2003 Subaru WRX Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Quick Facts · 2003 Subaru WRX
- Has 2 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the exterior lighting.
- Scores 4 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2004 Subaru WRX earns a 72.
- The system most likely to surface first: engine (ej205) (major severity).
Should You Buy the 2003 Subaru WRX?
The 2003 Subaru WRX is a rally legend that delivers exhilarating performance and all-weather capability, but its long-term reliability is heavily dependent on diligent maintenance and prior ownership. While a thrilling drive, expect to budget for specific high-cost repairs, particularly relating to the engine and turbocharger, making it a car for enthusiasts ready to invest.
Biggest Strengths
- Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system
- Engaging driving dynamics and handling
- Vast aftermarket support and strong community
Top Risk Areas
The systems that break first on the 2003 Subaru WRX. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.
NHTSA Recalls
2 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
CERTAIN AAI MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LIST PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
SUBARU IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2002 AND 2003 IMPREZA WRX VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF SOUTH DAKOTA, NEBRASKA, NORTH DAKOTA, MINNESOTA, IDAHO, IOWA, MONTANA, COLORADO, WISCONSIN, NEW YORK, WYOMING, MICHIGAN, ALASKA, NEW HAMPSHIRE, VERMONT, AND MAINE. DURING COLD STARTS, TYPICALLY UNDER EXTREMELY COLD TEMPERATURES, FUEL LEAKS IN THE FUEL DELIVERY LINE COULD OCCUR WHERE THE LINE CONNECTS WITH A RUBBER HOSE.
What breaks on the 2003 Subaru WRX?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Subaru WRX by Year
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Subaru WRX. Click any year for its full report.
If You're Considering This, Also Look At
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2003 Subaru WRX
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Frequently Asked Questions
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