Subaru WRX Buying Guide

2 Known Issues to Check

We track 2 known issues for the Subaru WRX in the Australian market. 1 of these are high severity and could result in significant repair costs. Check the details below before buying.

Known Issues

Ringland failure on EJ25 turbo engine — especially with aftermarket tunes

HIGH

Affected Years

2008–2014

Typical Repair Cost

$3,000–$8,000 (short block replacement)

Ask the Seller

"Is the car completely stock or has it been modified? Any aftermarket tune, exhaust or intake? Full service history with correct oil grade?"

Petrol

Higher-than-normal oil consumption on early FB engines

MEDIUM

Affected Years

2015–2018

Typical Repair Cost

$1,000–$3,000

Ask the Seller

"Does the car consume oil between services? Any top-ups required? Has the issue been diagnosed or repaired?"

Petrol

Questions to Ask the Seller

Use these questions when inspecting a Subaru WRX:

1 Is the car completely stock or has it been modified? Any aftermarket tune, exhaust or intake? Full service history with correct oil grade?
2 Does the car consume oil between services? Any top-ups required? Has the issue been diagnosed or repaired?

Is the Subaru WRX a Good Used Car in Australia?

The Subaru WRX is a popular choice for performance enthusiasts in Australia, offering impressive handling and all-wheel drive. However, potential buyers should be aware of known issues like ringland failure on the EJ25 turbo engine and higher oil consumption in early FB engines. While the WRX is generally reliable, harsh Australian conditions, such as extreme heat and long highway distances, can exacerbate these problems. Overall, a used WRX can be a great buy if you do your homework.

What to Check When Buying a Used Subaru WRX

Inspect for signs of ringland failure on the EJ25 turbo engine, especially if it has aftermarket tunes — repairs can cost $3,000–$8,000.
Check oil consumption levels on early FB engines; excessive use may indicate a costly repair, ranging from $1,000 to $3,000.
Examine the service history for regular maintenance and any modifications, as these can affect WRX reliability and resale value.
Look for signs of wear on the suspension components due to Australia's rough roads and long-distance driving habits.

Used Subaru WRX — Frequently Asked Questions

How many kilometres is too many for a used WRX in Australia?

For a used WRX in Australia, aim for under 150,000 km. The drivetrain is robust, but higher mileage can lead to increased wear, especially in harsh conditions.

Which WRX years should I avoid?

It's advisable to avoid the 2002–2005 WRX models due to prevalent ringland failure issues. Also, the 2011–2014 models may have higher oil consumption problems.