WRX (4th)
Engine Reliability Comparison
DIB Turbo
2.0L 4-cyl TurboView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
2.5 High Power Turbo
2.5L 4-cyl TurboView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
2.0 DIB Turbo
2.0L 4-cyl Turbo / 268 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
Vehicle-Level Issues
These issues affect the Subaru WRX regardless of engine variant.
Recalls (5)
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.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ascent, 2018 Forester, 2018-2020 Impreza, Legacy, Outback, 2018-2019 BRZ, WRX, and Toyota 86 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2015 WRX and WRX/STI vehicles, equipped with an optional factory-installed subwoofer in the trunk. Items in the trunk may cause the subwoofer wiring to contact the subwoofer metal frame, possibly resulting in an electrical short.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 WRX vehicles manufactured April 10, 2015, to October 21, 2015, and Forester 2.0XT vehicles manufactured April 10, 2015, to October 20, 2015. The turbocharger air intake duct may crack and possibly result in an engine stall.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2015 Legacy vehicles manufactured March 10, 2014, to April 16, 2015, Outback vehicles manufactured February 24, 2014, to April 16, 2015, Impreza vehicles manufactured September 9, 2014, to April 14, 2015, XV Crosstrek vehicles manufactured October 16, 2014, to April 15, 2015, and 2016 WRX vehicles manufactured March 23, 2015, and equipped with the Eyesight Driver Assist System. If the switch that activates the brake lights fails, the automatic pre-collision braking component of the driver assist system will not function.
All Generations
Alternatives in Compact Sedan
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common 2015-2021 Subaru WRX problems?
The 2015-2021 Subaru WRX has accumulated 239 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported problem areas are Electrical System, Engine, Transmission. As with any used vehicle, a pre-purchase inspection and vehicle history report are recommended.
Which Subaru WRX engine is most reliable?
The 2015-2021 Subaru WRX was offered with 3 engine options. Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2L 4-cyl has the lowest complaint density and is considered the most reliable choice for buyers.
Is the 2015-2021 Subaru WRX a good used car?
The 2015-2021 Subaru WRX can be a solid used car purchase depending on trim, mileage, and maintenance history. With 239 total NHTSA complaints on record, prospective buyers should review the known problem areas and check for open recalls before buying.
How many NHTSA complaints does the 2015-2021 Subaru WRX have?
The 2015-2021 Subaru WRX has 239 complaints filed with NHTSA as of our latest data pull. Complaint counts reflect owner-reported issues and do not necessarily indicate defects or safety risks on their own.
What recalls affect the 2015-2021 Subaru WRX?
There are 5 NHTSA recalls affecting some 2015-2021 Subaru WRX vehicles. Recall status varies by VIN — check the NHTSA recall database at recalls.nhtsa.dot.gov with your specific VIN to confirm which campaigns apply.
What should I check before buying a used Subaru WRX?
Before buying a used Subaru WRX, verify all open recalls are completed via the NHTSA VIN lookup tool. Pay particular attention to Electrical System, Engine, Transmission, which are the most commonly reported problem areas. Request maintenance records, have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle, and run a vehicle history report to check for prior accidents or title issues.
Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 239 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: high. Last updated: 2026-04-06.