Is the 2017 Subaru WRX reliable?

Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2017 Subaru WRX is rated "typical".

What are the most common problems with the 2017 Subaru WRX?

The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 26% of complaints on file.

How many recalls does the 2017 Subaru WRX have?

1 recall on file for this model year.

2017 Subaru WRX

● Typical for this model

2017 Subaru WRX
RENDERED 2026-11-01T13:32:10.204Z

This year's complaint volume is within 30% of this model's typical year.

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.

How is this computed?

Complaints: 53
Recalls: 1
Investigations: 0
Top problem: Electrical system

Complaints per year

2017: 53 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

Percentages can add to more than 100% — a complaint can name more than one system.

Electrical system

26% · 14 reports

CRASHFIREINJURY

Show complaint excerpts

1, At about 12000 miles the car's windshield wipers stop working. And did not ever work again for the past several years. Wipers which was checked the motor was replaced to admission to the key was replaced and wiper still don't work.

NHTSA ODI report, 2023-12-22

Also filed under Steering and visibility/wiper

Driving and on a turn between 35-40 MPH my WRX freaked out. The dash light up like a christmas tree, the lane tracking along with the adaptive cruise control indicators flashed, and the dash said eyesight unavailable.

NHTSA ODI report, 2019-05-02

Also filed under Air bags

Engine

23% · 12 reports

CRASH

Power train

21% · 11 reports

Steering

11% · 6 reports

CRASHFIREINJURY

Visibility/wiper

8% · 4 reports

CRASHFIRE

Safety timeline

1 recall · 0 investigations · oldest first

To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →

R

2022-09-16Exterior lighting22V522000 Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2015-2021 WRX vehicles.

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.

Check if this car was fixed →

Buy-smart checklist

2017 Subaru WRX — pre-purchase inspection

Inspect

Electrical system: 14 reports on file for this year.
Engine: 12 reports on file for this year.
Power train: 11 reports on file for this year.

Verify these recalls were completed

Recall 22V522000 · Exterior lighting

Other years of this model

See all years ranked →

Best years2 years

Worst years3 years

FAQ

Is the 2017 Subaru WRX reliable?: Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2017 Subaru WRX is rated "typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2017 Subaru WRX?: The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 26% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2017 Subaru WRX have?: 1 recall on file for this model year.

Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.