2009 Subaru WRX Reliability ReportKeepScore 68/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid
Quick Facts · 2009 Subaru WRX
- Scores 4 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2007 Subaru WRX earns a 72.
- The system most likely to surface first: engine (ej255) (critical severity).
- Has 10 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the exterior lighting:brake lights:switch.
2009 Subaru WRX: Buy or Avoid?
The 2009 Subaru WRX offers an exhilarating driving experience but comes with a significant caveat: its engine is prone to major failures if not meticulously maintained or if it has been abused. This is a thrilling car for enthusiasts willing to budget for meticulous care and potential repairs, otherwise, it's a high-stakes gamble.
While immensely fun to drive and capable, the 2009 Subaru WRX carries a significant reliability burden due to its sensitive EJ255 engine. It's a car best suited for knowledgeable enthusiasts who understand its limitations, are prepared for stringent maintenance, and have a contingency fund for inevitable repairs. Fo…
Best Model Years
2015+ WRX models (newer FA20DIT engine), or exceptionally well-documented and stock examples of earlier generations.
Years to Avoid
Heavily modified 2008-2014 models without clear proof of an engine rebuild and professional tuning.
Biggest Strengths
- Legendary Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system
- Engaging driving dynamics and performance potential
- Strong aftermarket support and enthusiastic community
2009 Subaru WRX — Known Trouble Spots
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2009 Subaru WRX, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
The 2.5L turbocharged EJ255 engine is notoriously susceptible to ringland failure due to piston design flaws, leading to oil consumption, loss of compression, and eventual catastrophic failure. Rod bearing failure can also occur, often s…
The 5-speed manual transmission can suffer from worn synchros, particularly in 1st, 2nd, and 3rd gear, making shifting difficult. The clutch itself can wear quickly depending on driving style and power modifications, and throw-out bearin…
Performance-oriented suspension components, such as control arm bushings, sway bar end links, and struts, tend to wear out faster due to aggressive driving and road conditions, leading to clunks, rattles, and diminished handling.
2009 Subaru WRX Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2009 Subaru WRX most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Early Checkpoint
At this mileage, focus on confirming all factory services were performed and look for any signs of early abuse or modifications that could indicate future problems. A clean history here is promising.
Maintenance Crucial
This mileage often coincides with major service intervals (spark plugs, differential/transmission fluids). It's also a common point for the clutch to show signs of wear, and for suspension components to start needing attention.
Elevated Risk Zone
Beyond this point, the risk of engine issues (ringland failure, rod knock) significantly increases, especially if maintenance has been lax or the car was modified. Budget for potential major repairs or a comprehensive engine inspection.
High Risk / Project Zone
Vehicles at this mileage without documented engine rebuilds or meticulous maintenance history are a high-risk proposition. Expect most major wear components to need replacement, and engine health becomes a primary concern.
2009 Subaru WRX Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2009 Subaru WRX on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$600-900
Moderate Repairs
$500-1,500 occasionally (clutch, suspension components, O2 sensors)
How Long Does the 2009 Subaru WRX Last?
Focus on cars with comprehensive service records and ideally lower mileage (under 80,000 miles), but prioritize a thorough pre-purchase inspection over mileage alone. A higher mileage car with a documented engine rebuild and proper care is often a better bet than a lower mileage, abused one.
What 2009 Subaru WRX Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Exceptional all-weather capability and grip from Symmetrical AWD
- Engaging driving dynamics, precise steering, and strong acceleration
- Practicality of a four-door sedan with a decent trunk
- Vast aftermarket support for performance and cosmetic modifications
Common Frustrations
- Below-average fuel economy for its class
- Engine reliability concerns (ringlands, rod knock) require constant vigilance
- Interior quality is utilitarian, prone to rattles and cheap plastics
- Stiff ride can be uncomfortable on rough roads
Who Should Buy the 2009 Subaru WRX?
Best For
- Driving enthusiasts seeking AWD performance and engaging dynamics
- Individuals who understand and are prepared for performance car maintenance
- Buyers looking for a project car or platform for modifications (with budget)
Not Ideal For
- Commuters seeking a low-cost, worry-free daily driver
- First-time turbo car owners without mechanical aptitude
How the 2009 Subaru WRX Compares to Rivals
The 2009 WRX stands out with its standard AWD and rally heritage, offering a unique driving experience compared to its FWD hot hatch rivals. However, its engine fragility significantly impacts its overall reliability standing.
More Reliable Than
- Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart (often more transmission issues)
- Some older European hot hatches (higher repair costs for common issues)
Comparable To
- Volkswagen GTI (similar enthusiast appeal, different set of common issues)
- Mazdaspeed3 (different engine risks, similar fun factor)
Safety Recalls on the 2009 Subaru WRX
10 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Forester, 2008-2016 Impreza sedans, 2012-2016 Impreza station wagons, 2008-2014 WRX sedans (including STI), and 2013-2017 Crosstrek vehicles. Exposure to certain contaminants may cause the brake light switch to malfunction, preventing the brake lights from illuminating and also preventing keyless ignition vehicles from starting and CVT/automatic transmissions from being able to be shifted out of Park.
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (including STI), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "Zone C." These vehicles had their passenger frontal air bag inflators previously replaced under a prior recall using inflators of the same design. The inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
What breaks on the 2009 Subaru WRX?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Subaru WRX — Year-by-Year Comparison
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Subaru WRX. Click any year for its full report.
Competing 2009s Worth a Look
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2009 Subaru WRX
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Frequently Asked Questions
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