2014 Subaru WRX Reliability ReportC+ grade · moderate risk · system-by-system breakdown
Quick Facts · 2014 Subaru WRX
- 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.
- Scores 3 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2015 Subaru WRX earns a 75.
Is the 2014 Subaru WRX Worth Buying?
The 2014 Subaru WRX, the swan song of the EJ255 engine in this generation, offers exhilarating performance and all-wheel-drive grip, making it a compelling choice for enthusiasts. However, this potent package comes with significant reliability caveats, primarily surrounding its sensitive engine, demanding diligent maintenance and a meticulous pre-purchase inspection to avoid potentially catastrophic failures.
The 2014 Subaru WRX is a fantastic driver's car offering a unique blend of performance and AWD versatility. However, its reputation for engine reliability issues, particularly ringland and rod bearing failures, means it's not a 'buy it and forget it' vehicle. With a diligent pre-purchase inspection, a complete servi…
Best Model Years
2015+ models with the FA20DIT engine offer significantly improved reliability. For the EJ platform, earlier GD chassis models (2002-2007) are often preferred for their EJ20 engine or more robust EJ257 STI engines.
Years to Avoid
Heavily modified 2008-2014 WRX models with undocumented service histories, as these are most prone to the EJ255 engine's known weaknesses.
Biggest Strengths
- Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system
- Engaging driving dynamics and performance
- Robust aftermarket support for customization
What Tends to Fail First on the 2014 Subaru WRX
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2014 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 notorious for piston ring land failure (cracked ring lands leading to oil consumption, misfires, and low compression) and rod bearing failure (rod knock). These issues are often exacerbated by poor t…
The turbocharger itself can fail due to oil starvation from clogged oil feed lines or excessive heat from hard driving and poor cool-down procedures. Symptoms include excessive smoke from the exhaust, whining noises, and reduced boost.
The 5-speed manual transmission can experience worn synchros, particularly in 2nd and 3rd gear, leading to grinding during shifts. The clutch, especially if subjected to aggressive driving or modifications, can wear prematurely.
2014 Subaru WRX Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2014 Subaru WRX most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Early Check-up Zone
Beyond the initial break-in, this mileage range is where early signs of aggressive driving (clutch wear, brake wear) might start to show. It's also a good point to ensure all factory recalls and TSBs have been addressed.
Critical Maintenance Zone
This mileage marks a crucial period where diligent preventative maintenance is key. Any existing engine issues like oil consumption or misfires might become more apparent. Suspension components might also begin to show wear.
Elevated Risk Zone
This is where the risk of major component failures significantly increases, particularly for the engine and turbocharger if maintenance has been neglected or if the car has been heavily modified and abused. Transmission synchro wear is a…
High Risk Zone
At this mileage, a 2014 WRX is a gamble unless there's an impeccable, documented service history, or it's had a rebuilt engine. Expect to budget for significant repairs, as most original major components are nearing or past their design…
2014 Subaru WRX Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2014 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
$800-2,500 occasionally (e.g., clutch, turbo, suspension refresh)
How Long Does the 2014 Subaru WRX Last?
Focus on examples with mileage under 80,000 miles if possible, and demand a complete, documented service history from a reputable mechanic or Subaru dealer. Higher mileage examples (100k+) should only be considered if they have had a proven engine rebuild or replacement.
What 2014 Subaru WRX Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Exceptional all-weather performance and grip with Symmetrical AWD.
- Strong acceleration and engaging turbocharged power delivery.
- Vast aftermarket support for performance upgrades and personalization.
- Practical sedan body style with usable back seats and trunk space.
Common Frustrations
- Fuel economy is poor for a compact car, especially with spirited driving.
- Stiff ride quality can be jarring on rough roads for daily commuting.
- Interior quality and materials are basic and prone to rattles.
- Road noise can be significant at highway speeds.
Who Should Buy the 2014 Subaru WRX?
Best For
- Performance enthusiasts who understand the demands of a turbocharged engine.
- Drivers who require strong all-weather capability and AWD traction.
- Individuals planning to moderately modify their vehicle and are knowledgeable about tuning.
Not Ideal For
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for low long-term ownership costs.
- Drivers who prefer a comfortable, quiet, and smooth ride.
How the 2014 Subaru WRX Compares to Rivals
The WRX offers unique AWD performance and a raw driving feel that many FWD competitors can't match, but it demands a higher degree of mechanical sympathy and financial preparedness for potential major repairs compared to its more mainstream rivals.
More Reliable Than
- Mazdaspeed3 (for AWD traction and year-round usability)
- Ford Focus ST (for AWD and arguably better aftermarket support for engine rebuilds)
Comparable To
- Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart (similar AWD performance, similar maintenance demands)
2014 Subaru WRX Recall History
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 2010-2014 Tribeca, WRX, Outback, and Legacy vehicles, 2010-2011 Impreza vehicles and 2010-2013 Forester vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. 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 2014 Subaru WRX?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Other Subaru WRX Years to Consider
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Subaru WRX. Click any year for its full report.
2014 Subaru WRX Alternatives
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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