2021 Subaru WRX
Only 13 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 13 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
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 | 42 |
| 2019 | 30 |
| 2020 | 17 |
| 2021 | 13 |
| 2022 | 24 |
| 2023 | 7 |
| 2024 | 13 |
| 2025 | 2 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 13 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
6 of 13 total reports mention: power train.
Show complaint excerpts
10,510 miles, a more pressing issue arose: the transmission started to bind while in gear. As I pressed the gas pedal, my WRX refused to accelerate, and instead, the engine RPMs surged.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240219
5 of 13 total reports mention: engine.
Show complaint excerpts
Severe engine failure! Was driving steady speed on highway, then I let off the throttle and heard a bad knocking noise on deceleration. The engine oil temp increased to around 230F. I slowed down to limp it to the next exit and it started jerking.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240307
2 of 13 total reports mention: visibility/wiper.
Show complaint excerpts
I was de-frosting my windshield early in the morning when I watched a crack start at the base of the driver's side windshield and travel up the window and back down to the base of the windshield.
NHTSA ODI report, 20220823
Windshield cracked to the point of requiring repair from pinhead size chip that barely left a mark. The windshield is being replaced but photos are available upon request.
NHTSA ODI report, 20220103
2 of 13 total reports mention: electrical system.
1 of 13 total reports mentions: suspension.
SAFETY TIMELINE
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.
Campaign 22V522000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2021 Subaru WRX — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for power train issues (6 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine issues (5 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for visibility/wiper issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 22V522000 (exterior lighting) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2021 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 2021 Subaru WRX?
The most-reported component is power train, accounting for 46% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2021 Subaru WRX have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.