2016 Subaru WRX Problems: 11 Known Issues
2016 model year · 6,380+ owner reports · Updated October 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 6,380+ owner reports, the 2016 Subaru WRX has 11 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is Piston Ringland Failure ($4,000-$10,000 repair). The most commonly reported issue is Throttle Rev-Hang (Slow RPM Drop) with 1,200 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $50 to $10,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
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All 11 Known Issues
NHTSA Recalls2 recalls
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.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Ascent, 2018 Forester, 2018-2020 Impreza, Legacy, Outback, 2018-2019 BRZ, WRX, and Toyota 86 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Subaru WRX problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 6,380+ owner reports, the 2016 Subaru WRX has 11 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Piston Ringland Failure, Excessive Oil Consumption, WRX direct-injection deposits — conditional Subaru cleaning guidance. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Subaru WRX reliable?
The 2016 Subaru WRX has 11 known issues documented across 6,380+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: Piston Ringland Failure. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Subaru WRX problems?
Repair costs for known Subaru WRX issues range from $0 to $10,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Piston Ringland Failure, typically costs $4,000-$10,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2015-2021 Subaru WRX Piston Ringland Failure?
The FA20DIT engine can suffer from piston ringland failure, especially when tuned or running high boost. The ringland (area between piston rings) can crack, causing compression loss and engine damage. This is often related to detonation from improper tuning or low octane fuel. Repairs typically run $4,000-$10,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2015-2021 Subaru WRX Excessive Oil Consumption?
The FA20DIT engine can consume oil at a rate higher than expected, sometimes up to 1 quart every 1,000-3,000 miles. This is often related to the turbocharger, PCV system, or piston ring design. Subaru considers up to 1 quart per 1,200 miles as within normal range. Repairs typically run $0-$3,000. Severity: medium.
What is the 2015-2021 Subaru WRX WRX direct-injection deposits — conditional Subaru cleaning guidance?
Subaru provides a diagnosis-led cleaning procedure for deposit-related running concerns. This is not a fixed-mileage service or proof that deposits cause every misfire. Severity: medium.
What is the 2015-2016 Subaru WRX Turbo intake-duct material recall — 16V-162?
Certain 2015–2016 WRX vehicles have a turbo air-intake duct made with unsuitable material. It may crack and cause rough idle, reduced power or stalling. VIN and supplier-lot checks determine the recall remedy. Severity: medium.
What is the 2015-2019 Subaru WRX Tumble Generator Valve (TGV) Shaft Seizure or Actuator Failure Setting P2004-P2007 and Forcing Limp Mode?
Turbo WRX intake manifolds carry tumble generator valves — butterfly plates in each runner driven by a small electric actuator with a position sensor. The original valve shaft material corrodes from EGR/condensation and binds, or the actuator motor/sensor fails, and the ECU logs… Repairs typically run $350-$1,200. Severity: medium.
What is the 2015-2021 Subaru WRX Throttle Rev-Hang (Slow RPM Drop)?
The WRX exhibits significant rev-hang where the RPMs are slow to drop when lifting off the throttle, making it difficult to shift quickly between gears. This is an emissions-related ECU calibration designed to reduce unburned fuel in the exhaust. Repairs typically run $0-$700. Severity: low.
What is the 2015-2021 Subaru WRX Throw-Out Bearing Chirp/Failure?
The clutch throw-out bearing (release bearing) commonly develops a chirping noise that goes away when the clutch pedal is pressed. This is a known issue on WRX models and while the noise is annoying, it doesn't always indicate imminent failure. However, it should be monitored. Repairs typically run $800-$2,000. Severity: low.
What is the 2015-2021 Subaru WRX Clutch Judder/Chatter When Engaging?
Many WRX owners experience clutch judder or chatter when starting from a stop, especially in 1st or reverse. This vibration/shaking during clutch engagement is often related to the dual-mass flywheel or clutch disk characteristics, and is considered somewhat normal for this model… Repairs typically run $0-$2,500. Severity: low.
What is the 2015-2019 Subaru WRX Starlink Infotainment Freezing/Lag?
The Subaru Starlink infotainment system can experience freezing, lag, and unresponsive touch inputs. The system may take a long time to boot up or may reset randomly while driving. This affects navigation, audio, and phone connectivity. Repairs typically run $0-$1,000. Severity: low.
What is the 2015-2021 Subaru WRX Front Suspension Clunk Over Bumps?
A common complaint on WRX models is a clunking or knocking noise from the front suspension when going over bumps or rough roads. This is typically caused by worn sway bar end links, strut mounts, or control arm bushings. Repairs typically run $100-$600. Severity: low.
What is the 2015-2021 Subaru WRX A/C Compressor Clutch Air Gap Growth Causing Intermittent Warm Air and Compressor Non-Engagement on Hot Days?
2015-2021 WRX owners report A/C that blows cold when the car is cool but goes warm on hot days or after heat-soak, with the compressor clutch failing to engage or engaging with a clatter. A recurring root cause documented on ClubWRX and NASIOC is the compressor clutch air gap ope… Repairs typically run $50-$1,200. Severity: low.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.