Last updated: 2026-04-20

Subaru WRX

0 Subaru WRX Years to Avoid

Years that score significantly below the Subaru WRX average of 75/100

All Subaru WRX years score consistently around the model average of 75/100 — no years are statistical outliers. The best year is 2024 78/100 and the weakest is 2018 71/100.

Verdict

All Subaru WRX years score consistently around the model average of 75/100 (71–78 range) — no years are statistical outliers. The best is 2024 78/100 and the weakest is 2018 71/100.

See best year ↓See all years ranked ↓

What Are Common Subaru WRX Problems?

Top reported issues across all Subaru WRX model years, based on NHTSA owner complaints.

ENGINE

30 complaints

Most reported in 2018, 2019, 2021

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

24 complaints

Most reported in 2018, 2019, 2020

POWER TRAIN

21 complaints

Most reported in 2018, 2019, 2020

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

16 complaints

Most reported in 2018, 2019, 2020

VISIBILITY/WIPER

8 complaints

Most reported in 2018, 2020, 2021

STEERING

7 complaints

Most reported in 2018

Best Subaru WRX Year to Buy Instead

75
GoodReliability score: 75 out of 100, rated Good

2020 Subaru WRX

The 2020 Subaru WRX has good reliability. There are 1 recall and 17 owner complaints on file for the 2020 Subaru WRX. Severity signals include 1 crash-related complaint. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (5), Visibility Wiper (3), Power Train (2).

Score: 75/100 (Good)1 recalls17 complaints
View full 2020reliability report →
VIN History Report

Found a Safe Year? Check the Specific Car

Even the best Subaru WRX year can have hidden problems. A VIN check reveals past accidents, title issues, and service gaps for the exact car you're considering.

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  • Accidents
  • Open Recalls
  • Title History
  • Odometer Rollback

All Subaru WRX Years by Generation

All model years ranked by reliability score, grouped by generation.

Our data covers 2018–2025 model years.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Subaru WRX years should you avoid?
All Subaru WRX years in our database score consistently around the model average of 75/100. No years are statistical outliers, though some are stronger than others.
What is the best year for the Subaru WRX?
The best year for the Subaru WRX is 2024, with a reliability score of 78/100 ("Good"). It has 0 recalls and 13 owner complaints.
How many recalls does the Subaru WRX have?
Across all years in our database, the Subaru WRX has a total of 8 recalls. Recall counts vary by year — check individual model year reports for details.
Is a used Subaru WRX worth buying?
Yes, especially the 2024 model year, which scores 78/100. Stick to years at or above the model average of 75/100 for the best ownership experience.
What are common Subaru WRX problems?
The most common Subaru WRX problems are engine (30 complaints), electrical system (24 complaints), power train (21 complaints). These issues are reported across multiple model years based on NHTSA owner complaint data.
Is the Subaru WRX reliable long-term?
The Subaru WRX has an average reliability score of 75/100 across all model years in our database, rated "good". Overall, it is a reliable vehicle, though some model years perform better than others.
Which Subaru WRX generation is most reliable?
The most reliable Subaru WRX generation is the Fifth generation (VB) with an average score of 74/100. Compare generations in our all-years-by-generation section above.
How much does it cost to maintain a Subaru WRX?
The estimated annual maintenance cost for the Subaru WRX is $682 based on independent repair cost databases. This may vary depending on the model year and driving conditions.
Is the 2024 Subaru WRX a good used buy?
Yes, the 2024 Subaru WRX is the highest-scoring model year with a reliability score of 78/100 ("Good"). It has 0 recalls and 13 owner complaints, making it a solid used buy.

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

1

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.

2

Repair Costs

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

3

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.

4

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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