This page covers 3 recalls, 52 owner complaints and EPA fuel economy for the 2015 Subaru WRX.
19–24 mpg combined
9.8–12.4 L/100km
Compact Cars
Fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov (EPA / U.S. Dept. of Energy). Annual cost based on 15,000 mi/yr at 55% city driving and current fuel prices. MPG is U.S. gallons; L/100km converted. Ranges reflect the 3 tested variants for this model year.
The dominant complaint pattern for the 2015 Subaru WRX centers on the powertrain and engine. On the powertrain side, owners report issues with drive axles, differential seals, and drive belt failures, often discovered during dealer inspections prompted by unusual noises. The engine complaints are the more serious thread, owners frequently describe a loud knocking or ticking sound that develops while driving, with several reports pointing to connecting rod bearing failure requiring short block or full engine replacement. This pattern shows up across a range of mileages, with some failures occurring before 60,000 miles. Exterior lighting rounds out the top three complaint categories, though at much lower volume. The connecting rod bearing failures are the most consistently described symptom, with owners reporting sudden loss of power and audible knocking as the typical warning signs before the engine is pulled for inspection.
52
Total Complaints
2
Crash-Related
1
Fire-Related
1
With Injuries
By System
The 2015 Subaru WRX has 3 recalls, the most serious being a fire risk tied to the optional factory-installed trunk subwoofer, where cargo shifting in the trunk can pinch the wiring against the metal frame, causing a short that can overheat the amplifier.
On the engine side, the turbocharger air intake duct can crack on certain vehicles, which may cause the engine to stall unexpectedly while driving. A corroded backup light switch rounds out the list: when it fails, the reverse lights stop working and the rearview camera image no longer appears when backing up, reducing visibility behind the vehicle.
At a glance
What can fail
The backup light switch can corrode and stop working, preventing the backup lights from turning on and the rearview camera image from displaying when in reverse.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect and replace the backup light switch at no cost to you.
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Complaints are owner-reported and reflect individual experiences, not confirmed defects. They are distinct from recalls. Data sourced from the national vehicle safety complaint database. See trending complaints →
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
Trunk items may push the subwoofer wiring against the metal frame, creating an electrical short circuit.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect the wiring, install a retainer clip to secure it, and replace the subwoofer if needed.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The turbocharger air intake duct may crack, potentially causing the engine to stall.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect and replace the turbocharger air intake duct if necessary, at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
