Subaru WRX Recalls

The Subaru WRX has 22 recalls spanning 2004 through 2023, with the most serious recent issue affecting 2023 models where front axle shafts or driveshaft outer races can crack and break, causing sudden loss of drive power while moving or rollaway when parked without the parking brake applied.

The 2022 model year has a compliance recall for vehicles equipped with the EyeSight driver assistance package: the owner's manual contains incorrect instructions for adjusting the High Beam Assist sensitivity, which can result in headlights not being set as intended. The 2015-2021 model years have a backup light switch that can corrode and stop working, leaving the reverse lights dark and the rearview camera image blank when backing up. On 2015-2016 models, the turbocharger air intake duct can crack and cause the engine to stall. The 2015 model year, on vehicles with the optional factory-installed trunk subwoofer, has wiring that can contact the subwoofer's metal frame, short out, and overheat the amplifier to the point of fire. The 2016 model year has a recall where the automatic emergency braking system can fail to react to an obstacle ahead.

The 2018-2019 model years share a fuel pump recall: the low-pressure pump inside the tank can fail and stall the engine while driving. On 2008-2014 models, brake lines can corrode and leak fluid, extending stopping distances. That same generation has a brake light switch recall covering 2008-2014 sedans where the brake lights may not illuminate when slowing, and an ignition switch recall for 2008-2014 vehicles where a broken ball spring inside a replacement ignition switch can cause the engine to shut off unexpectedly, with airbags potentially not deploying in a resulting crash.

The most widespread issue across this model's history is the Takata airbag inflator defect, which spans 2004-2014 model years in multiple waves of recalls. The passenger-side frontal airbag inflator can rupture and send metal fragments into the cabin, posing a serious injury or fatality risk to front occupants. Earlier recalls in this cluster targeted high-humidity states and territories first, with later expansions covering additional regions and model years. A separate follow-up recall covers 2004-2005 vehicles where replacement inflators installed under a prior recall may have been fitted incorrectly, meaning the airbag might not inflate properly in a crash.