The 2021 Subaru WRX has good reliability. There are 1 recall and 12 owner complaints on file for the 2021 Subaru WRX. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Power Train (6), Engine (2), Visibility Wiper (2).
WRX reliability snapshot
75/100
Latest model-year reliability score
3.5/5
RepairPal rating (medium)
$682
Avg annual repair cost vs $526 category avg
#32/36
Ranking in compact cars · better than 11% of peers
Data sourced from Auto Reliability Index, aggregating NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, and RepairPal repair-cost records.
Used-car research
Research the Subaru WRX before checking the VIN
Compare model years, recurring problems, safety campaigns and market value first. Then use the VIN to verify the history of the individual car.
Owner-reported problem categories from NHTSA complaint filings. Counts reflect complaints per category for the most-recent model year on file.
Power Train6
Engine2
Visibility Wiper2
Seats1
Steering1
Pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2021 Subaru WRX
Hands-on checks distilled from real NHTSA complaint patterns and recall histories. Bring this list to a test drive or mechanic inspection.
☐Inspect for engine knocking noises and check engine oil temperature stability
☐Verify transmission shifts smoothly without binding or surging RPMs
☐Check for any unauthorized modifications like cold air intakes
☐Inspect windshield for cracks or chips that may spread
☐Test for steering alignment issues that cause pulling to one side
☐Confirm clutch release bearing has been updated per Subaru's design change
What owners reported
2021 Subaru WRX owner complaints in detail
Owner complaints6
POWER TRAIN
Owners of the 2021 Subaru WRX frequently report powertrain issues, particularly involving engine and transmission failures. Complaints often describe severe engine damage, with symptoms such as knocking noises, increased engine oil temperature, and stalling, typically occurring around 38,000 miles. Transmission problems include binding, refusal to accelerate, and surging RPMs, with some reports occurring as early as 10,510 miles. Several owners also mention warranty disputes, particularly when modifications like cold air intakes are present. Safety implications are noted, with some owners narrowly avoiding collisions due to sudden loss of power or control. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues, especially given the reports of significant repair costs and prolonged dealership visits.
Owner complaints2
ENGINE
Owners of the 2021 Subaru WRX report engine issues primarily involving oil starvation and blow-by contamination. Symptoms frequently described include catastrophic engine failure, stalling, loss of power, and engine noise. One owner mentions that their vehicle experienced engine failure without prior dashboard warnings, while another notes contamination affecting MAP sensors leading to lean/rich conditions. Safety implications include potential loss of vehicle control due to stalling or power loss, especially on busy roads. These issues can result in prolonged repair times and disputes over warranty coverage, with one vehicle out of service for over seven months.
Owner complaints2
VISIBILITY/WIPER
Owners of the 2021 Subaru WRX report issues with windshield cracking under seemingly minor or no impact conditions. Multiple complaints describe cracks developing from small chips or without any apparent cause while the vehicle is stationary. These cracks often spread quickly across the windshield, affecting its structural integrity. One owner notes the issue occurring within the first month of ownership, suggesting potential early onset. While no crashes or loss of control are reported, the rapid crack propagation could pose a safety risk if not addressed promptly.
2021 WRX recalls (1)
Every NHTSA safety recall logged against the 2021 WRX. A VIN check confirms whether any recall remains unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
EXTERIOR LIGHTINGNHTSA 22V522000Jul 21, 2022
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2015-2021 WRX vehicles. The backup light switch may corrode and become inoperative, which can result in the backup lights not illuminating and the rearview camera image not displaying when the vehicle is in reverse.
Consequence: Inoperative backup lights and an inoperative rearview camera can reduce vehicle visibility and driver awareness, increasing the risk of a crash.
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. Subaru's number for this recall is WRE-22.
2021 Subaru WRX on the road
27,141 2021 Subaru WRX units were sold new in the US — a key signal for the size of today's used-market inventory.
How the 2021 Subaru WRX stacks up against rivals
The most-shopped alternatives in the same segment. Each link opens a side-by-side reliability and cost comparison.
The 2021 Subaru WRX demonstrates above-average reliability, scoring a solid 75 out of 100, surpassing the segment average of 69. This indicates a dependable performance relative to its peers. The vehicle has a limited recall history, with only one recall, which is a positive indicator of manufacturing quality and oversight.
Consumer complaints are relatively low, with a total of 12 reported issues. These complaints are primarily concentrated in the power train category, suggesting a specific area of concern. However, the presence of only a few complaints in other areas like engine, visibility/wiper, seats, and steering suggests that problems are not widespread across the vehicle's systems.
Overall, the 2021 Subaru WRX presents a lower risk profile for potential buyers, with reliability that is above the segment average.
What you get in a 2021 Subaru WRX report
✓Available title brand history
✓Odometer readings & rollback detection
✓Accident & damage records
✓Auction sales with photos
✓Open safety recalls
✓Theft & stolen vehicle check
Check a 2021 Subaru WRX now
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2021 Subaru WRX — Frequently asked questions
Is the 2021 Subaru WRX reliable?
The 2021 Subaru WRX demonstrates above-average reliability, scoring a solid 75 out of 100, surpassing the segment average of 69. This indicates a dependable performance relative to its peers. The vehicle has a limited recall history, with only one recall, which is a positive indicator of manufacturing quality and oversight.
How many recalls does the 2021 Subaru WRX have?
1 NHTSA safety recall has been issued for the 2021 Subaru WRX. A VIN check confirms whether any remain unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
What are the most common 2021 Subaru WRX problems?
The most-reported 2021 Subaru WRX problem areas are: Power Train (6), Engine (2), Visibility Wiper (2).
Should I run a VIN check on a 2021 Subaru WRX?
Yes. A VIN report verifies title brands, odometer history, accident records, and recall completion on a specific 2021 Subaru WRX, complementing the model-year reliability data on this page.
