Subaru WRX STI Problems: 16 Issues Every Owner Should Know
2004-2021 model years ยท 2,240+ owner reports ยท Updated April 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 2,240+ owner reports, the 2004-2021 Subaru WRX STI has 16 documented known issues, with 6 rated critical. The most serious are Spun Rod Bearing Failure (EJ257) ($5,000-$12,000 repair), EJ257 Piston Ringland Failure ($3,000-$7,000 repair), Power Steering Hose/Line Leak (ATF on Exhaust, Smoke/Burning Smell) ($250-$900 repair), Steering Rack Internal Leak/Failure (Heavy Steering, Fluid Loss) ($900-$2,200 repair), Hatchback Rear Strut Tower Cracking/Seam Separation (GR STI) ($800-$3,500 repair) and Oil Starvation During Hard Cornering (EJ257 Boxer Engine) ($200-$3,500 repair). The most commonly reported issue is Spun Rod Bearing Failure (EJ257) with 780 owner reports. Across all issues, repair costs range from $50 to $12,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.