Here Are The Subaru WRX Years To Avoid
The Subaru WRX took a life of its own in 2015. It was based on the Subaru Impreza, produced between 1992 and 2014. Today, it’s a standalone model popular among many driving enthusiasts.
The WRX is a racy car that is fun to drive, even on twisted roads. At CoPilot, we want to ensure you know which model to get when looking for a used WRX. This post will provide information on the Subaru WRX years to avoid and the best ones to buy.
THE MOST RELIABLE YEARS FOR THE SUBARU WRX
We walk you through all the many different WRX models so far and determine which Subaru WRX years are reliable and which ones are not. Let’s take a look.
Quick answer: Avoid Subaru WRX Year Models 2015 and 2016
The Subaru WRX is the only model on the market that can meet the World Rally Championship fans’ needs. Even then, there aren’t that many model years to choose from. The WRX is still a new entrant into the rally-inspired sport compact car segment.
As with most cars when they first debut, it’s not a major surprise that the earlier 2015 and 2016 models have the most problems. They both suffer from a lousy clutch after being used for a while. We recommend avoiding them due to this issue.
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Which Year Models of Subaru WRX Are Safe to Buy Used?
The WRX is still a fun vehicle, thanks to its firm ride, quick steering, and refined performance. Fortunately, there are few model years to choose from despite its recent entry into the market as a standalone model. We recommend picking any of the following Subaru WRX model years when shopping:
- 2017 Subaru WRX
- 2018 Subaru WRX
- 2019 Subaru WRX
- 2020 Subaru WRX
- 2021 Subaru WRX
The only problems filed for the 2017 Subaru WRX include engine, drivetrain, and electrical system problems. These are, however, few and not common among many owners. The worst issues recorded include:
- Premature clutch failure at just 6,000 miles.
- A throw-out bearing noise at 9,000 miles.
- A squealing noise at 25,000 miles.
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The 2018 Subaru WRX is a reliable car with few problems to worry about. A few owners reported experiencing electrical, engine, and drivetrain problems. The most severe issues filed include a knocking engine at 7,000 miles, an eyesight system malfunction at 2,000 miles, and a radio that stopped working at 2,000 miles.
For the 2019 Subaru WRX, only a single clutch problem is on record. Other issues concerning the engine, electrical systems, and drivetrain are almost non-existent. The worst problem reported is a sudden clicking noise at 15,000 miles. Subsequent model years are yet to have any complaints filed.
We recommend going for any of the 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021 Subaru WRX model years. These do not suffer from any chronic problems. You’re not likely to spend any more than you would take care of ordinary repairs on any other reliable car.
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Which Year Models of Subaru WRX to Avoid:
A good number of Subaru WRX years will give you the much-spirited drives you desire without experiencing any major reliability issues. This is, of course, while still enjoying the comfort and agility of the car.
On the other hand, there are two Subaru WRX years that you should avoid. They include:
- 2015 Subaru WRX
- 2016 Subaru WRX
The most common problem filed for the 2015 WRX involves the clutch. Some owners reported having a clutch pedal that felt wrong or slipped. Other issues that are filed in high numbers include drivetrain problems, engine problems, and transmission problems.
The worst cases involved a bad clutch plate at 9,000 miles that costs on average $1,600 to fix, a clutch that stopped working entirely at 25,000 miles that costs $1,400 to replace, and Throwout bearing noises at 10,000 miles.
The 2016 Subaru WRX is also subject to the same clutch problems experienced in the 2015 model year. Other problems include engine issues and electrical problems. These are, however, few and not a significant concern.
The most expensive repairs owners had to make on the 2016 model year include replacing a bad clutch for $1,500 and a failed radiator for $800. The former went bad at 10,000 miles while the latter failed at 43,000 miles.
Common Subaru WRX Problems
In general, the Subaru WRX is a relatively reliable compact sedan. However, some years are certainly worse than others in terms of reliability. Here are some of the most common reliability woes for the WRX:
- Engine issues: Apparently, the WRX had some troubles with internal engine issues. Some of the weak points of the internal engine that tend to fail are the rods, rod bearings, and piston rings. However, this seems to be more of a concern for tuned and modded engines, which is typical for the WRX.
- Oil leaks: According to some reports, the Subaru WRX also struggled with oil leaks. Many drivers have noticed that their WRX consumes oil at an alarming rate. In this case, the culprit is the vehicle’s oil pump seal. If left unattended, this could cause permanent damage to the engine.
- Defective turbocharger: A defective turbo on a race-inspired car like the WRX is simply unacceptable. Several WRX owners claimed that the WRX’s defective turbocharger would cause the engine to misfire and lose power.
- Faulty oxygen sensors: Frustrated owners have reported that the WRX’s oxygen sensors are prone to fail. This was a widespread problem among numerous WRX models, from rough idling to engine misfires.
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Subaru WRX Problem Counts by Year
Below is a breakdown of the number of problems reported by Subaru WRX owners on platforms such as Car Talk Community, carcomplaints.com, and carprobelms.com. Clutch problems were the most popular and cut across all earlier models.
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Frequently Asked Questions: Subaru WRX Years to Avoid
Q: What are the Subaru WRX year models to avoid?
A: The Subaru WRX year models to avoid are 2015 and 2016. These early models have the most problems, particularly with the clutch, which can wear out quickly after some use.
Q: What are the most common issues reported in the 2015 and 2016 Subaru WRX models?
A: The most common problem reported for the 2015 and 2016 Subaru WRX is the clutch. Owners have reported issues such as a clutch pedal that feels wrong or slips, and the clutch stops working entirely. Other problems include drivetrain issues, engine problems, and transmission problems.
Q: How much does it typically cost to replace a bad clutch in a 2015 or 2016 Subaru WRX?
A: Replacing a bad clutch in a 2015 or 2016 Subaru WRX can be expensive. On average, owners have reported spending around $1,400 to $1,600 to fix this issue. In one case, a bad clutch plate needed to be replaced at just 9,000 miles, costing the owner $1,600.
Q: Which Subaru WRX model years are considered safe to buy used?
A: The Subaru WRX model years considered safe to buy used include 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021. These model years have fewer reported problems and are generally more reliable.
Are Subaru WRXs typically reliable?
For the most part, the Subaru WRX is reliable (we’re talking about the WRX as a standalone model, which debuted for the 2015 model year). However, like with most vehicles, not every model year is perfect. The first two years (2015-2016) are considered the least dependable.
How much does a used Subaru WRX typically cost?
Pricing will vary significantly depending on year, condition, mileage, and other factors. According to CoPilot Price Pulse, the average asking price for a 2015 WRX is $19,697. It rises to $32,243 for a 2021 edition. These prices reflect a 10%-12% premium versus the pre-pandemic market. The STi variant will command higher amounts.
Is the Subaru WRX a good car to purchase?
The Subaru WRX is the ideal daily driver for many because of its all-wheel-drive practicality and engaging performance. But it’s vital to do your homework to pick a dependable car. Start your research by checking out the article, Which Years Of Used Subaru WRXs Are Most Reliable?
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