Subaru WRX / STI Buyers Guide VA (2014-2021) Reliability and common problems of the WRX and STI

Summary

The VA generation Subaru WRX and WRX STI marked a departure from the Impreza name worldwide, with North America continuing production until 2021. Featuring modified Impreza chassis and a range of special editions, these models aimed to compete in a changing market with upgrades to suspension, styling, and interiors. Despite receiving 5-star safety ratings, they faced several recalls and common issues, including turbocharger failures, CVT gearbox problems, and electrical faults. The WRX offers a more street-friendly driving experience, while the STI appeals to enthusiasts with its larger engine and hydraulic power steering. Careful maintenance and avoiding excessive tuning can prolong the life of these models.

Takeaways

• 😀 The VA generation Subaru WRX and WRX STI marked the first time Subaru dropped the Impreza name worldwide, with North America being the last to use it.
• 😀 Subaru initially considered a new chassis for the WRX and STI, but opted to use a modified version of the Impreza's GJ/GP chassis for cost and development reasons.
• 😀 The VA generation WRX and STI had several special editions like the Series White, Series Grey, Type RA, and Diamond Edition, which are highly sought after by enthusiasts.
• 😀 Subaru made significant updates to the suspension, exterior, and interior materials in 2017 based on customer feedback to stay competitive against rivals like the Golf GTI.
• 😀 Despite the VA generation's popularity, there were several recalls for issues like engine stalling, subwoofer electrical faults, and parking brake defects, mainly in 2015-2018 models.
• 😀 Common faults in the VA generation WRX and STI include CVT gearbox shuddering (2014-2015 models), turbocharger failure, and oxygen sensor malfunctions.
• 😀 Subaru extended the warranty on CVT gearboxes in 2014 and 2015 WRX models due to customer complaints about shuddering, from 5 years/60,000 miles to 10 years/100,000 miles.
• 😀 Owners of manual gearbox models (2014-2016) may notice a creaking sound when operating the clutch, which can be fixed with a service bulletin for newer bracket assemblies.
• 😀 The WRX and STI engines offer different power outputs, with the WRX using a 2.0L engine (268bhp or 296bhp for JDM) and the STI using a 2.5L engine (305bhp), with the STI having more power but less torque.
• 😀 While tuning can lead to engine issues, stock and well-maintained vehicles, especially those with a full service history, tend to be more reliable and can last over 150,000 miles with only minor repairs.
• 😀 For used buyers, it’s recommended to focus on models from 2017 onwards to avoid early-generation issues, and consider importing a JDM-spec STI for a more unique experience.

Q & A

Why did Subaru drop the Impreza name for the VA generation WRX and WRX STI?

Subaru decided to drop the Impreza name for the VA generation WRX and WRX STI to create a more distinct identity for these high-performance models. This change marked the first time the Impreza name was dropped worldwide, even though it had been removed from other markets like North America earlier.

What modifications were made to the VA generation WRX and WRX STI compared to the previous generation?

The VA generation WRX and WRX STI used a modified version of the GJ and GP generation Impreza chassis. The rear quarter panels and most of the front-end body panels were unique to the VA generation, making it visually distinct from previous models.

Why did Subaru continue producing the VA generation WRX in North America until 2021, while other markets saw the model end in 2018?

Subaru made the decision to continue the VA generation WRX in North America until 2021, whereas it was discontinued in other major markets like Europe and Australia in 2018. This decision was likely driven by North America's strong demand and market preference for the model.

What updates were made to the VA generation WRX in 2017 and why?

In 2017, Subaru made several updates to the VA generation WRX, including upgrades to suspension, exterior styling, and interior materials. These changes were based on customer feedback from previous model years (2014-2016) and were aimed at improving the car's performance and competitiveness against rivals like the Golf GTI and Golf R.

What are some of the common special editions of the VA generation WRX and WRX STI?

The VA generation WRX and WRX STI featured several special editions, including the Series White, Series Grey, Raiu Edition, Diamond Edition, Type RA, and the WRX STI Launch Edition. These special editions had unique features and were designed to appeal to enthusiasts and collectors.

What were the safety ratings for the VA generation WRX and WRX STI?

The VA generation WRX and WRX STI earned a five-star safety rating when tested in 2015 by both European NCAP and Australian ANCAP. However, this rating has now expired due to enhanced safety testing standards.

What are some of the notable recalls for the VA generation WRX and WRX STI?

Some notable recalls for the VA generation WRX and WRX STI include issues with cracks in the air intake duct (2015-2016 models), a fire hazard due to an electrical short in the Harman Kardon subwoofer (2015-2016 models), and a potential issue with the parking brake that could lead to the vehicle rolling (2015-2018 models). Additionally, some 2018-2019 models had a fuel pump impeller defect, and reverse lights/cameras were faulty on some WRX STI vehicles.

What are some common faults reported by owners of the VA generation WRX and WRX STI?

Common faults reported by owners include issues with the CVT gearbox (shuddering and slow engagement), defective turbochargers (causing rough idles and power delivery problems), and oxygen sensor failures. Some vehicles also experienced oil seepage from the oil pump chain cover and pre-ignition or knocking due to software issues.

What special warranty coverage was offered for the CVT gearbox in the 2014-2015 WRX models?

Subaru extended the warranty for the CVT gearbox in the 2014-2015 WRX models under service bulletin 16-107-17R. The coverage was extended from 5 years/60,000 miles to 10 years/100,000 miles to address customer concerns about shuddering when reducing speed, although Subaru stated this was not in response to widespread complaints but to reassure customers.

What are the key differences between the engines in the WRX and WRX STI models?

The WRX is equipped with a 2.0-liter FA20F H4-T engine producing 268bhp (296bhp in JDM versions), while the WRX STI features a larger 2.5-liter EJ257 H4-T engine producing 305bhp. The WRX engine delivers peak torque earlier, making it more user-friendly for everyday driving, while the STI offers higher overall power and retains hydraulic power steering, which is appreciated by enthusiasts for its feel.