Last updated: 2026-04-20

RELIABILITY SCORE: 75/100 (GOOD)

2021 Subaru WRX Reliability Report

Name: 2021 Subaru WRX
Brand: Subaru

The 2021 Subaru WRX scores 75/100 ("Good"). With 1 recall and 12 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.

Full Breakdown Compare Models

Recalls

Complaints

Complaint Rate

4.4per 10,000 sold

Est. Repair Cost

$682

Annual Fuel Cost

$3,000–$3,850

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity71/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs70/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact88/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity79/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.

Top Issues to Watch

POWER TRAIN (6)
ENGINE (2)
VISIBILITY/WIPER (2)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Final Year

2021 is the last model year of the Fourth generation (VA).

Final-year models are typically the most refined version of a generation.
2 years after the last refresh (2019).
4th generation WRX (US).

What this means for buyers

Final-year models are usually the most polished version of a generation, but resale value may dip as buyers anticipate the next redesign.

2015: Fourth generation (VA) Launch

Generation start — new platform.

2017: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

2019: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

2021: This Model Year

2021 is the last model year of the Fourth generation (VA).

Should You Buy the 2021 Subaru WRX?

At 75/100, the 2021 Subaru WRX lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2021 is the last model year of the Fourth generation (VA).

Owners log 12 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.

Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to power train (6). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.

Compared to the 2022 Subaru WRX, which scored 2 points lower. See also the 2020 Subaru WRX for an earlier comparison.

Pros

+Acceptable reliability score
+Infrequent unscheduled repairs
+Low major repair risk (14%)
+Low recall count

Cons

−Above-average repair costs for its class
−POWER TRAIN: Engine and transmission failures (6 complaints)
−ENGINE: Owners of the 2021 Subaru WRX report engine issues primarily involving oil... (2 complaints)

Compare 2021 Subaru WRX With

2021 Volkswagen Golf

Reliability: 75/100

Good

2021 Mazda 3

Reliability: 70/100

Good

2021 Honda Civic

Reliability: 81/100

Excellent

2021 Hyundai Elantra

Reliability: 75/100

Good

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK

1 manufacturer recall issued

Other

HIGH RISK

POWER TRAIN (6)
ENGINE (2)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

recall on record

The 2021 Subaru WRX carries 1 recall — a low count. Authorized dealers repair any open recall free of charge, regardless of warranty status.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

4.4

per 10,000 sold

Segment avg: 16.9

LowAvgHigh

Low

Safety Incidents

Crashes

Fires

Injuries

Deaths

★★★★★

NHTSA 5/5 Stars

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

2021 Subaru WRX Recall Details

1 recall has been issued for the 2021 Subaru WRX. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

22V5220002022-07-21

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2015-2021 WRX vehicles. The backup light switch may corrode and become inoperative, which can result in the backup lights not illuminating and the rearview camera image not displaying when the vehicle is in reverse.

Consequence

Inoperative backup lights and an inoperative rearview camera can reduce vehicle visibility and driver awareness, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will inspect and replace the backup light switch, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 16, 2022. Owners may contact Subaru's customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRE-22.

VIN History Report

Buying a used 2021 Subaru WRX? Check its history first

Every 2021 Subaru WRX has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.

Accidents
Open Recalls
Title History
Odometer Rollback

2021 Subaru WRX NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Driver: 4/5Passenger: 5/5

Rollover risk: 10.1%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Not Available)Advanced Belt Feature (Standard)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Curtain (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Torso/Pelvis (Driver, Front Passenger)Knee (Driver)Additional Air Bags (n/a)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (Rear Seat)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (None)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Not Available)

View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Subaru WRXRepair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

3.5

Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.

Est. Annual Maintenance

$682

vs $526 avg for compact cars

vs $652 avg for all vehicles

Repair Frequency

0.3

unscheduled repair visits per year

Severe Repair Probability

14%

chance of a major repair

Annual Cost Comparison

WRX

$682

Category Avg

$526

All Vehicles

$652

Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.

MPG & Annual Running Costs

Gas

18–23 MPG

Running cost: $3,700–$4,550/yr

Fuel + repair

16–20 city / 22–27 hwy MPG

Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2021 EPA label cycle.

Gas trims

Trim	Drive	Trans.	City	Hwy	Comb	Fuel Cost
WRX 2.0L 4-cyl	All-Wheel Drive	Manual 6-spd	20	27	23	$3,000
WRX 2.0L 4-cyl	All-Wheel Drive	Automatic (AV-S8)	18	24	21	$3,300
WRX 2.5L 4-cyl	All-Wheel Drive	Manual 6-spd	16	22	18	$3,850

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2021 Subaru WRX.

Inspect for engine knocking noises and check engine oil temperature stability
Verify transmission shifts smoothly without binding or surging RPMs
Check for any unauthorized modifications like cold air intakes
Inspect windshield for cracks or chips that may spread
Test for steering alignment issues that cause pulling to one side
Confirm clutch release bearing has been updated per Subaru's design change

2021 Subaru WRX Common Problems by Component

12 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

POWER TRAIN (6)ENGINE (2)VISIBILITY/WIPER (2)SEATS (1)STEERING (1)

POWER TRAIN

6 complaints

Owners of the 2021 Subaru WRX frequently report powertrain issues, particularly involving engine and transmission failures. Complaints often describe severe engine damage, with symptoms such as knocking noises, increased engine oil temperature, and stalling, typically occurring around 38,000 miles. Transmission problems include binding, refusal to accelerate, and surging RPMs, with some reports occurring as early as 10,510 miles. Several owners also mention warranty disputes, particularly when modifications like cold air intakes are present. Safety implications are noted, with some owners narrowly avoiding collisions due to sudden loss of power or control. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues, especially given the reports of significant repair costs and prolonged dealership visits.

6 complaints total

ENGINE

2 complaints

Owners of the 2021 Subaru WRX report engine issues primarily involving oil starvation and blow-by contamination. Symptoms frequently described include catastrophic engine failure, stalling, loss of power, and engine noise. One owner mentions that their vehicle experienced engine failure without prior dashboard warnings, while another notes contamination affecting MAP sensors leading to lean/rich conditions. Safety implications include potential loss of vehicle control due to stalling or power loss, especially on busy roads. These issues can result in prolonged repair times and disputes over warranty coverage, with one vehicle out of service for over seven months.

2 complaints total

VISIBILITY/WIPER

2 complaints

Owners of the 2021 Subaru WRX report issues with windshield cracking under seemingly minor or no impact conditions. Multiple complaints describe cracks developing from small chips or without any apparent cause while the vehicle is stationary. These cracks often spread quickly across the windshield, affecting its structural integrity. One owner notes the issue occurring within the first month of ownership, suggesting potential early onset. While no crashes or loss of control are reported, the rapid crack propagation could pose a safety risk if not addressed promptly.

2 complaints total

SEATS (1 complaints)

SEATS

1 complaint

2025-06-01

Manual (not power) Driver seat is loose-rocking car only has 47000 miles but this hardware failure will get worse over time definitely a safety concern if bolt breaks it appears that the plastic washer is wearing most likely poor material should be polyurethane or something like the form of a grommet that absorbs since vehicle has hard suspension NOTE: I have video however cannot create video < than 10mb

STEERING (1 complaints)

STEERING

1 complaint

2021-04-29

Hello my name is [XXX], I'm the first time owner of this vehicle, purchased this vehicle new of the dealer with 5 miles, ever since I bought it the car has an issue that it steers to the right at any speed, road, condition very dangerous. Over the past months and years I told Subaru dealers, service department, sales guy and Subaru corporate about the issue, long story short I've gone to the service department to fix this issue at least 8 times, the last time an engineer from Subaru worked on the car but the car is not fixed and it continues to have this issue, I open a claimed with the Texas department of motor vehicle for a lemon claimed but Subaru has denied it as a lemon and they constantly ruined my lug nuts, studs, my alignment and now I need new tires. I need help to resolve this, I have multiple repair orders, video's and pictures to prove it all. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).

When Do 2021 Subaru WRX Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

38,000 milesEngine failures

10,000–19,000 milesTransmission issues

Best & Worst Subaru WRX Years

Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.

Best Subaru WRX Years to Buy

Based on reliability index score

The best Subaru WRX year is 2026 with a reliability score of 81/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2024 (78/100) and 2025 (77/100).

Top Pick

Excellent

Subaru WRX Years to Avoid

No Subaru WRX years are statistical outliers in our data.

All model years score consistently well. The Subaru WRX maintains one of the highest industry standards for long-term durability across its entire production span.

See full Subaru WRX years-to-avoid analysis

Subaru WRX Reliability Score Trend

Subaru WRX reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 75/100.

Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.

Subaru WRX reliability scores by year
Year	Score	Rating
2018	71/100	Good
2019	72/100	Good
2020	75/100	Good
2021	75/100	Good
2022	73/100	Good
2023	75/100	Good
2024	78/100	Good
2025	77/100	Good
2026	81/100	Excellent

Subaru WRX Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
Year	Score	vs Prior Year	Rating	Recalls	Complaints
2026	81/100	+4	Excellent	0	0
2025	77/100	-1	Good	0	1
2024	78/100	+3	Good	0	13
2023	75/100	+2	Good	1	6
2022	73/100	-2	Good	1	23
2021(selected)	75/100	0	Good	1	12
2020	75/100	+3	Good	1	17
2019	72/100	+1	Good	2	27
2018	71/100	—	Good	2	40

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2021 Subaru WRX reliable?

The 2021 Subaru WRX has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 75/100. It is reasonably reliable with 1 recall and 12 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.

What are the most common problems with the 2021 Subaru WRX?

The most commonly reported problems with the 2021 Subaru WRX include: POWER TRAIN (6 complaints), ENGINE (2 complaints), VISIBILITY/WIPER (2 complaints), SEATS (1 complaints), STEERING (1 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.

How many recalls does the 2021 Subaru WRX have?

The 2021 Subaru WRX has 1 recall on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.

Is the 2021 Subaru WRX expensive to maintain?

The 2021 Subaru WRX has estimated annual repair costs of $682/year, which is $156 more than the compact cars average of $526. With a reliability score of 75/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

Don’t buy a 2021 Subaru WRX without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.

Look Up a VIN →

How We Calculate Reliability Scores

Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.

Key Ranking Factors

Complaint Severity

NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

Recall Impact

Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.

Issue Diversity

Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.

Scores are grouped into four tiers:

80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution

Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.

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