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Which Years Of Used Subaru WRX STIs Are Most Reliable?


in Reliability
Subaru WRX STI at sunset

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The Subaru WRX STI is a unique version of the iconic vehicle, producing almost three decades’ worth of cars for drivers to enjoy. However, some years were much better than others. If you want a Subaru WRX STI, you might wonder - what is the most reliable Subaru WRX STI year?

If you’re looking for a classic car like the Subaru WRX STI, it’s critical to remember that dependability should be at the top of your list. However, with thirty years of selections available, it might feel impossible to land on the ideal year. Read on to learn more about the most reliable Subaru WRX STI year, the worst selections, and other critical information. 

Most Reliable Years For The Subaru WRX STI

There are many years for the Subaru WRX STI, but the most reliable will cost the least to maintain and keep you safe along the way. We’ve put together a list of the most dependable selections from the WRX STI.

THE SUBARU WRX STI YEARS TO AVOID

If you’re interested in this car, you might wonder - what are the Subaru WRX STI years to avoid on the modern market?

Here are the best years available for the Subaru WRX STI:

  • 1992-1999 Subaru WRX STI
  • 2004 Subaru WRX STI
  • 2005 Subaru WRX STI
  • 2006 Subaru WRX STI
  • 2007 Subaru WRX STI
  • 2017 Subaru WRX STI
  • 2018 Subaru WRX STI
  • 2019 Subaru WRX STI
  • 2020 Subaru WRX STI
  • 2021 Subaru WRX STI
  • 2022 Subaru WRX STI

If you want the most reliable Subaru WRX STI year, pick one of these.

These years have had the best results by far. The 1992-1999 versions set the bar for the STI, offering power and prestige along with value based on dependability. The 2017-2021 versions were the most accessible and powerful, while the 2006-2007 varieties held top-notch aircraft manufacturing roots. These are the best of the best. 

Are Subaru WRX STIs Generally Reliable?

There are several quality years available for the Subaru WRX STI, but they don’t speak for the dependability of all years. Is the Subaru WRX STI worth an investment, or should you look at another year?

According to repairpal.com, the Subaru WRX STI scores 2.5⁄5, placing it 36th out of 36 for other compact cars. It has higher than average costs for the WRX STI, making it less dependable than other similar selections.

Unfortunately, some serious issues with the Subaru WRX STI make it less dependable than other selections. You might want to look elsewhere for your compact vehicle.

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Which Subaru WRX STI Years Are The Least Reliable?

Unfortunately, none of the years of the WRX STI are spectacular. However, some are better than others, and we’ve compiled a list of the ones you should avoid at all costs.

Here are the worst years available for the Subaru WRX STI:

  • 2000 Subaru WRX STI
  • 2001 Subaru WRX STI
  • 2002 Subaru WRX STI
  • 2008 Subaru WRX STI
  • 2015 Subaru WRX STI
  • 2016 Subaru WRX STI
  • 2009 Subaru WRX STI
  • 2010 Subaru WRX STI
  • 2011 Subaru WRX STI
  • 2012 Subaru WRX STI
  • 2013 Subaru WRX STI
  • 2014 Subaru WRX STI


If you’re hunting for the most reliable Subaru WRX STI year, keep away from these options away from your driveway.

These years were the most problematic selections from this particular production from Subaru. Issues like a breaking clutch, trouble with the suspension, controversial features, and breaking-down components made for an expensive experience with the Subaru WRX STI. It’s best to keep clear of these options if you get to pick between different years.

Are Subaru WRX STIs Expensive To Maintain?

According to repairpal.com, the Subaru WRX STI has an average repair cost of $758 a year. This price is about average when considering ownership costs, so you won’t need to pay too much more than you would with another used compact car.

Subaru WRX STI owners report bringing their vehicles in for unexpected issues an average of .5 times a year, compared to the average of .3 for other compact vehicles. There is a 21% chance the necessary repair will be severe, which is much higher than the 11% average for compact vehicles.

If you have a used Subaru WRX STI, the best thing you can do is care for it. Perform regular maintenance and ensure you’re aware of your driving habits to prevent issues from appearing before they are predicted to be in the car.

THE 10 MOST RELIABLE USED SEDANS

If you’re ready to start shopping for a used car and reliability is a priority for you, take a look at our list of the top 10 most reliable used sedans on the market today. 

Which Subaru Is Most Reliable?

Perhaps you’re set on investing in a Subaru, but you only want the best from the manufacturer in dependability. The WRX STI is far from the best in the category.

 According to iseecars.com, here are the most reliable Subarus:

  • Subaru Impreza
  • Subaru Outback
  • Subaru Forester
  • Subaru Legacy

 These are the best from the manufacturer.

Select the Impreza, Outback, Forester, and Legacy if you’re hunting for the most reliable Subaru options. The WRX STI might have some decent years, but it’s far from the best.

HOW MANY SPARK PLUGS DOES A DIESEL ENGINE HAVE?

The answer to this question isn’t as  simple as you’d expect. Let’s look explore the difference between gas and diesel engines and explore just how many spark plugs a diesel engine actually has.

What Are The Most Common Subaru WRX STI Problems?

As with any vehicle, some troubles appear across the board for the Subaru WRX STI. It’s helpful to know what they are before investing in this car.

According to motorandwheels.com, here are the most common Subaru WRX STI issues:

  • Possibility of failing engine gaskets
  • Rough running thanks to issues with oxygen sensors
  • Bad camshaft
  • Cooling system issues

Watch for these if you get behind the wheel.

You will likely find these in the worst years of the Subaru WRX STI. However, they might also come up with the best versions.

Is The Subaru WRX STI Worth It?

The Subaru WRX STI is a classic car. Unfortunately, we would not recommend even the most reliable versions, thanks to the expensive repairs required.

Subaru is a solid manufacturer, but the WRX STI isn’t necessarily their strong suit. If you want the car for its classic standing, go with the best years available. 

Final Thoughts

There are many decent choices for a used Subaru WRX STI. We recommend the 1992-1999, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, or 2022 versions for the best results.

We hope this information is valuable! It can feel overwhelming to pick the ideal vehicle with three decades of selections, so our information should make it easier to make the right call.

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