2006 Subaru WRX
Only 14 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 14 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 14
- Recalls
- 4
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
Campaigns on file for 2006
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
2006: 14 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2002 | 427 |
| 2003 | 60 |
| 2004 | 42 |
| 2005 | 19 |
| 2006 | 14 |
| 2007 | 0 |
| 2008 | 65 |
| 2009 | 41 |
| 2010 | 1 |
| 2011 | 4 |
| 2012 | 2 |
| 2013 | 7 |
| 2014 | 6 |
| 2015 | 52 |
| 2016 | 31 |
| 2017 | 53 |
| 2018 | 43 |
| 2019 | 30 |
| 2020 | 18 |
| 2021 | 13 |
| 2022 | 25 |
| 2023 | 9 |
| 2024 | 14 |
| 2025 | 3 |
| 2026 | 1 |
Known problem areas
Only 14 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Power train
4 of 14 total reports mention: power train, most commonly citing clutch assembly.
Show complaint excerpts
At 3500 RPM shift from 2ND to 3RD gear at low level acceleration the 3RD gear teeth shattered and caused damage to the gearset. 3RD gear needed total replacement and metal debris floating in the casing until car could be stopped.
NHTSA ODI report, 2012-06-07
While traveling down a major highway in fifth gear my car engine began to rev and the instrument panel was at 6,000RPMS. I attempted to slow the car and make it to an exit ramp, but the clutch would not disengage.
NHTSA ODI report, 2008-03-06
Fuel/propulsion system
3 of 14 total reports mention: fuel/propulsion system.
Show complaint excerpts
Upon start up of my 2006 Subaru WRX, there is visual evidence of fuel leakage under the intake manifold on the passenger side of engine. This only happens during times of cold weather.
NHTSA ODI report, 2015-02-07
Started my 2006 Subaru WRX this morning in 5 degree temp, and there is an extremely strong smell of gasoline in the cabin. I have a short drive to work, but the smell stayed strong for a good 10MINS.
NHTSA ODI report, 2014-01-07
Engine and engine cooling
3 of 14 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling, most commonly citing engine.
Engine
2 of 14 total reports mention: engine.
Show complaint excerpts
The secondary air injection pump failed to turn off and nearly caught fire. Subaru has recalled this part and the related relay switch for 2008-14 imprezas, but this problem also exists with 2006 imprezas.
NHTSA ODI report, 2019-04-02
Structure
1 of 14 total reports mentions: structure, most commonly citing frame and members.
Show complaint excerpts
Stud bolt connecting strut arm from rear hatch to car frame failed. This caused the strut arm to become disconnected with the rear hatch and the rear hatch door no long is able to remain ajar without manual support.
NHTSA ODI report, 2011-03-12
Safety timeline
4 recalls · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
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2006-08-01Exterior lighting06E060000 Certain aai motorsports combination lamps sold as replacement lamps for use on the above list passenger vehicles. Combination lamps not equipped with amber side reflectors fail to conform with the…
Remedy: Aai motorsports will notify owners and replace the lamps free of charge. The recall began on August 1, 2006. Owners may contact aai motorsports at 909-923-9188.
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2020-01-07Air bags20V002000 Subaru of America, Inc.
Remedy: Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614.
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2020-01-07Air bags20V001000 Subaru of America, Inc.
Remedy: Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators with alternate inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020.
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2020-01-07Air bags20V003000 Subaru of America, Inc.
Remedy: Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614.
Buy-smart checklist
2006 Subaru WRX — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Power train: 4 reports on file for this year.
- Fuel/propulsion system: 3 reports on file for this year.
- Engine and engine cooling: 3 reports on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 06E060000 · Exterior lighting
- Recall 20V002000 · Air bags
- Recall 20V001000 · Air bags
- Recall 20V003000 · Air bags
Other years of this model
See all years ranked →FAQ
- Is the 2006 Subaru WRX reliable?
- There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
- What are the most common problems with the 2006 Subaru WRX?
- The most-reported component is power train, accounting for 29% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 2006 Subaru WRX have?
- 4 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-10-31 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.