Subaru WRX STI: problems, complaints, bulletins
Summary for the Subaru WRX STI across 8 model years: 0 owner complaints and 256 NHTSA service bulletins, plus repair videos. Pick a year for details.
Model years
Components owners complain about
| Component | Owner complaints | involving a crash | Technical service bulletins (TSB) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical system | 0 | 0 | 775 |
| Equipment | 0 | 0 | 340 |
| Engine | 0 | 0 | 98 |
| Powertrain | 0 | 0 | 57 |
| Engine and cooling | 0 | 0 | 33 |
| Exterior lighting | 0 | 0 | 28 |
| Structure | 0 | 0 | 24 |
| Suspension | 0 | 0 | 23 |
| Seat belts | 0 | 0 | 20 |
| Air bags | 0 | 0 | 18 |
| Wheels | 0 | 0 | 18 |
| Seats | 0 | 0 | 13 |
| Service brakes | 0 | 0 | 13 |
| Steering | 0 | 0 | 13 |
What to check before buying
- Electrical system. Scan all modules, test the battery and alternator, inspect connectors near the impact zone.
- Engine. Cold start, unusual noises, oil leaks and engine codes.
- Powertrain. Shift quality under load, harsh shifts, transmission codes, CV joints.
- Engine and cooling. Radiator and fan after a frontal hit, coolant level and condition, overheating.
Manufacturer service bulletins
Bulletin titles as filed with NHTSA.
- This announcement provides information on a new software update for the Midtronics Dss and DCA machines
- This bulletin provides paint code information for 2027 model year vehicles
- This announcement provides an update to all 2027 model year Subaru warranty coverages for wear items and…
- This bulletin contains illustrations of exchange components and their manufacturer as well as a…
- In the interest of customer satisfaction, Subaru of America, Inc
- This bulletin has been developed to outline the steps for gathering basic but essential information during…
- This Service Information Bulletin outlines a systematic procedure for diagnosing parasitic draw…
- This Bulletin has been developed to outline the steps for gathering basic but essential information during…
- Techtips newsletter locator index
- This bulletin contains illustrations of exchange components and their manufacturer as well as a…
- This announcement is requesting retailer staff to retain the EyeSight protective hood covers from…
- This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for…
Other models of this make
Read also
Sources: public NHTSA data (USA): service bulletins and owner complaints; YouTube: links to videos credited to their authors. Complaints are owner statements not verified by NHTSA, and describe defects rather than crash damage. Data updated 2026-11-04.