Subaru WRX reliability: common problems by model year

Across 5 model years, the Subaru WRX has 147 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 16 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are engine and electrical system. 2017 drew the most complaints (53), 2014 the fewest (6).

Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Subaru WRX vehicles (US, public record). Typical used asking price $21,700–$32,792.

Which WRX years have the most problems?

Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.

Highest: 2017 (53 complaints). Lowest: 2014 (6).

Where owners report problems

What owners say

Sentiment is highly dependent on generation and owner expectations. For the current VB generation (2022+), sentiment is mixed to positive, with a strong consensus that it offers an excellent, engaging, and analog driving experience, praised for its smooth and

• For VB Generation (2022+):
• Slow/unresponsive infotainment system: screen lag, slow boot-up, requires warm-up time for best operation. Frequency: very frequent.
• Exterior plastic cladding styling: polarizing design element criticized as unattractive. Frequency: very frequent.
• High pricing at MSRP: perceived as overpriced for the interior quality and features offered. Frequency: very frequent.
• Interior road noise: cabin is noted as not being the quietest. Frequency: recurrent.

Owner insights cover all generations of the WRX. Individual model years are broken down above.