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.
The 2013 Subaru WRX offers an incredible driving experience and performance value for money, but it is not a 'set it and forget it' vehicle. Its documented engine vulnerabilities, particularly ringland and rod bearing failures, mean that a pre-purchase inspection by a Subaru specialist is absolutely non-negotiable.…
Best Model Years
2015+ WRX (FA20DIT engine, generally more robust stock)
Years to Avoid
Any EJ255-powered WRX (2002-2014) with an unknown service history or clear signs of neglect/heavy modification.
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 tend to fail first on the 2013 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 EJ255 engine is prone to ringland failures and spun rod bearings, often exacerbated by aggressive driving, poor oil maintenance, or aftermarket tuning. Oil starvation at high RPMs is a particular concern.
The OEM turbocharger can experience premature failure, typically due to oil supply issues, excessive heat from aggressive driving, or incorrect tuning. Bearing failure can lead to smoke and power loss.
While the 5-speed manual transmission is generally solid, repeated hard launches and aggressive shifting can lead to accelerated clutch wear and, less commonly, synchro issues (particularly 3rd gear).
2013 Subaru WRX Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2013 Subaru WRX most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Initial Check-up Zone
At this mileage, the car should still be running strong. It's an important point to ensure all routine maintenance has been completed, tire wear is even, and there are no signs of early abuse from the previous owner.
Performance Component Inspection
This mileage is critical for inspecting performance-specific components. The turbocharger's health should be thoroughly checked, along with signs of clutch wear and potential engine issues beginning to manifest if the car was driven hard.
Elevated Engine Risk Zone
Approaching six-figure mileage, the risk of significant engine issues like ringland or rod bearing failure increases if the car has not been meticulously maintained. Comprehensive engine health checks are paramount at this stage.
High Risk - Enthusiast Ownership
Vehicles at this mileage without a documented engine rebuild or meticulous maintenance history are a high-risk proposition. Expect widespread wear on most major components, requiring significant investment to maintain reliability.
2013 Subaru WRX Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2013 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 (assuming no major issues)
Moderate Repairs
$500-1,500 occasionally for clutch, wheel bearings, or turbo replacement.
How Long Does the 2013 Subaru WRX Last?
While lower mileage is generally preferred, a high-mileage 2013 WRX with a complete, documented engine rebuild and a clean bill of health might be a safer bet than a lower-mileage example with a questionable history or unknown maintenance. Focus on history, not just numbers.
What 2013 Subaru WRX Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Exceptional all-weather capability thanks to symmetrical AWD.
- Engaging and fun-to-drive performance with strong acceleration.
- Vast aftermarket support for modifications and personalization.
- Practical sedan body style with usable back seats and trunk.
Common Frustrations
- Significant risk of expensive engine failures if not meticulously maintained or previously abused.
- Below-average fuel economy for its class.
- Interior quality is basic, with many hard plastics and prone to rattles.
- Stiff ride can be uncomfortable on rough roads for daily driving.
Who Should Buy the 2013 Subaru WRX?
Best For
- Performance driving enthusiasts who enjoy spirited driving.
- Drivers in snowy or wet climates needing superior traction.
- Individuals planning to modify their vehicle and are mechanically inclined.
Not Ideal For
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking low-cost, minimal-hassle ownership.
- Drivers unfamiliar with performance vehicle maintenance requirements.
How the 2013 Subaru WRX Compares to Rivals
The 2013 WRX stands out for its accessible AWD performance. While its raw driving dynamics are a significant draw, it carries higher inherent engine risks compared to some FWD performance rivals, making ownership more demanding.
More Reliable Than
- Older European hot hatches (e.g., Mini Cooper S R56)
- Heavily modified or neglected performance cars of any brand
Comparable To
- Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (similar performance-to-risk ratio)
- Mazdaspeed3 (different drivetrain, but similar enthusiast appeal and some engine issues)
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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