The Subaru WRX is a legendary car, known for its rally-bred performance, turbocharged engine, and all-wheel-drive grip. Choosing the right year model can be the difference between exhilarating driving experiences and costly repairs. This guide will navigate you through the best and worst years of the WRX, providing the information you need to make an informed decision.

Subaru WRX: Model Year Overview

| Model Year | Key Features/Changes | Potential Issues/Concerns | | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------4000:5000

Detailed Explanations

Model Year: This column indicates the year the WRX was manufactured and sold as a new model. This is crucial for identifying specific features, engine types, and potential issues associated with that particular year.

Key Features/Changes: This column highlights the most significant updates, improvements, or changes introduced in a specific model year compared to its predecessor. This includes engine upgrades, technological advancements, styling updates, and performance enhancements.

Potential Issues/Concerns: This column lists the common problems, recalls, or areas of concern that have been reported or observed for a specific model year. This information is vital for potential buyers to be aware of potential maintenance costs and areas to inspect thoroughly before purchasing.

2002-2007 (First Generation: GD/GG)

The first generation WRX introduced the model to the US market and quickly gained a reputation for its raw performance and rally-inspired handling. However, these early models are prone to rust, especially in areas with harsh winters. The EJ205 engine, while robust, requires careful maintenance and is susceptible to head gasket failures if not properly cared for. Regular oil changes and cooling system maintenance are critical.

2008-2014 (Second Generation: GE/GH/GR/GV)

This generation saw a significant redesign, with a more mature and refined appearance. The 2008-2010 models initially received criticism for their softer suspension and less aggressive styling compared to the earlier models. However, the introduction of the hatchback (GR) in 2008 and the subsequent engine upgrades in 2009 (EJ255 engine) improved performance. The EJ255 engine, while more powerful, is also known for ringland failures, especially if heavily modified or not properly maintained.

2015-2021 (Third Generation: VA)

The VA generation marked a return to a more aggressive design and a focus on performance. The introduction of the FA20DIT engine was a significant improvement, offering better fuel economy and a broader torque curve. This generation is generally considered more reliable than previous models, but some owners have reported issues with the CVT transmission (if equipped) and excessive oil consumption in some FA20DIT engines.

2022-Present (Fourth Generation: VB)

The current generation WRX features a new, more angular design and a larger 2.4-liter FA24F engine. While it offers improved performance and updated technology, it's still relatively new, and long-term reliability data is limited. Initial reports suggest potential issues with the infotainment system and some concerns about the overall styling. It's crucial to monitor owner forums and reliability reports as more data becomes available.

EJ205 Engine:

The EJ205 is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine found in the early WRX models (2002-2005). While relatively robust, it is prone to head gasket failures if not properly maintained. Regular oil changes and cooling system maintenance are crucial.

EJ255 Engine:

The EJ255 is a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine used in later models (2006-2014). It offers more power than the EJ205 but is also known for ringland failures, especially if heavily modified or not properly maintained.

FA20DIT Engine:

The FA20DIT is a 2.0-liter direct-injected turbocharged engine introduced in the 2015 WRX. It offers better fuel economy and a broader torque curve compared to the EJ series engines. Some owners have reported issues with excessive oil consumption.

FA24F Engine:

The FA24F is a 2.4-liter direct-injected turbocharged engine found in the current generation (2022+) WRX. It offers improved performance compared to the FA20DIT. Long-term reliability data is still emerging, but initial reports suggest potential issues with the infotainment system.

Head Gasket Failures:

Head gasket failures occur when the gasket between the engine block and cylinder head fails, leading to coolant leaks and potential engine damage. This is a common issue in the early EJ205 engines due to age and design limitations.

Ringland Failures:

Ringland failures occur when the piston ringlands (the area where the piston rings sit) crack or break, leading to loss of compression and potential engine damage. This is a known issue in the EJ255 engines, especially when subjected to high boost or improper tuning.

CVT Transmission:

The Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is an automatic transmission that offers smooth and efficient gear changes. However, some owners have reported issues with the CVT transmission in the 2015-2021 WRX models, including premature failure and jerky shifting.

Excessive Oil Consumption:

Excessive oil consumption refers to an engine burning more oil than normal. This can be a sign of worn piston rings, valve stem seals, or other internal engine problems. Some FA20DIT engines have been reported to suffer from excessive oil consumption.

Infotainment System Issues:

Infotainment system issues can include glitches, freezing, or complete failure of the car's entertainment and navigation system. This has been reported by some owners of the 2022+ WRX.

Best Years to Buy:

  • 2015-2021 (VA Generation with FA20DIT Engine): These models offer a good balance of performance, reliability, and modern features. The FA20DIT engine is generally more reliable than the EJ series engines, and the chassis provides excellent handling. Look for well-maintained examples with documented service history.
  • 2009-2014 (GR/GV Hatchback/Sedan): The later years of the second generation (GR/GV) with the revised EJ255 engine offer improved performance and styling compared to the earlier 2008 models. Be mindful of potential ringland issues with the EJ255 and ensure proper maintenance has been performed.

Years to Potentially Avoid (or Approach with Caution):

  • 2002-2005 (GD/GG First Generation): While these are classic WRXs, they are prone to rust and head gasket failures. Only consider these if you are prepared for potentially significant maintenance and restoration work.
  • 2008 (GE/GH Second Generation): The initial year of the second generation received criticism for its softer suspension and less aggressive styling. Performance upgrades were introduced in later years.

Modifying Your WRX

Modifying your WRX can significantly enhance its performance and personalize its appearance. However, it's crucial to do so responsibly and with proper knowledge.

  • Engine Tuning: Improper engine tuning can lead to serious engine damage, especially with the EJ255 engine. Ensure any tuning is done by a reputable professional with experience in Subaru engines.
  • Suspension Upgrades: Upgrading the suspension can improve handling and reduce body roll. Consider adjustable coilovers for a customizable ride.
  • Exhaust Systems: Upgrading the exhaust system can improve engine performance and sound. Ensure the exhaust system is compatible with your engine and meets local emissions regulations.

Pre-Purchase Inspection

Before purchasing any used WRX, it is highly recommended to have a pre-purchase inspection (PPI) performed by a qualified mechanic specializing in Subaru vehicles. A PPI can identify potential issues that may not be immediately apparent, saving you from costly repairs down the road. Key areas to inspect include:

  • Engine Compression Test: Checks the health of the engine's cylinders and can reveal potential ringland or valve issues.
  • Leak Down Test: Determines if there are any leaks in the cylinders, indicating potential problems with valves, piston rings, or head gasket.
  • Turbocharger Inspection: Checks for signs of wear or damage to the turbocharger, which can be expensive to replace.
  • Rust Inspection: Thoroughly inspect the undercarriage and body panels for rust, especially in areas prone to corrosion.
  • Fluid Leaks: Check for any fluid leaks, including oil, coolant, and transmission fluid.
  • Suspension Components: Inspect the suspension components for wear or damage, including struts, ball joints, and bushings.
  • CVT Transmission (if equipped): Have the CVT transmission inspected for proper operation and any signs of slippage or shuddering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which WRX year is the most reliable?

The 2015-2021 WRX models with the FA20DIT engine are generally considered the most reliable, offering a good balance of performance and modern features. Regular maintenance is still crucial for longevity.

What are the common problems with the EJ255 engine?

The EJ255 engine is known for ringland failures, especially if heavily modified or not properly maintained. Proper tuning and regular oil changes are essential.

Is the CVT transmission in the WRX reliable?

Some owners have reported issues with the CVT transmission in the 2015-2021 WRX models, including premature failure and jerky shifting. Consider a manual transmission for increased reliability.

Are older WRXs prone to rust?

Yes, the first-generation WRX models (2002-2007) are prone to rust, especially in areas with harsh winters. Thoroughly inspect the undercarriage and body panels before purchasing.

What should I look for in a used WRX?

Look for well-maintained examples with documented service history. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended.

Conclusion

Choosing the right Subaru WRX model year depends on your priorities and budget. The 2015-2021 models offer a great blend of performance and reliability, while earlier models require more careful inspection and maintenance. Thorough research and a pre-purchase inspection are essential to ensure you get a WRX that will provide years of driving enjoyment.