2023 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 The initial "bugeye" front end styling (2000) was superseded by the "blobeye" in 2004 and the "hawkeye" in 2006.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 2023 Subaru Wrx problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 2023 Subaru WRX, here are some common problems with this car:
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Light: The TPMS light indicates potential issues with tire pressure, whether it's too low, too high, or due to a slow leak or flat tire. This warning is crucial for maintaining optimal tire performance and safety on the road.
- Fog Lights Staying On: Some owners have noted that their fog lights remain on, which can drain the battery and affect visibility if left unnoticed. This issue may require attention to prevent unnecessary battery drainage and ensure proper lighting functionality.
- Lane-Keeping Assist: The presence of a lane-keeping assist light signifies that the system is active and working to keep the vehicle within its lane. Understanding this feature is essential for drivers to leverage its benefits effectively and enhance driving safety.
- Automatic Shift Lock: This warning light indicates the need to step on the brake before starting the car or shifting into Drive. While it serves as a safety feature, it can be confusing for drivers unfamiliar with this mechanism, potentially causing frustration during operation.
- ABS Warning Light: The ABS warning light alerts drivers to issues with the anti-lock braking system, which is crucial for safe braking performance. Any problems indicated by this light should be promptly addressed to ensure the proper functioning of the braking system.
These common problems reported by owners of the 2023 Subaru WRX highlight various issues ranging from safety concerns to maintenance alerts. Addressing these problems promptly and effectively is essential to ensure the optimal performance and safety of the vehicle.
Is a 2023 WRX reliable?
Detailed ratings
| The Car Guide rating | 77% |
|---|---|
| Reliability | 5/10 |
| Safety | 8/10 |
| Infotainment | 8/10 |
| Driving | 9/10 |
What is the biggest problem with the 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.
Is the Subaru WRX being discontinued in 2023?
The sixth-generation Subaru WRX turns two years old as it enters 2023 without change. Following the discontinuation of its high-performance STI variant, the WRX continues to carry the automaker's performance torch alongside the BRZ sports coupe.
Do Subaru WRX have transmission problems?
The 1-800-LEMON-LAW hotline has been abuzz with Subaru WRX drivers calling in complaining about issues with their transmission and/or turbo engine. Problems include loss of power, check engine light, clutch noise, fluid leaks, and assorted transmission issues.
How reliable is Subaru WRX 2023?
Detailed ratings
| The Car Guide rating | 77% |
|---|---|
| Reliability | 5/10 |
| Safety | 8/10 |
| Infotainment | 8/10 |
| Driving | 9/10 |
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.
Is the Subaru WRX being discontinued in 2023?
The sixth-generation Subaru WRX turns two years old as it enters 2023 without change. Following the discontinuation of its high-performance STI variant, the WRX continues to carry the automaker's performance torch alongside the BRZ sports coupe.
Are newer Subaru WRX reliable?
Overall, the 2020 Subaru WRX is one of the most reliable models for this compact car. However, it's a newer model, so prepare to pay for near-retail prices, especially when Subaru cars tend to hold their value over time. That wraps up our rundown of each WRX model you can buy as used.
2023 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:
- Engine problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2023 Subaru Wrx vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2023 Subaru Wrx complaints
The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2023 Subaru Wrx.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-21
- 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
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-15
- VIN: JF1VBAA64P9
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: oil pickup tube was clogged with rtv that was over used to seal the oil pan, which causes less oil flow into the engine and can cause failure.
2023 Subaru Wrx recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2023 Subaru Wrx.
- 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.
Negative 2023 Subaru Wrx car reviews
Positive 2023 Subaru Wrx car reviews
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First of all Rush2112's review is spot on. Here is what you read online: ugly, slower than last version, no STi, not as fast as an Elantra N or CTR, yada, yada, yada. Here is what you get: A powerful driver's car for $30k with AWD. My '19 Q5 was killed by a deer, and I was looking for an AWD sports sedan for the NW PA winters. With my kids almost all driving now, I wanted to get back to a car for me rather than a CUV/SUV for a part-time family hauler. My WRX is a Premium, with the Harmon Kardon stereo and moonroof with a 6 Spd. manual. First of all I think it is a gorgeous car and looks better than the last generation. Mine is the Silica Black. The amount of cladding is no different than my wife's Ascent, which the automotive press had no issues with. Here in NW PA most roads out of town are tar&chipped, and this keeps the painted work free of dings and scratches. The WRX looks like everything else Subaru, which is a good thing because Subaru still believes in making its vehicles look unique. They have always been frumpy and quirkly looking, they are not street show cars. Everything else looks like a bubble. No one will mistake a WRX for anything else. Second, this is not a drag racing car. The automotive press, especially in the US is obsessed with drag racing. Sorry, if that is what you like, you will live an unhappy life, and never be satisfied with any car, as someone will just have those extra $$$ that you don't and leave you in the dust. I autocrossed through the 90s, and spent tons of time on track days and time-to-distance events. Find a car that makes you smile driving, and that you can learn the art of driving, and you'll be more satisfied for your money. The 0-60 numbers from C&D and others are from people who don't own the car who can do clutch drops and abuse the F out of the car. Don't fall for the numbers game. The transmission. The torque is amazing, and the clutch is light, direct and incredibly predictable. A new driver of manuals will pick this up easily. I had the STi shifter installed on delivery and it makes a huge difference in tightness. Pushing into each gear has definite tactile feedback. The gears are short, and remind me of the 99.5 Audi A4 I had, where you won't reach 60 in 2nd. Even in 6th gear you are at 2k rpm at 55-60. Yes the mpg is not stellar, but this car is always AWD, and is tuned for the close ratios. The engine. Roars on startup. If you want a quiet car, this is not the one for you. The cold exhaust does drone for 1-2 minutes after start up at idle. After that it is sheer rumble when you are on the gas, and quiet when you are not. There is a hint of turbo noises, but nothing obnoxious. At my age I still love a rumbling exhaust, but not a fan of turbo noises (those are for the younger set). The engine has almost no lag. The 2.4L could pull the car on its own with no turbo and probably still put down a 7 sec 0-60. That and the twin scroll turbo make any lag minimal. My last car ('19 Q5) had far more lag. Car pulls from 2k all the way to redline linearly. Revs drop immediately on letting off gas to shift. Everything under the hood is accessible (except spark plugs, obviously). My wife's Ascent limited has a cheap prop rod for the hood, the WRX has a pair of real pressurized struts. Tuning. I tuned my last three turbo cars, but to tell you the truth, I am going to leave this one stock other than an AWE exhaust, some Red Stuff pads and some dress up items. The Audis and Volvos I just had lacked any sense of speed, they were too quiet, too smooth too refined to enjoy any bit of the driving experience. 100 MPH and you thought you were doing 50. This car engages you in the driving experience, and I think it has all the power it needs. I also want to keep the warranty and still drive it hard. That is more genius from Subaru, as this engine has more headroom for tuning, but also gives stock power at lower boost than the previous model. We have 70k in our Ascent and no issues (CVT is another issue). The Ascent has more boost at lower rpm to increase towing torque and moving a bigger vechicle. The WRX works at lower boost peak, but shifts that to higher rpm to get more hp. Ascent takes 87 octane, the WRX takes 91. Interior. Simple and livable. I can't fault my Q5 or the Audi virtual cockpit, that was flawless. But really once all those gizmos are set up the way you want, you simply need rpm, speed, coolant and oil temperature and won't bother with anything else. The WRX instrument display is straightforward and direct. Two big analog gauges for tach and speedo, and a changeable middle display for instant mpg, average mpg/range, tire pressure, media and then the turbo boost gauge that has a peak function. The 11.5" middle display combines the three from my wife's Ascent into one. A top 1/6 of the screen that scrolls L/R for media and a display for coolant temp, oil temp and average speed is cool. The main screen has the coolest feature in that it will do portrait mode of Apple car play. Bottom 1/6 of screen is HVAC controls, and YES, SUBARU FIXED THE HEATED SEAT CONTROLS!!! One push and you toggle through the heated seat levels, just like a physical button. Physical buttons are there for auto temp and volume, and push to pause music. Yes, the looks of the system are a little Windows Vista era, and I would beg Subaru to allow users to personalize background color and fonts (Volvo does that better than anyone). The system has been labelled as laggy by some reviews, but it is faster than in our '19 Ascent by a long shot. Seats have great side bolsters for cornering that really hold you in. I'm tall and thin, and can see how a larger person may think they are too tight. Lumbar support actually gives me backaches, so I'm happy without it. Seats raise/lower, setback angle and front back, that's it. Moonroof is simple, but I wish controls were backlit, no biggie. I did have the LED interior lights as an option. No rear seat ducts for HVAC, don't see where that saved Subaru any money, but the car is small enough that it should not be an issue come winter. I can comfortably sit in the rear seat behind my driver seat (I'm 6'0"). Visibitliy is awesome. Comfort. This is a sports sedan with a suspension made for a dirt track, you are not going to get a comfy detached ride. Buy another car for that. You will feel the road. Is it obnoxious or painful? No way. But the ride should be expected in this type of car. Big impacts ARE smoothed better than a comfy car, little undulations are really what you will feel in return. Handling? A dream. All reviews of electric steering have been poor from Audi, BMW, etc. don't expect miracles from Subaru in a $30 car. I find no issues with knowing where the car is pointed vs. wheel position, and I used to amateur race. Car corners flat, and with the summer rubber will scare most drivers long before it lets go. Subaru opted for understeer at the limit, which is probably wise. I haven't pushed mine to that limit yet, but we'll see. Trunk and storage are fine. Only quibble is the center armrest is a joke. I think they cut back since most people get manuals and you don't want your elbow constantly bumping a big console. For the lack of rear ductwork, Subaru could have put some cupholders in back (other than the ones in the rear armrest). Subaru has a hit!!!
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I visited Subaru on a whim, hoping to find a car that would meet my needs. I wasn't entirely sure what I was looking for, but I knew I wanted something with good visibility, a sporty look, and practicality. Although I've always been interested in sports cars, I didn't know much about the WRX. I've driven various cars, including base model BMWs, Porsche 944, 923, Mustang Cobra, and other roadsters, as well as plain jane grocery getters. I've even put a few miles on the German Autobahn, so I know what fast feels like. When they brought out their only base model for my test drive, I saw the wonderful blue color and knew it was mine before I even got in. I didn't need a second test drive. Although it doesn't have Ricardo seats, the seats are quite comfortable. I felt what was under my foot while doing a little lap in the neighborhood and I knew I was going to like it. It has plenty of power, and although I'm sad the STI isn't an option, there may be an aftermarket build in the future when this old man needs a hobby. There is a lot of talk about dark colors looking better with the cladding, but I like it on my blue machine, and I thought it looked pretty sharp in the orange one too. I kind of dig the hexagon gimmick with the cladding, and it goes well with the car's styling. The interior design reminds me of something out of a spaceship, like a cross between H.R Geiger and Darth Vader's Tie Fighter. I like dark colors, so that's fine, and my daughter likes it too. The clutch is easy yet tight, and I have a sense of the linkage and gearing happening while feeling very smooth. I know where I am in the gears. Even after years of driving an automatic, it came back to me very quickly in this car. The electronic steering is responsive, and if you understand how it works, it's rack and pinion with a boost. I've driven a car with a broken steering motor, and when you are above 20 mph, the electronics are not doing much anyway. The steering is there, now, with no slop.The motor has a great aesthetic presence that you can enjoy at all times. It produces a pleasant rumble, and the sound of the turbine winding up adds a musical quality to it. What's even better is that it's not too loud on a stock machine, which is great if you have a nervous kid to transport. You can easily hold a conversation most of the time, and it only gets a bit loud when warming up, with some reverberation. I might have missed the earlier mod enthusiasm for earlier model WRX, but I don't mind. The car is great just the way it is, and it feels like it's been solidly engineered. Even daring things don't seem so daring in this machine. I have to remind myself to drive responsibly every time I get on the road because it's almost too easy to get into mischief. I think the 2023 model is maintaining the legend, and I now have a much greater appreciation for its history. I know that this car is not going to win a track race on an oval, but that's not why you drive a WRX. I feel no qualms about adding a luggage rack to it or giving it some embellishments at some point. Maybe I'll write another review then. This car is all about having fun at its core, and it doesn't feel like it's something souped up and tacked onto a low-end economy car, as some critics have suggested. It is simply what it was made to do.
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This car is really enjoyable to drive and the supposed rough ride actually feels great to me. I was sure my husband would love it, but I didn't expect to love it more. As older individuals, we can easily get in and out of the car. I really like the design and the fuel efficiency isn't too bad either, averaging 29 MPG.
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I hope you're doing well! I wanted to share my experience with the WRX GT. Despite some mixed reviews online, I found that seeing and driving the car in person was a completely different experience. The car was truly amazing in every way, from the tuned transmission and electronic suspension (only available on the GT trim) to the comfortable and supportive Recaro seats. The AWD system made for a really fun drive, and I appreciate the car's reliability and resale value. If you're interested in getting one, I would recommend acting fast as they are in short supply. Mine is a sleek silver color with exclusive matte finished gray rims that really add to the sporty look. Thanks for listening!
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I recently purchased the GT Model, fully loaded with the exhaust. The great news is that it feels a LOT faster than last year's model. The noise level has been greatly reduced, and it handles bumps like a champ. The interior of our GT is better with soft-touch plastic and fake suedes. What I like the most is the dampening and the paddle shifting which feels real-ish. Although the upgraded stereo is just okay, it has the right amount of AC and app inputs. The trim under the windows in the rear looks incomplete, and the quarter window looks like it has some kind of shrink wrap at the top - looks super tacky. That seems strange because the rest of the car is put together nicely. On the highways and over ruts on the highways? WOW! The car is great! The CVT turbo-lag is improved and made it up to Audi and VW GTi standards of
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2023 Subaru Wrx problems:
2022+ Subaru WRX Common Problems [UPDATED] - YouTube
Aug 18, 2023 ... Common problems and issues with the 2022 Subaru WRX and 2023 Subaru WRX! If you own, drive, or are considering a 2022 WRX or a 2023 WRX this ...
Need 2023 WRX opinions : r/WRX
Jun 19, 2023 ... Love a good manual transmission too. Now, I have questions. I want to know what everyone's experiences have been. Common issues, things to look ...
2022 Subaru WRX | Common Problems - YouTube
Dec 9, 2022 ... Common problems and issues with the 2022 Subaru WRX! If you own, drive, or are considering a 2022 WRX this is the video for you.
2023 wrx reliable? : r/WRX
Jul 3, 2023 ... 2: running too lean and melting a piston. Happens mainly because either running an intake no tune and wot pulls in 5th and 6th. Or due to tunes ...
Top 5 Complaints/Issues From New Subaru WRX Owners - YouTube
Jun 9, 2023 ... Comments334 · 2022 Subaru WRX | Common Problems · 5 Things I like BETTER on The Subaru VB WRX than the VW Golf R · 2023 Subaru WRX Premium: Why, ...
Other years of Subaru Wrx
Are you having problems with your 2023 Subaru Wrx?
Monroe Cartwright 2024-10-08
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.
Junior West 2024-03-19
The WRX has some serious engine issues that can be quite expensive to fix. Unfortunately, I have had three of them and the newer models do not seem to hold up as well. I would advise against purchasing one. While they are fun to drive, the engine can start bleeding oil and cause issues with various sensors, cruise control, ABS brakes, hill assist, and more. It is with a heavy heart that I say goodbye to my WRX.