Is the Subaru WRX a reliable car?
The Subaru WRX is generally considered a reliable car, with a reputation for durability and dependability. While no car is perfect, the WRX has proven to be a solid choice for many drivers who value performance, all-wheel drive capability, and long-term ownership satisfaction.
Subaru's Reputation for Reliability
Subaru as a brand has long been known for producing reliable and well-engineered vehicles. The Subaru WRX, as a high-performance variant of the Impreza compact car, benefits from this overall reputation for quality and dependability. According to data from Source, Subaru vehicles consistently rank among the most reliable cars in various industry surveys and studies.
Factors Contributing to the WRX's Reliability
There are several factors that contribute to the Subaru WRX's reliability:
- Robust Boxer Engine: The WRX's turbocharged Boxer engine, a Subaru signature, is known for its durability and longevity when properly maintained.
- All-Wheel Drive System: The WRX's standard all-wheel drive system is a key part of its reliability, as it helps distribute power and stress more evenly across the drivetrain.
- Rigorous Testing: Subaru is known to put its vehicles through extensive testing and quality control measures to ensure they can withstand the demands of daily driving and enthusiastic use.
- Maintenance and Care: As with any vehicle, proper maintenance and care are essential for the WRX to maintain its reliability over the long term.
While the WRX may require slightly more maintenance than some other compact cars due to its performance-oriented nature, it is generally considered a reliable choice for drivers who are willing to keep up with its service requirements.
Potential Reliability Concerns
No car is perfect, and the Subaru WRX is not without its potential reliability concerns. Some common issues that have been reported include:
- Turbocharger Failures: The WRX's turbocharged engine can be susceptible to turbocharger failures if not properly maintained or if the car is driven hard consistently.
- Transmission Issues: Some owners have reported problems with the WRX's manual and automatic transmissions, particularly with the clutch and gear synchronization.
- Electrical and Electronic Problems: As with any modern vehicle, the WRX can experience occasional issues with its electrical systems and electronic components.
However, these issues are not universal, and many WRX owners report years of trouble-free ownership with proper maintenance and care. As with any car purchase, it's important to research the model's reliability history and consider your own driving habits and maintenance practices.
Conclusion
Overall, the Subaru WRX is generally considered a reliable car, with a reputation for durability and dependability that is backed by Subaru's overall brand reputation. While no car is perfect, the WRX's robust engineering, all-wheel drive system, and Subaru's commitment to quality make it a solid choice for drivers who want a high-performance, reliable vehicle. As with any car, proper maintenance and care are essential for the WRX to maintain its reliability over the long term.
What year WRX is most reliable?
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.
Is the WRX expensive to maintain?
The annual maintenance cost of a Subaru WRX is $682. Repair and maintenance costs vary depending on age, mileage, location and shop.
Do subarus last as long as Toyotas?
And, Toyota was awarded the most reliable brand at the 2021 Auto Trader New Car Awards. Also, Toyota's can last well past 300,000 miles (think of the million-mile Tundra), while Subaru typically lasts around 200,000 miles.
Do Subaru WRX have transmission problems?
Subaru WRX Transmission Problems
It's uncommon, but leaks could also mean there's an issue with your transmission hose. Strange smells are a sign your transmission fluid is burning inside your components.
Is a WRX a good daily car?
The Subaru WRX is the lone surviving rally car, with good reason. A combination of efficiency, fun and speed, it makes the perfect daily. Confession time. I don't do so well with the whole “daily driven” concept.
How long will a Subaru WRX last?
150,000 miles
WRX and WRX STI: The Subaru WRX and WRX STI are high-performance sports sedans known for their powerful engines and agile handling. Despite their sporty nature, WRX and WRX STI models can still provide long-term reliability, lasting 150,000 miles + with proper maintenance and care.
How many miles per gallon does a 2025 WRX get?
22 mpg
Although the CVT-equipped WRX holds a slight edge in acceleration, it trails the manual-transmission WRX in EPA-rated fuel economy, 22 mpg vs 21 mpg in combined driving. On our real-world 75-mph highway fuel economy route, both our six-speed manual WRX Limited and our automatic WRX GT test vehicles managed 28 mpg.
What is the cons of a WRX?
On the downside, the WRX is pretty noisy, with a little rumble from the engine at highway speeds and some pronounced wind noise over the doors and mirrors at speed.
What are the good years for WRX?
The Most Reliable Subaru WRX Year
- 2015 Subaru WRX. The 2015 Subaru WRX offers plenty of good stuff for performance car enthusiasts, including top-notch handling, a tenacious cornering grip, and a potent engine.
- 2016 Subaru WRX.
- 2017 Subaru WRX.
- 2018 Subaru WRX.
- 2019 Subaru WRX.
- 2020 Subaru WRX.
Are WRX Subaru reliable?
When it comes to reliability, the Subaru WRX presents a mixed picture. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gives the 2023 model year an overall five-star safety rating. On the other hand, RepairPal rates it 3.5 out of five, ranking it 32nd out of 36 compact cars.