.”
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-24
- VIN: JF1VA1P64L8
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Subaru WRX. The contact stated while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle would not start. The vehicle was diagnosed by the dealer but no cause for the failure was found. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the contact was informed that telematics control module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 20,000.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-23
- VIN: JF1VA1F6XL8
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Battery drainage occurring often. I have been left stranded at night time in unsafe areas. The car was taken to the dealer twice and both times the battery has been “recharge”. I”ve had the car for less than 3 years. No symptoms occur before this happens. This seems to happen when the car has not need moved for more than a day.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-17
- VIN: Jf1va1f67L8
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Have had this car since late 2019 around November and it is now 2022 and I'm at 25k miles in my battery is already failing I have had it tested and the cold cranking amps are why below where they should be causing the car not be able to start at time . I've had other car batteries that lasted long than 2 and a half years.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-30
- VIN: JF1VA1A65L9
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: The vehicle seems to randomly die and bog out then all of the lights appear on the dash, I myself had to pay out of pocket for a new battery because autonation subaru arapahoe in colorado decided not to check it like I had asked and after getting my car back the issue was still there which is why I replaced it today. not only this but they sold me a highly modified vehicle without disclosing any of that info to me in the sale process.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-12
- VIN: JF1VA2E6XL9
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: Got in the car to drive to work and the front windshield just cracked on its own with nothing hitting it.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-05-17
- VIN: JF1VA1C60L9
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I have owned the car for ~15 months and driven it for 2500 miles. The battery has failed four times. Each time Subaru has replaced the battery under warranty and told me that nothing is wrong and that the car simply needs to be driven more. I now see that this is a systemic problem for Subarus (e.g. https://www.torquenews.com/1084/subaru-battery-drain-lawsuit-new-claims-now-include-forester-wrx-and-legacy) A recall is needed to force Subaru to address this problem.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-02-16
- VIN: JF1VA1B67L9
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: UPON APPLYING PARKING BRAKE TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT POSSIBLE, WHICH IS BEYOND 11 CLICKS AS STATED AS REQUIRED BY SUBARU, AND THE VEHICLE IS ON AN INCLINE GREATER THAN 8 DEGREES, THE VEHICLE WILL NOT REMAIN IN PLACE. I AM ALSO CONCERNED THAT IF THE BRAKE IS REQUIRED IN AN EMERGENCY SITUATION, IT WILL NOT EFFECTIVELY STOP THE VEHICLE AS THE WHEELS ARE STILL ALLOWED TO TURN MORE FREELY THAN EXPECTED GIVEN ITS INABILITY TO HOLD THE VEHICLE ON A HILL. I TOOK THE VEHICLE TO SUBARU TWICE EXPRESSING THE COMPLAINT AND WAS SUMMARILY DENIED SERVICE. THE TECHNICIAN REFUSED TO EVEN INSPECT VEHICLE EVEN AFTER REQUESTING AN INSPECTION. THE SERVICE TECHNICIAN INFORMED ME THAT YOU MUST APPLY THE PARKING BRAKE TO 11 CLICKS AND PUT THE VEHICLE IN GEAR. THE FORCE REQUIRED TO PULL THE PARKING BRAKE TO 11 CLICKS IS MORE THAN MANY PEOPLE ARE ABLE TO APPLY IN A SINGLE MOTION AS REQUIRED BY FEDERAL LAW. IN ADDITION, AIR COMPRESSION IS EXPLICATED STATED IN FEDERAL LAW AS NOT ALLOWED AS A MECHANISM OF FORCE FOR USE IN A PARKING BRAKE SYSTEM. AIR COMPRESSION IS WHAT IS USED IN THE ENGINE AS A MEANS TO PREVENT THE WHEELS FROM MOVING WHEN IN GEAR. FURTHER, THE PARKING BRAKE SYSTEM SHALL ACCORDING TO FEDERAL LAW, USE AN ACCUMULATION OF FORCE INDEPENDENT OF OTHER SYSTEMS FOR THE PARKING BRAKE, WHICH IS NOT THE CASE PER THE INSTRUCTION FROM SUBARU. LASTLY, SUBARU ALSO INSTRUCTED ME TO PUT A WHEEL STOP BEHIND THE WHEEL AS A STANDARD PRACTICE IN THIS COMMON PARKING SCENARIO, WHICH ISN'T POSSIBLE TO DO IF I HAVE TO TAKE MY FOOT OFF THE BRAKE TO GET OUT OF THE CAR TO PLACE THE WHEEL STOP. AS SOON AS I TAKE MY FOOT OFF THE BRAKE, THE VEHICLE MOVES SO I AM UNABLE TO SAFELY EXIT VEHICLE IN ORDER TO PLACE THE WHEEL STOP. THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE BOTH FOR KEEPING A PARKED VEHICLE IN PLACE AND ALSO IN AN EMERGENCY BRAKE SCENARIO.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-16
- VIN: JF1VA2Y60L9
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: SITTING AT A STOPLIGHT, A LOUD POP OCCURS AND WHEN I LOOK BACK, THERE IS A HOLE IN THE MIDDLE OF THE REAR WINDSHIELD. IT IS APPROXIMATELY 2 INCHES TALL AND AT LEAST 18 INCHES WIDE. IT WAS LIKELY AN IMPLOSION. NO OBJECTS WERE FOUND NEAR, ON, OR IN THE CAR. THE WINDSHIELD CRUMBLED AFTER THAT, AS EACH ACCELERATION DROPPED MORE GLASS INSIDE THE CAR. NOTHING PROMPTED IT, JUST SITTING STATIONARY AT A STOPLIGHT. DEFROSTER WAS NOT ON, TEMPERATURE WAS APPROXIMATELY 45 FAHRENHEIT WITH MINIMAL WIND. HAD BEEN DRIVING FOR 10 MINUTES. MY REAR FACING CAR SEAT, WITH CHILD IN IT, COLLECTED A FAIR AMOUNT OF THE GLASS.
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-06-01
- VIN: JF1VA2E64L9
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: WINDSHIELD CRACKED FOR NO APPARENT REASON. CAR WAS STATIONARY.
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-04-05
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: JF1VA1C63L9
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2020 SUBARU WRX. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE HE SON WAS DRIVING AT 40 MPH, HE ATTEMPTED TO DEPRESS THE BRAKE PEDAL HOWEVER, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO STOP, RUNNING A RED LIGHT, THE VEHICLE WAS T-BONED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE IMPACT CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO HIT A LIGHT POST, THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY AND THE SEAT BELT FAILED TO LOCK. THE CONTACT STATED FIVE DAYS PRIOR HER SON WAS DRIVING AND THE BRAKE PEDAL FAILED TO ENGAGED WHILE COMING TO A STOP LIGHT. THE DRIVER HAD TO DEPRESS THE BRAKE PEDAL TO THE FLOOR TO STOP THE VEHICLE. THE DRIVER STATED THAT NO WARNING LIGHTS OR MESSAGES WERE DISPLAYED DURING EITHER FAILURE. THE DRIVER SUSTAINED A FRACTURED WRIST. THE POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE PARAMEDIC CAME HOWEVER, THE CONTACT WAS TOLD TO CALL THE DOCTOR FOR X-RAYS. THE DRIVER WAS SEEN BY HIS DOCTOR FOR HIS FRACTURED WRIST. THE VEHICLE WAS TOTALED AND WAS TOWED TO A BODY SHOP. THE CONTACT CALLED HERITAGE SUBARU OWNINGS MILLS (9808 REISTERSTOWN ROAD OWINGS MILLS, MD 21117) AND WAS TOLD TO CALL THE MANUFACTURER. THE CONTACT CALLED THE MANUFACTURER AND FILED A COMPLAINT. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 2,100. *DT*JB
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-02-13
- VIN: JF1VA1J64L9
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: I HAVE RECENTLY PURCHASED A 2020 SUBARU WRX LIMITED. I HAVE LEARNED BY INSPECTION THAT THE STANDARD OEM TIRE ON THIS VEHICLE IS A DUNLOP SPORT MAX RT. THIS IS A HIGH PERFORMANCE SUMMER TIRE. THIS CLASS OF TIRE IS NOT RECOMMENDED TO BE USED IN VERY COLD WEATHER AND ESPECIALLY ON ICE AND SNOW. I HAVE PREVIOUSLY OWNED SUCH TIRES AND THEY ARE TERRIFYING ON ICE, THAT IS, DANGEROUS. I LIVE IN A AREA OF THE COUNTRY WHERE SNOW AND ICE ARE COMMON. SUBARU DID NOT INFORM ME OF THESE TIRES AND I AM NOW CONFRONTED WITH PURCHASING A NEW SET OF ALL SEASON TIRES SO I CAN SAFELY DRIVE MY CAR. BY THE WAY, I HAVE PREVIOUSLY WORKED IN TIRE ENGINEERING. IS A LESS KNOWLEDGEABLE PERSON EXPECTED TO RECOGNIZE SUCH A DEFICIENCY AND TAKE THE NECESSARY PRECAUTIONS? NOT DRIVE IN COLD, SNOWY OR ICY CONDITIONS OR PURCHASE NEW TIRES?
2020 Subaru Wrx recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2020 Subaru Wrx.
- 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.
Negative 2020 Subaru Wrx car reviews
Positive 2020 Subaru Wrx car reviews
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Hey there! I just wanted to share my experience with the 2016 Hyper Blue Edition Sti. As someone who has owned both an '04 and an '07 Sti, I can confidently say that this is one of the best Sti's I've ever driven. I know some people might say that the Sti is outdated with its EJ series motor, but let me tell you, the performance and the 'TRUE' feel of the road you get from the hydraulic steering rack is absolutely awesome. The suspension setting on this model is much tighter than my '07, which makes it perfect for serious track applications. The brakes are phenomenal, with excellent stopping power and no fade. The six-speed transmission is solid with good, sharp, short shifts. The front seats are very supportive and comfortable, and the overall build quality is great, especially with the exclusive Hyper Blue Edition only interior. The Harman Kardon sound system is off the hook, and the subwoofer base hits hard. Gas mileage is expected to be in the 23-25 MPG range, and it varies depending on how often you keep your foot in the boost. This is one capable machine, and the Japanese craftsmanship and build quality really show its superior construction. Don't just take my word for it, go out and drive one for yourself. You won't be disappointed. The Sti still has that man and machine feel that newer cars are lacking with their electric steering assist. Subaru didn't win six World Rally Championships titles and 46 and counting rally wins building boring cars. Thanks for reading!
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This car is amazing! It's definitely the most reliable and fun car I've ever owned. I've driven everything from Audi's to Honda's, and this car beats them all in terms of feel and power for the price point. While there is a bit of rev hang between shifting gears and some road noise, these issues can easily be resolved by getting the car tuned professionally or adding an exhaust. Plus, the upgraded speakers are fantastic for playing music. Another great feature is how comfortable the ride is - my daughter falls asleep every time we drive! I highly recommend this car for anyone looking for a family-friendly sports car.
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When you sign your contract, be prepared to spend more money than you initially thought, as it will be added to your loan. However, at the Subaru dealership, they make you feel like family and take good care of you. Despite the potential stress of buying a car, my experience there was different and enjoyable. Additionally, there is a variety of extended warranties and services to choose from.
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The STI Limited is a really fun car to drive and handles just as well as all the reviews say. I was a bit disappointed to find that they come with summer tires in the New England area instead of all-season tires, but it's a quick fix. I wish Subaru would add some soundproofing materials to reduce the road noise. I know it's a rally car, but it could still be more civil in terms of road noise. The extended armrest could also be a bit bigger to make it more comfortable during long rides. Overall, it's a really fun and responsive vehicle. The control setup is nice and the short throw shifter is a lot of fun. The race seats are nice, although I wish they were all leather. They're still comfortable enough for long rides though.
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Before my Black 2019 WRX Base, I owned a 2017 Subaru Impreza Sport, 2015 Ford Fiesta ST (w/ 2.0L turbo), 2017 Ford Escape (w/2.0L turbo), 2001 Ford Focus and a '67 Ford Mustang (w/289 cu in (4.7 L) Windsor V8). The WRX is definitely the most enjoyable mode of transportation I've ever owned. As powerful as the V8 in my mustang was, it could never keep up with the WRX on the twisty mountain/back country roads I love to frequent on weekends. The Fiesta ST was fun as well but the torque steer and spastic nature of that car had me on the edge of my seat nervous. Not so with the sure footed WRX especially in rainy Seattle weather and 245/35ZR19
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2020 Subaru Wrx problems:
Looking at a 2020 STi : r/WRXSTi
Jan 16, 2020 ... ... a new 2020 STi, but the ringland failure and all of the engine failure stuff on the internet is scaring me off. ... I personally despised the WRX ...
2020 WRX - Reliable? - NASIOC
Feb 25, 2021 ... Are there any issues that are common problems that you would warn a friend or loved one about on the 2020 wrx? ... Subaru Impreza Owners Club, Inc ...
Common problems with a 2020 Subaru wrx : r/MechanicAdvice
Feb 25, 2021 ... Subaru is excellent. No more timing belt. Easy to home service. Pela6000 to change oil cause the filter is on top. Tires will be expensive.
2020 Subaru WRX Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2020 Subaru WRX? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
2020 wrx issues : r/WRX
Jan 4, 2020 ... This morning when driving I noticed this horrid shrieking noise and the power under acceleration is even worse. I called the local Subaru ...
Other years of Subaru Wrx
Are you having problems with your 2020 Subaru Wrx?
Deshawn Lueilwitz 2025-01-07
My 2020 STI has had several issues, including difficulty shifting into second gear and rattling or clunking noises due to loose bolts or screws. Despite bringing it in for repairs every month, the dealer has been unable to resolve these issues. Additionally, the air conditioning lost its charge after only two months of use. While I had been considering purchasing this car for years, I regret my decision and will not be buying another Subaru.
Brown Konopelski 2024-05-13
If you're thinking about the WRX, it's worth considering whether you really need AWD. If not, a Ford Focus RS or VW GTI could provide a more enjoyable driving experience. Unfortunately, the rev hang can be problematic and you may find yourself having to slip the clutch into gear. Additionally, the shifter on the base model can be clunky and imprecise, sometimes requiring up to 10 pounds of pressure to engage a gear. Personally, I'm looking forward to selling this car once the insurance policy expires, but I hope you find the right car for your needs!