The 2022 Subaru WRX has good reliability. There are 1 recall and 23 owner complaints on file for the 2022 Subaru WRX. Severity signals include 2 crash-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Engine (12), Unknown Or Other (3), Power Train (3).
WRX reliability snapshot
73/100
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.
Engine12
Unknown Or Other3
Power Train3
Forward Collision Avoidance1
Structure1
Service Brakes1
Pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2022 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 oil pan for excessive RTV sealant
☐Check for abnormal A/C compressor noise at idle
☐Test pushbutton start functionality after clutch release
☐Verify infotainment system does not blank out
☐Inspect sunroof for signs of stress or damage
☐Check for software update availability and functionality
What owners reported
2022 Subaru WRX owner complaints in detail
Owners have reported 2 crashes to NHTSA for the 2022 Subaru WRX. These are unverified owner reports, not confirmed defect rates.
Owner complaints12
ENGINE
Owners report that the 2022 Subaru WRX frequently experiences issues with excessive RTV sealant in the engine, particularly around the oil pan. This sealant can break off and clog the oil pickup, leading to oil starvation and potential engine failure. Complaints often describe symptoms such as a burning smell from the engine bay and, in some cases, complete engine failure under 4,000 miles. There are no reports of crashes directly linked to this issue, but the potential for engine failure while driving poses a safety risk. Used car buyers should be aware of these reports, especially since addressing the issue may require significant labor to remove and clean the RTV from the engine.
Owner complaints3
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Owners report several distinct issues with the 2022 Subaru WRX. One complaint involves a sunroof that spontaneously shatters while the vehicle is stationary. Another issue involves the A/C compressor producing a loud, rhythmic noise both at idle and when the A/C is off, suggesting potential premature failure. Multiple owners describe similar symptoms, and a Technical Service Bulletin for a related model indicates a potential defect. A third issue involves difficulties with software updates and poor customer service response, with owners unable to reach support or roadside assistance. These issues collectively raise potential safety implications, such as the risk of being stranded or experiencing a sudden loss of vehicle functions.
Owner complaints3
POWER TRAIN
Owners of the 2022 Subaru WRX report issues primarily related to the power train, with multiple complaints about excessive RTV sealant in the oil pan leading to clogged oil passages and potential oil deprivation. Symptoms include low engine oil levels and nearly dry dipsticks, with one owner noting the issue at approximately 18,000 miles. Another issue involves the vehicle's pushbutton start malfunctioning after releasing the clutch too soon, causing the car to remain in an unresponsive state with electrical components still active, though this occurs sporadically. Safety implications include potential engine failure due to oil deprivation, which could result in loss of control, and the inability to restart the car in traffic, posing a risk of accidents.
2022 WRX recalls (1)
Every NHTSA safety recall logged against the 2022 WRX. A VIN check confirms whether any recall remains unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
EQUIPMENTNHTSA 23V016000Jan 23, 2023
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2022 WRX vehicles equipped with the "Eyesight" feature. The owner's manual may contain incorrect instructions for adjusting the sensitivity of the High Beam Assist function. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence: Incorrect instructions for adjusting the sensitivity of the High Beam Assist function contained in the owner's manual may cause the lights to not be adjusted as intended, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Subaru will mail an owner's manual insert containing the correct information, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed February 15, 2023. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRA-23.
2022 Subaru WRX on the road
18,662 2022 Subaru WRX units were sold new in the US — a key signal for the size of today's used-market inventory.
How the 2022 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 2022 Subaru WRX scores slightly above the segment average in reliability, indicating a moderate risk level for potential buyers. With only one recall, the recall count is limited, which suggests proactive issue management by the manufacturer. However, the concentration of complaints in the engine category may signal an area warranting further attention.
The distribution of other complaints across various systems suggests no widespread systemic problems, but the first-year model status could mean teething issues as the new generation matures. While the overall number of complaints is not excessively high, the engine-related concerns merit consideration.
In conclusion, the 2022 Subaru WRX presents a mixed reliability profile with a moderate risk level, primarily due to engine-related complaints.
What you get in a 2022 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 2022 Subaru WRX now
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2022 Subaru WRX — Frequently asked questions
Is the 2022 Subaru WRX reliable?
The 2022 Subaru WRX scores slightly above the segment average in reliability, indicating a moderate risk level for potential buyers. With only one recall, the recall count is limited, which suggests proactive issue management by the manufacturer. However, the concentration of complaints in the engine category may signal an area warranting further attention.
How many recalls does the 2022 Subaru WRX have?
1 NHTSA safety recall has been issued for the 2022 Subaru WRX. A VIN check confirms whether any remain unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
What are the most common 2022 Subaru WRX problems?
The most-reported 2022 Subaru WRX problem areas are: Engine (12), Unknown Or Other (3), Power Train (3).
Should I run a VIN check on a 2022 Subaru WRX?
Yes. A VIN report verifies title brands, odometer history, accident records, and recall completion on a specific 2022 Subaru WRX, complementing the model-year reliability data on this page.
