Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

2021 Subaru WRX Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

78/ 100
MODERATE RISK

Grade: C+

A potent AWD performer that demands meticulous care and a careful eye for potential abuse from prior ownership.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Should You Buy the 2021 Subaru WRX?

The 2021 Subaru WRX can be a truly exhilarating and capable performance sedan, offering year-round enjoyment thanks to its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. However, as an enthusiast-focused vehicle, its long-term reliability is heavily dependent on the previous owner's driving habits and maintenance diligence, making a thorough pre-purchase inspection absolutely essential to avoid costly surprises.

Biggest Strengths

  • Robust Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system
  • Engaging performance and handling
  • Strong aftermarket and owner community support

Top Risk Areas

The systems that break first on the 2021 Subaru WRX. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

1
Turbocharger Systemmajor
2
Clutch & Transmissionmoderate
3
Engine - Carbon Buildupmoderate
Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

NHTSA Recalls

1 recall on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BACK UP LIGHTS:SWITCH

Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2015-2021 WRX vehicles. The backup light switch may corrode and become inoperative, which can result in the backup lights not illuminating and the rearview camera image not displaying when the vehicle is in reverse.

What breaks on the 2021 Subaru WRX?

Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.

OwnerKeep Passport · $499 · one-time

Just bought a 2021 Subaru WRX? Keep it that way.

Snap a receipt — AI logs it. Build an OwnerScore. Sell with a buyer-ready Passport dossier.

Subaru WRX by Year

Compare reliability scores 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 reliability score.

Relevant Products for Your 2021 Subaru WRX

Parts and accessories matched to your 2021 Subaru WRX

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Frequently Asked Questions

Full Report

2021 Subaru WRX

7-system breakdown, mileage danger zones, repair cost projections, buyer checklist, and expert verdict.

Instant delivery · No account

Complete Owner's Guide

Already own one? Get the 13-chapter owner's guide with specs, service schedules, and fluid capacities.

Compare This Vehicle

Final Step

Know every issue before you sign.

A free reliability report can catch a $3,000 problem. Full breakdown for the 2021 Subaru WRX — delivered in under 60 seconds.

OwnerKeep Passport

Just bought a 2021 Subaru WRX? Keep it that way.

OwnerKeep Passport turns your Subaru WRX's care history into a luxury digital vault — AI-logged receipts, an OwnerScore that pays at resale, and a buyer-ready dossier in one tap.

  • AI receipt OCR — snap and log
  • Fuel & mileage tracker
  • Tri-Score OwnerScore
  • One-tap resale dossier PDF
$499 · one-time · lifetime access · no subscription