2006 Subaru WRX
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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These records cover every 2006 Subaru WRX. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
4 recalls name the 2006 Subaru WRX. Newest first.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (STI included), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto…
Risk and remedy
Risk
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators with alternate inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-20.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (including STI), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri…
Risk and remedy
Risk
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-20.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (including STI), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New…
Risk and remedy
Risk
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKC-20.
Certain aai motorsports combination lamps sold as replacement lamps for use on the above list passenger vehicles. combination lamps not equipped with amber side reflectors fail to conform with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 108, "lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment."
Risk and remedy
Risk
Lack of amber side reflectors in the lamps will decrease lighting visibility to other drivers and may possibly result in a vehicle crash
Remedy
Aai motorsports will notify owners and replace the lamps free of charge. the recall began on august 1, 2006. owners may contact aai motorsports at 909-923-9188.
Owner complaints
14 complaints1 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Engine
The secondary air injection pump failed to turn off and nearly caught fire. Subaru has recalled this part and the related relay switch for 2008-14 imprezas, but this problem also exists with 2006 imprezas. My mechanic says this IS very common failure point for my model.
- Engine
Vehicle was being driven on a public road at 30 mph. Engine oil pressure light came on so vehicle was parked in a business parking lot to check oil level. Oil level was full. Owner checked on internet for possible causes of this symptom and discovered numerous references to a broken oil pick up…
Vehicle was being driven on a public road at 30 mph. Engine oil pressure light came on so vehicle was parked in a business parking lot to check oil level. Oil level was full. Owner checked on internet for possible causes of this symptom and discovered numerous references to a broken oil pick up tube. Vehicle was towed to an independent shop for evaluation. Shop informed owner upon removal of oil pan that aluminum shavings were discovered in the oil and that indeed the oil pick up tube was broken. Shop informed owner that this IS a common problem seen on certain model years of subaru vehicles. Failure of this part causes oil starvation and catastrophic motor damage requiring rebuild or replacement of short block and other related inspections and cleanings of parts through which oil flows. Part in question IS not a normal wear and tear part. Aftermarket manufacturers such as killerbee have engineered a better product and conducted independent investigation of issue with oem part and explain that the brazing process used to join the bracket and the tube in fact weaken the tube. In addition, the flux used during brazing IS not properly cleaned on some parts which leads the manufacturer to believe this IS a quality issue that subaru has overlooked. Owner contact subaru requesting assistance with repair costs and was denied with the explanation that vehicle IS out of warranty. Cost to replace short block with labor IS $6500. Owner has experience as an automotive technician and understands the difference between failure due to owner negligence and failure due to a non wear and tear part that IS not in subaru regular service procedures. Failure of part at a higher rate of speed can cause severe engine damage and a possible unsafe condition in which the motor can lock up and cause vehicle to come to a sudden stop. Numerous owners have reported similar issues.
- Fuel/propulsion system
Raw fuel smell outside and inside the vehicle during and after cold starts
- Fuel/propulsion system
Upon start up of my 2006 subaru WRX, there IS visual evidence of fuel leakage under the intake manifold on the passenger side of engine. This only happens during times of cold weather. You cannot see the leak as it IS underneath components however, you can smell raw fuel and see where it puddles up…
Upon start up of my 2006 subaru WRX, there IS visual evidence of fuel leakage under the intake manifold on the passenger side of engine. This only happens during times of cold weather. You cannot see the leak as it IS underneath components however, you can smell raw fuel and see where it puddles up after a few moments of engine operation. This puddle accumulates on top of the engine block, directly in front of the turbocharger and exhaust system. This IS cause of major concern for the safety of myself, my family, passengers in my vehicle and other motorist on the road. Soa, subaru of america, has issued recalls for previous model years but should investigate to possibility of extending the recall to include more current model years. I have contacted soa with my problem to no avail. *Js
- Fuel/propulsion system
Started my 2006 subaru WRX this morning in 5 degree temp, and there IS an extremely strong smell of gasoline in the cabin. I have a short drive to work, but the smell stayed strong for a good 10mins. *tr
- Power train
At 3500 rpm shift from 2ND to 3RD gear at low level acceleration the 3RD gear teeth shattered and caused damage to the gearset. 3RD gear needed total replacement and metal debris floating in the casing until car could be stopped. 2000 miles later after subaru dealership repair and all new parts…
At 3500 rpm shift from 2ND to 3RD gear at low level acceleration the 3RD gear teeth shattered and caused damage to the gearset. 3RD gear needed total replacement and metal debris floating in the casing until car could be stopped. 2000 miles later after subaru dealership repair and all new parts from the factory the same scenario occurs again 3RD gear chipped all teeth and car needed to be stopped immediately. Both incidents left the car with large amounts of metal debris which not only cause additional damage to other parts but also have the ability to cause the car to lock up and malfunction posing a serious threat to the driver and any passengers. This metal debris was observed in both transmission repairs. Subaru sighted "operator abuse" as the cause of the failure. However a serious design defect related to a significant deflection of the input shaft most likely IS the real cause of the transmission failure. *js
- Engine and engine cooling
Code p1410 secondary air injection system switching valve stuck open. this IS a common error many 2006 and up subaru impreza WRX owners are having. The emissions system IS prone to fail due to carbon buildup or moisture and rust contaminating valves, leading to repairs costing $700 to $1500.…
Code p1410 secondary air injection system switching valve stuck open. this IS a common error many 2006 and up subaru impreza WRX owners are having. The emissions system IS prone to fail due to carbon buildup or moisture and rust contaminating valves, leading to repairs costing $700 to $1500. This failure IS common even with low mileage. note these codes are also associated with this failure: 06/07 WRX: p0410 p0411 p0413 p0414 p0416 p0417 p0418 p2431 p2432 p2433 p2440 p2441 p2442 p2443 p2444 07 STI: p0410 p0411 p0413 p0414 p0418 p2431 p2432 p2433 p2441 p2444 *tr
- Structure › Frame and members
Stud bolt connecting strut arm from rear hatch to car frame failed. this caused the strut arm to become disconnected with the rear hatch and the rear hatch door no long IS able to remain ajar without manual support. door will close on user without notice. *Tr
- Engine and engine cooling › Engine
1. Oil light flickers on and then stays on at idle or under low rev's 2. The failure IS the oil pick up line resulting in a cracked line and damaged engine. 3. Usually damage IS sufficient to warrant a replaced long block and turbo from manufacturer. However no sufficient replacement IS made about part prone to failure even with a new engine. *Tr
- Engine and engine cooling › Engine
Oil pick up tube cracked. *Tr
- Power train
Broken oil pickup tube, driving home from work the pickup tube broke causing the oil in the oilpan to not circulate through the system. this destroyed all internal bearings and likely fatigued many other engine internals. the dealership replaced all bearings under warranty but did not replace any other engine block components. *tr
- Power train › Clutch assembly
I started my car on saturday may 18TH and could not drive it. Clutch was bad. I've had the car 13 months, it has 13K miles on it and the dealer told me it was my fault-driver error. This IS my 4TH car with a manual transmission (ironically the first new car) and I have never, ever had a clutch…
I started my car on saturday may 18TH and could not drive it. Clutch was bad. I've had the car 13 months, it has 13K miles on it and the dealer told me it was my fault-driver error. This IS my 4TH car with a manual transmission (ironically the first new car) and I have never, ever had a clutch problem with any of the others-ranging from an older saturn to an m series BMW. according to subaru, they can't/won't do anything if the technician says the problem was caused by driver error. They said all I can do IS ask the service manager to give me a "goodwill" discount. I am not holding my breath. *tr
- Power train › Clutch assembly
While traveling down a major highway in fifth gear my car engine began to rev and the instrument panel was at 6,000rpms. I attempted to slow the car and make it to an exit ramp, but the clutch would not disengage. I pulled the car off the side of the highway and it stalled out. I had the car towed…
While traveling down a major highway in fifth gear my car engine began to rev and the instrument panel was at 6,000rpms. I attempted to slow the car and make it to an exit ramp, but the clutch would not disengage. I pulled the car off the side of the highway and it stalled out. I had the car towed to fairway subaru where I was told many different excuses that were all "driver related." I was told that "the clutch disintegrated under extreme heat from revving the engine." the clutch was taken apart and there were no "heat spots." I was then told that I must have shifted gears too slowly, and since that was also driver related the warranty still would not cover the repairs. This IS a true safety issue, considering I was on a major highway and had no problems or warnings prior to the clutch "disintegrating." once the engine began revving, my car lost speed and would not drive properly. I avoided an accident that could have been fatal. *tr
- Fuel system, gasoline › Delivery › Hoses, lines/piping, and fittings
Fuel system lines and hoses become unstable, leaking fuel and fuel odors are present in cabin of vehicle. The nature of this complaint follows nhtsa recall campaign number: pe04002. that report found that the condition manifested in "very cold" temperatures. However, it has started in 45-50…
Fuel system lines and hoses become unstable, leaking fuel and fuel odors are present in cabin of vehicle. The nature of this complaint follows nhtsa recall campaign number: pe04002. that report found that the condition manifested in "very cold" temperatures. However, it has started in 45-50 degree f. the undersigned request that the investigation be reopened. Further, the problem does not resolve itself upon engine warm up. Smell of fuel lingers in and around the vehicle even while parked in garage. Noticeable loss in range of car upon full tank of gas. *nm
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 11010925This annocement is to inform dealers to the Gen 3.1 Head Unit OTA will be available via Wi-Fi. The update will take place in multiple batches with the first beginneing November 15th and the last being Decemeber 3rd. This update is for approximatelt 714,000 VINs.
- 11009701This bulletin details an important regulation issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) which impacts the way some vehicles with accessories are sold. This regulation applies to any automobile retailer installing accessories on a vehicle prior to its first sale.
- 11009685This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models.
- 11008283This Service Information Bulletin announces the preferred practices to be used when handling vehicles equipped with Gen2 Telematics which are enrolled in the Subaru STARLINK Security Plus Service featuring Stolen Vehicle Recovery Plus with Immobilizer.
- 11008282This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models.
- 11008281This Service Information Bulletin announces the diagnostic procedures to be followed when diagnosing engine oil leakage on FA and FB type engines.
- 11008280This Service Information bulletin is being released as guidance for proper testing and charging of vehicle batteries.
- 11008279This bulletin contains illustrations of exchange components and their manufacturer as well as a description of the proper exchange procedure.
- 11008276The CP1.5 RCs OTA is available for all mid and high grade CP1.5 head units.
- 11008267This bulletin announces availability of the NEW genuine Subaru engine oil filter.
- 11008259This bulletin outlines the judgment criteria to be used when inspecting front transverse link bushings to reduce unnecessary bushing replacement.
- 11006935This bulletin contains illustrations of exchange components and their manufacturer as well as a description of the proper exchange procedure for 2025MY vehicles.
- 11006934The purpose of this bulletin is to provide replacement key and immobilizer information along with an overview of the Subaru Lock Information web-site.
- 11006932This Service Information Bulletin announces important diagnostic information to utilize when the Data Communication Module (DCM) is being tested as a dark current/standby current source.
- 11006931This Bulletin provides additional diagnostics to follow when addressing a Telematics-related DTC B2A16.
- 11005624This annoucement provides parts personnel information about remanufactured transmissions that will no longer be available.
- 11005615This announcement provides information for retailers to install the latest infotainment system software for Denso CP 1.5.
- 11005614This bulletin announces important diagnostic information to utilize when testing the Data Communication Module (DCM) as a dark current/standby current source. All models equipped with Telematics except Solterra.
- 11005609This announcement provides information on Takata Recall Escalated Towing Program.
- 11005608This thermo control valve video contains information on the replacement of thermo control valve.
- 11005599This Bulletin provides SOA paint codes to help eliminate possible confusion for 2025 MY vehicles.
- 11005595This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models.
- 11005593This Bulletin provides guidance for diagnosing a leaking front or rear suspension strut.
- 11002730This information announces reprograming file availability for Gen 4.5 Denso CP1.5 Audio and Navigation systems. Inprovement for CarPlay concerns with hands-free calls when the receiving party is not able to hear the caller.
- 11002725This bulletin provides diagnosis and procedure information to be applied when diagnosing potential fluid leaks on front and rear brake calipers. This information has been developed to reduce unnecessary brake caliper replacement.
- 10248224SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC. has determined that a defect, which relates to motor vehicle safety, exists in certain Subaru vehicles listed, equipped with a non-desiccated Takata-sourced passenger side frontal airbag containing the propellant Phase Stabilized Ammonium Nitrate (certain specific vehicles only).
- 10248223SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC. has determined that a defect, which relates to motor vehicle safety, exists in certain 2003-2014 model year Legacy and Outback vehicles, 2003-2006 model year Baja vehicles, 2009-2013 model year Forester vehicles, 2004-2011 model year Impreza vehicles, and 2004- 2014 WRX (including STI) vehicles equipped with a non-desiccated Takata-sourced passenger-side frontal air bag containing the propellant Phase Stabilized Ammonium Nitrate (PSAN).
- 10244915SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC. has determined that a defect, which relates to motor vehicle safety, exists in certain 2003-2014 model year Legacy and Outback vehicles, 2003-2006 model year Baja vehicles, 2009-2013 model year Forester vehicles, 2004-2011 model year Impreza vehicles, and 2004- 2014 WRX (including STI) vehicles equipped with a non-desiccated Takata-sourced passenger-side frontal air bag containing the propellant Phase Stabilized Ammonium Nitrate (PSAN).
- 10241801The purpose of this bulletin is to provide replacement key and immobilizer information along with an overview of the Subaru Lock Information web-site.
- 10240110This bulletin announces the recommended cleaning procedures to followed when encountering vehicles with long time exposure to pollen on painted surfaces on vehicles imported from Japan. This bulletin does not apply to SIA built vehicles.
- 10237234Takata Front Passenger Airbag Module / Inflator Like for Like Recall
- 10235894Revision to Troubleshooting Information for VDC DTC C0071
- 10235277Takata Front Passenger Airbag Module / Inflator Like for Like Recall
- 10233061New Vehicle Receipt- Navigation SD Card Transit Storage Location Change
- 10232879Replacement Key and Immobilizer info
- 10232535Replacement Key and Immobilizer Info
- 10219492This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models.
- 10219491This bulletin contains illustrations of exchange components and their manufacturer as well as a description of the proper exchange procedure.
- 10209915This bulletin has been developed to outline the steps for gathering basic essential information during diagnosis and repair of the Infotainment concerns. (Applicable to all models with Harman or Denso CP1 Infotainment).
- 10198758This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models
Every Subaru WRX model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.