2013 Subaru WRX Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Quick Facts · 2013 Subaru WRX
- Has 11 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the exterior lighting:brake lights:switch.
- Scores 3 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2015 Subaru WRX earns a 75.
- The system most likely to surface first: engine internals (ej255) (critical severity).
Should You Buy the 2013 Subaru WRX?
The 2013 Subaru WRX can be a truly exhilarating and capable performance sedan, but its reliability profile is significantly impacted by how it was maintained and driven. While its AWD system and handling are robust, the EJ255 engine is notoriously sensitive to neglect or aggressive modification, presenting a substantial risk for major internal failures. For the right enthusiast who commits to rigorous maintenance, it's a rewarding machine, otherwise, proceed with extreme caution.
Biggest Strengths
- Robust AWD system and chassis for performance driving
- Strong aftermarket support and engaged owner community
- Engaging driving dynamics and daily practicality for a performance car
Top Risk Areas
The systems that break first on the 2013 Subaru WRX. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.
NHTSA Recalls
11 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 2010-2014 Tribeca, WRX, Legacy and Outback vehicles, 2010-2011 Impreza vehicles and 2010-2013 Forester vehicles 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. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
What breaks on the 2013 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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