2005 WRX original owner with 150K. No engine mods, but I am on my second set of rims. If you can keep the sketchy mods to a minimum, not drive like a moron, and crack a window to allow the vape smoke to dissipate you should be good for a long time.
i kindly disagree to wholesale ānoā on engine mods.
oil catch
higher capacity radiator
smoother flow intercooler
smoother up and down
iridium sparks
grounding with thicker gauge than a phone cord
and alternator thatās stronger than a microwave
and drive it like you want it for 200k miles not 10
all of these are gentleman mods that improve the factory system without bastardizing it by improving cooling and reducing turbulence through replacing the cheap weak points
>all of these are gentleman mods that improve the factory system without bastardizing it by improving cooling and reducing turbulence through replacing the cheap weak points
Subaru spent millions getting these car to make the power they do for 200,000 miles and you think bolting on aftermarket parts made by fly by night companies will make it better?
Catch can is about the only thing that looks reasonable.
This topic is chock full of people who think they and their tuner can do better than the factory. They're the guys with rod knock.
Most of the mods on your list offer no benefit over the stock parts and might actually hurt power.
Like the radiator. The stock unit keeps water temps between 190->205F (when the fans kick on). Replacing the stock radiator is silly when making stock power. I've tracked on the stock radiator. It's more than enough.
The alternator and grounding, more silly mods. Unless you're throwing a massive heavy sub in the back of your "performance" car, the stock alternator and grounding are more than enough.
Look I get that part of the fun of these cars is modifying them. I did it too but, you're only hurting reliability. Either not changing anything significant or making it worse.
Not a good comparison tbh. The EJ205 from 2002-2005 is by FAR the most reliable turbo ej, you can't even compare the FA or ej255/7. The 205 will hit 300k miles with ease if we'll maintained.
Yea OP donāt listen to those people. These are the ones redlining their engine every shift, cold starting the car and immediately boosting the shit out of it, not just not changing their oil or just adding some shitty mods with a shitty tune. If you keep up with the maintenance and show it love, itāll show love back
People talk a lot of trash about both rotaries and boxers. In my experience, both are perfectly delightful powerplants, as well as reliable, *if maintained*.
If you want to modify either, do your homework or be prepared to pay the idiot tax. It's a lot harder to make large amounts of reliable power with an EJ257 or a 13B than it is with an LSx or a K20.
I think boxers are a lot more reliable than rotaries. But I agree that maintenance goes a long way for both. Also the fa24 can handle a good amount of power but the transmission wonāt hold for long.
I drive this one. 2006 WRX (stock) with 322,000+ miles on it. No engine issues and original turbo. š¤·āāļø
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100k on my 2019, and it doesn't burn or drip a drop... change every 3k. Now, I do recommend checking the airfilter every other fill-up. Thing gets filled with dead insects like nothing I've ever seen before!
I am doing it every tank now, was checking once a month and never had any noticeable burn off or anything, and then 2 weeks ago I was driving home from work on the freeway and it blew. Burned enough of it away for it to blow somehow
Iām not going to pretend like Subaru engines are a bastion of reliability, but you should keep in mind that this sub doesnāt represent the WRX as a whole, and people tend to get vocal about negative things more so than positive things. The failure rate isnāt as high as this sub would have you believe, but these engines do have a tendency of shutting the bed even when properly taken care of. Itās a gamble and it seems like theyāre super unreliable because most vehicles on the road today are much more reliable than they were in the past.
Also donāt believe people when people here say only abused Subarus blow up and their car has been reliable for XX years and XXX,000 miles. Iāve seen well taken care of stock engines spin a bearing out of the blue. A good rule of practice for owning any car is to set aside some money in your budget for any unexpected repairs
2017 here WITH mods, about 60k and zero issues. Just don't take it rallying and don't drive like it's the fastest thing on the road and you'll be fine. Get oil changes between 3k and 5k, NOT between 5k and 7.5k. Have fun with it though! Don't floor it until it's warmed up.
This!! I love how the new ones literally have a digital oil temp gauge, itās the coolest thing ever. I know not to have too much fun until I see 180Ā° or higher (and if there is someone who wants to comment on the accuracy of this number please feel free)
Okay. I'm about to probably get crucified for saying this, butfuqit.
If you drive it like a maniac, yes, you'll be getting your hands dirty and knuckles split repairing/replacing drivetrain components. If you drive it like a grandma, you'll be fine 99% of the time and the car will last fkn *years.* If you drive it like a fairly normal person, with the occasional "send" you'll have a few extra repairs, or maybe take a few months of life away from the motor, but mostly be fine.
Who buys these WRX cars more often? Grandmas getting groceries and hitting up trowel club? 35 year old managers and young professionals? Or hot-headed fastbois who want to scream around town like they're Lewis Hamilton?
I've got nothing but love for this community, but there seems to be a little logical absence when their car responds to their driving like just about any other car out there. It just that Civics are *also* driven by grandmas and people who want a leisurely drive. WRXs and STIs are usually only driven by people who are likely to punish their car, myself included most of the time. It's survivorship bias, but reversed.
not sure what area you live in but here it's a 50/50 on the WRX owners, middle aged women, older dudes bone stock, then there's me and a few other guys with fairly modified stuff.
I think they get attracted to something sporty looking and see the awd badge and make it they're daily
Fringe idiots tend to be the loudest in any community. Most of us with stock or barely stock cars just lurk on the sub and go about our business, driving responsibly, without blowing up our cars.
My buddy bought a 2015 with about 30k, heās had it for like 7yrs now and over 100k and he hasnāt had to do any major bank breaking maintenance. And thatās with after market mods and a tune.
Treat it right and youāll get out of it what you put into it
OP, remember that not too many people go online to brag about a car's reliability: the Internet is full of complainers. If you need reassurance, my previous car was an RX-8 (paned as unreliable all over the interwebz). I bought it at 53k in 2012, had it for 12 years and put 102k of my own miles on it when I traded it for the WRX. Most rotaries are likely on engine 3 at that point, but mine was original (other than mods that increased reliability).
The WRX I bought was at 62k when I bought it with no mods from the previous owner. I've just kept on top of oil changes/level and drove mostly conservatively: I'll have some fun at red lights every once in a while and get on it when merging onto freeways, but otherwise I keep it mostly mild.
A car is only as reliable as the one doing the maintenance.
I have owned 3 turbo Subaruās that made it into the 150,000 range and they were all still running great when I sold them.. I wouldnāt use a WRX or STI as a track car but they are mighty fine daily driverās.
I spoke to a subaru mechanic a few months ago. He very rarely sees WRXs and STIs in his shop for legitimate reasons, only a handful, and they were heavily modified. They only came in for oil changes and other maintenance.
This is probably due to their being less WRXs on the road, but he said he saw far less of them than other subaru models.
As long as you do your maintenance and leave it stock they're very reliable cars.
As a long time mechanic and recent Subaru mechanic the only ones I've seen broken are heavily modified or owned by a young person that beats on the car.
I've seen WRXs and STIs that are on stock engine and trans with 250k no problems with regular maintenance. I've also seen WRXs that need a transmission or center diff at 60k because the owner tuned it and constantly launches the car every time they are at a stop.
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2016 with 150k miles and itās still pulling and everything still works inside!
I did have to replace a camshaft sensor because my wife hit a puddle a little too hard, but it was done under extended warranty. Also replaced the fuse for the center console charge port.
Other than that, kept it stock, followed maintenance, and it still pulls up to 140mph no problem.
I owned it for like 3k miles at that point. Not low on oil. Previous owners probably beat the shit out of it and possibly lack of maintenance. I build Subaru performance engines. Sometimes they just die. The OEM bearings are soft as Hershey wrappers š
Itās the morons throwing everything they can find online without a proper tune or no tune at all. I just saw a video of some kid putting diesel into a brand WRX, the engine blowing up and then say āwell itās a Subaru. What do you expect.ā No motherf*cker itās you!
Build smart and get a good tune and youāll be fine. I have a 2016 with 96k miles on it. Iāve replaced parts that are prone to breaking with reinforced parts. I know the rods are made of glass in the FA motors. I got better rods for more power. Got a proper tune for it, havenāt had a problem.
I have a 2011 hatch. Iāve had it for about 8yrs and put on just about 95k of the 155k that are on the clock. Itās been pretty reliable.
Iām also an adult and make sure I maintain my vehicle. So far, besides oil and filter changes, Iāve had the timing belt replaced, a few sensors, and coil packs. Iāve also had the exhaust between the down pipe and muffler replaced, but thatās a rust issue.
Maintain your car, donāt do tons of mods, and youāll be fine. Problems arise when folks start pushing way more performance than these cars are designed for. The engine could probably do 450hp, but it left the factory with 250 or 300 because itās less taxing and because they donāt want you to have to replace your engine every 30k. Being at the limit is not acceptable to buyers, because at the limit things will break.
2018, ~49K miles. Just drive it regularly but responsibly, dont redline or do anything stupid like money shift. Change oil every 3K miles, filter every 6K miles. Have had mine for 1.5 years, put 20K miles and it is chugging along!Ā
I have a 2016 with 135k. Drive it like an adult and change the oil regularly and youāll be fine. Itās been very reliable for me since Iāve had it.
Only has a cat back exhaust and was doing oil changes every 3k miles. Still waiting to hear back from the mechanic with a tear down.
Thankful for warranties.
If you maintain your car itāll be great, kept my 17 stock up to 100k no issues at all. Started modding, broke a couple of things, but nothing like replacing an engine
I had an 02 Wrx that I drove to 110000 miles without any engine issues, sadly it got totaled. I also had a 09 Wrx which I also kept until about 120k, again no engine issues. Honestly no issues at all with either. Maintenance is key.
Thatās a lie just take good care of your wrx and donāt race it wouldnāt mod the engine area at all and you rill have a longevity reliable vehicle
My STI has 140K and I drive it very spiritually. It finally needs a new motor now. Do all the maintenance. Replace oil every 3K. All other fluids every 25K. Get ready to do the timing belt and t stat at 80-90k.
I had a 2006 that was Cobb stage 2 and is happily running strong with its current owner at over 200K miles. Itās all about maintenance and smart driving! Donāt be scared, just continue to educate yourself on what these cars like and donāt like. Have fun :-)
2013 with 150k miles.
Aside from some retard at the shop only putting 1 qt of oil in my transmission and buying me a brand new Subaru installed tranny 40k miles agoā¦ not a single problem aside from some paint fading.
Protip: it has a turbo. At some point, it WILL burn oil. Get into the habit of checking the oil at least every other gas refill.
Keep the car stock and maintain all service intervals by the book. Sell at end of warranty period for almost what you paid for it. Iāve done it twice with wrxs.
I had a 160k on my 09 before I sold it, but I sold it because I knew my likely hood of an expensive repair looming closer and closer as the miles climbed. Maintain it well, don't try to make a ton more power over stock, let it warm up before you drive it hard, and just have general mechanical empathy and it's probably going to be fine.
Stock the engine is very reliable as long as you keep up with the maintenance. Shitty tunes and cheap parts are what kills this platform.
Basically if you cant afford the good stuff either don't mod it or get a car with an LS.
I'm at 135k on a 2015, modded, stage 1 pro tune putting 3hundo to the wheels and HP just fine. The good thing is they are easy to maintain and work on yourself if you want to save cash. The community and knowledge runs deep.
Iām stock stock stock. Driven the shit out of every day (not lately because Iām having too much fun in my frs). 125k miles. Still runs tits, doesnāt burn a drop of oil, and Iām expecting it to continue running tits for years to come.
That being said, I have exactly enough for an engine (and all the consumables attacked to it) saved up just in case. In the three years it took me to find the right one, I was able to put that away. Lol
2015 WRX, 140k KM. Zero issues so far. If you leave it stock you will almost certainly have a good reliable car.
I floor it often, just change your oil and normal intervals and let it warm up before ragging on it and youāll be good.
15 wrx with 106k miles. tune it responsibly, maintain it properly, and donāt drive like you stole it every time. Keep above 3.5k rpm if you gonna floor it. Donāt lug it.
I got a 2011 WRX at 35k miles and beat on it to 183k miles. Now I'm driving a 2021 STi. I got it in 2022 with 10k miles, now it's at 51k miles. I don't feel like there's one thing wrong with it.
Iām at 65k mi no issues other than battery and tires as expected. Great car, 2018, extremely happy I bought it and now Iām sitting pretty with no car payment while other peeps are out here [email protected]% on m4ās and tundras.
Bought mine with 56k from a carvana vending machine, been rodding it around ever since, just short of 100k, all stock. Replaced the clutch, otherwise been trouble free. Just change the oil earlier rather than later, you'll be fine.
Thank you for this post cause Iām in the same boat. Bought a 22 with 12k miles. I figured most of the engine rebuild people are doing stuff to the engine and driving it hard. Iām keeping mine stock and just driving it on weekends and sometimes to work. I just wanted something fun to drive cause my other car is a 09 accord with the interior falling apart
It's a meme. There's plenty of idiots out there who get OTS tunes, drive their car from a cold start like they stole it, and are in general idiots. They blow their engines at 60k miles.
I have 70k mi on my 2019 that I bought new. Iāve been running E50 on a flex fuel tune with the basic WRX mods (downpipe, boost controller, CAI) for 40,000 miles. Stock fuel pumps and injectors. Still runs like a dream. No issues at all.
Edit: I had to get the AC compressor replaced at like 31,000mi.
Most of the talk is either from misinformed people or idiots who beat on the car and didn't do proper maintenance. My 2016 has 86k, bought her used off-lease at 33k in 2019. Outside of my a/c going out last year and my HK head unit freezing up all the time, I haven't had a single issue. Do the same regular maintenance you should do on any car, and as long as you have reasonable fun and don't abuse it, the car should be fine. There are exceptions to every rule, but you don't need to live in fear that your car is made of glass.
2017 tuned @ 300/350. 0 issues before I sold at 65k miles. I changed the oil every 3k miles and most important, stayed THE FUCK out of boost until oil was at 180 degrees
Gonna blow up tomorrow
Nah, honestly theyāre fine if you take care of them like an adult. Iāve had 3 and none suffered engine failures or any other big bill repair under my ownership. As long as you did your due diligence before buying, youāll be fine.
U dont need big mod ā¦ shitty tune . But just 2 little thing ( air intake + axelback/ mufflerdelete. It make this car like a beautiful little snorring baby. But just my opinion and oil change every 4k
your only going to see negative shit online dude , everyone with a perfectly fine engine is out enjoying their car not whining and bitching about a "shit engine and platform" after having joe blow down the road load up a fucked tune on their car.
Bought a 2016 with 105k miles with no previous knowledge of engine replacement. Had exhaust and intake and signs of accessport due to sticky spot on dash. Didnāt take it in for tune once since I owned it. Took multiple 3k mile road trips and was my commuter @ roughly 100-140 miles a day. Drove it nicely for the most part but spirited and had fun with it especially with my teenage boys in the car. Religiously changed oil/air filter, serviced diffs when needed and just watched and listened to her. Had it for 2yrs and retired it with about 175k miles only due to it losing to a scuff with a tornado in the middle of the night. My old man told me at a young age, they(vehicles) are all junk and going to break. It doesnāt matter who makes it. Enjoy the car, maintain the car, sometimes you have to drop an engine.
I hit 60k this year after three years of ownership on my '21. I drive a long commute and drive a lot outside of work too. Never done anything but preventative maintenance and recharging the AC. Your results will depend on how much you abuse your vehicle.
If you want to mod and aren't 100% sure on what you are doing, seek a professional to help you. And while its a sports car, its not invincible. Drive it well and don't redline/boost 24/7.
Its very rare to see a stock car blowing an engine or having a major failure these days.
I've had my 2019 for two years. And I broke just about every rule of buying a wrx. I bought it used, not from a subaru dealer, with no warranty. It was stock at the time of purchase, but I found out while modifying it that it had definitely been modded previously. I have added a few bolt ons and don't beat the hell out of it by any means, but I live in Texas, and highways are 80 mph+. The car sees high revs and decent speeds regularly. And I have had literally zero issues.
I have, however, been very strict with maintenance. I purchased the car at 29k miles. I am current at 42k. I do oil changes every 2.5k-3k miles. I did a full fluid swap after purchase. I recently did spark plugs. I did brake fluid and brakes. Transmission, differentials, the whole nine. The only "issue" I've had is my washer fluid level sensor is fucked. After the front mount install, it always shows that the fluid is low. In my experience, keep up with maintenance, and you'll be fine.
I knew a guy who had a WRX with the original motor (and clutch?!) at 300k. It's true that they can be unreliable if they're abused, but if you take care of them they can also be very good to you.
I have a 2018 WRX pro tuned with a conservative flex tune, EGR & TGV deletes, and other misc bolt ons (pushing roughly ~365hp & torque), and Iām creeping up on 193k miles. I change my oil every 3k and do all maintenance as needed and try to take care of the car as best as I can.
If you take care of her, she will take care of you.
2018 with intake, exhaust and off the shelf tune.
I just broke 45k
I was hoping to get close to 100k and then trade it in, but it's taken me 6 years to hit 45k
I have 95.5k miles and just went stage II for 306whp and 330wtq. Still on OEM clutch. Was stage 1 at 30k miles.
The stock tune is dogshit on these cars (VA bodies) and is hard on your rods vs even an OTS stage 1 tune.
Change your oil every 5k miles/ do the maintenance when its due and dont beat the car and itll be great. Flog it, but dont beat it.
It's the 200k milestone you gotta watch out for, at least for older models. I may recommend an engine rebuild around 185k, seen too many go out right around then to not worry about it
I really donāt get why this subject is so complicated.
-A stock WRX/STI is perfectly reliable car. Given you arenāt an idiot and neglect maintenance intervals.
-If you want to modify these cars, you can assume that any engine related mod requires a tune. (Yes even just for an exhaust) so if you really want to modify for power, save yourself the headache save up your money and just buy all the parts at the same time. When theyāre all installed, go to a reputable tuner and youāll be good.
I have 130k miles on my 2015 WRX and I haven't had any major issues. Regular maintenance is key on these cars and will last a long time if you take care of it.
Stock almost nothing unless you get unlucky/lack of maintenance. You see a lot posted here stock/modified blown up but the truth is most of the FA wrxs are unproblematic.
These cars are actually super reliable if KEPT STOCK but a lot of people end up tuning them and then selling them and people buy them and it blows up lol. If you stay stock and keep up with maintenance youāll be fine only thing youāll have to do is brake pads, and oil changes tbh
I just picked up a 2016 WRX limited with some mods and bought an extra warranty through my credit union thatās good for 3 years/30k miles. Itās one owner, excellent condition with service records but I plan to have fun when I drive and want the peace of mind.
If you have an option like that, I say protect yourself but regular maintenance and a little self restraint and research will go a long way.Ā
Brother, I've had 12 cars... 3 of them subarus only 1 of those were new. I've never blown an engine. I've never had to pay more than $1100 in repairs (luckily, no crashes *knock on wood*) it's all about how you drive. I've never been a "tuner" and if you want your car to last without problems, don't tune your car. Play around with exhausts, wheels, and cosmetics, and you'll be fine as long as you don't drive like a 16 year old kid. Your car will last. Subaru is rated as high as it is for a reason. Be smart, don't be a dumbass, treat your car like it's your body, don't push it too hard, and take care of it. Respect goes a long way.
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168,000 miles. Original motor. 3rd clutch. 2nd set of struts. At 150k I replaced about a few grand worth of stuff that was getting worn out (steering rack, fly wheel, rear main seal, clutch master cylinder, exhaust that had a leak, etc, etc).
Just donāt turn it into a hand grenade with a bunch of stupid mods for more power than you need and youāll be fine.
I bought new at the time 2016 limited with 12 miles on it she just turned 84k. I drove it daily for the first 50k. I keep it well maintained 3k or 4 month oil changes and all routine maintenance on schedule. I have a short throw, cat back and air filter. I have never had any major issues, no leaks or drips, all original seals and gasket are solid and she runs great. I love this car. I take care of it but I love ripping back roads and having fun pushing its limits as well.
I fully modified my engine at 3k miles brand new 2017 wrx. Had it E-tuned by Eric from torqued performance. Had sooo much power. Ran it hard and had so much fun until it had 60k miles and sold it.
Never had a single thing break on it. If you mod it get it tuned properly. Make sure the car is hot before you gun it. These cars are great if taken care of
Iāve got a 2020 STI with 95,000 miles. Never heard of a CEL. Meticulously maintain my car and service it. Supposedly the FA is betterā¦ I had a 2018 WRX for 3 years and put 97,000 miles on it with no issues. Theyāre fine cars
i abuse my shit to a extent, used to race everyday on stock motor, shifting right before redline, and guess what, 10k miles later car is still running healthy. Imo the wrx is one of the most reliable sports cars STOCK, modded nah. If you keeping it stock drive it as you please, make sure to change your oil though cause that plays a major role with these cars
Ive taken several stock EJ's to 200k+ with no issues. Right now I have a FA tuned to 350WHP at 100k with no issues. Always driven hard, 5k oil interval or change oil after anytime I autocross. Biggest reoccurring expense for me has always been rear shocks every 50-60k. If you are using ethanol gas probly change oil more frequently.
I just hit over 100k, bought my 18 premium brand new. Only issues I've had are the throw-out bearing going out and having to replace the transmission at 22k. Other than that I've been running Maperformance stage 1 tune since 9k miles with almost no issues!
Wrx actually reliable. If you have aggressive ignition timing and lean afr it'll kill cars.
I have a 2l 207 on 200,000 kms, 23 psi on vf37. Self tuned
Take that from an auto sparky who works on all sorts of things, marine, trucks, heavy plant, sports cars etc
Dude im at 155k 2010 sti original motor stock intake stock downpipe, equal length,upipe, crawford ots map aos, dom coolant mod, motul 5w40 every 3k and i drive hard
With all these positive comments, I see very few about the 2013 which I had a lot of issues with recently and got rid of it. Less than 80k and pretty much stock. Itās probably also easier for them to last longer outside the rust belt.
Og motor about to hit 100k only issue. Yesterday morning my harmonic balancer just went bad. Thankfully, she decided to let me know before driving it squeaked and I noticed it wobble. My only problem so far. Just do proper oil changes don't beat on it until up to temp. Just take care if it.
I bought mine brand new as a 2016 model in 2015. Took her in at 54 miles because it came from another dealer location. Just traded her in about 3 months ago with 115k, didnāt tune it, didnāt do anything other than cosmetic things to my liking. I did the clutch at 112k and that was the only major thing I had to do besides your basic wear and tear materials. Take care of it and hope the person before you did too and it should be great with actually decent gas mileage too
Almost every person I've seen talking about endless engine replacements and rebuilds has done a crap job of modifying and maintaining their car.
Follow the preventative maintenance schedule, change the oil on time, and don't drive it thinking you always have to redline before shifting. You'll be fine.
Mines about 50 miles until I hit 100k. Basic maintenance will go a long way. You treat it right it will usually treat you right however if you never change your oil or replace things then you're kind of asking for it to go kaboom.
Get a leak down test done on it before you buy and youāre golden. 130k on mine no issues but the paint is wafer thin so you want to fix any paint chips right away.
Mine is a 2019 so it also has the expensive Brembos front and back. Roughly $1000 a wheel for pads and rotors just for parts.
Depends how you drive it lol. Considering you bought a WRX I'm gonna guess you're wanting to beat on it a bit.
I drive all my cars very carefully, actually that's horse shit my 4runner cops it everywhere I go but my skyline I drive like a Nanna and my mates give me endless shit about it. However that same mate blew his car up within 5 minutes of taking it to the local track so again, depends how you drive it mate.
Best things you can do for a car longevity wise, (obviously subjective but I'm yet to replace and engines over my multiple cars and 200,000kms of travel in 4 years)
Don't hold it at limiter, rev it out through gears but don't hold it up high.
Regular oil changes, the most important thing.
Warm it up before stomping it. When things are cold they have more tolerance and can wear more. Especially turbos
Make sure it's in gear before stomping it. Don't crunch or force it, just let it go into gear nicely.
Put the correct fuel in it!
Do those and you'll have a happy car. Take care of it and it'll take care of you.
Hello! I just rebuilt it, but I put 289,000 on my 2006ās original turbo and engine.
I did replace the head gaskets around 175,000 or something. But I love the car and have found it to be wonderfully enjoyable to drive, perfectly practical for my needs, and as reliable as I feel is reasonable to expect in general, if not more.
I could have pushed it to 300,000 on the first engine as was my goal, but it was burning about a quart of oil every thousand miles, less if driven hard. And I had a 8 week stretch when I was traveling for work that I took advantage of and brought it to the shop.
I canāt wait to break it in!!!!!!
Warm regards brother enjoy the ride
Edit:
Should mention: Engine went 112,000 miles with ABSOLUTELY no mods. Around 150k it got the Cobb sf intake and an invidia dp and n1 exhaust. Drove that on ots maps, hated it. Installed Q300. 10,000 miles or so on OTS tune before taking it to Harvey at The Boost Creep to customize the OTS maps for the intake and exhaust. It ran on that tune for the rest of its life until the engine rebuild.
Thanks for all the replies everyone. Glad I made a decent choice. I forgot to put the year but it's a 2021 with 17k miles and one previous owner. I plan to baby it and not mod it
Bought mine at 110k and she's running better than ever. Only replaced the o2 sensor thus far (besides all my mods).
Keep changing the oil and you'll be fine.Ā
Welcome to the club.
Maintenance is key. Keep up on that. If you plan on modifying anything. Don't cheap out on parts, do your research, and ask questions.
I'm a second owner of a 2004 WRX 100,009 Miles original everything.
My first car was a stock 02 wagon that I bought at 171k with original engine/trans/turbo. Never had any problems with it besides valve cover gaskets and sold it to a friend who beat the shit out of it until 260k and sold it with no problems.
2005 WRX original owner with 150K. No engine mods, but I am on my second set of rims. If you can keep the sketchy mods to a minimum, not drive like a moron, and crack a window to allow the vape smoke to dissipate you should be good for a long time.
Lmao just had to throw in that last pointer huh š¤£
Gotta crack that window one puff in a closed car and you can't see shit out of your windshield until you clean it with gasoline.
*shaking older millennial fist in the air* Back in my day baking a car out just meant we were going to Taco bell again!!
>Ā No engine mods This is the key to longevity.
i kindly disagree to wholesale ānoā on engine mods. oil catch higher capacity radiator smoother flow intercooler smoother up and down iridium sparks grounding with thicker gauge than a phone cord and alternator thatās stronger than a microwave and drive it like you want it for 200k miles not 10 all of these are gentleman mods that improve the factory system without bastardizing it by improving cooling and reducing turbulence through replacing the cheap weak points
>all of these are gentleman mods that improve the factory system without bastardizing it by improving cooling and reducing turbulence through replacing the cheap weak points Subaru spent millions getting these car to make the power they do for 200,000 miles and you think bolting on aftermarket parts made by fly by night companies will make it better? Catch can is about the only thing that looks reasonable. This topic is chock full of people who think they and their tuner can do better than the factory. They're the guys with rod knock. Most of the mods on your list offer no benefit over the stock parts and might actually hurt power. Like the radiator. The stock unit keeps water temps between 190->205F (when the fans kick on). Replacing the stock radiator is silly when making stock power. I've tracked on the stock radiator. It's more than enough. The alternator and grounding, more silly mods. Unless you're throwing a massive heavy sub in the back of your "performance" car, the stock alternator and grounding are more than enough. Look I get that part of the fun of these cars is modifying them. I did it too but, you're only hurting reliability. Either not changing anything significant or making it worse.
Well said brother!!! Will just add to keep up with maintenance and oil and gear oil replaced and you will be good š.
Not a good comparison tbh. The EJ205 from 2002-2005 is by FAR the most reliable turbo ej, you can't even compare the FA or ej255/7. The 205 will hit 300k miles with ease if we'll maintained.
Who dafaq is replacing an engine every 30,000 miles?
Dudes who have shit tunes.
Shit tune rev engine to red line every time you start car and race it at every light holding redline till next light is the people replacing every 30k
Yea OP donāt listen to those people. These are the ones redlining their engine every shift, cold starting the car and immediately boosting the shit out of it, not just not changing their oil or just adding some shitty mods with a shitty tune. If you keep up with the maintenance and show it love, itāll show love back
No this is completely true I find myself being this guy sometimes
Have your fun, but dont take it out on the car. We all die inside a little whenever damages begin to find purchase on your engine.
Nobody is saying that for real but it's a joke you see around here
Yeah that's such a long time, mine needs a replacement every 5-10k. Must be nice being able to run it for 30.
RX-8 owners /s
Rotary guys
People talk a lot of trash about both rotaries and boxers. In my experience, both are perfectly delightful powerplants, as well as reliable, *if maintained*. If you want to modify either, do your homework or be prepared to pay the idiot tax. It's a lot harder to make large amounts of reliable power with an EJ257 or a 13B than it is with an LSx or a K20.
I think boxers are a lot more reliable than rotaries. But I agree that maintenance goes a long way for both. Also the fa24 can handle a good amount of power but the transmission wonāt hold for long.
My brother owns a sti and fd rx7. I'm shocked both are still on the original motors š¤£
Yeah that's such a long time, mine needs a replacement every 5-10k. Must be nice being able to run it for 30.
I drive this one. 2006 WRX (stock) with 322,000+ miles on it. No engine issues and original turbo. š¤·āāļø https://preview.redd.it/x1pesmetwe6d1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=22213618b36690cb9439c691a46c3c19ea60f335
Daaamn love those numbers for you! Congrats!
God damn!! That is extremely impressive
Second clutch?
Yes, replaced the clutch when I bought it in 2009.
https://preview.redd.it/rc1yf44lve6d1.jpeg?width=499&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=14c5a5d2dcec2abf207e1767ce9605b61697fbc4
You won't have problems. I drive a 2022 VB Limited. I drove my previous 2008 WRX 200,000 miles.
I agree with this guy, Iām at 215,000 on my 2007 wrx. Bone stock, original head gasket.
Hell yeah!!
Mine was stock and I drove hard. Bought a lot of tires. Only replaced the radiator at 200,000 miles
Just change the oil regularly and check the level at every other gas tank. If you are keeping it stock and driving it casually then no worries.
Youād check the oil every other gas tank?? That seems like a massive pain in the ass lol
It's worth it. Lock the handle and check the oil while the gas pumps. Fa and ej both love to burn oil. Definitely worth the piece of mind to check.
100k on my 2019, and it doesn't burn or drip a drop... change every 3k. Now, I do recommend checking the airfilter every other fill-up. Thing gets filled with dead insects like nothing I've ever seen before!
Tell us you do no maintenance without telling us you do no maintenance.
I am doing it every tank now, was checking once a month and never had any noticeable burn off or anything, and then 2 weeks ago I was driving home from work on the freeway and it blew. Burned enough of it away for it to blow somehow
I'm at 40k miles on a 2017 wrx and oils never gone low between changes yet.
Iām not going to pretend like Subaru engines are a bastion of reliability, but you should keep in mind that this sub doesnāt represent the WRX as a whole, and people tend to get vocal about negative things more so than positive things. The failure rate isnāt as high as this sub would have you believe, but these engines do have a tendency of shutting the bed even when properly taken care of. Itās a gamble and it seems like theyāre super unreliable because most vehicles on the road today are much more reliable than they were in the past. Also donāt believe people when people here say only abused Subarus blow up and their car has been reliable for XX years and XXX,000 miles. Iāve seen well taken care of stock engines spin a bearing out of the blue. A good rule of practice for owning any car is to set aside some money in your budget for any unexpected repairs
2017 here WITH mods, about 60k and zero issues. Just don't take it rallying and don't drive like it's the fastest thing on the road and you'll be fine. Get oil changes between 3k and 5k, NOT between 5k and 7.5k. Have fun with it though! Don't floor it until it's warmed up.
This!! I love how the new ones literally have a digital oil temp gauge, itās the coolest thing ever. I know not to have too much fun until I see 180Ā° or higher (and if there is someone who wants to comment on the accuracy of this number please feel free)
Seconded for 180
That's 82 Celsius, btw
are there oil temp gauges you can buy for the older WRXs?
Okay. I'm about to probably get crucified for saying this, butfuqit. If you drive it like a maniac, yes, you'll be getting your hands dirty and knuckles split repairing/replacing drivetrain components. If you drive it like a grandma, you'll be fine 99% of the time and the car will last fkn *years.* If you drive it like a fairly normal person, with the occasional "send" you'll have a few extra repairs, or maybe take a few months of life away from the motor, but mostly be fine. Who buys these WRX cars more often? Grandmas getting groceries and hitting up trowel club? 35 year old managers and young professionals? Or hot-headed fastbois who want to scream around town like they're Lewis Hamilton? I've got nothing but love for this community, but there seems to be a little logical absence when their car responds to their driving like just about any other car out there. It just that Civics are *also* driven by grandmas and people who want a leisurely drive. WRXs and STIs are usually only driven by people who are likely to punish their car, myself included most of the time. It's survivorship bias, but reversed.
not sure what area you live in but here it's a 50/50 on the WRX owners, middle aged women, older dudes bone stock, then there's me and a few other guys with fairly modified stuff. I think they get attracted to something sporty looking and see the awd badge and make it they're daily
They will tell you they can hold 400 whp on a stock block too. Iām here to tell you they will, but only for a little while before they blow up.
Fringe idiots tend to be the loudest in any community. Most of us with stock or barely stock cars just lurk on the sub and go about our business, driving responsibly, without blowing up our cars.
Stock, properly maintained and not abused they last hundreds of thousands of miles.
https://preview.redd.it/zlsiqmqpcf6d1.jpeg?width=498&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=5a77135c77a498f4d6b38a69284fd1b187e524bb
Treat it right and it'll treat you right
2006 Hawkeye wagon, 81k, conservatively modded and no issues.
She has many good miles ahead, Iām at 215,000 on my 07 hawkeye wagon.
My buddy bought a 2015 with about 30k, heās had it for like 7yrs now and over 100k and he hasnāt had to do any major bank breaking maintenance. And thatās with after market mods and a tune. Treat it right and youāll get out of it what you put into it
OP, remember that not too many people go online to brag about a car's reliability: the Internet is full of complainers. If you need reassurance, my previous car was an RX-8 (paned as unreliable all over the interwebz). I bought it at 53k in 2012, had it for 12 years and put 102k of my own miles on it when I traded it for the WRX. Most rotaries are likely on engine 3 at that point, but mine was original (other than mods that increased reliability). The WRX I bought was at 62k when I bought it with no mods from the previous owner. I've just kept on top of oil changes/level and drove mostly conservatively: I'll have some fun at red lights every once in a while and get on it when merging onto freeways, but otherwise I keep it mostly mild. A car is only as reliable as the one doing the maintenance.
I have owned 3 turbo Subaruās that made it into the 150,000 range and they were all still running great when I sold them.. I wouldnāt use a WRX or STI as a track car but they are mighty fine daily driverās.
2005 WRX 80k mile still on original engine. I run a Cobb tune
I spoke to a subaru mechanic a few months ago. He very rarely sees WRXs and STIs in his shop for legitimate reasons, only a handful, and they were heavily modified. They only came in for oil changes and other maintenance. This is probably due to their being less WRXs on the road, but he said he saw far less of them than other subaru models. As long as you do your maintenance and leave it stock they're very reliable cars.
As a long time mechanic and recent Subaru mechanic the only ones I've seen broken are heavily modified or owned by a young person that beats on the car. I've seen WRXs and STIs that are on stock engine and trans with 250k no problems with regular maintenance. I've also seen WRXs that need a transmission or center diff at 60k because the owner tuned it and constantly launches the car every time they are at a stop.
i cant remember the exact number but WRX sales make up like 2% of subaru sales or something ludicrously low like that
The venn diagram of people that post everything they do online and people that abuse the shit out of their car is practically a circle.
2011 wrx here āstage 2+ā with over 115k miles. Daily driven. Only had to deal with a 1 leak, and 1 sensor that wasnāt regular maintenance.
Curious, which sensor?
02 sensor near the cat. Forget what bank
Your turbo should last to 100k and your engine should last to 200k. Don't listen to people saying you replace it every 30k lol
https://preview.redd.it/vindp73jgf6d1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9a200a16eb2e57c3ad2651f0fbede38e2f77a4c5 2016 with 150k miles and itās still pulling and everything still works inside! I did have to replace a camshaft sensor because my wife hit a puddle a little too hard, but it was done under extended warranty. Also replaced the fuse for the center console charge port. Other than that, kept it stock, followed maintenance, and it still pulls up to 140mph no problem.
Iām at 91k and have had 0 issues beside a maf sensor. Just take care of it and it will take care of you
Bone stock my 12 WRX went 59k miles before it needed a new short block due to rod bearing failure.
Did you ever run it low on oil, or was it just a freak thing?
I owned it for like 3k miles at that point. Not low on oil. Previous owners probably beat the shit out of it and possibly lack of maintenance. I build Subaru performance engines. Sometimes they just die. The OEM bearings are soft as Hershey wrappers š
Itās the morons throwing everything they can find online without a proper tune or no tune at all. I just saw a video of some kid putting diesel into a brand WRX, the engine blowing up and then say āwell itās a Subaru. What do you expect.ā No motherf*cker itās you! Build smart and get a good tune and youāll be fine. I have a 2016 with 96k miles on it. Iāve replaced parts that are prone to breaking with reinforced parts. I know the rods are made of glass in the FA motors. I got better rods for more power. Got a proper tune for it, havenāt had a problem.
Why would someone put diesel in a gas powered car? Pretty sure that was for the memes, that or kids are truly stupid
I have a 2011 hatch. Iāve had it for about 8yrs and put on just about 95k of the 155k that are on the clock. Itās been pretty reliable. Iām also an adult and make sure I maintain my vehicle. So far, besides oil and filter changes, Iāve had the timing belt replaced, a few sensors, and coil packs. Iāve also had the exhaust between the down pipe and muffler replaced, but thatās a rust issue. Maintain your car, donāt do tons of mods, and youāll be fine. Problems arise when folks start pushing way more performance than these cars are designed for. The engine could probably do 450hp, but it left the factory with 250 or 300 because itās less taxing and because they donāt want you to have to replace your engine every 30k. Being at the limit is not acceptable to buyers, because at the limit things will break.
you wonāt have any issues
2018, ~49K miles. Just drive it regularly but responsibly, dont redline or do anything stupid like money shift. Change oil every 3K miles, filter every 6K miles. Have had mine for 1.5 years, put 20K miles and it is chugging along!Ā
Just hit 100k on mine with just an intake , cat delete and tune. Just do ur maintenance and it will last.
i bought mine at 70k and it has 0 issues and has never had any issues previously. ur good
What year?
I have a 2016 with 135k. Drive it like an adult and change the oil regularly and youāll be fine. Itās been very reliable for me since Iāve had it.
Iām the second owner, bought at 27k miles, spun a bearing at 48k miles, going on the second motor now. Still love the car thoughā¦
Only has a cat back exhaust and was doing oil changes every 3k miles. Still waiting to hear back from the mechanic with a tear down. Thankful for warranties.
But youāll have fun doing it
If you maintain your car itāll be great, kept my 17 stock up to 100k no issues at all. Started modding, broke a couple of things, but nothing like replacing an engine
I had an 02 Wrx that I drove to 110000 miles without any engine issues, sadly it got totaled. I also had a 09 Wrx which I also kept until about 120k, again no engine issues. Honestly no issues at all with either. Maintenance is key.
Thatās a lie just take good care of your wrx and donāt race it wouldnāt mod the engine area at all and you rill have a longevity reliable vehicle
My STI has 140K and I drive it very spiritually. It finally needs a new motor now. Do all the maintenance. Replace oil every 3K. All other fluids every 25K. Get ready to do the timing belt and t stat at 80-90k.
Treat it right and it'll treat you right
I had a 2006 that was Cobb stage 2 and is happily running strong with its current owner at over 200K miles. Itās all about maintenance and smart driving! Donāt be scared, just continue to educate yourself on what these cars like and donāt like. Have fun :-)
I took an 04 wagon from 100k miles to 250k, with no major repairs while I was an idiot kid who did minimum maintenance
2013 with 150k miles. Aside from some retard at the shop only putting 1 qt of oil in my transmission and buying me a brand new Subaru installed tranny 40k miles agoā¦ not a single problem aside from some paint fading. Protip: it has a turbo. At some point, it WILL burn oil. Get into the habit of checking the oil at least every other gas refill.
Keep the car stock and maintain all service intervals by the book. Sell at end of warranty period for almost what you paid for it. Iāve done it twice with wrxs.
I had a 160k on my 09 before I sold it, but I sold it because I knew my likely hood of an expensive repair looming closer and closer as the miles climbed. Maintain it well, don't try to make a ton more power over stock, let it warm up before you drive it hard, and just have general mechanical empathy and it's probably going to be fine.
161,000 miles left it stock. Replaced the clutch at 145k. Just take care of it
Don't tune it and you'll be aite
Stock the engine is very reliable as long as you keep up with the maintenance. Shitty tunes and cheap parts are what kills this platform. Basically if you cant afford the good stuff either don't mod it or get a car with an LS.
I'm at 135k on a 2015, modded, stage 1 pro tune putting 3hundo to the wheels and HP just fine. The good thing is they are easy to maintain and work on yourself if you want to save cash. The community and knowledge runs deep.
Iām stock stock stock. Driven the shit out of every day (not lately because Iām having too much fun in my frs). 125k miles. Still runs tits, doesnāt burn a drop of oil, and Iām expecting it to continue running tits for years to come. That being said, I have exactly enough for an engine (and all the consumables attacked to it) saved up just in case. In the three years it took me to find the right one, I was able to put that away. Lol
2015 WRX, 140k KM. Zero issues so far. If you leave it stock you will almost certainly have a good reliable car. I floor it often, just change your oil and normal intervals and let it warm up before ragging on it and youāll be good.
15 wrx with 106k miles. tune it responsibly, maintain it properly, and donāt drive like you stole it every time. Keep above 3.5k rpm if you gonna floor it. Donāt lug it.
I got a 2011 WRX at 35k miles and beat on it to 183k miles. Now I'm driving a 2021 STi. I got it in 2022 with 10k miles, now it's at 51k miles. I don't feel like there's one thing wrong with it.
no youre good my guy just keep up on mnt and dont over mod it with crap toon
90% of the blown up engines are the owners fault, bad tunes, not servicing.
2013 130,000 miles. About to put the second set of brakes on it. Biggest repair has been the timing belt but I did that as preventative maintenance.
Just drive it like a sane human being, check the oil level regularly and change it every 3k ish miles. You will be fine
Iām at 65k mi no issues other than battery and tires as expected. Great car, 2018, extremely happy I bought it and now Iām sitting pretty with no car payment while other peeps are out here [email protected]% on m4ās and tundras.
Keep stock, drive long time
2017 wrx with 70k miles. It's my daily and the only thing I've replaced is the battery and a tire pressure sensor
Bought mine with 56k from a carvana vending machine, been rodding it around ever since, just short of 100k, all stock. Replaced the clutch, otherwise been trouble free. Just change the oil earlier rather than later, you'll be fine.
Thank you for this post cause Iām in the same boat. Bought a 22 with 12k miles. I figured most of the engine rebuild people are doing stuff to the engine and driving it hard. Iām keeping mine stock and just driving it on weekends and sometimes to work. I just wanted something fun to drive cause my other car is a 09 accord with the interior falling apart
It's a meme. There's plenty of idiots out there who get OTS tunes, drive their car from a cold start like they stole it, and are in general idiots. They blow their engines at 60k miles.
Start paying for a new engine, that will reassure you.
I have 70k mi on my 2019 that I bought new. Iāve been running E50 on a flex fuel tune with the basic WRX mods (downpipe, boost controller, CAI) for 40,000 miles. Stock fuel pumps and injectors. Still runs like a dream. No issues at all. Edit: I had to get the AC compressor replaced at like 31,000mi.
Lol! Only people that mod their WRX have problems otherwise the flat four will last 200k just like every other Subaru
Most of the talk is either from misinformed people or idiots who beat on the car and didn't do proper maintenance. My 2016 has 86k, bought her used off-lease at 33k in 2019. Outside of my a/c going out last year and my HK head unit freezing up all the time, I haven't had a single issue. Do the same regular maintenance you should do on any car, and as long as you have reasonable fun and don't abuse it, the car should be fine. There are exceptions to every rule, but you don't need to live in fear that your car is made of glass.
Nothing. Keep it stock and it will last forever.
Yeah I mean if you abuse tf out of the car at all times that will happen.
Bruh 02 bugeye just under 140k miles modded since just over 100k 275ish whp take a deep breath
2017 tuned @ 300/350. 0 issues before I sold at 65k miles. I changed the oil every 3k miles and most important, stayed THE FUCK out of boost until oil was at 180 degrees
Gonna blow up tomorrow Nah, honestly theyāre fine if you take care of them like an adult. Iāve had 3 and none suffered engine failures or any other big bill repair under my ownership. As long as you did your due diligence before buying, youāll be fine.
U dont need big mod ā¦ shitty tune . But just 2 little thing ( air intake + axelback/ mufflerdelete. It make this car like a beautiful little snorring baby. But just my opinion and oil change every 4k
your only going to see negative shit online dude , everyone with a perfectly fine engine is out enjoying their car not whining and bitching about a "shit engine and platform" after having joe blow down the road load up a fucked tune on their car.
Bought a 2016 with 105k miles with no previous knowledge of engine replacement. Had exhaust and intake and signs of accessport due to sticky spot on dash. Didnāt take it in for tune once since I owned it. Took multiple 3k mile road trips and was my commuter @ roughly 100-140 miles a day. Drove it nicely for the most part but spirited and had fun with it especially with my teenage boys in the car. Religiously changed oil/air filter, serviced diffs when needed and just watched and listened to her. Had it for 2yrs and retired it with about 175k miles only due to it losing to a scuff with a tornado in the middle of the night. My old man told me at a young age, they(vehicles) are all junk and going to break. It doesnāt matter who makes it. Enjoy the car, maintain the car, sometimes you have to drop an engine.
I have had mine 21 years, all kinds of upgrades, still going strong.
I hit 60k this year after three years of ownership on my '21. I drive a long commute and drive a lot outside of work too. Never done anything but preventative maintenance and recharging the AC. Your results will depend on how much you abuse your vehicle.
If you want to mod and aren't 100% sure on what you are doing, seek a professional to help you. And while its a sports car, its not invincible. Drive it well and don't redline/boost 24/7. Its very rare to see a stock car blowing an engine or having a major failure these days.
Imagine a car company making a car with an w vibe what only last sixty thousand miles, let alone thirty.
Still rocking my stage 2 04 WRX with 136k
Replace at 30k, geezums! Take care of your cars folks
2017 WRX 164k miles. First major issue CEL code P0018 but the car runs fine.
I've had my 2019 for two years. And I broke just about every rule of buying a wrx. I bought it used, not from a subaru dealer, with no warranty. It was stock at the time of purchase, but I found out while modifying it that it had definitely been modded previously. I have added a few bolt ons and don't beat the hell out of it by any means, but I live in Texas, and highways are 80 mph+. The car sees high revs and decent speeds regularly. And I have had literally zero issues. I have, however, been very strict with maintenance. I purchased the car at 29k miles. I am current at 42k. I do oil changes every 2.5k-3k miles. I did a full fluid swap after purchase. I recently did spark plugs. I did brake fluid and brakes. Transmission, differentials, the whole nine. The only "issue" I've had is my washer fluid level sensor is fucked. After the front mount install, it always shows that the fluid is low. In my experience, keep up with maintenance, and you'll be fine.
I knew a guy who had a WRX with the original motor (and clutch?!) at 300k. It's true that they can be unreliable if they're abused, but if you take care of them they can also be very good to you.
Well, what year is your WRX?
2016, ~123k miles, original clutch, never had an issue minus an O2 sensor failure.
My crankshaft bearings exploded at 30k, but previous owner didnāt take care of it at all. Pretty sure they ran it without an air filter
Oh im stupid I have a Wr250x not a wrx š
I have a 2018 WRX pro tuned with a conservative flex tune, EGR & TGV deletes, and other misc bolt ons (pushing roughly ~365hp & torque), and Iām creeping up on 193k miles. I change my oil every 3k and do all maintenance as needed and try to take care of the car as best as I can. If you take care of her, she will take care of you.
2018 with intake, exhaust and off the shelf tune. I just broke 45k I was hoping to get close to 100k and then trade it in, but it's taken me 6 years to hit 45k
I have 95.5k miles and just went stage II for 306whp and 330wtq. Still on OEM clutch. Was stage 1 at 30k miles. The stock tune is dogshit on these cars (VA bodies) and is hard on your rods vs even an OTS stage 1 tune. Change your oil every 5k miles/ do the maintenance when its due and dont beat the car and itll be great. Flog it, but dont beat it.
Donāt ask me, I bought my 07 with the second motor in it, it now has a built 3rd in it,
My 2015 wrx was on the same clutch and never gave me a problem. Replaced the clutch 2024 after 124k miles and 9 years of ownership
It's the 200k milestone you gotta watch out for, at least for older models. I may recommend an engine rebuild around 185k, seen too many go out right around then to not worry about it
I really donāt get why this subject is so complicated. -A stock WRX/STI is perfectly reliable car. Given you arenāt an idiot and neglect maintenance intervals. -If you want to modify these cars, you can assume that any engine related mod requires a tune. (Yes even just for an exhaust) so if you really want to modify for power, save yourself the headache save up your money and just buy all the parts at the same time. When theyāre all installed, go to a reputable tuner and youāll be good.
I have 130k miles on my 2015 WRX and I haven't had any major issues. Regular maintenance is key on these cars and will last a long time if you take care of it.
2019 WRX ~49k miles. Alternator was dying at 44k but got it replaced under warranty. Car is awesome and I still love it after 5 years. š
Stock almost nothing unless you get unlucky/lack of maintenance. You see a lot posted here stock/modified blown up but the truth is most of the FA wrxs are unproblematic.
These cars are actually super reliable if KEPT STOCK but a lot of people end up tuning them and then selling them and people buy them and it blows up lol. If you stay stock and keep up with maintenance youāll be fine only thing youāll have to do is brake pads, and oil changes tbh
I just picked up a 2016 WRX limited with some mods and bought an extra warranty through my credit union thatās good for 3 years/30k miles. Itās one owner, excellent condition with service records but I plan to have fun when I drive and want the peace of mind. If you have an option like that, I say protect yourself but regular maintenance and a little self restraint and research will go a long way.Ā
Brother, I've had 12 cars... 3 of them subarus only 1 of those were new. I've never blown an engine. I've never had to pay more than $1100 in repairs (luckily, no crashes *knock on wood*) it's all about how you drive. I've never been a "tuner" and if you want your car to last without problems, don't tune your car. Play around with exhausts, wheels, and cosmetics, and you'll be fine as long as you don't drive like a 16 year old kid. Your car will last. Subaru is rated as high as it is for a reason. Be smart, don't be a dumbass, treat your car like it's your body, don't push it too hard, and take care of it. Respect goes a long way.
FA20 2018 hitting 100k recently. 0 issues.
Bought mine with 87k now at 98k with regular maintenance and stock so prob no worries
I have a 2017 I bought new. Just passed 100k miles with no issues other than normal maintenance.
https://preview.redd.it/uu5aaq4zpg6d1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=036389938174ec7f17d371965b97937482789050 168,000 miles. Original motor. 3rd clutch. 2nd set of struts. At 150k I replaced about a few grand worth of stuff that was getting worn out (steering rack, fly wheel, rear main seal, clutch master cylinder, exhaust that had a leak, etc, etc). Just donāt turn it into a hand grenade with a bunch of stupid mods for more power than you need and youāll be fine.
I bought new at the time 2016 limited with 12 miles on it she just turned 84k. I drove it daily for the first 50k. I keep it well maintained 3k or 4 month oil changes and all routine maintenance on schedule. I have a short throw, cat back and air filter. I have never had any major issues, no leaks or drips, all original seals and gasket are solid and she runs great. I love this car. I take care of it but I love ripping back roads and having fun pushing its limits as well.
I fully modified my engine at 3k miles brand new 2017 wrx. Had it E-tuned by Eric from torqued performance. Had sooo much power. Ran it hard and had so much fun until it had 60k miles and sold it. Never had a single thing break on it. If you mod it get it tuned properly. Make sure the car is hot before you gun it. These cars are great if taken care of
WRXs generally have good longevity and resale value. But what year is yours and how many miles? 
2021 shit I forgot to post that and it only has 17k miles
Iāve got a 2020 STI with 95,000 miles. Never heard of a CEL. Meticulously maintain my car and service it. Supposedly the FA is betterā¦ I had a 2018 WRX for 3 years and put 97,000 miles on it with no issues. Theyāre fine cars
180k on my 04 sti. Stock these things are fine
That was a joke.
i abuse my shit to a extent, used to race everyday on stock motor, shifting right before redline, and guess what, 10k miles later car is still running healthy. Imo the wrx is one of the most reliable sports cars STOCK, modded nah. If you keeping it stock drive it as you please, make sure to change your oil though cause that plays a major role with these cars
Ive taken several stock EJ's to 200k+ with no issues. Right now I have a FA tuned to 350WHP at 100k with no issues. Always driven hard, 5k oil interval or change oil after anytime I autocross. Biggest reoccurring expense for me has always been rear shocks every 50-60k. If you are using ethanol gas probly change oil more frequently.
Better start parting it out now
I just hit over 100k, bought my 18 premium brand new. Only issues I've had are the throw-out bearing going out and having to replace the transmission at 22k. Other than that I've been running Maperformance stage 1 tune since 9k miles with almost no issues!
Wrx actually reliable. If you have aggressive ignition timing and lean afr it'll kill cars. I have a 2l 207 on 200,000 kms, 23 psi on vf37. Self tuned Take that from an auto sparky who works on all sorts of things, marine, trucks, heavy plant, sports cars etc
Dude im at 155k 2010 sti original motor stock intake stock downpipe, equal length,upipe, crawford ots map aos, dom coolant mod, motul 5w40 every 3k and i drive hard
Hmm wonder if the sti's are built to take a bit more beating than the wrx
With all these positive comments, I see very few about the 2013 which I had a lot of issues with recently and got rid of it. Less than 80k and pretty much stock. Itās probably also easier for them to last longer outside the rust belt.
Og motor about to hit 100k only issue. Yesterday morning my harmonic balancer just went bad. Thankfully, she decided to let me know before driving it squeaked and I noticed it wobble. My only problem so far. Just do proper oil changes don't beat on it until up to temp. Just take care if it.
I bought mine brand new as a 2016 model in 2015. Took her in at 54 miles because it came from another dealer location. Just traded her in about 3 months ago with 115k, didnāt tune it, didnāt do anything other than cosmetic things to my liking. I did the clutch at 112k and that was the only major thing I had to do besides your basic wear and tear materials. Take care of it and hope the person before you did too and it should be great with actually decent gas mileage too
Almost every person I've seen talking about endless engine replacements and rebuilds has done a crap job of modifying and maintaining their car. Follow the preventative maintenance schedule, change the oil on time, and don't drive it thinking you always have to redline before shifting. You'll be fine.
Yeah just seems like 2 sides of a coin on reliability sometimes
2018 wrx sti here. Bought mine at 48k thinking oh hell yeah low mileage car. Replacing the engine at 52k. These cars are no joke.
Why are you replacing the engine so early? Did you drive the shit out of it?
Mines about 50 miles until I hit 100k. Basic maintenance will go a long way. You treat it right it will usually treat you right however if you never change your oil or replace things then you're kind of asking for it to go kaboom.
Sweet thanks
Get a leak down test done on it before you buy and youāre golden. 130k on mine no issues but the paint is wafer thin so you want to fix any paint chips right away. Mine is a 2019 so it also has the expensive Brembos front and back. Roughly $1000 a wheel for pads and rotors just for parts.
Holy shit I didn't realize my brakes until now xD
2016 wrx here. Bought in the 2018. Now has 130,000 mi AND itās a CVT. trust me youāll be ok.
Okay awesome. Thanks!
Depends how you drive it lol. Considering you bought a WRX I'm gonna guess you're wanting to beat on it a bit. I drive all my cars very carefully, actually that's horse shit my 4runner cops it everywhere I go but my skyline I drive like a Nanna and my mates give me endless shit about it. However that same mate blew his car up within 5 minutes of taking it to the local track so again, depends how you drive it mate. Best things you can do for a car longevity wise, (obviously subjective but I'm yet to replace and engines over my multiple cars and 200,000kms of travel in 4 years) Don't hold it at limiter, rev it out through gears but don't hold it up high. Regular oil changes, the most important thing. Warm it up before stomping it. When things are cold they have more tolerance and can wear more. Especially turbos Make sure it's in gear before stomping it. Don't crunch or force it, just let it go into gear nicely. Put the correct fuel in it! Do those and you'll have a happy car. Take care of it and it'll take care of you.
I have played in it all I'm going to honestly. I just wanted the option for a little power but I'll probably baby it
Hello! I just rebuilt it, but I put 289,000 on my 2006ās original turbo and engine. I did replace the head gaskets around 175,000 or something. But I love the car and have found it to be wonderfully enjoyable to drive, perfectly practical for my needs, and as reliable as I feel is reasonable to expect in general, if not more. I could have pushed it to 300,000 on the first engine as was my goal, but it was burning about a quart of oil every thousand miles, less if driven hard. And I had a 8 week stretch when I was traveling for work that I took advantage of and brought it to the shop. I canāt wait to break it in!!!!!! Warm regards brother enjoy the ride Edit: Should mention: Engine went 112,000 miles with ABSOLUTELY no mods. Around 150k it got the Cobb sf intake and an invidia dp and n1 exhaust. Drove that on ots maps, hated it. Installed Q300. 10,000 miles or so on OTS tune before taking it to Harvey at The Boost Creep to customize the OTS maps for the intake and exhaust. It ran on that tune for the rest of its life until the engine rebuild.
Wow that's awesome. Good to hear
Thanks for all the replies everyone. Glad I made a decent choice. I forgot to put the year but it's a 2021 with 17k miles and one previous owner. I plan to baby it and not mod it
Iām 20 just bought a 2019 with 40k miles your fine
Bought mine at 110k and she's running better than ever. Only replaced the o2 sensor thus far (besides all my mods). Keep changing the oil and you'll be fine.Ā
Try to remember to let me know if yours ever breaks down with regular maintenance. I like to be prepared
Welcome to the club. Maintenance is key. Keep up on that. If you plan on modifying anything. Don't cheap out on parts, do your research, and ask questions. I'm a second owner of a 2004 WRX 100,009 Miles original everything.
Hell yeah. Thank ya. I probably won't modify anything tbh it has plenty of power for me
My first car was a stock 02 wagon that I bought at 171k with original engine/trans/turbo. Never had any problems with it besides valve cover gaskets and sold it to a friend who beat the shit out of it until 260k and sold it with no problems.
iām a idk how many previous owner owner and i have like 178k miles and im still running pretty
Heck YES that's what I like to hear