Avoid: No year grades F. Weakest: 2018
Best: 2011 · Best recent: 2021
14 model years of NHTSA owner complaints and recalls · How we grade
Across 15 model years, the Subaru WRX has 416 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 65 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are power train and engine. 2008 drew the most complaints (68), 2010 the fewest of the years on the road 3+ years (2).
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Subaru WRX vehicles (US, public record). Typical used asking price $18,349–$28,400.
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.
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2024 | 13 |
| 2023 | 8 |
| 2022 | 25 |
| 2021 | 13 |
| 2020 | 17 |
| 2019 | 30 |
| 2018 | 44 |
| 2017 | 53 |
| 2016 | 34 |
| 2015 | 55 |
| 2014 | 6 |
| 2011 | 5 |
| 2010 | 2 |
| 2009 | 43 |
| 2008 | 68 |
Highest: 2008 (68 complaints). Lowest: 2010 (2).
Sentiment is highly dependent on generation and owner expectations.
Screen lag, slow boot-up, requires warm-up time for best operation.
Polarizing design element criticized as unattractive.
Perceived as overpriced for the interior quality and features offered.
Historical issues with head gaskets (older 2.5L engines), rod bearing failure, and ringland failure, sometimes even on stock vehicles.
Cabin is noted as not being the quietest.
Owner insights cover all generations of the WRX. Individual model years are broken down above.
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