If you have your eyes on a Subaru WRX, you’ll be happy to learn that this car was built with reliability in mind. No matter the model year, Subaru’s commitment to build a dependable vehicle is apparent. Despite that commitment, the Subaru WRX is not immune to problems that could affect your enjoyment of the vehicle.
What are some Subaru WRX problems you should know about?
Well, there are quite a few to keep in mind, such as:
- Bad clutch
- Engine stall
- Transmission noise
Thankfully, in this article we will look at all these Subaru WRX problems and more. You can then use that information to make an informed buying decision as you decide between all the different cars for sale.
Subaru WRX: A Sporty Sedan
Subaru WRX owners say they love their cars for the performance and gas mileage, saying they’re quick and fun to drive. This all-wheel-drive sport sedan got its origins from the Subaru Impreza, created for the World Rally Championship by Subaru back in 1992. Subaru WRX gets its name from “World Rally eXperimental.”
For the 2015 model year, the WRX lineup was marketed separately from the Impreza for the first time, with Subaru altering the body style and removing the Impreza name. The Subaru WRX is known as a true performance car, coming standard with a 6-speed manual gearbox.
While some owners love it, the WRX’s sport suspension doesn’t ride like your typical sedan and isn’t for everyone. First-time owners are not always prepared for as much shifting as it needs, especially in stop-and-go traffic.
Subaru WRX Problems
While Subaru WRX problems pop up across all model years, it’s the 2015 model that appears to have the most. Here’s a rundown of what to watch for:
Bad Clutch Plate, Flywheel
Customers have complained that the vehicle was not torqued to specs, as evidenced by the lack of green paint on the flywheel, an indication that the test had been performed. When accelerating, the torque caused the bolt to come loose, shredding the flywheel and clutch.
Engine Block Failure
Owners say that the Subaru WRX’s engine blocks are known to fail, with one customer indicating the short block had to be replaced after only 50,000 miles. Constant engine knock sounds even after repair is a common complaint.
Manual Transmission Noise
On the 2015 WRX, there may be a screeching noise, especially when the vehicle is first started. Owners who took their vehicles to a dealer learned the noise came from the throw out bearing. The problem worsens, causing the clutch to pulsate and feel rough. Other owners have indicated they have had to replace the transmission early in the life of their car.
Subwoofer Wire May Overheat
Owners have complained of needing to replace their subwoofer. This problem was the subject of an NHTSA Recall ID: 17V625000. An electrical short can occur, damaging the subwoofer amplifier and causing it to overheat, which increases the risk of fire.
Owners of these vehicles were notified by Subaru to take their vehicle to a dealer who will inspect the subwoofer wire, install a wire retainer clip and if necessary, replace the subwoofer at no charge.
Engine Stall
This problem has been traced to a turbocharger intake duct crack. It is also the subject of an NHTSA recall ID: 16V162000. In affected vehicles, a crack in the vehicle’s turbocharger intake duct causes the engine to stall. Owners report that while driving, the RPM drops and then the engine stalls. The issue happens in first gear. Some owners reported the engine shuddering first.
Headlights Disabled
The headlights on the Subaru WRX can randomly stop working. Owners report that the warning light, “headlights disabled” comes on, but the headlights cannot be turned back on in most cases. At times, the headlights will flicker for several seconds before going out. Sometimes one headlight stays on while the other goes out.
